Planning a Theme Park Visit That's Fun for Everyone

Your much anticipated theme park trip is drawing near. You're dreaming of a day of nonstop fun. You're envisioning thrilling rides, delicious treats, and fun characters. But before you and your family or friends head to the park, take a moment to consider some advice from the experts. Whether you're visiting Six Flags or another theme park, our visitor tips can help make your trip a fun, safe, and exciting experience for everyone.

Plan Ahead - Visit your local AAA office and pick up a TourBook® guide or visit aaa.com to view the Internet TourBook®. TourBook guides provide general information such as park hours of operation, expected time it takes to experience the park, ride information, and contact information.

Dress Accordingly - Many theme parks have water rides, so wear clothing that dries quickly, and leave your favorite high-heels or flip-flops at home, opting instead for a comfy pair of running or walking shoes. You'll find the water rides can be refreshing and exciting, but walking around in wet socks is not fun. Be sure to pack a spare pair for everyone in your group. For those who are sensitive to sunlight, hats and sunglasses are recommended. And, sunscreen is essential even on overcast days. Nothing can ruin a day of fun like a sunburn.

Come Early - Arriving at the theme park early gives you a chance to decide on top priorities for the day—time to study the park map and review ride height restrictions. You'll also have time to decide on a meeting place if someone gets separated from the group. Some parks even offer walkie-talkie rentals for use during your visit.

Drink Lots of Water - All that laughing, screaming, and talking with friends can build up a powerful thirst. It's important to stay hydrated during an all-day marathon of good times, whether it's hot or not!

Use Common Sense and Follow Posted Safety Rules - While on rides, always stay seated, and keep your hands, feet, and knees inside the car. If you are riding a "floorless" coaster, relax your legs and let them dangle underneath you. Don't kick them out to the side or front. Make sure any seat belts or safety harnesses are in place and snuggly fitted against your body. Never get on or off a ride until you've been given the OK by an attendant to do so.

Keep Little Ones Safe - If you're visiting the park with children, set a good example by following all posted rules. Take time to explain the rides to them before getting on, and remind them to stay seated and to keep their hands and legs inside the ride. Pace yourself and take plenty of breaks. Very young children can't keep an adult's pace at a theme park. Also, make sure little ones know what to do if they get separated or lost from their parents. Most theme parks operate a "Lost Kids" or "Lost Parents" family reunion center. Instruct your children to locate a park employee as soon as they think they are lost. Employees will escort lost kids (or lost parents) directly to the center for a happy reunion.

Save Time - Many parks now have a ride reservation system or sell front-of-the-line passes that will significantly reduce your wait time for rides. Every park has its own unique system, so be sure to ask about it when you enter the park.

Save Money - Participating AAA offices sell discounted theme park tickets, and some parks such as Universal Studios Theme Parks and Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks also offer in-park discounts. Avoid the long lines, contact your local AAA office or visit aaa.com/ThemeParkTickets for more information.

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