How to Have Fun at Ohio Roller Coaster Parks

Ohio theme parks are some of the best in the world, with the biggest rides and even bigger thrills. But, these major tourist destinations can also be a major headache. From the lines to the ticket prices, a trip to the park is often easier said than done. So, if you're planning an upcoming Ohio theme park vacation, keep reading for some tips and tricks that are essential to family survival.

Can Your Kids Handle It?

Certain rides may come with age restrictions, but theme parks don't. However, just because you can take your three-year-old to Six Flags, does that mean you should?

Remember, younger children can really slow down the pace of the day as you make your way from the rides to the potty to the cafeteria and back to the rides. Smaller infants are often easier as they can be pushed in a stroller, but it also limits your options as a parent. However, before you take your kids to a theme park, ask yourself if they're ready.

Be Realistic About Cost

A simple five day vacation to some of the best Ohio theme parks will cost you more than you might think. A family of four eating at restaurants, sleeping in hotels and paying for gas can easily work up a tab of well over $2000. So, be realistic about your budget.

To save money, try to avoid buying anything inside the park. For example, pack light and healthy snacks like granola or apples to keep your kids going without draining your bank account on expensive park food. Also, purchase items like hats and sunscreen before you arrive.

Avoid the Crowds

Finally, call the park you want to visit and ask for a vacation-planning guide and a map so you can plot out your plan of attack. In general, theme parks are laid out in a giant convoluted circle. Theme park vets will tell you that most people veer to the right after entering the gate - so go left and work your way through in a clockwise rotation.

An alternative crowd-avoidance tactic is to make a beeline straight to the back and spend your day working your way toward the front while the masses make their way to the back.

Avoid Lines

Buy tickets in advance. The main ticket window is one major line that can be skipped entirely. Arrive when the park opens with entry tickets in hand.

Where to Go

The best known out of all the Ohio Theme Parks is the Cedar Point amusement park, the biggest park in the world. However, there are numerous others and multiple water parks in the surrounding area, such as King's Island, Six Flags and SeaWorld. For more information, contact the Ohio Division of Travel and Tourism for additional details.

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