How To Enjoy Ohio Amusement Grounds

Every year, millions of Americans weigh their travel options when considering a fun trip for the entire family – and many love theme parks.

Do you love Ohio theme parks but hate the high prices and long line-ups? Do you plan a family vacation every year to Six Flags, but are tired of fighting the crowds and constantly opening your wallet? If so, keep reading for a basic guide that will help you survive the ups and downs of Ohio’s roller coaster parks.

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 frugal five-night vacation for a family of four near Ohio theme parks will run about $2,000 – plus transportation. Roughly one-third will be for tickets, a third for food, and the rest for lodging and incidentals. But there are ways to cut back.

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.

You can also avoid the crowds by heading straight for the rear of the park and slowly work your way toward the entrance. While you make your way to the front, you’ll avoid the rush of people. Also, get a map of the park ahead of time and plan out your route the day before.

Say No to Ticket 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

Probably the most popular out of all the Ohio theme parks is Cedar Point. It’s the biggest amusement park in the world and home to some of the highest and longest roller coasters too. Other parks in the area include Six Flags, SeaWorld, King’s Island and numerous others.