Top 10 Tips for Parents Visiting the Park

 

Key Takeaways

• Pack the basics: snacks, water, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
• Dress for the weather and wear comfy shoes.
• Measure your child’s height early to plan rides.
• Use helpful perks like stroller rentals, Preschool Pass, and Child Swap.
• Look for kid-friendly food options and character meet & greets.

 

Planning a day at Busch Gardens with little ones? These helpful tips will set your family up for success—from what to pack to where to eat and play. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned pro, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth and memorable day with kids in tow.

 

1. What Should I Bring?

 

A little prep goes a long way for a smooth day at the park. Be sure to pack a backpack with all the essentials—extra clothes, diapers, snacks, and anything your family might need . You’re welcome to bring bags into the park, just have them open for a quick security check at the gate.

 

If the forecast calls for heat, come prepared! A refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a personal fan can make a big difference. Our seasonal cups are also a great option for staying cool and hydrated throughout the day.

 

2. What Should My Kids Wear?

 

A smooth day starts with the right outfit! Check the weather before you arrive to make sure your little ones are dressed comfortably.

 

Hot day? Pack swimsuits or clothes that can get wet—there are two water play areas they won’t want to miss; one is located in Sesame Street Forest of Fun and the other is in Land of the Dragons.

Cooler weather? Bring a jacket they can easily take on and off while running around.

 

And don’t forget your shoes! Our parent panel strongly recommends tennis shoes for all of the walking and exploring.

 

3. Outside Stroller vs. Rentals

 

Feel free to bring your own stroller for a day in the park. Don't have one? Stroller rentals are available to the left of the park entrance before you enter security. Pro Tip: If you rent a stroller, you can leave it at the Skyride. Another one will be waiting for you when you arrive at the next station—no need to carry it across the park!

 

4. Getting into the Park

 

We know the excitement builds as you get closer to the park entrance! To help your family get through the entrance as quickly as possible, have all tickets ready before you reach the front of the line—whether they are printed or pulled up on your phone.

 

Before you head in, snap a quick photo of your parking spot so it’s easy to find later (especially after a full day of fun!).

 

Pro Tip: Keep tickets, passes, and the essentials (like sunscreen and water bottles) in an easy-to-reach part of your bag for a smooth start to your day.

 

5. Height Check

 

Start your day by measuring your child at our height check station. It shows exactly what rides they can go on.
Pro Tip: Take a photo of them at the station—you’ll have it handy all day.

 

Want to plan ahead? Measure your child at home and check ride requirements online.

 

Once you know their height, finding rides is easy. Look for the blue K on the park map—that means it’s a kid-friendly ride.

 

Pro Tip: Download our app for ride info and maps right at your fingertips

 

6. Where should we go first?

 

Not sure where to head to first? Most families make a beeline for Sesame Street® Forest of Fun—and for good reason! It’s full of kid-friendly rides, two fun play zones, and live shows featuring everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends.

 

Looking to beat the crowds? Try starting your day in Land of the Dragons instead. It’s often a little quieter early in the day and still packed with fun for little ones.

 

7. Kid Friendly Menu Options

 

Searching for meals your kids will actually eat? Here are a few easy go-to spots:

• Squire’s Grille: Chicken nuggets, turkey pinwheels, Uncrustables®
• Trapper’s Smokehouse: Mac & cheese, chicken nuggets, Uncrustables®
• Das Festhaus: Mac & Cheese, Chicken Nuggets, Uncrustables®
• Marco Polo’s Marketplace: Mongolian Chicken, Mongolian Beef, Orange Chicken, Lo Mein, Spaghetti, Chicken Nuggets, Mac & Cheese, Uncrustables® -- Great for adventurous and picky eaters alike.

 

Pro Tip: Get the All-Day Dining Deal—kids can grab a meal, drink, and side every 90 minutes!

 

For food allergies or special diets, check out the parks allergen guide.

 

8. Character Meet & Greet

 

Capture the moment with a photo at 1-2-3 Smile with Me! in Sesame Street® Forest of Fun™—it’s the perfect spot for big smiles and furry friends. You’ll also find plenty of other fun photo ops throughout the park, so keep your camera ready!

 

9. Take advantage of the Preschool Pass!

 

Kids ages 3–5 can visit Busch Gardens and Water Country USA for FREE all season long with the Preschool Pass—just register online and activate it with your first visit by the due date stated on our website.

 

No blackout dates, no cost—just unlimited fun through the designated time frame. Note: The Preschool Pass doesn’t include parking or Christmas Town. Bring proof of age (like a birth certificate) when you visit.

 

10. Take Advantage of Child Swap

 

Do you have a little one who can’t ride? Our Child Swap program lets both adults experience world-class thrills! One waits with the child while the rest of the family rides—then switch so the other parent can hop on next without waiting in line again.