Posts Tagged ‘Tips’

The main attraction for visitors to Orlando is the vast array of theme parks including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Seaworld. In the peak season of May through to October, the parks can get very congested with long queues at the rides. There are means and ways of avoiding the crowds if planned carefully enough.

Getting there

Cost of parking at the attractions range from $8.00 – $13.00 per day. The parking lots at Disney are massive so be prepared for a walk and take notice of where you parked! You will normally be marshalled in at the start of the day so there’s no hunting for a space unless you arrive later in the day. Many hotels around the International Drive, Lake Buena Vista and Kissimmee areas ahve complimentary shuttle busses running from hotels to Walt Disney World, Seaworld and Universal Studios – this can be useful for a trouble free journey, however, the trip can be lengthy as the shuttles pick-up and drop-off at numerous locations.

Queues

Make use of the Fastpass at Disney which is free of charge or a queue jumper pass at universal Studios which costs around $20-$30. Alternately, a great way to beat the queues is to go around park anti-clockwise – people generally go clockwise around the parks so this is a great way to get on the rides fast! The queues at the rides are quieter at the start of the day and towards the end of the day, so make use of the park hopper tickets!

Eating

Eating at the parks can also be a frustrating experience with everyone seeking a catering outlet at the same time, generally between 1200 and 1400 – if possible avoid these times and seek to visit the shows through this time when the queues will be shorter. Be prepared for a limited choice of fast food – there are restaurants but queues and waiting times can be long unless booked in advance. At Disney restaurants, children under 3 eat free of charge at table service restaurants and all you can eat restaurants (if sharing an adult plate), however, a full price is charged for counter service when purchasing a meal.

Shows

Arrive early for shows to get the best seats – especially if you have kids! Many of the shows run multiple times throughout the day so it is generally best to go through the lunch time, upon park opening or towards the end of the day.

One last thing, don’t forget the camera – Orlando parks are unlike any other experience in the world. Enjoy!