Dutch Wonderland vs Hersheypark Boardwalk
A side-by-side look at two water parks — rides, prices, amenities, and which one fits your trip.
Which Park Is Right for You?
Quick verdicts based on what each park offers.
Amenities Compared
What each park offers, side by side.
| Feature | Dutch Wonderland | Hersheypark Boardwalk |
|---|---|---|
| Parking |
Only at Dutch Wonderland
- splash pad
Only at Hersheypark Boardwalk
- water slides
- lazy river
- wave pool
- cabana rentals
- tube rentals
Both parks share 1 amenities including Parking.
About Each Park
Dutch Wonderland
Pennsylvania
Dutch Wonderland isn't just a water park - it's a family amusement park with a solid water play area called Duke's Lagoon that's perfect for families with kids under 12. The water section feels like a bonus feature rather than the main event, which actually works in its favor since you're not dealing with massive water park crowds. Duke's Lagoon has a zero-entry pool that's ideal for toddlers, along with a decent-sized water playground structure loaded with dump buckets, spray features, and smaller slides. The highlight is the multi-level play structure that keeps kids busy for hours while parents can actually relax on the surrounding lounge chairs. What makes Dutch Wonderland special is the combination - you can hit the dry rides in the morning when it's cooler, then splash around in the afternoon when Pennsylvania heat kicks in. The whole park has this storybook Dutch theme that's charming without being over the top. Lines move quickly since this isn't a destination water park, and the staff does a good job keeping the water clean and safe. The food situation is typical amusement park fare, but the portions are generous and prices aren't completely insane. I'd recommend arriving right when they open to knock out popular dry rides like the Sky Princess Castle or Merlin's Mayhem before heading to the water area around noon. Bring water shoes since the concrete can get hot, and don't forget sunscreen - there's limited shade around the water features. This place shines for families…
Read the full Dutch Wonderland guide →Hersheypark Boardwalk
Pennsylvania
Hersheypark Boardwalk sits right next to the famous chocolate theme park in Hershey, giving you that classic Pennsylvania vacation vibe with the sweet smell of chocolate in the air. This outdoor water park feels like an old-school boardwalk experience, complete with wooden decking and that nostalgic summer atmosphere that Hershey does so well. The water slides here range from family-friendly tube rides to some decent thrill slides that'll get your heart pumping. The lazy river is solid - not the longest I've floated, but perfect for cooling off between rides. Kids absolutely love the interactive play structure with dumping buckets and smaller slides, plus there's a dedicated shallow area where little ones can splash safely while parents keep watch from nearby lounge chairs. The wave pool generates decent waves every few minutes, though it can get packed during peak summer days. What really sets this place apart is how it connects to the larger Hersheypark experience. You can do combo tickets and bounce between the theme park and water park, which is perfect for families who want variety. The theming feels authentic rather than corporate, with plenty of chocolate-themed touches that kids get a kick out of. I'd recommend arriving when they open, especially on weekends, because the slide lines can get brutal by noon. The food options are typical water park fare but decent quality, and you'll pay theme park prices. Rent a cabana if you're visiting during peak season - the shade is worth every penny when it…
Read the full Hersheypark Boardwalk guide →Ready to visit Dutch Wonderland?