Pennsylvania is home to many premier amusement parks: Dorney Park near Allentown, Kennywood Park near Pittsburgh, and Knoebels Park in Elysburg PA, among others. One park, Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster PA, combines the best in amusement rides with a scenic location in the heart of Pennsylvania Amish Country. With its focus on family activity, Dutch Wonderland makes a great thing to do on a Pennsylvania vacation.

Dutch Wonderland was opened in 1963 by Earl Clark of Lancaster PA. Today Dutch Wonderland spreads over 48 acres of Amish farmland and has over 30 rides, plus special shows and attractions geared for families. Dutch Wonderland was purchased in 2001 by Hershey Entertainment and Resorts, owner of nearby Hershey Park, and has continued to grow and change, but has retained its focus on family entertainment. The park is open daily from June to August and on weekends in May and September. There are also special Halloween events in October. Summer hours are from 10 am to 8:30 pm.

Dutch Wonderland's slogan is "Kingdom for Kids" and most rides and attractions at the park are geared to children under 13. The two roller coasters are both kid friendly, but parents will also find excitement on these and other rides. In addition to the more than 30 rides, children can ring a school bell, milk cows, and visit other real farm animals. Dutch Wonderland's Duke's Lagoon water play area is also popular with children and the Wonderland Mini-Golf area is popular with children and adults alike. The mini-golf area is available as part of a Dutch Wonderland package or as a separate ticket.

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Dutch Wonderland is about more than just entertainment. Each day, children can join a special "reading with the princess" and hear an entertaining story told by a costumed princess. Dutch Wonderland also publishes reading lists to help encourage children to read on their time.

Dutch Wonderland is bordered by Old Mill Stream Creek and the amusement park is partnered with Old Mill Stream Campground. With over 150 sites spread over 15 riverside acres, Old Mill Stream Campground makes a great place to stay close to Dutch Wonderland, Amish farms, and the great outlet shopping in Lancaster. The campsite also offers discounted Dutchwonderland coupons. Dutchwonderland coupons are also available through the Pennsylvania Visitors Bureau and the PA Dutch country visitors website. There are also several places for Pennsylvania camping in the area and some quality Hershey hotels nearby.

People interested in spending a few days in Amish country should get a Dutch Wonderland package that combines entry to Hershey Park with Dutchwonderland coupons. The PA Dutch country visitors bureau offers a Dutch Wonderland package that combines entry to the parks with an overnight hotel stay and a meal at an area restaurant. Prices start at about $150 for a couple. Several Lancaster hotels also offer a Dutch Wonderland package. Willow Valley Resort and Conference Center in Lancaster PA has an offer for two tickets to Dutch Wonderland and lodging starting at $175 a night.