Woman Paid To Test Theme Parks Shares Her Top Tips, Including How To Reduce Wait Times

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Florida theme park tester Alexandria shared her top tips for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and Legoland, including how to reduce wait times in lineups

Imagine spending your days exploring some of the world’s best theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando, and getting paid for the experience.

Well, that’s exactly the dream job Glasgow’s Alexandria Adamson landed when she was chosen to become Ocean Florida’s official theme park tester for 2020.

Due to the Covid pandemic, she was unable to travel to Orlando until this year, but is now back after a busy three weeks.

Some of her highlights included a trip to Busch Gardens which she says “has some of the best roller coasters in all of Florida.” Speaking of roller coasters, some of its must-see rides include Universal’s new Jurassic World-themed Velocicoaster, Disney’s Star Wars-themed Rise of the Resistance, and the Iron Gwazi ride at Busch Gardens.

Of course, Alexandria has picked up loads of insider tips for navigating theme parks – and now she’s shared a few exclusively with The Mirror.

We’re talking about easy hacks to reduce wait times in lineups, essentials to pack for a day at a theme park, and some of the must-haves if you’re heading to Walt Disney World and Universal parks.

Check out his top tips below…

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Plan ahead

“These parks have a lot to offer and can be overwhelming, especially during peak times which for Orlando is most of the year,” says Alexandria. “Know what you really want to do, look at any seasonal offers at the parks at that time that may affect your day. Book all restaurant reservations. Plan and book as much as possible before you even arrive will make your trip even better less stressful.”

Oh, and if there’s one essential you pack for your trip, make it a battery. “No one wants to spend part of their day waiting for their phone to charge or run out of battery to take pictures of your day!” she explains.

How to reduce waiting times in queues

Alexandria recommends using theme park apps to keep tabs on when wait times are getting shorter, but sometimes it can come down to being smart with your timing.

“If there are big shows or parades at night and you don’t mind too much, it’s usually when wait times are lowest,” she advises.

It’s also worth checking out the perks if you’re staying at a resort. She explains, “If you’re a resort guest for specific parks, use the extra time they give you to enter the parks, that might mean early morning or late night, but it’s usually well worth it. ”

Use apps

“Each park has its own app that will help you get the most out of your day, usually with wait times, navigating the parks, and all the entertainment and dining options,” she explains.

Heading specifically to Walt Disney World? Alexandria recommends that you review the app before your trip. “Have fun with the My Disney Experience app before you go,” she suggests. “It will be super useful once you get there.”

Top tips for Walt Disney World

With four theme parks and two water parks, if you plan to make the most of the Walt Disney World resort, you’ll need a game plan.

Alexandria recommends starting by pre-booking your restaurant reservations because “it can be very difficult to get the full-service restaurants on the day.”

Oh, and while Florida is famous for its sunshine, there’s also rainfall – if you’re unlucky with the weather, you can be tactical if you always go to the parks.

“Some parks are better in bad weather,” Alexandria says, noting that EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios have fewer attractions that close in the event of lightning, compared to Magic Kingdom.

Besides the theme parks and rides, there are heaps to explore around the resort.

Foodies take note: According to Alexandria, “some of Disney Property’s best bars and restaurants are found at Disney Resorts.”

Its top picks include Enchanted Rose at the Grand Floridian, Jellyrolls at the Boardwalk Inn, and Trader Sam’s at the Polynesian, while Disney Springs is also hailed for its “incredible food and drink,” as well as shopping, movie theater, bowling, and indoor dining. the concert.

Top tips for Universal Studios Orlando

Universal consists of three theme parks, but if you only plan to visit one or two, our theme park insider suggests considering an Express Pass because “it will make such a difference to your day.” The pass cannot be used for certain rides such as the new Jurassic World themed roller coaster, the Velocicoaster.

Meanwhile, Harry Potter fans won’t want to miss Wizarding World, which spans Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. “As a Harry Potter fan, these parks are must-sees and unforgettable,” says Alexandria.

“The Diagon Alley area and the Hogsmeade area are literally like stepping into the pages of books or into scenes from movies. It’s so easy to forget you’re in the real world with people running around in robes and throwing spells with their interactive wands, and let’s not forget the dangerously delicious Butterbeer.

“The Hogwarts Express experience between the two areas ties the whole magical experience together perfectly. And as if thematic wasn’t enough, the Hagrid’s Story rollercoaster is one of the best attractions at both parks.”

When you need a break from the parks, Alexandria recommends heading to CityWalk.

“These restaurants have much better food than in the parks and they’ll probably be quieter than the restaurants actually in the parks,” she says. “CowFish on CityWalk is one of the best restaurants in Universal Resort, the cheeseburger sushi was amazing, I’ve been back twice. And the chocolate shop does the BEST specialty milkshakes or you have voodoo donuts for drinks. donuts with incredible and sometimes unusual flavors if you’re not a milkshake fan.”

Have you been to Orlando – and found any great theme park tips? We want to hear them! Let us know in the comments below.