Parking Tips for Amusement Parks: A Complete Guide for Visitors
If you're planning a visit to one of America's famous amusement parks, there’s one thing you’ll need to think about before you even step foot on a ride: parking. Having been to several amusement parks myself, I can tell you that understanding the parking situation beforehand can make all the difference. From parking fees to choosing the right lot, I’ve learned some valuable tips over the years that will help you navigate parking at amusement parks with ease. This guide will share my personal experiences and insights on how to avoid parking stress, so you can focus on enjoying the fun rides and attractions instead.
Fun Spot America Theme Parks - Kissimmee
2850 Florida Plaza Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34746, USA
1. Understanding Parking Fees at Amusement Parks
When you first arrive at an amusement park, one of the first things you’ll encounter is the parking lot. What might surprise you is the wide range of parking fees you may face. Some parks charge a flat rate, while others offer tiered pricing depending on how close you want to park to the entrance. Let me walk you through the different fee structures:
- Standard Parking: This is the most common type of parking at amusement parks. You’ll usually find these spaces further from the entrance, but they offer a more affordable price. Most amusement parks charge anywhere from $15 to $30 for standard parking.
- Preferred Parking: If you're looking to get closer to the entrance (and don’t mind paying a bit more), preferred parking is the way to go. These spaces are usually located in prime spots near the park’s main entrance. Expect to pay $30 to $50 for preferred parking.
- VIP or Premium Parking: For those who really want to make things easy, VIP or premium parking offers the closest spots to the entrance. This is often the most expensive option, with fees that can range from $50 to $100 or more.
- Discounted Parking: Some parks offer discounts on parking for certain times of the day or during off-peak seasons. If you’re flexible with your schedule, you may be able to save a bit by taking advantage of these deals.
One thing I’ve learned from experience is that parking at peak times, such as weekends and holidays, can be quite expensive. So, if you want to save a little extra cash, try visiting during a weekday or off-season if possible.
Kiddy Hawk
300 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273, USA
2. Booking Parking in Advance: Is It Worth It?
More and more amusement parks are offering the option to book parking in advance, and after trying it out myself, I can say that it’s definitely worth considering. Many theme parks now allow you to reserve a parking spot online, ensuring you get a guaranteed place to park, even during the busiest times of year. This can save you a lot of time and stress when you arrive.
Here are a few reasons why booking parking in advance is a great idea:
- Guaranteed Spot: No more hunting for a spot or worrying that the lot will be full. You’re all set, and you’ll know exactly where to go when you arrive.
- Discounts: Many parks offer discounted rates for pre-booked parking. I’ve saved anywhere from $5 to $20 just by reserving my parking spot early.
- Time-Saving: Pre-booking parking means you don’t have to waste time circling the lot looking for a spot. Just head straight to your reserved space and start enjoying the park.
While advance booking is not mandatory, it’s something I highly recommend, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons or on a busy weekend. It just makes everything so much smoother.
3. Tips for Finding the Best Parking Spot
Over the years, I’ve developed a few strategies for making sure I park in the best possible spot at amusement parks. Here are some of my top tips:
- Arrive Early: One of the easiest ways to ensure you get a good parking spot is to arrive early. The earlier you get there, the closer you can park to the entrance, which saves you time and energy after a long day of walking around the park.
- Look for Less Popular Lots: Some parks have multiple parking lots, and the closer ones tend to fill up quickly. I’ve had success finding a good spot by heading to lots that are a little farther away but still offer decent access to the entrance.
- Park Near the Exit: If you’re planning to leave early or avoid the post-park rush, consider parking near an exit gate. This will help you avoid the long lines and delays when trying to leave after a busy day.
- Consider Off-Site Parking: In some cases, off-site parking might be a better option. Many amusement parks have nearby parking lots or garages that offer lower rates and free shuttles to the park. While it may take a little longer to get to the entrance, it’s often worth it for the savings.
One of the best experiences I’ve had was parking a bit further away in a quieter lot and avoiding the crowded main entrance. The extra walk gave me a few moments of peace and helped me get in the mood for the excitement ahead. Plus, the shuttle ride back to the lot at the end of the day was a great way to relax after a long day of thrills!
4. Managing Parking for Large Groups or Families
If you're visiting an amusement park with a large group or family, parking can become a bit more complicated. However, there are a few strategies that can make the process smoother:
- Carpool: Many parks offer discounted or even free parking for carpoolers. If you're visiting with family or friends, consider carpooling to take advantage of this perk. It can save everyone money and make parking more convenient.
- Special Family Parking: Some amusement parks have family-friendly parking lots that are closer to the entrance. These areas are often reserved for families with young children, making it easier to unload strollers and gear.
- Keep Everyone Together: When parking in a large group, try to park near each other so that you can easily regroup after the day’s activities. This helps minimize the stress of finding each other in a crowded parking lot.
I’ve been to parks with family and friends before, and let me tell you, having a good parking spot makes all the difference. The ease of getting in and out of the park with a big group is such a relief, and it sets the tone for a smooth and fun-filled day.
5. What to Do If Parking Is Full
Despite the best planning, sometimes parking lots fill up quickly, especially on holidays and weekends. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic—there are usually a few solutions to this problem:
- Check for Overflow Parking: Many parks have overflow parking areas, which are located a bit further from the entrance but still offer transportation to and from the park. You may need to take a shuttle, but it’s a good backup option.
- Wait for a Spot: If you're willing to be patient, sometimes parking spots will open up as people leave for the day. I’ve had success by circling the lot for a few minutes and waiting for a spot to open up.
- Use Alternative Transportation: If all else fails, consider using alternative transportation options like ride-sharing services or public transit. Many parks are well-connected to local transit routes, and ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft can drop you off right at the entrance.
There’s no need to stress about parking. With a little patience and some flexibility, you can still have a great time even if the lot fills up. I’ve been in situations where I thought parking would be impossible, but by following these steps, I was able to get in without missing a beat.
