If you plan to visit a theme park this summer, you are not alone. Nearly half (45%) of summer vacationers plan to visit a theme park this year, according to a recent AAA Consumer Pulse survey.
“Summer is peak season for theme parks,” said Belinda Dabrowski, managing director, AAA Partnership Development, The Auto Club Group. “Whether you’re a theme park novice or a connoisseur, be sure to take advantage of time and money savings tips from a trusted source like AAA before you take your vacation.”
AAA Theme Park Tips
Plan! Plan! Plan! Long lines, weather, and height requirements are just a few things you need to consider when traveling to a theme park.
- Orlando is hot and rainy in the summer, so be sure to pack a rain poncho and change of clothes.
- Millions of people visit theme parks every year, so plan to wait in line for popular attractions. Download a fun game on your phone or be prepared to play an impromptu game of I Spy with your kids (or impatient adults).
- Theme parks = Walking. Wear comfortable shoes and plan out which section of the theme park you want to visit at what times. This will help you pace your day and ensure you visit all your favorite attractions.
Stay Onsite. At theme parks like Universal, guests who stay onsite can enter the theme park an hour before it opens to the public. Guests can also receive a free Express Pass for each person who stays at a participating hotel.
- Disney allows you to book a FastPass+ up to 60 days in advance (if staying onsite).
- Many theme park hotels offer on-site babysitting services which means a much needed night out for mom and dad.
- Most onsite hotels provide complimentary transportation to the parks. That means saving money on parking and front door service to your favorite park.
Look for special discounts from brands you trust. AAA has some great discounts during the summer season. Visit AAA.com/attractions for more deals from AAA.
Florida residents planning on theme park vacation can take advantage of the following offers from AAA:
- Walt Disney World
- 3 & 4 Day Discover Disney Ticket
- AAA Member prices start at $157.99 +tax
- Universal Orlando Resort
- 2 Park BOGO! Buy 1 Day Get 1 Day FREE
- AAA Member Price of $166.00 +tax
- LEGOLAND Florida
- AAA Members Save Up To $45 Off The Gate Price
- SeaWorld Orlando
- AAA Members Save Up To $124 Off The Gate Price
Do not buy discounted tickets off sites like eBay or Craigslist; the risk of buying counterfeit tickets is just too high.
Follow your favorite parks on social media. If you’re on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, be sure to follow the parks you want to visit so you don’t miss out on deals and special announcements available only to followers.
Bring snacks and water into the park. Every theme park has rules about what you can and can’t bring into the park. Check the theme park’s website beforehand to see what you can bring. Skip the sugary sodas and make sure everyone stays hydrated with water, which is totally free to fill your bottles with.
Your family’s theme park vacation doesn’t have to cost a fortune. VisitAAA.com/attractions for more money saving offers from AAA.