Top Amusement Parks & Rides in USA

Get to the park at least 30 minutes before it opens. You'll have a chance to jump on popular rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train with shorter lines before the crowds roll in

My advice is to prioritize the rides but also schedule in some downtime. We were exhausted from rushing around, so don’t forget to enjoy parades and shows too!

Plan your dining reservations in advance. Some of the more popular table-service restaurants book up fast, and I regretted not planning ahead and missing out on a few spots!

Consider packing your own snacks. I saved a bunch by bringing snacks from home instead of buying food in the park, which can get pricey really fast!

I think getting the Genie+ service is worth it if you're planning to hit the popular rides. It saved us a few hours. Just make sure to get it as soon as you arrive!

Pro-tip: Look for character meet and greets at less busy times, like during parades. We got awesome photos without the huge crowds obstructing everything!

I suggest using the Disneyland app to check wait times in real-time. I found it super helpful for dodging long lines and planning our next moves on the fly!

I recommend hitting the less popular rides first thing, like the Matterhorn or the Alice in Wonderland ride. The lines build up quickly, but they’re way worth it.

I think the afternoon parade is a must-see, but if you want a good spot, get there at least 30 minutes early to grab a decent view.

My advice is to download the Disney app before you go. It’s super helpful for checking ride wait times, finding restrooms, and viewing showtimes. Made my day so much easier!

Get to the park right when it opens at 9 AM! I did this and the lines for popular rides like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance were way shorter. Trust me, it makes a huge difference.

Consider packing your own snacks. The food inside the park can get pretty pricey and the quality doesn't always match the price. I brought some granola bars and saved a bunch!

Plan your visit on a weekday, especially Tuesday to Thursday, if you can. The park was way less crowded, and we barely waited for rides compared to weekends.

Don't skip the animal shows, especially the Orca Encounter. I didn’t think I’d be so fascinated, but it was incredible! Get there 15 minutes early to snag a decent seat.

If you're planning to eat in the park, consider meal deals or dining plans. They save you money in the long run, and you'll have more options without breaking the bank

I found that the 'Quick Queue' pass was totally worth it for the popular rides. It saved us hours compared to standby lines, but be sure to check which rides it covers first.

My advice is to use the Universal app. It helped me find wait times for rides and showtimes for attractions, saving me a ton of time during the day.

One thing I learned the hard way is to plan your dining ahead. Sit down restaurants can be packed during peak hours, so try to make reservations or eat early to avoid a long wait.

Don't skip the shows! They were surprisingly entertaining and give you a nice break from all the rides. The Sinbad show is a must-see, trust me!

I suggest bringing your own snacks or lunch. The food inside is pricey, and I found some great shaded spots to munch on my sandwiches.

I recommend getting to the park right before it opens at 10 AM. The first hour is great for hitting popular rides like SheiKra without long waits!

I think it's worth buying the quick queue pass if you're planning on hitting a lot of rides—it saved me so much time! Just don’t buy it last min, I learned that the hard way.

Do NOT underestimate the heat! I thought I'd be fine, but the sun can be brutal. Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it at the many stations around the park.

I think getting a drink at the bar while enjoying the view of the Strip can be a highlight! Just don’t forget to ask for any happy hour specials before ordering!

I recommend checking out tickets for the Big Apple Roller Coaster online beforehand, you might save a few bucks and skip the long lines! Trust me, it’s worth it for the thrill!

If you’re planning to eat at one of the restaurants, definitely make a reservation. I went without one and ended up waiting over an hour for a table – such a waste of time.

Get there right when the park opens at 10 AM. I found the lines were way shorter and we packed in a lot more rides before noon.

Consider getting the Flash Pass. It helps skip the long lines, especially for popular rides. I did this and it totally changed my day!

Look for the scheduled showtimes. I almost missed an awesome show because I was too focused on rides. Make a mini-schedule!

Check the app for ride wait times. It was super helpful for planning which rides to hit next without wasting time standing around.

I think bringing your own water bottle is a smart move. There are free refill stations around, and it saves you from spending on drinks all day.

My advice is to download the Busch Gardens app. It has maps, wait times, and special offers. I missed a few good deals because I didn't have it!

If you're planning to do the coasters, ride them on a cloudy day. We ended up waiting over an hour on a sunny day! So check the weather before you head out.

Check the ride schedule before you plan your day. Some of the most popular rides might be closed, so you might want to have a backup plan in case your faves aren’t running.

I highly recommend eating at Bubba Gump Shrimp. The food is delicious and service is top-notch, making it a great spot to recharge after a day of fun.

Bring a stroller if you're with little ones... Be prepared for some stairs if elevators are out of order, but it's handy for keeping tired kiddos comfortable while you explore

Definitely consider coming on a weekday or during off-peak hours, like right when it opens around 10 AM, to avoid long lines for rides and restaurants. It’ll make your experience a lot smoother!