Tips for Florida Theme Park Adventures

Sep 1

4 min read

Are you planning a trip to Florida to experience the magic of its world-renowned theme parks? Look no further for some insider tips to make the most out of your adventure! Here are some valuable suggestions to ensure you have a stress-free and memorable experience in the Sunshine State.

Plan your visit during the off-peak season to avoid long lines and crowded parks. Off-peak seasons are typically times when students return to school; however, these are often times when the theme parks schedule special events aimed to increase attendance. Consider visiting on weekdays instead of weekends, and try to avoid school holidays if possible.
Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance online. Not only will this save you time waiting in line at the ticket counter, but you may also find discounts and special deals available for online purchases. If you are a Floridian, be sure to check for special pricing for locals.
Protect yourself from the sun! Florida's sun can be intense, especially during the summer months. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and reapply sunscreen regularly to avoid sunburn. A popular option is wearing SPF long sleeved shirts (locals refer to these as "fishing shirts"). As a Floridian, I prefer to wear these shirts because they are lightweight, quick drying, and effective. One often overlooked item is SPF lip balm - just trust me on this one!
Stay Hydrated, water is your friend! Lifelong Floridians know that to prevent dehydration, you must hydrate before you start feeling thirsty. The good news is you don't have to purchase expensive bottled water in the parks, you can bring a refillable bottle and simply use the available water fountains. Locals with children in a stroller will often choose to bring one large insulated jug filled with ice and just add more water as needed. You can also bring a few packs of hydration powder instead of bulky sports drink bottles.
If your budget allows for it, take advantage of the FastPass or Express Pass options offered by most theme parks. These services allow you to skip the regular lines and enjoy more attractions during your visit. If you are staying at a theme park hotel, be sure to check out their package plans to see if you get early access - this is a great way to experience any "can't miss" attractions on your list. Another tip, consider using the single rider line, your travel partner might not sit next to you but you'll both have a great time and wait time are much shorter.
Familiarize yourself with the park maps and phone apps and create a rough itinerary for your day. This will help you prioritize which attractions you most want to see and ensure you don't miss out on anything. The parks are large and often congested, you'll want to move strategically between different areas to maximize your time spent at the attractions and lessen the time spent walking.
Pack light but smart. Make sure to bring essential items such as the refillable water bottle, sunscreen, lip balm, snacks, and maybe a portable phone charger. Locals can often be spotted as the ones carrying the least but if you looked in their small bag you might find a couple of band-aids, small tube of sunscreen, travel size ibuprofen, and a few hydration powder packs. Leave unnecessary items behind to avoid lugging around heavy bags all day. A small fanny pack or crossbody bag can hold everything a single park visitor needs for the day.
Watch the weather. Florida is known for its sudden rain showers. They can pop up anytime, often occur in the late afternoon, and may not last long. Some visitors will pack a poncho but since those can be bulky and hot, just be prepared to seek shelter inside an attraction, shop, or dining area.
Take a break! It's good to plan time to take breaks and pace yourself throughout the day. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the parks, but remember to rest and recharge to avoid exhaustion. If you are staying on property, late afternoons are a great time to return to the room to rest and listen to the afternoon rain.
Wear comfortable loose clothing and good walking shoes! Be sure to check and comply with the park's dress code to avoid any challenges with park entry. Another local tip is to wear items that can get wet and dry quickly just in case you are caught in the rain (fishing shirts and quick drying athletic shorts are good for this!).
Local comfort tips. Body powder is a great way to hep your skin stay comfortable throughout the day (Gold Bond and Shower to Shower are two of my favorite brands). Additionally, to protect against chaffing, apply a friction defense product to prevent discomfort (your inner thighs will thank you). Keep a pack of body wipes in the car for the end of day and use a reusable snack bag to bring a few wipes into the park for a quick "refresh" as needed.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to having a fantastic time exploring Florida's theme parks. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a fan of beloved characters, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the magical world of Florida's attractions.

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