Head to Dutch Wonderland @FunatDW

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This time of year, one of the best ways to escape the summer heat as well as those long, boring summer days is a day at a theme park. One of our semi-local favorites is Dutch Wonderland, home to Duke the Dragon (whom my son loves). Located in Amish County, Lancaster PA- a great place to spend a vacation, as well.

Dutch Wonderland has tons of rides and games, as well as many food and drink stands. Some favorites are the “Panda Party”, which is an adorable ride in which the kids ride in Panda Bears and go around the beehive in circles, the Leapin’ Frogs, which bounce around causing the kids to erupt in giggles until the ride hops to a stop, and the Double Splash Flume, a classic ride with two drops (but not too scary or steep that would frighten the kids).

We were there on what turned out to be a stormy day, but before that it was sunny, not too hot, and clear. Also, the lines were almost non-existent, which was great. We were able to get on a bunch of rides.

Just two years ago, Dutch Wonderland opened Exploration Island, where you can walk among more then 20 dinosaurs the roar and move as you view them. We had hoped to visit again this year, but they were closed. We did get to see the dinosaurs when they first opened, and it was a lot of fun- my son really enjoyed it.

“Exploration Island is a rediscovered island of adventure and fun where guests will have the opportunity to walk with over 20 lifelike dinosaurs, dig for fossil remains, take a spin on the newly relocated and lengthened Turnpike ride and travel the Island canals on the classic Gondola Cruise.
This once under-utilized area of the Park has been re-purposed to house not only our dinosaur families, but our Turnpike ride as well. The Turnpike was one of the four original rides at Dutch Wonderland when it opened in 1963. We have moved this classic ride to Exploration Island and more then doubled the ride length in the process giving guests more spectacular views of dinos and the surrounding farm landscape.
We’ve also discovered dinosaur fossil remains and set up a permanent archeological dig at Dino Dig, where young explorers can unearth the fossil remains of dinosaurs. Brushes, buckets and diggers are available for use.”

There are many live shows offered at the park, including water shows. Choose from shows like “Really Royal, the story of Princess Brooke”, “Adventures of the Frog Prince” a show that combines the high dive and fairly tale, and “Dutch Wonderland’s Royal Friends”, where you can meet and greet costumed performers of the park’s mascots. There are more to choose from- go to https://www.dutchwonderland.com to see more options, times, and rides.

Bring your bathing suit and visit Duke’s Lagoon, sure to be everyone’s favorite on hot summer days. With several different play areas (and larger water slides nearby) including one for the smallest park goers, there will be a place for everyone to enjoy. Even mom and dad- they provide plenty of lounge chairs and tables to relax at- if you are really lucky, you might even score an umbrella.

Enjoy your day, and get your tickets soon at the park or at https://www.dutchwonderland.com . Unlike previous years, there is no more free parking, I’m sad to say- so just be aware of that. There is a lot to do in the area, so if you want to do more then one day at the park, or visit some other attractions, grab a hotel (there are plenty to choose from) and spend a few days- Lancaster is a great place for families.

Follow Dutch Wonderland on Social Media! Twitter: @FunatDW
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DutchWonderlandPA
Instagram: @DutchWonderland