When people think about Lancaster, Pennsylvania, they might automatically picture Amish farmlands in the middle of nowhere, but Lancaster also offers Dutch Wonderland, a family-fun amusement park where your children will be treated like royalty.
Speaking from experience, I grew up going to Dutch Wonderland every year until I was about 6; I have so many fond memories.
When you arrive it’s like you are walking into a storybook, the park entrance is a castle surrounded by a moat and guests have to walk over a drawbridge to enter. Dutch Wonderland was voted “Best Family Park of 2019” by Amusement Today, making it the perfect place for the whole family.
If your family loves roller coasters, this is a great place for you. The newest attraction, Merlyn Mayhem, is the first suspended family coaster featuring many twists, thrills and turns. Fly through the air as you go on an enchanted journey with the friendly magician, Merlin.
Kingdom Coaster takes you to new heights of fun, while the Joust Family Coaster, a mini steel coaster, will take you on a knightly journey.
Not a fan of roller coasters? Don’t worry, there are plenty of other attractions for you to enjoy. Twist and turn on the Turtle Whirl, own the road on the bumper cars, soar through the air on Flying Trapeze, ride the waves on The Twister, blast off in the Space Shuttle, see the park from up above on the Sky Ride and much more. For the full list of rides visit Dutch Wonderland.
For water-loving families, head to Duke’s Lagoon for plenty of attractions to splash around in.
First up, Pipeline Plunge; start with the Blue Slide where you are able to see the path in front of you — if you are feeling a little more adventurous take on the Black Slide and ride completely in the dark. If you aren’t feeling up for the slides, play in A Tropical Getaway to enjoy smaller slides, play structures and water attractions.
Although not located in Duke’s Lagoon, another must-do water ride is Double Splash Flume, but no matter what your family likes, you are bound to have a good time.
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