There’s no place like Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster PA, voted the Best Family Amusement Park by Amusement Today! For over 50 years, this Lancaster Pennsylvania amusement park has been providing families with unforgettable memories. With 35 rides and attractions, Duke’s Lagoon Water Play Area, and Exploration Island, it’s the perfect place for a day of family fun.
Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster PA
Opened in 1963 by Earl Clark, the park originally offered just four rides on 14 acres. Throughout the years, the Clark family added more rides and attractions. Hershey Entertainment & Resorts purchased the property in 2001. In November 2010, Palace Entertainment purchased Wonderland Amusement Management, which includes Dutch Wonderland and Old Mill Stream Campground. Dutch Wonderland continues to enjoy growth and change while keeping the unique charm and family focus established by the Clark family.
While Dutch Wonderland is designed for the enjoyment of children under 12 years of age, it’s really a great place for the whole family to spend time together. The many rides, attractions, and entertaining shows are timeless and enjoyed by folks of all ages. It’s really the perfect place for families to have a blast.
Rides at Dutch Wonderland
There are 35 rides to choose from at Dutch Wonderland, each with varying intensity and height restrictions. However, the majority of the rides are fun for the whole family. Merlin’s Mayhem, Kingdom Coaster, and the Turnpike Cars are some fan favorites that you’ll likely ride again & again. You can see the whole list of rides right here –> ride list at Dutch Wonderland.
Dining at Dutch Wonderland
They had us at Dole Whip.
You don’t have to travel to Florida for this famous dessert – it turns out you can get a Dole Whip right in the middle of Pennsylvania. There are several snack stands and restaurants at Dutch Wonderland. You’ll find classic amusement park fare like cotton candy, popcorn, pizza, and pretzels; as well as kid-friendly meals. If you’re looking for a place to take a break from the action, there are a couple of restaurants located inside the park as well. Penley’s Pretzel Pub, Merlin’s Restaurant, & Mill Stream Eatery are three options located throughout the park. You won’t want to miss the fresh-cut fries at the Potato Patch® so be sure to save some room.
Dutch Wonderland does not permit food or drink to be brought into the Park, but they do permit one water bottle per person as well as some small snacks to be brought into the park. Picnic lunches can be enjoyed outside the park in their picnic pavilion.
Dinosaurs at Dutch Wonderland
If you have kids that love dinosaurs, they’re going to love Exploration Island. You can take a self-guided adventure through the Prehistoric Path and visit over 22 life-like dinosaurs inside Dutch Wonderland. Your kids will learn fun facts, travel through time, and get to hear them roar.
Places to Stay Near Dutch Wonderland
If you’re planning to make a weekend trip out of your time at Dutch Wonderland, there are two fun on-property options that your kids are going to absolutely LOVE.
Cartoon Network Hotel in Lancaster
If your kids love cartoons, then they will obviously go crazy for The Cartoon Network Hotel. From the moment you enter the lobby, you’ll realize this is unlike any place your family has stayed before. With their character-themed guest rooms and Dream Suites, it’s like having a sleepover…in a cartoon! You can dine-in at the Cartoon Kitchen and dig into delicious dishes straight from your favorite shows (Bacon pancakes, anyone?!) Adventure awaits around every corner as you immerse yourself in the cartoon world with their daily activities and experiences.
Old Mill Stream Campground
For a more laid-back option, there’s also the Old Mill Stream Campground. Nestled on 15 acres along a peaceful stream, Old Mill Stream Campground at Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster PA provides modern camping facilities and is conveniently located near to the castle door of Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park and other local activities such as outlet shopping, restaurants, and theaters.
If you’re planning to camp at Dutch Wonderland, you can save on your trip through the castle gates. Discounted Dutch Wonderland tickets are available for campground guests when they stay overnight at the Old Mill Stream Campground. Discounted Royalty One-Day Admission can be purchased at the rate of $39.99 each in the Old Mill Stream Campground Country Store from April 30 to September 25, 2022.
Where is Dutch Wonderland?
Are you wondering where to find this little gem? Dutch Wonderland is located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania close to shopping, restaurants, and hotels at 2249 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA. It is conveniently located and just a short drive from several major cities.
If you’re planning a visit to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, check out our other recommendations for fun things to do in Lancaster with your family.
So, what do you think? Are you ready for a weekend visit to Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster PA? Leave us a comment and let us know.
