Dutch Wonderland

Dutch Wonderland is an amusement park in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, covering around 48 acres with 32 rides including three roller coasters and a tropical water play area named Duke's Lagoon. The grounds also include an island with prehistoric models, several children's carousels, and a gondola ride that glides above the attractions.

A potato farmer named Earl Clark built the stone castle entrance facade and opened this family amusement park in Pennsylvania during 1963. Over the decades, additional rides and themed sections were added, expanding the offerings steadily.

The park carries a medieval castle and kingdom theme visible through buildings, backdrops, and murals across the grounds. Costumed characters greet visitors at different spots and invite children to meet knights and wizards.

The park opens during extended seasons and offers Halloween celebrations in autumn and winter festivities later in the year. Families with young children will find many low-height attractions and gentle rides accessible to visitors of all ages.

A section called Exploration Island displays 15 moving dinosaur models along a prehistoric path visible from a gondola that glides through the park. The figures move their heads and tails while the cabins drift slowly above the treetops.

Location: Pennsylvania

Official opening: 1963

Website: https://dutchwonderland.com

GPS coordinates: 40.02770,-76.21840

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:25