PLEASE NOTE, THIS POST MAY INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING THAT IF YOU CLICK ON A LINK AND MAKE A PURCHASE, I'LL RECEIVE A SMALL COMMISION. THIS WILL COME AT NO COST TO YOU.
Childhood nostalgia. You hear a familiar commercial jingle, the opening song of a beloved cartoon, or catch a whiff of the faint vanilla-powdery smell of a Cabbage Patch Kid’s head. Immediately memories flood your soul. Also cemented into the youthful part of you that still exists, are places. One of these places for me, is the Dutch Wonderland Theme Park. That was why visiting Dutch Winter Wonderland was a must during a December, Lancaster, trip.
Located in the midst of Amish Country, Dutch Wonderland Theme Park, was the dream of potato farmer, Earl Clark. Lancaster, Pennsylvania, was only a few hours’ drive from my childhood home, making it an ideal location for a quick, affordable, getaway.
As our car travels past more hotels and chain restaurants then I remember, I catch my first glimpse of the white castle entrance. It causes the same giddy, childhood sensation that starts in my toes and travels up my spine, until I’m bouncing in my seat with excitement.
It’s Holiday Season, so instead of usual operations, the park is set up for Dutch Winter Wonderland. Though I’m already primed to see holiday lights, and it is more dazzling than I imagined.
Rides are open, based on the outdoor temperature. Even with the reduced attractions, there is plenty to do at Dutch Winter Wonderland, to last the whole evening.
The Turnpike
As an adult, I prefer to avoid turnpikes, but since it’s one of the rides I remember from my visits in the 80s, we queue up, and squeeze into an antique car. We learn that when visiting Dutch Winter Wonderland, the transportation rides are a must.
You will see light displays and holiday decorations, you would not be able to view otherwise. Taking a ride on The Turnpike provides bright, bouncy, merriment.
The Carousel
There’s nothing that makes you feel like a kid, more than a carousel ride. It’s a lovely shared experience. As it begins its first rotation, faces of all ages alight.
If riding a carousel during Dutch Winter Wonderland, or at any winter market or event, be sure to wear gloves. Nice, thick, gloves.
The metal pole feels like you are holding a block of ice.
Visit the Special Displays
Every path in the park is adorned with happiness. My favorite encounter of the evening, is the Prehistoric Path.
The dinosaurs along the paths are dressed as characters from favorite, holiday, movies.
I applaud the person who had to sew a giant, pink bunny, dinosaur, costume.
The Dutch Winter Wonderland, light show, is enjoyable. There are several songs used for the synchronized light dance.
The Skyride
A ride on the Skyride, during Dutch Winter Wonderland, is a must-do. Bundle up, you’ll definitely feel the chill on this one. The view of the lights from above is magical.
The Wonderland Special
Line up at the Train Station, to take a ride on the Wonderland Special. There is so much to see at Dutch Winter Wonderland, as the train twists and turns along the tracks. Colorfully lit tunnels, munching cows,
and twinkling trees, shine brilliantly. There’s so much to notice on The Wonderland Special’s holiday ride, we board the train multiple times.
Learn about Amish Farm Life
When you see one of these around the park, press the button. I’ll say no more. It’s something you need to experience for yourself.
I’m exuberant when I recognize the cow statue.
Middle-school Obligatory Traveler
Middle-aged Obligatory Traveler
Dutch Wonderland is a theme park geared towards families, particularly those with younger children, but Dutch Winter Wonderland is fun, no matter your age. We are two adults, with no kids, and we found the evening delightful. It’s hard not to feel completely enchanted when enveloped in a sea of bright, pretty lights.
