Everyone loves a theme park, don’t they? The rides, attractions, sights and sounds help to create a magical day out for all the family.
That said, it’s always wise to do a little forward planning to ensure you get the most fun out of the experience. After all, small things like getting caught in a downpour, lengthy queues or only having cash at a card-only park can put a real dampener on what should be a special day.
In this guide, we provide tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your theme park visit, so you and your loved ones can create unforgettable memories, avoid common pitfalls and make every moment count.
What to do before visiting a theme park
It never hurts to be prepared! Here are some steps to take ahead of your visit.
· Book tickets in advance
Most theme park tickets will be cheaper when booked in advance online (25% cheaper here at Paultons Park!). It also means you’ll avoid queues at the admissions desk on the day.
· Find out opening times
Hop over to the theme park website which will list their opening hours. Make a note of this, so you don’t end up arriving hours’ too early or – even worse – when the park is closed!
· Cash or card?
Some theme parks (such as Paultons Park) are cashless meaning you will need to bring a debit or credit card with you. The park’s website should have more details on this, but if in doubt, bring both!
· Plan how to get there
Theme parks are usually well-signposted but it’s always to plan the quickest and easiest route which will avoid traffic blackspots or getting lost. If travelling by public transport, explore the nearest bus stops or train stations and familiarise yourself with timetables.
· Decide which rides or attractions to head for first
If there are particular rides and attractions you are itching to experience, head straight for those first. If they’re popular, chances are you may have to queue. You’ll find queueing a lot more tolerable at the start of your visit when you’re still full of energy – especially if you have little ones in tow!
· Check the weather forecast
Nothing can ruin a trip to a theme park like howling gales, torrential rain or blistering heat. Check the forecast in advance of your visit to find out what the weather may have in store for you. In cases of extreme weather, the park may even have to close.
What to wear to a theme park
Any trip to a theme park involves a lot of walking. Also, as highlighted above, the weather in the UK can be far from predictable, so if you’re planning on a trip to a theme park, you need to be prepared for all eventualities! When planning what to wear, factor in the following:
- Comfortable shoes (a must!)
- A waterproof coat, poncho or jacket
- A sunhat
- Breathable fabrics
- Layers (for drops or hikes in temperature)
What to bring to a theme park
Obviously, you don’t want to be laden down with heavy bags as you wander round the park, but it is handy to have a light rucksack or sling bag with a few of the following essentials:
Theme park checklist
- Water
- Print out of tickets (in case there’s a problem with your phone!)
- Snacks
- Map of site (either a hard copy or on your phone)
- An umbrella
- Phone
- Nappies
- Sun cream
- Cash/card
When is the best time to visit a theme park?
You won’t be surprised to learn that theme parks tend be less busy during the week and outside of school holidays. For those who can’t visit at these times, first thing in the morning or towards the end of the day are typically quieter, or on days when the weather isn’t great.
The other great tip is to visit when a major sporting event is taking place (such as the World Cup) – you’d be surprised how quiet theme parks can get when the England football team is playing!
How do you avoid queues at theme parks?
Nobody likes long queues, especially at the end of a visit when energy levels start to drop. Waiting times for popular rides tend to be shorter first thing in the morning or towards the end of the day. If you arrive when the park opens, make sure to make a beeline for your favourite ride first to guarantee one of the first spots in the queue.
Additionally, many theme parks offer fast track tickets or Access Passes for visitors who find queueing difficult or distressing. Visit the theme park website to see what they offer.
Book a theme park mini break
One day is rarely long enough to explore an entire theme park. Why not treat yourself and your family to a short break so you can enjoy all the rides and attractions at a more leisurely pace without having to worry about cramming everything in during the course of a single day?
Remember to have fun!
Visiting a theme park is about spending quality time with your family or friends so be sure to remember to relax and enjoy yourself! Take lots of pictures, try a variety of rides you wouldn’t normally go on and create some magical memories that will last a lifetime.
Look forward to welcoming you to Paultons Park soon!
