If you've ever had to console a disappointed child at an amusement park who was too short to ride on a ride he had his heart set on, you have to take him to Dutch Wonderland. This amusement park is designed especially for younger children –- those kids who are too little to ride most of the rides in the other parks. In this park, the rules state the kids can't be more than 54-inches tall to ride the majority of the rides. The bigger kids haven't been completely left out, though. There are still some rides for them and some designed for the whole family.
Three Must-See Attractions at Dutch Wonderland
Be sure and see one of the several shows to choose from that will coincide with your visit. Some shows are presented daily, while others are seasonal.
After a fun day at Dutch Wonderland, don't leave the park until you've cooled off at Duke's Lagoon, a fun water park for kids.
Take the whole family on the Wonderland Special Train ride, or the Gondola Cruise.
Where to Stay Near Dutch Wonderland
You can camp in Dutch Wonderland's campgrounds, Old Mill Stream, where you can rent a cabin, a tipi or bring your own tent or RV. Or you can stay in one of the numerous hotels that are located near the park along U.S. 30 in both directions. These include:
Best and Worst Time to Go to Dutch Wonderland
Summer weekends are the worst times to go to Dutch Wonderland because of the crowds. Crowds are a little lighter on weekdays, but because of summer vacationers, weekdays when school is in session are your best bet.
Discounts at Dutch Wonderland
Discounted ticket prices are available for active military personnel with a valid military ID card.
Children 2 and under get in free. There are also discounts for senior citizens over the age of 70, and group discounts.
Once you buy your tickets for a full day at Dutch Wonderland, you can take advantage of the park's Preview Plan and go for the last three hours the park is open the night before –- free of charge. This applies only to certain tickets and times, so be sure and ask if yours include the Preview Plan. Instead of sitting in your hotel room the evening before your big day at the park, you can go check it out and decide what you will do the next day.
Food at Dutch Wonderland
There are family restaurants on the park grounds as well as several food shacks offering a variety of choices. Some of the sandwich shops are national chains, such as Subway, and others are locally owned. You won't have to leave the park to get a good, affordable meal in almost any price range.
Parking at Dutch Wonderland
Parking ranges from $5 to $10 for all day parking on the park's grounds. School buses and tour buses park for free.
Transportation Alternatives at Dutch Wonderland
Because the park's location is four miles east of Lancaster, public transportation doesn't serve the area, unless you are in a group-chartered bus. Your best option is a rental car.
Author's bio: Susan Hoskins Miller is a writer who lives in metropolitan Indianapolis and works in a university library. In her free time, she enjoys being with her family and exploring places in the Midwest.