Binkies and Briefcases

Thank you so much to Dutch Wonderland for inviting us to spend last Saturday at the park! This family-friendly amusement park in Lancaster, PA is one of our favorite family vacation spots. The park is the perfect size to be able to get everything done in one day without feeling rushed, and we especially love everything they do to accommodate our children who have special needs. (Three of our five children have special needs, such as intellectual disabilities and Autism. Although our needs are more social and emotional than physical, the park still works very hard to accommodate our family!)

Their commitment to serving kids is evident before you even walk into the park. The storybook medieval theme of the castle, princess, and dragons is fun. But even more fun for me as a mom was seeing that all of the money collected in the wishing moat (where kids can throw pennies as they wait in line to have bags checked before entering the park) is donated to charity. 

Although they do not allow outside food or beverages into the park, we were allowed to bring water bottles for each of our kids. That saved us lots of whining (and money!) throughout the day. 

We lucked out with perfect May weather. The kids loved riding Merlin’s Mayhem rollercoaster. And because Dutch Wonderland is so friendly to families with special needs, we were able to avoid long lines.

If your child has special needs, including Autism and sensory needs, just stop by Guest Services before you enter the park. They will give you an accessibility pass. These passes have been life savers for us and are truly what allow us to be successful at places like amusement parks, which have SO much sensory input for our kids. They allow us to discretely enter a ride through its exit and avoid lines, or ride twice in a row if a ride was a big hit. If you think your child might qualify, check out the Dutch Wonderland website for more information on their program. 

The large castle and gift shop at the park entrance is very cool, but the kids’ love the train even more. It’s the first thing they ask to do every single time we visit. 

They also really liked meeting the characters in person. Here are Ana and the boys meeting Merlin. 

Abby and I love the diving shows. As you can see, they are very popular! I recommend arriving a few minutes early, unless you don’t mind getting seated in the splash zone. 🙂

I am so impressed by the talented performers every time! (Also, my youngest son left his jacket here at the show and we didn’t realize until later in the day. The staff was very helpful in getting it back to us. We easily retrieved it at the park’s lost and found.)

Our kids range in age from first grade through middle school, and there is something here for every member of the family. There are rides that are suitable for toddlers, and roller coasters that my husband and our older kids love. 

What I remember most from my own childhood visits to Dutch Wonderland is the storybook editions sprinkled throughout the park. I have always loved the school bells, gingerbread houses, and small special touches.  

Penny’s favorite ride this year was the log flume. I remember riding this with my dad as a little girl and it’s fun to watch my kids love it now. 

Abby was most excited about the food. She talked about soft pretzels all day. 

This visit was our first time riding the monorail. I think the kids mostly just liked laughing at their mom as I freaked out (I’m not a huge fan of heights). 

We had a great time at Dutch Wonderland once again this summer! Thank you so much to Dutch Wonderland for sponsoring our visit! 

Dutch Wonderland wants to make your visit a little sweeter this year as well. If you order through my link, or use the code summerblog19 you will get $5 off your ticket price! 

I hope you love your visit as much as we did!