Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Park Amusement and water park with roller coasters
Outside Allentown, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom pairs roller coasters and family rides with a separate water park, drawing regional visitors for summer amusement and events.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is an amusement park and water park complex located near Allentown in eastern Pennsylvania. The site operates as a combined destination offering thrill rides, family attractions and a separate water park area.
The amusement park section features roller coasters and flat rides clustered around midways and entertainment spaces, while the adjacent Wildwater Kingdom offers water slides, wave pools and family aquatic attractions. The park runs seasonal events and typical amusement-park amenities such as food outlets and arcades.
The park began in the late 19th century as a local recreational and picnic site and developed over time into a modern regional amusement park. Ownership and investment through the 20th and 21st centuries have expanded ride installations and added the water park component.
Dorney Park is situated in South Whitehall Township in the Lehigh Valley, immediately west of Allentown and within driving distance of the larger cities of Allentown, Bethlehem and Allentown area suburbs.
- Combined amusement and water park: Located in the Lehigh Valley near Allentown, it combines an amusement park and adjoining water park that operate under a single admission area.
- Historic origin and development: Founded in the late 19th century as a local recreational site, it has expanded into a regional theme park with modern rides and seasonal events.
What to See #
- Wildwater Kingdom: A separate water park area operated alongside the amusement park, containing water slides, pools and family aquatic attractions.
- Amusement park: The main amusement park section with multiple roller coasters and flat rides arranged around seasonal entertainment and midway areas.
How to Get to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom #
Located off U.S. Route 222 near Allentown, PA. Drive via local highways; regional public transit serves the Allentown area but driving is the most practical option for visiting the park. Parking available on-site (fees may apply).
Tips for Visiting Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom #
- Arrive early in the season to avoid the largest crowds; line-skipping and fast-pass options vary by day.
- Bring sunscreen and a waterproof layer for the water-park sections; some rides have height restrictions.
- Check ride maintenance schedules on the park's website to avoid disappointment.
Best Time to Visit Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom #
Best on weekdays in late spring or early autumn to avoid peak summer crowds; check the park calendar for operating days and special events.
Weather & Climate near Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom #
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Continental - Hot-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -7°C to 30°C. Abundant rainfall (1132 mm/year), wettest in May, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 2°C and lows of -7°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm).
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (114 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (106 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 1°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm).
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm).