Dutch Wonderland
A charming amusement park in Lancaster, PA, offering a magical kingdom experience with rides, shows, and a water play area perfect for young families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Dutch Wonderland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming amusement park in Lancaster, PA, offering a magical kingdom experience with rides, shows, and a water play area perfect for young families.
"The perfect place to take your littles for the day, Dutch Wonderland is the place to go."
🎯 Toddler-Friendly Fun
Perfect for toddlers and young kids; many rides allow parents to ride along.
💧 Beat the Heat at Duke's Lagoon
Arrive early to enjoy the water park before it gets too crowded. Lockers available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Duke's Lagoon Water Play Area
Water Park Section
Splash, slide, and cool off in this fun water play area perfect for toddlers and young children.
Kingdom Coaster
Roller Coaster Area
A thrilling yet family-friendly roller coaster that offers a taste of excitement for younger thrill-seekers.
Themed Rides & Attractions
Throughout the Park
From dragon rides to classic coasters and dinosaur encounters, the park offers a magical kingdom experience.
Live Shows & Entertainment
Various Stages
Enjoy engaging live performances and character meet-and-greets that add to the park's magical atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Perfect for Little Ones
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Toddler-Friendly Fun
Perfect for toddlers and young kids; many rides allow parents to ride along.
💧 Beat the Heat at Duke's Lagoon
Arrive early to enjoy the water park before it gets too crowded. Lockers available.
🎟️ Look for Ticket Deals
Check online for discounts and coupons to save on admission. Kids under 3 are often free!
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for a full day of fun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Toddler-Friendly Fun
Perfect for toddlers and young kids; many rides allow parents to ride along.
💧 Beat the Heat at Duke's Lagoon
Arrive early to enjoy the water park before it gets too crowded. Lockers available.
🎟️ Look for Ticket Deals
Check online for discounts and coupons to save on admission. Kids under 3 are often free!
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for a full day of fun.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your phone or camera to capture all the smiles and magical moments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dutch Wonderland as an ideal destination for families with young children, highlighting its age-appropriate rides, charming atmosphere, and friendly staff. The park's manageable size and cleanliness are also frequently mentioned positives. Some reviewers noted that the water park could be improved and that food prices are typical for an amusement park.
"A quaint little amusement/water park in Lancaster, PA. There are a few rides for the older crowd, but I think this park is geared mainly to the younger kids. My boyfriend and I took his 9 year old daughter and we all had a great time. You could actually spend the entire day at the water park if you wanted to. We didn't get to see any of the shows as we were only in Lancaster for a few days. It's interesting to see this park right along the main roadway. I believe the park was open in 1963, so I do not know if that highway was there at that time. There is also an area where you can walk through and learn about dinosaurs."
Diane Cifrulak
"This is a great park for younger aged children. Really cool theme & the Castle Entrance is awesome. Most rides and stuff are for kids 3-10 years old. There are a few coasters but nothing crazy. They have a live performance a few times a day & this is a MUST. The water park is probably the one area they could improve on as it's WAY over crowded and smaller than i expected. It's nice nonetheless but there isn't a wave pool, lazy river, or even just a regular pool. There's two splash pad areas for toddlers and two taller watersides and that's really it."
Jay Jay
"My son is 7 years old and he is at the perfect age for this amusement park. Definitely worth checking out at least once. You can easily see the whole park in 1 day. We plan to come back during Christmas since they decorate the park all up & you can even book Christmas dinner with Santa & his Elves! Kinda a cool experience for your little ones before they get to old. (Insert tear) lol"
Jessica Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dutch Wonderland is located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It's easily accessible by car and is about an hour and a half from Philadelphia. +1 Many visitors also make it a day trip from Delaware, Maryland, and even NYC.
The Cartoon Network Hotel is conveniently located right next door, offering stay-and-play packages.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Dutch Wonderland. While specific costs can vary, it's generally a straightforward process to find a spot.
Absolutely! The Cartoon Network Hotel is located adjacent to the park and offers special 'Stay & Play' packages that include park tickets and other perks. +1
Yes, Dutch Wonderland is an excellent choice for a day trip, especially from areas like Philadelphia and Delaware. +1 You can easily experience a good portion of the park in one day.
The park is situated along Lincoln Highway East (US 30) in Lancaster, PA. Major routes like US 30, PA Turnpike (I-76), and I-81 are common ways to access the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's always recommended to check the official Dutch Wonderland website for the most current pricing. Look for online deals and coupons to save money. Kids under 3 often get in for free.
Yes, you can often find discount coupons for Dutch Wonderland online. Keep an eye out for special promotions, especially for groups or during certain seasons.
Tickets are typically available for purchase at the gate, but buying them online in advance can sometimes offer savings and ensure entry, especially during peak times.
Operating hours for Dutch Wonderland vary by season and day. It's essential to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Yes, Dutch Wonderland offers season passes, which can be a great value if you plan to visit multiple times throughout the year.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Dutch Wonderland excels with rides perfect for younger children. Favorites include the Kingdom Coaster, Merlin's Mayhem, and various themed rides like the Dragon's Tale. +1 Parents can often ride along with their little ones.
Yes, Duke's Lagoon is the water play area at Dutch Wonderland, featuring slides and splash zones perfect for cooling off. +1 It can get crowded, so visiting early is advised.
Dutch Wonderland features live shows and entertainment throughout the day, often with characters and themed performances that kids will love.
Yes, the park includes a dinosaur-themed area where visitors can walk through and learn about these prehistoric creatures.
The park is very walkable and stroller-friendly, with plenty of places to park strollers while you're on rides. Strollers are also available for rent.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dutch Wonderland offers various food stalls and restaurants with classic theme park fare like chicken tenders, fries, and slushies. While a bit pricey, the options are convenient for a full day of fun.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside Dutch Wonderland, but it's always best to check their specific policy on their website.
While the focus is on classic theme park treats, you might find some simpler options. Packing some snacks can be a good idea if you have specific dietary needs.
The Cartoon Network Hotel offers dining options, and the surrounding Lancaster area has a variety of restaurants.
Food at theme parks can be a bit pricey. While some reviewers found it reasonable, others noted it was a bit expensive for standard fare like chicken tenders and fries.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic castle entrance is a must-capture spot. Also, look for charming themed areas, the water park, and happy moments on the rides.
Generally, photography and videography are not allowed on the rides for safety reasons. However, you can capture plenty of memories before and after your ride.
Yes, Dutch Wonderland often has character meet-and-greets, providing great opportunities for photos with your little ones. +1
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer lighting and fewer crowds, making for better photo opportunities.
While not explicitly mentioned, focus on capturing your own memories. The park's charming atmosphere provides ample opportunities for great shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
💰 Budget-Conscious Families
🏨 Visitors Staying at the Cartoon Network Hotel
+2 This proximity and these packages make for a seamless and convenient family vacation, allowing easy access to both the hotel's themed amenities and the amusement park's attractions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Dutch Wonderland for Young Children
Beyond the rides, Dutch Wonderland offers engaging live shows and character meet-and-greets, further immersing children in a magical world.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Hours, and Best Times
The best times to visit Dutch Wonderland to avoid the largest crowds and the peak summer heat are typically on weekdays, especially during the morning hours.
Beyond the Rides: Water Fun and Seasonal Delights
This seasonal magic, along with the year-round focus on family fun, makes Dutch Wonderland a destination that can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit