Orlando (and the rest of the world) is full of opinions about its theme parks and attractions. Between Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Epcot, SeaWorld and all the rest, it's not hard to fall victim to the classic tourist mistakes — we've all made 'em once or twice. If you're new here, you'll definitely need some tips; and if you're a local, you might learn something new. Here are the best — and worst — decisions you can make when visiting Orlando's theme parks:
BEST: Planning your visits during off-peak times of the year
Don't crowd in with all the tourists; you deserve better than that! Crowds can be crazy during July, spring break and Christmas, but late August and September are ideal for enjoying the theme parks with more elbow room.
WORST: Buying your tickets at the gate
Disney still demands advance purchase of date-specific passes, and all parks offer web-only discounts. Get your admission online beforehand to save yourself time, money and mental exhaustion.
BEST: Arriving before rope drop
Theme park queues build quickly, and you can often accomplish more in the first operating hour than in the next three. Take advantage of early entry (if you're eligible) and be at the gates at least 30 minutes before they open, so you can be first in line for your favorite attraction.
WORST: Arriving at the park not yet caffeinated
All the major parks have on-site Starbucks locations, but you'll be stuck standing in a long line waiting for coffee, just when you should be standing in line for a coaster.
BEST: Asking for a special occasion button
Anniversary, birthday, first time at the park? There's a free button for that! Ask for one at guest services or big gift shops in Disney and the other resorts, and you'll receive anything from warm wishes to complimentary treats.
WORST: Obstructing other guests to get the perfect photo
Snap a pic and get on with your day. Your Instagram followers have most definitely seen Cinderella's Castle before.
BEST: Staying hydrated
Somehow, theme parks are impenetrable by cool breezes. Don't let the heat get the best of you; make sure you're drinking water, which is available free at any theme park restaurant. Ask about Universal's refillable cups for bottomless flavored water or sports drinks.
WORST: Drinking around the Worlds
Whether you're sampling the Wizarding World's exclusive beers while wearing Hogwarts robes, or taking advantage of SeaWorld's summer free beer offer, exercise caution while imbibing in the parks. And at EPCOT, always start easy in Canada and end in Mexico.
BEST: Taking advantage of single-rider lines everywhere
Leave your group behind and get to the rides faster. You're not going to talk much while you're riding, anyway!
WORST: Trying to Ride Tron Lightcycle/Run or Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind without a Virtual Boarding Group or Lightning Lane
Disney's two newest roller coasters don't offer traditional standby queues, so start tapping — and be persistent — on Disney World's app at 7 a.m. for a required reservation if you want to ride these attractions.
BEST: Leaving the park midday for a nap
If you arrived for park opening, you'll need to conserve some energy to make it to the closing fireworks show. If you live near the park, or are staycationing at an on-site hotel, head back to bed for some shuteye and hydration during the hottest part of the afternoon.
WORST: Forgetting to take a photo of your parking spot
Looking for your lost car in a lot the size of Delaware is not the way you want to come back to reality after a day of magic.
