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Looking for fun for the whole family this summer? Philadelphia amusement parks are a wonderful way to get out for some fresh air and entertainment. When it comes to top-tier Philadelphia amusement parks, Dutch Wonderland is literally one of the best the world has to offer, with the park being voted the World’s Best Family Park in 2019 and 2021 by the Amusement Today Golden Ticket Awards.

If you are looking for the best amusement parks near Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, or other nearby metropolitan areas, take a look at all the family fun that Dutch Wonderland has to offer.

Rides and Attractions for the Whole Family

If it is excitement you are after, the Merlin’s Mayhem family roller coaster at Dutch Wonderland is perfect for you and the kids. Our first suspended roller coaster, Merlin’s Mayhem sees families flying through various twists, turns, and caves that form an exhilarating journey for guests of all ages.

If you would prefer to travel through time instead, our dinosaur-themed attraction, Exploration Island, allows park-goers to take a self-guided adventure through the prehistoric era. During this journey, families can discover over 22 life-like dinosaurs, learn fun dino facts and discover long-lost fossils. If your feet get tired, explore the island on a gondola cruise or drive yourself around in antique-style cars!

When it is time to cool off, head on over to Duke’s Lagoon water park to splash on our multi-level water platform, ride kid-sized water slides, and lounge in the shade under lush palm trees and thatched umbrellas.

These are just some of the many attractions that Dutch Wonderland offers families in Pennsylvania.

Family-Friendly Shows

Outside of our attractions, there are tons of Dutch Wonderland shows for the whole family to enjoy, including our signature dive shows The Adventures of the Frog Prince, A Dragon’s Tale, The Fantastical Flute, and the open dive for the cast to show off their best moves.

Each day, we put on four different dive shows that blend a generous dose of comedy with daring dives, making each one an awe-inspiring, laugh-out-loud, wholesome time for all ages. Grab your tickets today to make sure you get to see all of our exciting shows!

Meal Options the Kids Will Love

When it is time to sit down and eat, Dutch Wonderland has a variety of dining options that the whole family will enjoy. At our park, you can grab a quick hot dog hamburger, cotton candy pretzel, or other delicious snacks, or sit down for a full-fledged meal at one of our restaurants.

New on the menu this year is Merlin’s Pizza & Pasta Buffet where families can take a break from the heat and enjoy all the pizza, pasta, salads, and soda that they want. Plus, the restaurant even stays open after park closing, so you don’t have to miss a moment of fun.

Come Visit the Best Philadelphia Amusement Park for Families

If you are interested in amusement parks near Philadelphia where the whole family can have a blast, Dutch Wonderland has all of the bases covered. While we are certainly known as “a kingdom for kids,” Dutch Wonderland has something for family members of all ages.

February 11, 2022
One doesn’t have to look far to know Dutch Wonderland is truly a “kingdom for kids.” From the family friendly rides, bright colors, and memorable royal cast of characters, everything radiates something truly special. It’s that same energy, that same fun, and that same emotion Dutch Wonderland strives for with its team members.

The kingdom recently announced that both it and its sister properties The Cartoon Network Hotel, and Old Mill Stream Campground, both located right next door to the castle gates, are hiring over 500 employees. They aren’t just looking to fill spots and meet a quota, they are looking to partner with real people to create cherished memories, build new skills, and develop community with their team members.

“Whether it’s your first job, part-time job, or just something fun to do (with some extra caching!), working for us you’re sure to build lasting friendships and beneficial career experiences in a truly engaging environment, while having fun doing so,” stated Angela Tessen, Director of Guest Services & Sales. “Here at the kingdom we put our team members first. Whether that’s through flexible scheduling, matching them with their perfect spot, or expressing our thanks through monthly employee parties and exclusive perks.”

The heart of the park is the wonder, the excitement, and the nostalgia that envelopes every building and ride in the kingdom. This can’t be achieved without the valued team members that call Dutch Wonderland their place of employment. Embracing what makes the park special and those that play a role in that, has led to a desirable internal culture with countless members staying on for years to come. Take Nate King, Marketing and Content Manager at the kingdom. He started when he was just 14 as a Games & Retail Associate and has called Dutch Wonderland his work home ever since. “The culture of the kingdom is one that is truly special. We all care about one another, we lift each other up, and we’re here to come alongside and lend a hand when needed. It’s the team members that truly put the wonder in Dutch Wonderland.”

Looking to apply? They are having a job fair Feb. 15 from 4-7 pm at the Cartoon Network Hotel. Apply Today!
Apply for Dutch Wonderland & Old Mill Stream Campground - Learn More
Apply for Cartoon Network Hotel - Learn More

Have a Dutch Wonderful Day!

LANCASTER, PA, Feb. 10, 2022
"It's Family Time" has been the longtime mantra of Dutch Wonderland. A kingdom featuring over 35 rides and attractions, Duke's Lagoon Water Park, Exploration Island, shows, and more. This park has been a staple of tradition for generations in the Lancaster area. Founded in 1963 by potato farmer Earl Clark, the young and the old have been bringing their royal court through the castle gates to share in that magic. Now, this title of a staple for family fun has been made official (once again).

The kingdom is honored to be voted by Amusement Today “2021’s Best Family Park” for the second year in a row. Dutch Wonderland was blessed to be the first recipient of this title when it was added to the awards back in 2019. Due to the ever changing landscape and the effects of COVID-19, Amusement Today halted the awards in 2020.

Winning the award has been a true honor for the entire team at the park. “At Dutch Wonderland, we strive to deliver the best experience possible every day, and it’s such an honor to see our team’s efforts recognized as the Best Family Park,” said General Manager James Paulding. “Thank you to our team members for their commitment, valued guests for their support, and to the Golden Ticket Awards voters that chose Dutch Wonderland.”

When asked about Dutch Wonderland, Tim Baldwin, Golden Ticket Awards Communications Coordinator, Amusement Today stated, “There’s such a feeling of charm and atmosphere at Dutch Wonderland. I had a lovely visit myself this year. It is no surprise that families have enjoyed the park for generations, and it has clearly resonated with the voters.”

Dutch Wonderland is excited to start welcoming guests back into the kingdom for the 2022 Season, which is scheduled to start April 30, 2022. Haven’t been to the kingdom in a while? They’d love to have you!

Have a Dutch-Wonderful Day!