History of Tennessee Tornado in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 10, 2024

The Tennessee Tornado is a roller coaster located at Dollywood amusement park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It opened on April 17, 1999, making it Dollywood's first major coaster expansion. The ride was manufactured by Arrow Dynamics, and is considered one of the company's last major projects. The Tennessee Tornado replaced Thunder Express, an Arrow Dynamics Mine Train roller coaster that relocated to Magic Springs and Crystal Falls in 2002.

1989: Thunder Express Relocates to Dollywood

The Thunder Express, an Arrow Dynamics Mine Train roller coaster, is relocated from Six Flags St. Louis to Dollywood. It is situated in the valley location that would later be occupied by the Tennessee Tornado.

1992: Drachen Fire Opens with Tubular Steel Beam Support Structure

Drachen Fire, a roller coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, opens featuring a tubular steel beam support structure, similar to the one that will be used for Tennessee Tornado. This is a departure from Arrow Dynamics' typical scaffolding-style supports.

June 30, 1998: Dollywood Announces Tennessee Tornado

Dollywood announces the upcoming addition of the Tennessee Tornado roller coaster, to be built by Arrow Dynamics. It will be a newer Custom Looping Coaster.

1998: Drachen Fire Closes

Drachen Fire roller coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg closes.

April 17, 1999: Tennessee Tornado Debuts

The Tennessee Tornado roller coaster opens to the public at Dollywood amusement park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It is Dollywood's first major coaster expansion and one of Arrow Dynamics' last major coasters.