6 insider tips for maneuvering summer theme parks
By Aimee Heckel
A recent survey by Busch Gardens and Mom Central found that 70 percent of moms rely on vacations as a time for kids to unplug and get outdoors. And the vast majority of moms — and kids, too — reported they wanted to have more fun as a family.
If the sunshine has you and your kids itching for a visit to an amusement park like Six Flags, make sure you read these insider tips first, courtesy of Stacy DeBroff, CEO of Mom Central.
Making the most of family vacation time at a theme park:
1. Before you go, dress your kids in brightly colored, matching shirts to make them easy to spot in busy crowds.
We’re loving these Versace V-neck tees at Nordstrom, which come in a variety of bright colors. (Who says you can’t be fashionable at an amusement park?) Tip: Make your Nordie purchase through ShopAtHome.com using this coupon code and get free shipping, plus 6 percent Cash Back.
2. Buy tickets online ahead of time. Also, plan your parking in advance to get the best deals.
Looking to save money at Six Flags? Save 5 percent by using your Discover card. Click here to learn more.
Also: Sign up for the Six Flags newsletter to get entered to win two two Six Flags tickets.
And take a Six Flags survey to be entered in a weekly drawing for a pair of free tickets, plus the grand prize of four annual passes, or a $200 Amazon gift certificate.
3. Don’t forget where you parked by taking a picture of it on your phone or using a car-finding app, like Park’n Find. Follow the map that automatically guides you closer to your parking spot. (If you’re at a meter, it can also remind you when you need to pay to avoid tickets.)
4. Tell your kids they can pick one souvenir at the end of the day so you don’t have to lug it around all day. Some parks let you stash your souvenirs at the front gate.
5. Start at the back of the park and work your way forward to the front, to avoid the biggest crowds (and minimize walking).
6. Eat meals at non-peak hours (noon and 6 p.m.) to minimize the time spent waiting in food lines. Or pack a healthy lunch, or at least snack, to save money and time in line.
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