Another good Hartford story referred to the first time he had snuck backstage at the Grand Ole Opry.
By 13, Parton was performing at the Grand Ole Opry.
Country Music Travel.com features the Opry Country Classics Cruise.
Donny's next stop was a part with the "Grapevine Opry Kids" which in turn landed him a spot on NBC's Saturday morning pilot, "Country Kids".
The legendary Grand Ole Opry helped bring country music out of the south and to national - and then international - audiences.
The Louisiana Hayride was considered to be a primer for artists before they moved up to Nashville's Grand Ole Opry.
While performing at the Opry, she encountered fellow rising star Johnny Cash, who advised her to trust her instincts.
You are also within easy reach of signature American entertainment such as the Carolina Opry and Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede, not to mention countless restaurants to appease any taste buds.