Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is an amusement and water park located in Dorneyville, Pennsylvania. It is owned and operated by Cedar Fair and features 64 rides, including six roller coasters, other adult and children's rides, and a water park, Wildwater Kingdom, with 19 water rides.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom (wikipedia) is one of the most popular amusement parks in the United States, and it is known for its thrilling roller coasters, including Steel Force, the eighth-longest steel roller coaster in the world and the second-longest on the U.S. East Coast. The park also has a variety of other rides and attractions for all ages, including water rides, family rides, and children's rides.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
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| Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom Source: Wikipedia |
Location
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is located at 4800 Dorney Park Road, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18104. The park is located about 60 miles north of Philadelphia and 90 miles west of New York City.
Park Layout
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is divided into two main sections: the amusement park and the water park. The amusement park is further divided into several themed areas, including:
- Main Street: This area features the park's entrance, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and arcades.
- Planet Snoopy: This area is designed for younger children and features rides and attractions based on the Peanuts characters.
- Wildwater Cove: This area is home to the park's water park, Wildwater Kingdom.
- Dinosaurs Alive!: This area features a variety of dinosaur-themed rides and attractions.
- Candymonium: This area features the park's newest roller coaster, Candymonium, which is the tallest, fastest, and longest hypercoaster in the Northeast.
History of Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Early history
Dorney Park was founded in 1860 by Solomon Dorney, a farmer and businessman. Dorney built a trout hatchery and summer resort on his estate, which was located along the Little Lehigh Creek. In 1870, Dorney decided to open the estate to the public as a picnic grove. He added a variety of attractions, including a carousel, swings, and a dance hall.
In 1899, the Allentown-Kutztown Traction Company built a trolley line to Dorney Park, making it easier for people to get to the park. The trolley company purchased the park in 1901, and continued to operate it until 1923.
Growth and development
In 1923, Dorney Park was sold to Robert Plarr and two other partners. Plarr soon bought out his partners and ran the park until his death in 1966. During Plarr's ownership, Dorney Park added a number of new rides and attractions, including the Whip (1920), the Thunderhawk roller coaster (1923), and the Steel Force roller coaster (1991).
In 1985, Dorney Park was sold to Harris Weinstein. Weinstein added a number of new attractions to the park, including the Wildwater Kingdom water park (1985), the Hydra roller coaster (1995), and the Voodoo roller coaster (1996).
In 1992, Dorney Park was sold to Cedar Fair, LP. Cedar Fair has continued to invest in the park, adding new rides and attractions such as the Talon roller coaster (2001), the Demon Drop roller coaster (2003), and the Possessed dark ride (2008).
Today
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is one of the most popular amusement parks in the Mid-Atlantic region. The park features over 100 rides and attractions, including 11 roller coasters, two water parks, and a variety of family-friendly rides. The park also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including Halloween Haunt and Wildwater Kingdom Nights.
Milestones
Here is a timeline of some of the major milestones in the history of Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom:
- 1860: Solomon Dorney builds a trout hatchery and summer resort on his estate.
- 1870: Dorney Park opens to the public as a picnic grove.
- 1899: The Allentown-Kutztown Traction Company builds a trolley line to Dorney Park.
- 1901: The Allentown-Kutztown Traction Company purchases Dorney Park.
- 1923: Dorney Park is sold to Robert Plarr and two other partners.
- 1924: The Thunderhawk roller coaster opens.
- 1985: Dorney Park is sold to Harris Weinstein.
- 1985: Wildwater Kingdom water park opens.
- 1992: Dorney Park is sold to Cedar Fair, LP.
- 1995: The Hydra roller coaster opens.
- 1996: The Voodoo roller coaster opens.
- 2001: The Talon roller coaster opens.
- 2003: The Demon Drop roller coaster opens.
- 2008: The Possessed dark ride opens.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is a historic amusement park that has provided generations of families with fun and excitement. The park is a popular destination for people from all over the Mid-Atlantic region, and continues to grow and develop each year.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom: Attractions & Things to Do
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is a combination amusement park and water park in Allentown, Pennsylvania. It is one of the most popular amusement parks in the Northeast, and is known for its wide variety of rides and attractions for all ages.
Rides & Experiences
Dorney Park has over 60 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, family rides, and kiddie rides. Some of the most popular rides include:
- Hydra: A seven-inversion roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 50 mph.
- Possessed: A wooden roller coaster that features two lift hills and two drops.
- Steel Force: A hypercoaster that reaches speeds of up to 75 mph.
- Thunderhawk: A suspended roller coaster that features two loops and a corkscrew.
- Wildwater Kingdom: A water park with over 20 water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
Wildwater Kingdom Waterpark
Wildwater Kingdom is one of the largest water parks in the Northeast. It features over 20 water slides, including several thrilling body slides and tube slides. There is also a wave pool, a lazy river, and a children's play area.
Special Events
Dorney Park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including:
- Halloween Haunt: A Halloween event with haunted mazes, scare zones, and live shows.
- Grand Carnivale: A spring event with family-friendly activities, rides, and shows.
- All-American Summer: A summer event with patriotic-themed activities, rides, and shows.
Dining
Dorney Park has a variety of dining options, including restaurants, snack bars, and carts. Some of the most popular dining options include:
- All-American Roadhouse: A full-service restaurant serving American classics.
- Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta: A casual restaurant serving pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes.
- Dippin' Dots: An ice cream shop serving Dippin' Dots ice cream.
- Pretzel Kingdom: A snack bar serving pretzels, soft drinks, and other snacks.
Live Entertainment
Dorney Park offers a variety of live entertainment throughout the year, including shows, concerts, and parades. Some of the most popular live entertainment options include:
- Peanuts characters live shows: Shows featuring the Peanuts characters, such as Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and Woodstock.
- Dive-In Movies: Movies shown on a floating screen in the Wildwater Kingdom wave pool.
- Summer concerts: Concerts featuring popular music artists.
Cabanas
Dorney Park offers cabanas for rent in the Wildwater Kingdom water park. Cabanas provide a private place to relax and unwind, and come with a variety of amenities, such as lounge chairs, a table, and a refrigerator.
Tickets and Discounts
Admission Prices:
Ticket prices vary depending on factors like age and time of purchase. Check the official website for the most accurate pricing information.
Season Passes:
If you plan on visiting multiple times, consider purchasing a season pass for maximum savings and exclusive perks.
Group Rates:
Dorney Park offers discounts for groups, making it an ideal destination for school trips, family reunions, or corporate outings.
Discounts and Promotions
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom often offers discounts and promotions throughout the season. For example, the park may offer discounts for military members, seniors, and children. The park may also offer discounts for purchasing tickets in advance or for staying at a partner hotel.
Here are some tips for finding the best deals on Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom tickets:
- Purchase your tickets in advance online.
- Look for discounts and promotions.
- Consider purchasing a season pass if you plan on visiting the park multiple times throughout the season.
- Check the park's website and social media pages for the latest deals and promotions.
Planning Your Visit
Directions and Parking
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is located at 4300 Dorney Park Road, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18104. The park is approximately 1 hour drive from Philadelphia and 2 hours drive from New York City.
The park offers free parking for all guests. The parking lot is located adjacent to the park entrance.
Accommodations
There are a variety of accommodations available near Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Some of the most popular hotels near the park include:
- Allentown Park Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
- Holiday Inn Allentown-Bethlehem, an IHG Hotel
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Allentown Bethlehem/Center Valley
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Allentown Cen - Dorneyville, an IHG Hotel
- Howard Johnson by Wyndham Allentown Dorney Hotel & Suites
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Allentown West, an IHG Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Allentown North, an IHG Hotel
- Renaissance Allentown Hotel
- Hilton Garden Inn Allentown West
- Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Allentown-Fogelsville
Tips for Visiting
Here are a few tips for visiting Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom:
- Arrive early: The park opens at 10:00 AM, but it is a good idea to arrive early to beat the crowds.
- Purchase a Fast Lane pass: If you want to skip the lines for the most popular rides, you can purchase a Fast Lane pass.
- Bring comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking at the park, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Stay hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated, especially on hot days. Bring a water bottle with you or purchase drinks from the vendors in the park.
- Take breaks: The park can be overwhelming, so be sure to take breaks throughout the day. There are plenty of places to sit and relax, or you can even take a dip in the pool at Wildwater Kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the park hours?
The park hours vary depending on the day of the week and the time of year. However, the park is typically open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Check the Dorney Park official website for the most accurate calender and Hours.
2. What is the best time to visit Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom?
The best time to visit Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is during the shoulder season, which is May-June and September-October. During these months, the weather is typically pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
3. What should I wear to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom?
It is important to wear comfortable clothing and shoes when visiting Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. You may also want to bring a sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
4. What should I bring to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom?
You may want to bring a backpack or fanny pack to carry your belongings, such as sunscreen, snacks, and drinks. You may also want to bring a change of clothes if you plan on swimming in the water park.
5. Can I bring my own food and drinks into the park?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks into Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. However, there are some restrictions on what you can bring into the park. For example, you cannot bring alcoholic beverages or glass containers into the park.
6. Are there any age restrictions for the rides and attractions?
Yes, there are some age restrictions for the rides and attractions at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. For example, some of the rides have a minimum height requirement. Guests are encouraged to check the park's website or app for the height requirements for each ride and attraction.
7. What should I do if I lose something?
If you lose something at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, please report it to the nearest Guest Services location. The park will do everything it can to help you find your lost item.
Park Policies
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom has a number of park policies in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests. Some of the most important policies include:
- No smoking: Smoking is not allowed anywhere in the park.
- No alcohol: Alcohol is not allowed in the park.
- No weapons: Weapons of any kind are not allowed in the park.
- No pets: Pets are not allowed in the park, with the exception of service animals.
- Dress code: Guests are asked to dress appropriately for the weather and for the rides and attractions they plan on visiting.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is a great place to visit for families of all ages. With a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By planning your visit in advance and following the park's policies, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable time.
Conclusion
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is a great place to visit for families and thrill-seekers alike. The park has a wide variety of rides and attractions for all ages, and it offers a variety of other amenities, including live entertainment, dining options, and shopping. The park also hosts a number of special events throughout the year.
If you are planning a visit to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, be sure to follow the tips above to make the most of your experience.
