Visiting an amusement park is one of my (and my family’s) favorite travel experiences!
But if there’s one thing I’ve learned after exploring parks around the world, it’s this: a little planning (well… a lot, to be honest) goes a long way. In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know before visiting an amusement park, so you can avoid long lines, save money, stay safe, and have an unforgettable day (or two).
Whether you’re planning your first theme park adventure or you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker, these tips will help you plan the perfect visit to an amusement park, stress-free and full of fun.
Why Planning Is Essential for Amusement Park Trips
I used to think amusement parks were all about spontaneity—just show up and go! But that was because the amusement parks in my country are very small, and you can definitely go through one in one day.
After going to Prater (Vienna) almost 20 years ago (way before there were apps on the phone, way before people had money to use internet while abroad – myself included!), I saw that you need to know in advance many things. Getting stuck in lines or missing out on top rides, I realized that smart planning equals maximum fun.
Continue reading: If you’ve ever Googled “how to skip lines at amusement parks” or “best time to visit theme parks,” you’ll find the answers here.
1. Choose the Right Amusement Park for You, Your Family or Your Group
Not all parks are created equal. I knew how this sounds, but it is true. There are themed-parks, there are parks for small children or for all kids, or with many rides for adults too. There are smaller and bigger parks. And all these details matter!
Ask yourself:
- Are you going with young kids or teens?
- Are you looking for adrenaline-pumping roller coasters or family-friendly attractions?
- Do you want themed experiences (like Disney, Universal, or Legoland) or more traditional rides?
My recommendation: Research the park’s top attractions, crowd levels, and guest age suitability in advance.
And I can give you 3 examples here: the small amusement park in Bucharest (my hometown) is not that big. You do not need to plan your visit to make sure you do not miss a ride. In fact, as an adult, you can go in just a few of the rides – the park is mostly for kids.
In Prater – OMG! I was there with my husband (our son wasn’t born yet) and… we barely scraped the surface. We stayed one day – but it was…