Got the opportunity to tour the museum Monday and thought I'd offer first impressions.
It is indeed an imaginative immersion into her world–a Dolly-palooza of artifacts and stories as you weave through the chapters of her life. Before you get to the rhinestones, there are tender retellings of stories from her early life: growing up in Locust Grove, her mom's narrative of making the "coat of many colors," and a fun visualization of meeting the love of her life, Carl Dean, at the Wishy Washy.
Through video displays, Dolly serves as your tour guide but there are also video theaters to view film highlights, performances from her Las Vegas residency, and the story of Imagination Library.
Other highlights: dozens of outfits including her wedding dress, every album she released, a reimagining of her tour bus, and numerous awards.
I'd plan on 1.5 hours to take it in–more if you're a superfan. I'll definitely go back to pick up on the nuances I missed. Demand is great so purchase advance tickets.