We just got back from Dollywood.
My parents have a condo up there and seasons tickets. I haven't been in years because my parents become "those people" when the go. The see all the shows, put on tacky and sparkly shirts ....I think I blocked it out of my mind for years.
Anyway, if you don't want to make the trip to Disney it was so much fun for the boys. There is a kids park with little or no lines and about 5 or 6 rides they loved and lots of games for them to play. Plus the train around the park. Very kid friendly and much less expensive than Disney and the trip was only 3 1/2 hours from Atlanta.
I would totally recommend it as a long weekend get away for families.
Re: Dollywood
Glad you had fun! I laughed at the sparkly shirts comment
I went to Dollywood when I was like 15, and remember it was, um, cheesy. But definitely a cheaper alternative to Disney!