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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 the Holiday Season, so instead of usual operations, the park is set up for Dutch Winter Wonderland. I’m already primed to see holiday lights. They are 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 unique for the Turnpike ride. 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. Several songs are 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.
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