PAST--RiddleCon!

[oldkicker]

Based on the results of the previous thread, it looks like RiddleCon will be held over the weekend of August 2nd at Cedar Point Amusement Park (www.cedarpoint.com) in Sandusky, Ohio.
<center>http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/images/cp1web.gif</center>

We're calling it RiddleCon because the initial idea was presented on the morning Riddle thread and quite a few of the regular riddlers will be attending.

Riddlers or not, EVERYONE is invited to attend!

We can get group discounts (http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/tickets/groupsales/index.cfm) on Park Passes (http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/tickets/prices_cedar.com). It looks like these discounts are worth 20% off the gate price.

There are a list of benefits (http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/resorts/benefits.cfm) when staying at a CP resort. (http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/resorts/index.cfm) It looks like Breakers Express (http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/resorts/breaker_exp/breakers_exp.cfm) is the value-priced resort. I will be calling to see if there are any group rates there and what packages CP offers. I'll post here when I find out.

Fire provided a link to Sandusky-area hotels (http://www.rutahotels.com/) that might be of interest. Thanks, Fire! :)

I'd like to arrange a get-together for some time over the weekend. It looks like we could have Cedar Point cater a meal for us. (http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/tickets/groupsales/programs/youth/youth_flavor_fun.cfm) Rates there are as low as $8.75 per person. I'll call to get more details.

I guess the next step would be to have everybody think about how this will work for them. Some questions to think about:

Which days will you be coming?

How many will be coming in your party. If kids are coming, how old are they?

If you are staying over, where will you stay? Do you want to try to get a group rate somewhere?

Are you interested in attending a group lunch/dinner? Which day/meal would work best for you?

Will you need to purchase park passes? Do you want to try to get a group price on them?

I appreciate the help that DISers from that area have offered! Feel free to post any more info you have here. :)

I know this is only January - but I'm imagining sweltering under a hot Ohio sun and enjoying Cedar Point with a bunch of DIS friends! :)

[oldkicker]

To answer my own questions:

We'll be arriving early Friday morning and plan to spend Friday and Saturday in the park and return home on Sunday.

I'll be coming with my DW and two DD's - MyyDD's will be 9 and 15 then.

We want to spend Friday and Saturday nights there. I'm interested in Breakers Express, the CP value resort. Certainly interested in a group rate!

I'd love to have the group dinner. Saturday lunch would work well for us.

We are interested in getting a two-day park pass. And yes, I'd participate in getting a group rate for that!

[glo]

I am thinking of arriving Thursday(July 31) and leave Sunday(Aug 3)...

It will be 3 DD's and myself
DD's ages will be 7,7 and 12 at that time

I am interestested in the Breakers Express if at a good price (especially if a group rate) Also in a group rate for a passes.

I too need something to look forward to Bernie...I am so glad I am not alone in doing that...

If you need any help at all Bernie...just YELL!!!!

[Mskanga]

Count us in on it too Bernie, four people all together, two adults and 2 children ages 10 and 6 , wanna know my age too?? LOL.
I'm not sure if we will need passes because more than likely we will get Dorney Park season passes being that we live 45 minutes away and the kids and I really like going there sometimes. We would probably get there on 8/1 and leave 8/3.

[CRB#33]

Oh Boy!!!!

If the guinea pig lover is gonna be there, how can I pass that up???

Hi Heather!!!

[yepod]

Not sure if arrival will be 7/31 or early 8/1 (depends on room rates). Leaving sometime Sunday 8/3 (so that would be either 2 or 3 nights stay).

I liked your idea Bernie, of traveling Thursday evening to arrive that night some time.

I hope to bring DW & DD 4 (ya that's right my DW is 4;) )

The rest is ditto to Glo, Breakers Express, good price, group rates for room & passes & yes to the meal.

I think it makes sense to have the meal Saturday for maximum attendance (people arriving early Saturday or departing early Sunday).

Another one for "needing something to look forward to";) ;)

Give a holler if you need help Bernie!

And it could be called BernieCon or OldkickerCon or ...........
what was the question?;) RiddleCon works for me!

[Breezy_Carol]

We are in for DH and me, DS 14 and DD 17.

I will have to talk to DH and get back to you on the rest of these questions.

[glo]

GMTA...YEPOD ;)

[The LK 4]

We would probably arrive Friday morning, and stay through Sunday. We would have 2 adults and 2 children - DS 9 and DD 7. Possibility of my sister and her family joining us since they live in the Toledo area - that would be an additional 2 adults and 4 kids. The ticket discounts look great! I would love to join in a group lunch and/or dinner. Keep us posted!

[oldkicker]

LOL! I could always use a good clobberin', Heather. :)

[Breezy_Carol]

So far 8 DD's and 2 DS's. (Mskanga didn't say what her kids were.) Seems like the girls outnumber the boys.

[yepod]

We can re-coup some of the money spent if we take up a collection Heather;)

[December99]

Hmmmmm.......wonder how long we can really extend our drive home from the cruise....hmmmmm....... ;) ;) ;)

I might have to work on this one and get back to ya Bernie!!!!

[oldkicker]

'99 - you may never get home...:)

It would be GREAT if you can come! :)

[December99]

Well....we arrive at port on Saturday, spending Sunday afternoon and Monday at Hilton Head, then heading on to the next destination on Monday/Tuesday. I'm off until the next Monday....hmmmmmm......

:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[oldkicker]

Cedar Point is calling, calling, calling......:p

[December99]

If we like it enough in May maybe the talking won't be that hard!!!! ;)

[Kitty 34]

IF we don't go Up North that weekend (as we had already planned) we definetly will be coming. We would arrive most likely on Saturday the 2nd and probably stay at least 2 nights.

Would be intersted in the CP discount. It would be me, DH and our 2 sons, 14 and 16. (Maybe college DS)

Not sure on which hotel......:D

[Mskanga]

Oh yeah, my kids are both girls!!!

[Breezy_Carol]

Anyone interested in Soak City?? I like water parks better than thrill rides. Of course, right now, the thought of being in a swim suit in water is not appealing because I am too COLD .

[Breezy_Carol]

Adding in Mskanga's girls and Kitty's boys, we are up to 10 girls and 4 boys. And enough teens to send them off on their own.

[dianeschlicht]

IF we can come, I would think we would be staying 1 or 2 nights. Probably drive on Friday and Sunday since it is about a 16 hour drive from here. We would be interested in group rates and a Saturday lunch. No kids unless I can find some to rent for the weekend!:p

[paras4ri]

Originally posted by dianeschlicht
No kids unless I can find some to rent for the weekend!:p

I have 2 available......make me an offer!!! ;)

[Ranatra]

Thinking of arriving either Thursday night or Friday moring. There will be either 2 or 3 of us.
I would love Breakers Express and a group rate.
Would love to get together as much as possible over the weekend!:D I'll head home early eveing Sunday.
Would also love a groupl rate on park tickets!

[Saffron]

Okay, this time I consulted Will ;) and this is what we've come up with:

Which days will you be coming?
We'll be arriving Thursday afternoon and leaving Sunday afternoon/evening. :)

How many will be coming in your party. If kids are coming, how old are they?
Right now, definitely Will and I, but my mother may come with us and maybe another DISer. :)

If you are staying over, where will you stay? Do you want to try to get a group rate somewhere?
We're not quit sure where we would be staying. It just depends on what rates we can find on the hotels in the area. :)

Are you interested in attending a group lunch/dinner? Which day/meal would work best for you?
Yes we are! Either and all would work for us! :)

Will you need to purchase park passes? Do you want to try to get a group price on them?
Yes we will and yes we would. :)

[helenabear]

As of right now I think Luis will still be joining me for this one. So just the two of us. We would be interested in group discounts for tickets and possibly for the cheapest hotel up there. I don't know if we would stay the night or not but if the price is right we might.

[LucyStorm]

Count me in, Bernie. No hotel (I'm one of the locals). DD and possibly her best friend, probably Saturday, maybe Friday evening, possibly Sunday. Group meal will be great if it is on a day that I am there, no passes as we will probably have season passes by then. Oh, and the kids are (or will be) 15.

[Pembo]

We live very near to CP but could be easily talked into staying over! We've stayed at Sandcastle Suites, beautiful but $$$$ and Breakers Express, very nice hotel, nothing fancy.

No tix needed.

Group lunch/dinner would be fun!

Kids....maybe but it would be more fun without them.
We could be there everyday but Sunday morning.

I posted a thread about Season Passes to CP. $89
Also if someone is a AAA member, we have purchased large amounts of tickets from there in past years (church youth group) to save money IF there are not enough people to get the group rate. AAA tix are good ANYDAY and are returnable if not used.


Someone mentioned Soak City. It is very fun and I'm game for that too!

I was pregnant last summer so I missed all the fun at CP. Going when you are 8 mo pregnant and riding only the train and the boat (and the bathroom ride ;) ) is really boring! I'm looking forward to a fun summer there this year! All the better with my DIS friends! :):Pinkbounc :o

[Lars624]

Which days will you be coming?
Not sure...probably whatever most everyone else is doing.

How many will be coming in your party. If kids are coming, how old are they?
Myself, DH, DS14, DD14 & DS7

If you are staying over, where will you stay? Do you want to try to get a group rate somewhere?
Definately interested in a group rate

Are you interested in attending a group lunch/dinner? Which day/meal would work best for you?
Yes we are! Either and all would work for us!

Will you need to purchase park passes? Do you want to try to get a group price on them?
Yes we will and yes we would.

[dizneenut]

I *might* be able to make it on Saturday. Still working on it. If I come, it will probably be just me & DH. No hotel. Group Lunch/Dinner on Saturday would be great. :)

[WillyJ]

I'm always up for good "Bernie Clobbering" !!! :teeth:

;)

Looks like Maggie and I are going to be there. . looking forward to it!! :) :) :bounce:

[NancyIL]

Looks like a great date, Bernie! We would probably arrive Friday and leave Sunday. My DH might come too, and 1 or 2 kids.

I would definitely be interested in a group rate at a CP hotel. **WARNING** Cedar Point willl charge you $25 if you cancel your hotel reservation, so be very sure that you will stay there. I expect rooms to be over $100 per night, so we may just use our Holiday Inn Priority Cob points for a free stay. :)

I just checked rates at CP for August 1 and 2. Interestingly enough, the regular rate for 2 nights at Breakers Express is $308, vs $300 for the least expensive room at the Hotel Breakers - which is right at the park.

[Dan Murphy]

Which days will you be coming?

Thursday or Friday to Sunday

How many will be coming in your party. If kids are coming, how old are they?

One, very SLIM chance of two

If you are staying over, where will you stay? Do you want to try to get a group rate somewhere?

Sure

Are you interested in attending a group lunch/dinner? Which day/meal would work best for you?

Yes, anywhere, anytime

Will you need to purchase park passes? Do you want to try to get a group price on them?

Yes, sure

[Lars624]

I'm looking forward ot meeting you Dan! I always enjoy the pictures you post from the meets you attend:D I will be very careful exiting the restroom in Cedar Point.....;) :p :D

[The LK 4]

LOL Lars! I just saw those "bathroom exit" pictures last night - you are wise to watch out for the camera when you exit!

[DonnaW]

Oh, wow...I would LOVE to be able to go this meet! I know NOTHING about Cedar Point (I will look at the web-site) or even how far it is from here?? Dan....help??? IF we came, it would be just Mark (DH) and I....staying over for sure, a lunch/dinner meet for sure! :) Will have to think, think, think and get back to you!:)

[Kitty 34]

Originally posted by NancyIL



I just checked rates at CP for August 1 and 2. Interestingly enough, the regular rate for 2 nights at Breakers Express is $308, vs $300 for the least expensive room at the Hotel Breakers - which is right at the park.




and Hotel Breakers, I think, is right on the beach!:cool:

[December99]

Ok...there is some definite to us. I made a decision last night and then talked to dh ;) ;) ;)

As of right now it will be dd and I. We are probably going to go with the package at Lighthouse Point and get a cabin or cottage so we won't need a room with a discount and we won't need passes because they are included in the package.

We will be leaving very early Friday morning so we can make some stops on the way (loved Marblehead when we were there 5 years ago so we want to stop there and venture possibly over to Kelly's Island) so we will probably be there late afternoon on Friday. Probably not interested in a dinner thing on Friday but definitely lunch/dinner on Saturday and possibly breakfast on Sunday. We won't leave until close to checkout so we can relax as this will be the end of my vacation until December!!!!

If dh comes we will just get his ticket through AAA so don't count on us for rooms with the discount or tickets with the discount but....

I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET EVERYONE THAT MIGHT BE COMING THAT I HAVEN'T MET YET!!!! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

I forgot to mention - dd is 13 if that matters to anyone. Sounds like there will plenty that the kids COULD go off on their own, at least for some of the day but if we do that - there has GOT to be some coaster riders that will ride with me - usually that's dd's job and she loves it!!!! :D:D:D:D:D We will plan on bringing our two ways also and I'd be willing to let families borrow them if needed! (I have about 10-12 with subcodes.

[Bunchkin]

We might look into this. We are trying to get onto the web site right now, but it must be affected by that virus thingy.

Chris-
I would be interested to hear more about Lighthouse Point and thier cottages/cabins. Are they are part of Cedar Point or just near by....(not too familiar with the area).....???

[NancyIL]

Yes, Kitty - Hotel Breakers is right on Lake Erie. :) The hotel is quite old, but it's got location, location, location!

By the way - I already made a reservation at the Holiday Inn Express in Sandusky using hotel points, because I'm CHEAP!

[dizneenut]

WOO HOO!
Just talked to DH and he said Yep, we'll be there!! :bounce: :bounce:
Gonna try to get one of my SIL's to babysit, so it will be just me & DH.
I'm so excited!! :bounce: :bounce:

[oldkicker]

GREAT, GREAT, GREAT!!!

This is looking like it is going to be a GREAT time! :)

I've been checking cedarpoint.com, but it has been down all down. I'll keep looking though.

Did I mention that I think it is GREAT that you all are coming?

Really GREAT! :)

[oldkicker]

(I feel even better about this 60 seconds later!)

Really, really GREAT!

[Patrick IL.]

wondering how long of a drive this is from Chicago.....
Its a busy summer but I never say never, will run this past the Mrs. :D

[Bunchkin]

Roughly a 5hr drive Patrick.:)

[Breezy_Carol]

I have been pricing rooms at the local Sandusky motels. I had no idea of the prices. When it is back up, I will check Breakers Express. If it is $300 a night, that may be too much for us. Would anyone want to get a block of rooms off property? Many of them said there was a discount for more than nine rooms. If there is interest, I can look into that.

[The LK 4]

Carol,
I would be interested in a room off property as well. We don't need anything fancy, especially since we won't be spending much time in the room anyway.

Laura

[December99]

In case anyone is interested here is the site for the Lighhouse Point Campground area with the cabins and cottages. It is on Cedar Point and there are package deals, that calculate out, are a great deal!

There is a map on there that shows you where the cottages and cabins are located. It appears that cabins are right near the front entrance on a little "lake" and the cottages are actually facing Lake Erie.

http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/resorts/lhp/lhp.cfm

[December99]

On second though - last night I didn't check availability and YIKES!!!! It's expensive. Might check out something else also but I might break down and do it anyway!!!!!

The packages for the cabins right now are $561 for 2 nights. The cottages are same.

I'll get back to you on rooms!!!

[oldkicker]

The web site is up and I called the reservations number - but they are closed for the weekend. :( They'll be open again Monday and I'll call then.

Carol - I'm interested in seeing what rates you can come with! :)

Chris - I see that they've updated the packages page - I'm going to have to study those! :)

I see you've posted again! LOL! I'm looking at the Breakers Express package, but it looks like it is good for only Sunday and Monday nights... :(

[Scottwdw]

ok, we can only make it on the July 26 weekend. So mark us down for then.

[oldkicker]

Scott, my friend, sorry - we've picked the weekend of 8/2 for this.

I'm sorry....:(

[December99]

I am sitting here looking at different hotels in the area and this site might be helpful to some of you. Unforunately between Toledo and Cleveland there is not an abundance of hotels.

If you like to camp and don't mind driving over to Cedar Point (roughly about 15 minutes) there is a Rent-A-Tent program and Maumee Bay State Park that dd and I stayed at 5 years ago and it was actually pretty nice. Was like $26 a night (but I'm sure it's gone up). Was a wooden sided "cabin" with a canvas roof.

But anyway - here is the site I found -

http://www.rutahotels.com/

I'm still not ruling out staying at Lighthouse Point but I'm exploring my options and I've found some good ones!

[Dan Murphy]

Originally posted by Scottwdw
ok, we can only make it on the July 26 weekend. So mark us down for then. Scott, change your summer. :teeth:

[Scottwdw]

Originally posted by Dan Murphy
Scott, change your summer. :teeth:

Well, Dan, it looks like you get your wish. I thought there was a horse show on that weekend. My youngest DD (the horse rider and avid roller coaster rider) informed me otherwise. So, ok, count us in!!!!! :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

So, where we staying? Anyone figure that out yet??

[Saffron]

These are the standard rates for the Best Western in Norwalk, Ohio which is 15.3 miles (according to www.mapblast.com, it's 25 minute south) from Cedar Point Park. :) There are AAA, Best Western Gold Crown Club (free club) and Sr. rates available that drop the rates for a standard room to $65.00 a night and suite rates to $98.96 a night. :) Continental breakfast is included in the price. :)

Ack! I just checked. These rates are for Thursday night. They almost double for Friday and Saturday night.

These rates are from www.bestwestern.com:

Daily Rate: (per room) * 84.95 United States Dollars
Room Description:
1 KING BED* CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Rate Plan Description:
STANDARD RATE*THIS RATE IS AVAILABLE TO ALL TRAVELERS.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancel 24 hours prior to arrival.
Additional Information:
CANCEL DEADLINE: CANCEL 24 HOURS PRIOR TO ARRIVAL.; GUARANTEE REQUIRED

*Daily Rate will change during your length of stay. Once you click on "Select Rate" the rate details will be shown.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daily Rate: (per room) * 79.95 United States Dollars
Room Description:
2 DOUBLE BEDS* CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Rate Plan Description:
STANDARD RATE*THIS RATE IS AVAILABLE TO ALL TRAVELERS.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancel 24 hours prior to arrival.
Additional Information:
CANCEL DEADLINE: CANCEL 24 HOURS PRIOR TO ARRIVAL.; GUARANTEE REQUIRED

*Daily Rate will change during your length of stay. Once you click on "Select Rate" the rate details will be shown.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daily Rate: (per room) * 109.95 United States Dollars
Room Description:
SUITE-1 KING BED* WHIRLPOOL,MICROWAVE,REFRIGERATOR,CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Rate Plan Description:
STANDARD RATE*THIS RATE IS AVAILABLE TO ALL TRAVELERS.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancel 24 hours prior to arrival.
Additional Information:
CANCEL DEADLINE: CANCEL 24 HOURS PRIOR TO ARRIVAL.; GUARANTEE REQUIRED

*Daily Rate will change during your length of stay. Once you click on "Select Rate" the rate details will be shown.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[oldkicker]

Scott! HOORAY! :)

Good find on that BW, Maggie!

We are considering bringing our popup along and staying at Campers Village at the park! Any other campers coming?

Ellen!! Can Patrick come out and play? :p

Bunchkin - it looks like the campground/cabins are right outside the park...Here is a (very) big map... (http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/trips/resorts/lhp/images/LHPMap.jpg)

Chris - I'm sure you'll find some pretty dedicated coaster riders there! My 14 YO DD likes them, so do I and my DW! We'll have a BLAST! :)

[Barb]

We're still considering this. Don't count us out yet!! :)

[oldkicker]

Barb - COME ON DOWN! :) :) :) :)

[Breezy_Carol]

I checked out all of the Sandusky area motels listed in the link from Fire that you posted. I was looking for 2 double beds for 2 adults and 2 kids. The farthest was 5 miles from Cedar Point. The price range was $87.96 at the Ramada Inn (no breakfast included) to $134.95 at the Comfort Inn Main Gate (extensive continetal breakfast and less than a mile from the park). These prices were for 1 night, before tax. There were 3 other motels with prices in between. This is also before checking into group rates, for which we would need nine rooms.

I will look into Breakers Express if that site is up now.

[Pembo]

Hello Everyone! I'm VERY familiar with the Sandusky area and would be very willing to help plan anything. Also if a hotel needs to be checked out, I could do that as well. Don't want any of my friends staying in a dump! ;)

Here's another site to check hotel $ Sandusky/Erie County Lodging (http://www.sanduskyohiocedarpoint.com/HotelsandMotels_frame.htm)

Most of the hotels on Route 250 are fairly new or remodeled recently. This area is really growing.

Norwalk is a pretty far drive from CP and you'd be traveling mostly on twol ane highways I believe.

Campers-the campground is RIGHT on property. No tents allowed. They put in a new pool last year, I believe.

[Breezy_Carol]

More prices from their websites.

Hotel Breakers (old section, no elevator - not sure of the significance of this) 2 doubles. $150.

Breakers Express 2 queen size - $149 and $154.

[Saffron]

Wow! The rates really jump for the weekend, no matter which hotel you look at! The Comfort Inn Main Gate with AAA discount is $193.00 Saturday night! :eek: It's less expensive to stay on site!

[NancyIL]

Breakers Express is $159 on Saturday night.

There is a Days Inn in Sandusky that has a summer promotional rate of $69.95 per night: http://www.daysinn.com/DaysInn/control/Booking/check_avail
I know nothing about the hotel, but that's a very good rate for a summer weekend.

[Fire14]

If you can't get good rate at Cp hotels try calling some in the area off the casway you might get lucky. I'll be coming up for day will have season pass or get ticket from Hubby's union. I may stay with rents Fri night.

[Breezy_Carol]

I just looked at the Days Inn. That looks pretty good. I have stayed in Days Inns before and I would think that unless it was in a terrible part of town, it would be ok.

Maybe Pembo could check it out for us.

[Saffron]

Those rates are great Nancy, thanks! :)

[Breezy_Carol]

FYI. We were going to incorporate a trip to the Football Hall of Fame into this trip. I just looked into it and the Induction ceremonies for this year's inductees is August 3 and the Hall of Fame game is August 4. So, this may not be the best weekend to go there. Oh well, we will have to find somewhere else to go.

[The LK 4]

I am looking through my Entertainment book right now, and it looks like there are some pretty good discounts at a lot of hotels. I will have to check this out over the next couple of days.

Just noticed that some of the hotels listed in the Sandusky area do not have the discount rate over the weekend. I'll see if they offer anything else decent.

[DixieDreamer]

Well count us in!

Which days will you be coming?
Since this is a major trip for us - I plan to travel there on Wednesday July30th and leave on Sunday 8/3. This gives me and my family a day in the park before the riddlers all arrive. If I go cheaper on the hotel... might even move the arrival date up one full day. Just have to see what I choose for the hotel.

How many will be coming in your party. If kids are coming, how old are they?
There will be three of us. DH, myself, and DD who will be 11 then.

If you are staying over, where will you stay? Do you want to try to get a group rate somewhere?
Seriously toying with staying at the Hotel Breakers - just for the convience and ambience... but second choice is the Breakers Express. I guess I don't really have an idea of how far from the park the Breakers express is - could someone who knows please tell me? I HATE having to drive all over the place when I am vacationing.

Are you interested in attending a group lunch/dinner? Which day/meal would work best for you?
YES!!! Preferably lunch or dinner and I think Saturday would be the best day - as it sounds like everyone will be there then.

Will you need to purchase park passes? Do you want to try to get a group price on them?
We will need park passes too... but since we are planning to arrive earlier I don't know if we could participate effectively in a group deal... or whether we would be better off to just purchase our own.

I am REALLY looking forward to this.... so many wonderful people are planning to be there. :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

Hey Dan and Saffron... Bullseye_girl is delighted that she finally get's to meet you two. :)

[NancyIL]

Laura - the Breaker's Express is located at the end of a Causeway, and it's as close as you can get to CP without staying on the peninsula (less than 5 minutes away). The Express is MORE expensive than the Breakers by a few dollars, so if you're willing to pay ~$150 a night, stay at Hotel Breakers.

But if you'd like to pay less than half that and are willing to drive 15 minutes or so, check out the Days Inn link in my previous post.

[Kitty 34]

Does anyone know if Hotel Breakers has any AAA discounts?

Gosh I can't believe all the COOL DISers that are saying yes!! This is going to be awesome or like Bernie says GRRRREAT!!!:jester:

[NancyIL]

Kitty - there were no AAA discounts last year when I called. The only savings are with group rates or packages - and we're visitng at the wrong time for a package.

[Fire14]

My hubby and I will be coming. My Parents, brother, and his 2 tykes may come/join us.

[The LK 4]

Nancy,
The Days Inn looks like a fantastic deal. I did a search on Expedia and the Days Inn rate was the cheapest by far. The hotel is only a few miles (maybe 2?) from Cedar Point. I think we might be going with this one. I wonder if you book it through Expedia now - can you pay for it when you check in or do you have to pay when it is booked?

[NancyIL]

Personally - I would book it directly from the Days Inn site. Expedia sometimes assesses cancellation fees, and I THINK they make you pay for it at the time of booking.

**REMEMBER - if you reserve a room at one of the official Cedar Point hotels and then cancel - you'll pay a $25 cancellation fee.

[Kitty 34]

Thanks Nancy.


I wonder how many (rooms) they would consider for a Group rate at Breakers? :smooth: :bounce:

[Lars624]

Wow .....you guys are finding out a lot of information about the hotels. When anyone decides which one is the best deal let me know & I'll call & book our room:D Thanks!!!
I am so excited about this meet!!!!

[Breezy_Carol]

I sent a PM to Pembo to ask her to check out the Days Inn. If it looks good, why don't we try to get a group rate there, or at least have a bunch of us stay there together. Heck, if a bunch of us are there, it would be fun even if it was a dump.

[TimNDansMom]

The Days Inn is certainly more in my price range! We have to take into account the exchange rate, so the lower the better! I'd like to know if there's a group rate too. :)

[bobcat]

I don't know how I missed this before, but thanks Elaine for clueing me in.

Which days will you be coming?
Saturday, but may stay overnight it you all can get a good group rate.

How many will be coming in your party. If kids are coming, how old are they?
Myself, DD 10 and DS 8

If you are staying over, where will you stay? Do you want to try to get a group rate somewhere?
Would be interested in a group rate, but may try to camp. I stayed at the campground a long time ago and really liked it.

Are you interested in attending a group lunch/dinner? Which day/meal would work best for you?
Yes! Saturday lunch, maybe Sunday breakfast if we stay over.

Will you need to purchase park passes? Do you want to try to get a group price on them?
Yes. Group price would be great. If not we'll just go through AAA.

This sounds like a lot of fun. CP used to be an annual trip for me, until the kids that is. I rode my first coaster here.

[December99]

I noticed on the Comfort Inn site that you can print out a "group" reservations sheet or something. I would be willing to check into what group rates they offer if you'd like. I still have not thrown out the idea of staying "on-site" but if the rate is good enough at Comfort Inn for a group rate then what the heck!!!! Maybe I'll do this this week anyway - just to see.

[Breezy_Carol]

DH and I talked so now I can officially answer the questions. It is obvious that I am coming.

Which days will you be coming?
Probably arrive Friday around 5 or 6 PM and try to do the evening entry thing, then all day Saturday at the park. Might try Soak City on Sunday.

How many will be coming in your party. If kids are coming, how old are they?
Myself, DH, DS14, and DD17.

If you are staying over, where will you stay? Do you want to try to get a group rate somewhere?
While on property looks nice, I think Days Inn is more our price range. I am willing to look into group rates off property.

Are you interested in attending a group lunch/dinner? Which day/meal would work best for you?
DEFINITELY. Either or both on Saturday. (Do they have beer in the park. LOL)

Will you need to purchase park passes? Do you want to try to get a group price on them?
I will need passes. May look into some combo of evening and day and Soak City. Haven't gotten that far yet.

[DixieDreamer]

Well, I went ahead and ordered the season passes for all three of us - as they were $89 each and since I plan to be there more than 2 days - we are money ahead to just go the season pass route. The $89 price is only good through this coming Friday though... so I decided to act on it now.

I have not made my flight, hotel and car arrangements yet though... leaning towards the Days INN after all this discussion - but waiting to hear the verdict on what it looks like before launching forward. Airfare is SPENDY for all three of us... so I plan to arrive earlier and spend a few more days there to make it worth the money to fly cross country. Costs me the same to fly if I stay one day or many.

[LucyStorm]

For those who are interested, the Day's Inn is near the Sandusky Mall on Rt. 250. It is not in a bad area at all, just a very busy area. I can't remember which one that it is, but there are very few hotels in that area that I would not stay in. As someone else said, the hotels in that area are mostly brand new or refurbished, and the area is growing rapidly. Lots of choices in that area for food as well, with a huge Meijer's superstore right on 250 for those who want groceries. Just about any restaurant that you might want to eat at is in that area. I would not hesitate to stay there.

[Breezy_Carol]

Thanks Bonnie.

The Days Inn is looking good to me.

[Pembo]

I would say that the Days Inn on 250 will be fine. I'm trying to think exactly where it is...There really isn't a "bad" section of Sandusky that you need to stay away from. It's a VERY small town.

If this weather EVER breaks, I'll have my parents take a drive up there and check it out!

[LucyStorm]

The Day's Inn Sandusky--

http://www.daysinn.com/DaysInn/Booking/branded/DI/images/06400_b1.jpg

http://www.daysinn.com/DaysInn/Booking/branded/DI/images/06400_c1.jpg

for those of you interested.

There is also a Sleep Inn that is brand new, and a Holiday Inn Express very close to the Day's Inn.

[LucyStorm]

Pembo,
the Day's Inn is on 250 across Rt. 2. In other words, you go under rt. 2 after you get off if you are coming from the east. It is south of the most congested part.

[NancyIL]

Even though I have the Holiday Inn Express reserved using Priority Club points for 2 free nights, I went ahead and reserved the Days Inn at the $69.95 rate online. That rate may not be available very long - so I'm not taking any chances.

Laura - how wonderful that you'll be there!!! :)

[Kitty 34]

Nancy or anyone.......do you think you can get the $69 rate if you call Days Inn or is it just an online special? And does Days Inn have an 800# we can call?

That's a wonderful rate so, like Nancy, I'm planning on booking pretty soon.:D

[The LK 4]

I've just booked us for 3 nights at the Days Inn. I know they showed an 800# on their web site, but I just closed out of that window.

[Dan Murphy]

Reservations 1-800-329-7466

[TimNDansMom]

I just phoned and booked the Days Inn too, for August 1 and 2. I wanted to find out if I would have to pay extra for the boys (18 & 16 then), since it doesn't say on the website. I don't have to pay extra, even though Dan is considered an adult by them, YAY! I had no problem getting the $69.95 Daylight Savings Promotion, over the phone.

[The LK 4]

There is an on-line form I can fill out to request group rates. A "group" is considered a block of at least 9 rooms. I am willing to fill out this form and find out their group rates, but I need to have some type of estimate as far as how many rooms we would need. Please PM me if you would like me to include you in a tentative list. I guess I would need to know how many rooms you would need, 1 or 2 beds, and the nights you think you would be staying there. Hopefully, they can get us a great rate and then each of us can contact them on our own to book it as needed. I'll give everyone a few days to decide, and then I'll see what I can find out.

If we do get a good group rate, those of us who have already booked at $69.95 should be able to lower our rate as well! Let me know if you have already booked via PM also.

Thanks.

[Lars624]

I just booked Friday & Saturday nights at the Days Inn with a nightly rate of 69.95:D

[December99]

I also just booked the Days Inn and pm'd thelk4 with my specifications.

Bernie - count us in on the possible group discount on the passes now.

Thanks Nancy for that info and Thanks Bernie for setting this up and looking into the passes!!! Based on what I saw - for 51-149 people the passes could be $31. We will need 2!

[Breezy_Carol]

I just booked us into the Days Inn - Cedar Point/Mall Central for August 1 and 2.

[The LK 4]

I have interest in at least 10 rooms so far. I will check it out on Monday and get back to everyone on this thread. Keep those PM's coming if you are interested in a group rate at the Days Inn!

[DixieDreamer]

Okay... I booked the Days Inn - 7/29 through 8/3!

Now I need to do my airfare and a rental car.

[DixieDreamer]

And now.... I have the airfare and car lined up too! :bounce: :Pinkbounc Continental - non stop into Cleveland... got a compact car to get around in while there... and to drive to Sandusky in.

Okay... so I have tickets to CP, hotel, airfare, and rental car. I think I am good to go.

See you all there. :teeth:

[Dan Murphy]

Originally posted by DixieDreamer
....Okay... so I have tickets to CP, hotel, airfare, and rental car. I think I am good to go.

See you all there. :teeth:

Now there is a take-charge DIS'er!!!!!!!!! :earseek: Cool!!!! :bounce:

[paras4ri]

Good job Laura!!! Wish I could be there too....maybe next time.

[NancyIL]

This is SO cool! Wow, Laura - when you decide to do something, you don't mess around! :teeth:

[Baboo]

I am SO excited about this!!!!!!

We're planning on being there. Dh, myself, DS15 and DD12.
We'll probably stay 2 or 3 nights depending on the rates. We'll arrive Friday.
I'd be interested in group rates at the Days Inn and just pm'd thelk4 about it. I'd also like to know if anyone knows of a campground nearby that DOESN'T descriminate against those of us that still like to tent!? With the Cdn$ the way it is, it's usually a lot cheaper to camp than stay in a hotel.
We'd be interested in a meal. Saturday is probably best, but doesn't really matter to us.
We'll probably need tickets too. I seem to remember seeing ads for discount tics here in Canada, so I'll have to check it out to see which way works best.

This is SO GREAT!!!!!

[NancyIL]

For those of you who DON'T live in Ohio - call 1-800-BEST-FUN to order your free 2003 Cedar Point vacation guide, to be mailed in late April. I've gotten them the past few years, and they have coupons for saving money at Soak City and buy-one-get-one-free admission to CP after 5 p.m. - among other things. If you are an Ohioan - you can try to get one - but I believe they are primarily to encourage visitors from other states.

Forgot to mention before that I'm interested in CP admission tickets, as well as a group meal on Saturday (doesn't matter which one). :)

[Fire14]

You can also request this off their website. I have done this for years and now get one every year. I do live in Ohio and have never been denied one.

[oldkicker]

WOW! Y'all have been BUSY!!!

I'll be making a call today to check on tickets and catering! I'll post what I find out! I'll try to catch up with everyone too and get a list of attendees and where we are all planning on staying.

Baboo - December99 mentioned Maumee Bay State Park earlier on....here's the web site (http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/parks/maumebay.htm)
It looks like all the sites include electricity and run US$18/night
:)

[dianeschlicht]

DH and I talked about this over the weekend. We definately want to come! BUT ( and it's a BIG one) We wont be able to plan until much later. Hope we can still get in on discounts if we can't decide until later!

[Boo'sMom]

Looks like if I want to go to Riddlecon I have a date...
DH isn't trilled about going to Ohio (no offense Ohians....he had a bad experience there last year) but said if I wanted to go,he'd come with me.
NOW>>>>to check flights and pm Laura.

[Baboo]

Thanks for the link Bernie! I see that it even has a golf course for Julie's DH!

[TimNDansMom]

I'll have to tell Dh about the golf course, Kathy!

As of now, I have booked a room at the Days Inn for August 1 and 2. It will be me, dh, ds(16), ds(18). Want to attend the Saturday lunch and would like to know about discount park tickets. Kathy, let me know if you find that info on any Canadian ticket promo. Thanks! Oh, and the Friday night Days Inn pool party sounds great too! :)

[NancyIL]

Diane - you might want to make a hotel reservation at the Days Inn - just in case! It is fully cancellable until 4 p.m., day of arrival...so there are really no negatives to reserving a room now.

Hey - there are 95 rooms at the Days Inn...why don't we just rent the WHOLE HOTEL! :teeth:

[December99]

Hey...I like the idea of the Friday night pool party!!!! I won't be swimming but it will definitely be a great way for the kids to get to know each other and us to have a chance to sit and chat!!! ;) I'm planning on bringing our two funoodles and dd will love to share!!!

[Baboo]

I wonder how much of a discount they'd give if we did take the whole place? That would be SO cool! Anyone else staying there would be kind of :confused: about the rest of us anyway!

[oldkicker]

Just off the phone with Cedar Point:

Admission Tickets: our group would qualify for a price of $59 for the two-day Ride 'n Slide admission, normally $ 63.95 ($4.95 savings) and $29 for the single day CP-only admission, normally $43.95 ($14.95 savings).

Resorts: Cedar Point does offer discounts, but the person I need to speak with is out of the office. I've left my name and number and will post here again when they return my call.

Catered Meal: There is a bewildering array of meals. I think we have somewhere between 80-90 folks coming to the meet (including SO and kids). Right now we are considered a 'small group' - over 100 gets us to the large group designation. The meals are served in a pavilion right outside the park. Small groups have the pavilion for 60 minutes, large groups for 90 minutes. Please note - we'll have to pick one of these options AS A GROUP and that is all that will be served for that meal.

Here are the 'SmallGroup' meals and prices per person (All include Pepsi products, most include side salads, like potato salad)

Build Your Own Deli Sandwich (Ham, Turkey, Roast Beef and Fixings) - $8.95
Pizza Buffet and Salad - $8.75
Picnic (Fried Chicken, Hot Dogs) - $8.95
Classic (Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Ice Cream) - $8.95

Large group meals - Group I (includes potato salad, beans, cookies, ice cream, Pepsi products):
Italian Sausage (peppers and onins), Hot Dogs - $8.95
Chicken and Brats - $9.25
Chicken and Hot Dogs - 8.95
Hot Dogs and Brats - $8.25
Chicken and Italian Sausages - $9.75
Chicken and Smoked Sausages - $9.25

Large group meals - Group II (includes potato salad, beans, cookies, ice cream, Pepsi products):
Half Chicken - $9.50
Half Chicken, Hot Dogs - $9.95
Half Chicken, Italian Sausages - $10.95
1/4 Chicken, Ribs - $14.95

I'm having the catering brochures mailed to me and will provide more info when I get them.

[December99]

Okay Bernie - how and when do you need moola for the tickets??? Or do we get them that day?

Here is my choice - LET'S GO FOR THE LARGE GROUP!!!! - and I like group I - Chicken and Brats. I'm assuming that's like a grilled chicken sandwich???

Or I would even be happy with Brats and something!!! YUM YUM But I'll eat almost anything.

If we can't make the large group designation for some reason then perhaps either the Pizza buffet and salad or picnic one would be my choice.

[NancyIL]

Thanks, Bernie! Things are really falling into place pretty quickly!

Chris - I would guess it's either fried chicken or BBQ chicken - not sandwiches. I don't have a strong preference one way or the other.

[Kitty 34]

I'm with Chris! Let's go Large group!! We have 80-90 already just in a few days...........I bet we'll easily get over a 100!:D


Still not sure where my family is going to stay, tho. Hubby really wants a "beach" since we're giving up our "beach" trip Up North for this.:cool: So we might still try for the Breakers.......and get into CP earlier (boys LOVE this amenity!)

[oldkicker]

It is friend chicken!

I hope we can get the large group status too! Many more selections.

We're going to have to figure something out for facilitating the money. According to the woman I spoke to, we don't need to put any money down for the meal, but that just doesn't sound right to me. I'll tell more when I get the brochures from them. If we don't need to make a deposit, we can all just pay there!

As for the tickets - we will have to pay for those at least a week ahead to get the discount. I'm not sure how/if we can work that out.

I think we should give it a week or so to get more folks to sign up and see if we can reach 100 and then poll for the meal!

[Marla Hellwig]

I have it on the calendar

Me and Kara - 12 by then

Don't know if I will drive up Thursday or early Friday - would leave sometime Sunday

[NancyIL]

Originally posted by oldkicker
It is friend chicken!


Gee, Bernie...hope it's no one's pet! ;) :p

[yepod]

Originally posted by December99
YUM YUM But I'll eat almost anything.

But not green beans:p :p ;) (HI Chris!)

I've followed the crowd (actually stalking Breezy:eek: :eek: ;) ) and booked Days Inn!

Still interested in group rates Bernie as the Days Inn is cancellable up to 4PM vs. the $25 cancellation fee for CP resorts.

I'm up for what ever on the food! It sounds great!

I'm feeling that warm sun already:smooth:
(I know it's just wishful thinking!)

[Towncrier]

Wow. You go away for a weekend and look what happens. I'll have to confirm dates with my DW before making any ressies.

I'm surprised a bit that more people aren't considering staying at a CP property. Last year they started an "early entry" program for guests of CP resorts. You get in 30 minutes before the general public. That's why we stayed at the Hotel Breakers last year over Memorial Day weekend and why we will probably do that again this year.

[NancyIL]

John...cuz CP hotels are $150 per night vs. $70 at the Days Inn!

We stayed at Breakers Express last year, and were also entitled to early entry. Let me tell you - no one could tell us WHERE to enter early when you come in through the front gate! Needless to say - that was an unused perk!

[yepod]

You tell him Nancy!:p :p ;)

Some of us can't afford those rates John, nor those lime green monogrammed shirts:p :p ;)

I do look forward to finally meeting you Nancy & seeing you again "other John";)

[Towncrier]

I just talked it over with Sue. I guess she agrees with the rest of you. I'll do you one better. I think that we'll just commute to and from CP that weekend. A tank of gasoline is even cheaper than a room at the Days Inn. I learned how to get by without any sleep from attending two DIScons. :)

[NancyIL]

Aww, John...how can we throw you in the hotel pool if you commute? :p

[The LK 4]

I called the Days Inn today to ask about group rates. Their group discounts are only 10% off the rack rate, which is $129 for Friday and $149 for Saturday night. We are not going to get a better deal than the current $69.95 that is offered through the internet right now. These rooms are limited - so BOOK IT NOW if you interested. You can always cancel it later!!

Friday night pool party sounds like a great idea since it seems that many of us have already booked rooms here - at least 12 to 15 DIS'ers so far!

[Towncrier]

I would imagine that the pool party depends on how late the parks stay open that evening (10PM) and how late the pool remains open. I suppose we don't have to close the park.

FYI - I just checked the CP website (www.cedarpoint.com) and season passholders can pay an additional $15 per pass in order to get "Joe Cool" status which, like staying at a CP hotel, gets you into the park 30 minutes before the general public.

[December99]

If we can do it - I say pool party at 8! :D And I'm talking pool party for Friday night - I don't think I'm going to be up to a pool party on Sat night but you never know! :)

[The LK 4]

http://www.snoopystore.com/imgs/2/284571.gif

Joe Cool, Joe Cool...:p

[oldkicker]

Another bump to have people book that Days Inn room!! I haven't heard back from Cedar Point yet on room discounts there, but I really doubt they'll even approach $70/night! :)

Pool party, eh????

Hmmm..I wonder if Days Inn checks to see if folks in the pool are guests?!?!?!?! hee hee :p :p

[Kitty 34]

So Nancy, are you saying that CP's "EE" isn't worth it? :(



Speaking of shirts (Yepod ;) ).........I think it would be fun if we all could wear something to let each other know we're from the DIS.......so we can spot others better in the park!!:smooth:

[Lars624]

hmmmm.....
What about something LIME GREEN!!! :D :D :D :D

[oldkicker]

I'll be bringing ribbons for everyone. Official Riddlemeister, lime green ribbons! :)

[NancyIL]

Originally posted by Kitty 34
So Nancy, are you saying that CP's "EE" isn't worth it? :(


Well, Kitty - Hotel Breakers is $150 per night vs. ~$70 per night at the Days Inn. The extra $80 plus tax per night gets you 30 extra minutes in the park each day. That's close to $3.00 per minute for the extra half hour! Not worth it to me!

Cedar Point will be open until 11 p.m. on Friday night. You can purchase a Starlight ticket good for admission from 5 p.m. until closing - and I know they will have some buy-one-get-one-free coupons for that (call 1-800-BEST-FUN to get the coupon book). The Starlight tickets are $24.95 each...a much better value for 6 hours in the park vs. $80+ for an extra 30 minutes!

If you must have a beach - remember that Cedar Point guests get free use of the beach: http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/inside_park/kids/beach.cfm

[Kitty 34]

Originally posted by oldkicker
I'll be bringing ribbons for everyone. Official Riddlemeister, lime green ribbons! :)

How sweet Bernie!! Can hardly wait to wear a Riddle Ribbon!!!:smooth:


Thanks Nancy for your reply. I thought you meant the CP EE really didn't exist. Yes I've done the Math between Breakers and Days Inn........hubby, I think, wants to spend the extra $$ for some sand!!!:rolleyes: :bounce: (I'll probably still call and make some ressies at Days Inn......just won't be coming in Friday so won't make it to the Pool Party!:( )

[Breezy_Carol]

Hmmmm. The Starlight admission looks like a good idea if we get there early enough Friday to get in at 5 or 6. But, if we are later, I think I would prefer a pool party at the Days Inn. I think I would rather see DISsers than do the rides.

[The LK 4]

Bernie, the lime green ribbons sound nice and all, but wouldn't it be more appropriate for each of us to wear lime green smarty pants?

..or some lime green party pants?:p

http://www.talent99.freeserve.co.uk/objectb/animdancer.gif

[oldkicker]

We're planning on arriving early on Friday and spending the day in the park. I'd love to head out for some fun in the evening though! :)

I'm toying with a new badge for RiddleCon - This would have a lime-green bow behind it...

http://worldzone.net/travel/oldkicker//oldkicker/riddlecon.jpg

It would go GREAT with lime-green pants (or platform shoes!) - that's for sure! :)

[The LK 4]

Cool logo Bernie!

[Kitty 34]

The logo is awesome, Bernie!!!


I sure wish I wasn't missing the Friday festivities!:(

[December99]

Well I AIN'T doing lime green pants but the chances of me wearing my lime green tshirt are gonna be pretty high!!!! :D:D:D:D

I don't think that if you come down to the pool with someone they will say anything about you being there!!!!

Since I'm going to be doing CP all day on Sat we won't be doing it on Friday night. Especially after driving...not my cup of tea sorry. So dd will also want some pool time so we'll see anyone that wants to join us at the pool that night!!! :D

[dizneenut]

What a cool logo!! :bounce:

[Lars624]

I LOVE the logo!!!!!

If I had some lime green pants I might have worn them, but since I don't, we'll have to settle for the Limegreen Mickey Mouse T-Shirt :p
Maybe I could find a lime green swimsuit.......nah...no one wants to see that:eek: LOL

[Pembo]

I LOVE the LOGO!!!! I might just have to book the Days Inn myself, I'd hate to miss the pool party. ;)

As for the beach, ANYONE can go on the Cedar Point beach. You just exit the park at the beach and get a handstamp. There is a restroom/changing area outside of Soak City that you can use as well.

I was pregnant last year so I know where ALL the bathrooms are! Maybe I'll have to hang out with Dan Murphy so he knows where to get the best pictures! :)

[paras4ri]

Originally posted by oldkicker

Hmmm..I wonder if Days Inn checks to see if folks in the pool are guests?!?!?!?! hee hee :p :p

I wonder if the Days Inn checks to see if folks in the pool are wearing pants!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[December99]

I wonder if the Days Inn screens their guests so they know ahead of time what they are getting themselves in to!!!!!! ROFL ;)

[Towncrier]

I wonder if we can pool hop at the Days Inn because we are DVC members. It's my right, you know. :)

[The LK 4]

I wonder if the Days Inn knew I was calling about group rates for the DIS folks, and that is why they quoted me such high rates?:confused:;) ;)

[helenabear]

Oh that pool party sounds like a great idea! I probably won't be getting there until that evening so that would be a great way to start the weekend!!!

I just wonder if the Days Inn will ever let us stay there again after this ;)

[bobcat]

I'll have to check out the Day's Inn as well. The pool party sounds like fun.

I'm rearanging my summer WDW trip for this. :eek: We may show up after being on the road home the day before.

[Lars624]

Originally posted by December99
I wonder if the Days Inn screens their guests so they know ahead of time what they are getting themselves in to!!!!!! ROFL ;)


I sure hope not!
LOL
If they do the clueless/pantless Riddle crowd is in T-R-O-U-B-L-E

[glo]

I booked my room... :) Can't wait to see you all there!!!

[Breezy_Carol]

Glo, where did you book your room?

DD, who will be 17 in May, is looking for "cute boys" to hang out with on this trip. (Julie, Tim and Dan may not be safe.) Bernie, are you sure Matt doesn't want to come? Anyone else with older teen boys? (She has a boyfriend but I think she needs to expand her horizons.)

[glo]

Carol....don't tell anone ok ;) ;)

I am at the DAYS INN....just don't tell any of these crazy riddle people ;) ;) :teeth: :)

[paras4ri]

I can see it now.....I'll be watching the national news on August 3rd and there will be a story about a riot at the Days Inn in Sandusky, OH......the pool was full of pantless people.....film at 11!!!!!

[Saffron]

Has anyone had a hard time booking the summer rate or using the web to make their reservation. I've been trying the web for 2 days, but the reservation page freezes on me. I also tried calling the 1-800 number and the hotel directly, but they both said to get the summer rate, I have to use the web.

Now the web has a different rate! :eek: and the page still won't load. :p

[helenabear]

Maggie, I had to do it twice to make the ressie go through. The first time didn't work. I did just check though and the rate was the same for me :)

[WillyJ]

Oh oh. . I think someone tipped them off at the Days Inn!!! :eek:

I better call them and assure them that most of us will be dressed appropiately!!


<center><img src="http://publish.hometown.aol.com/watinc0804/myhomepage/cheech.jpg?mtbrand=AOL_US"height="250"> </center>

;)

:teeth:

[The LK 4]

Would anyone be interested in RiddleCon t-shirts with Bernie's logo? I have a friend who runs a silk screening business, and I was thinking of asking her what she might be able to do for us. Personally, I wouldn't want to spend much more than $8 or so on a t-shirt. If enough people are interested, maybe she could get them made for us at a decent price. It would be neat to see a wave of lime green t-shirts around the pool and at Cedar Point!

[Baboo]

Very cool logo! I like the idea of t-shirts if they're not too expensive.
I think we'll probably go for the tenting at the State Park. $18. per night vs. $70. is a pretty considerable amount of money especially when you add in our exchange rate.
I just got home from a DIS meet here, and I think 1 of the other families will probably come for the weekend too, and they might camp with us. Anyone else interested?

[Fire14]

Ok I bought my season pass I gotta get to Cp at least twice this year to make it worth my 89.00 BUCKS. I Really hope to make it up there for Towncrier weekend but unless the Holiday gods are on my side I'll be at work, seeing as i'm off the 2 weekends prior.

Riddle con I'm coming up for at least the day if not weekend.

[Lars624]

I think the t-shirt idea is great!!!

Let me know when you have details.

[WillyJ]

Okay, Maggie and I are booked for the Days Inn Friday and Saturday nights and we got the $69 a night rate for a King. . :) :) :)

A pool party at 8pm Friday night sounds great, and I'm sure we can slide a few "guests" in. . . ;) :teeth:

And the t-shirt thing sounds cool!!! Let us know what you come up with. . :) :) :)


This is looking better and better. . can't wait!! :) :bounce:

[Dan Murphy]

Great logo, Bernie!!!!!! Looks like it will be a big turnout for sure.

[dizneenut]

The t-shirt idea sounds great. Let us know when you have more details. :)

[paras4ri]

Originally posted by WillyJ
A pool party at 8pm Friday night sounds great, and I'm sure we can slide a few "guests" in. . . ;) :teeth:


I'll send a life-sized picture of me.....maybe one of those cut-outs......just get me a lounge chair by the pool and I'll be really quiet....as long as Will doesn't try to choose my outfits!! ;)

[Tulirose]

Oh Boy! Riddlers and Saturday night chatters at a DIS meet with a REAL POOL PARTY! Is there going to be a real hot tub available too??!!!

Sounds like a great time you guys are gonna have.

Hmm.... We will be attending at wedding in Omaha on 8/8/03 and are toying with the idea of driving out. I wonder if this Cedar Point place is on the way, not that we have a lot of time to spare due to restricted vacation time, but I would love to meet up with you people for even just a little bit of time instead of just seeing your pictures after the event! LOL

[WillyJ]

Well c'mon Gail. . I will be wearing something diffrerent for the pool party!!!

<center><img src="http://publish.hometown.aol.com/watinc0804/myhomepage/alice.jpg?mtbrand=AOL_US"height="250"> </center>

;)

:teeth:


Try and make it Tulirose!! :) :) :)

[Boo'sMom]

:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[dianeschlicht]

How are you guys getting the $70 rates at Days Inn? The cheapes I see is $107. I think I will try calling direct since we can get a AARP discount that way.

[Kitty 34]

Willy, nice dress but I think I'll stick with a T-shirt!!

Not sure if my teens will wear a T, but DH and I will!:bounce:

[Towncrier]

The rate at the Days Inn was so good that I decided to make ressies for my Memorial Day weekend DISmeet. The website appeared to lockup while my reservation was being concerned. The browser said to press refresh, so I did a couple of time. I ended up with THREE reservations for the night of May 23rd. The only way that I could tell this was the confirmation emails that I received. I was able to use the Days Inn website to cancel two of the three reservations. If any of you had to try a couple of times to get through, please check your email confirmations to make sure that you don't end up with multiple rooms.

[dianeschlicht]

I had a similar problem, TC, but got it corrected. I finally got the $69.95 rate too!:bounce: Now I just hope we can make it!!!

[DixieDreamer]

The planning has begun!!! :teeth:

For the meal - Bernie... the only druthers I have is please can we have a meat option that is not BREADED to the point I cannot dig the thing out... or SLATHERED with sugar laden barbeque sauce. I don't mind if one of two options is all that meets that critieria... but if all of it is like that ... I will go HUNGRY. :( (trying to use my most pitiful face!) If the brats are not sauced with barbeque sauce... they would work GREAT for me. :)

I LOVE the logo and think the t-shirt idea is awesome if we can get a reasonable price.

I am on for the pool party... but you do realize what that means don't you?! We will not be in our smarty pants... but in BATHING SUITS! AAAACCKKK!!!! :p :rolleyes: DD loves her pool time... so breaking away from the park for an evening of swimming... won't be hard to talk her into!

I am really, really looking forward to this.

Tulirose... I think you need to plan a detour in your trip! :)

[DixieDreamer]

Just had another thought.... just how BIG is the Days Inn pool do you think? I have this mental image of 50 DISers and their family all crammed in an oversized hot tub! LOL!

[Breezy_Carol]

So, for the T-shirt. You could but the logo on the back and where the small logo often goes on the front where a pocket would be,
IHSEIM.

I would be interested in a shirt but I doubt if anyone else in my family would.

Does anyone's else's families think you are nuts. I talked about RiddleCon to DH and he said, "is this going to go on for 7 months. There are shorter pregnancies."

[Breezy_Carol]

Re: the pool party. DH said to me, "do you really want to meet all these people for the first time in the skimpiest clothes possible?" I figure the kids will be in the pool and we will be on the side. We could always call adult swim.

I too picture a tiny pool overrun with riddlers.

[Ranatra]

Just booked my room at Days Inn for 3 nights. Arriving Thursday.
Love the Logo Old Kicker!! I definately want one of those T-shirts!

[Dan Murphy]

This is getting to sound more like a Days Inn meet than a Cedar Point meet, LOL. :teeth: :bounce:

[Breezy_Carol]

Dan, so what is your point?:bounce: :bounce:

A meet is a meet, right? LOL :smooth: :smooth:

[Pembo]

The $69.95 rate is NOT AVAILABLE this morning! :( I knew I should have let the kids run the house and get on-line last night!

Now who is going to let us in to the pool with them........

[dianeschlicht]

As to the food, since I have many allergies, I opt for the simplest standard picnic fare. BBQ sauce and potato salad are not on my agenda!:p

I wish we could just have a spot to meet for more than an hour! When we all go back into the park, we will likely break into small groups. How will we get to see everyone in that short time?:eek:

[NancyIL]

I already have my reservation at the Days Inn, but I just doublechecked the web site. Sure enough - it appears that we scooped up all the $69.95 rooms already! Before anyone cancels their hotel reservation if your should change - see if anyone here can use the reservation.

Since Towncrier plans to stay there Memorial Day weekend - he will be able to give us all the room and pool details before we descend in August!

[Dan Murphy]

Originally posted by Breezy_Carol
Dan, so what is your point?:bounce: :bounce:

A meet is a meet, right? LOL :smooth: :smooth: That's always our philosophy here in Chicago, Carol!!!!. :teeth:

[dianeschlicht]

Can we order the shirts even if we don't get to attend, OK?

[December99]

I like the tshirt idea so count dd and I in - just let me know.

Since there are so many varied things on the meal maybe we should do the Pizza buffet and salad (or whatever that thing was) or the burgers and brats one.

I will not be swimming (I am just way too bashful about being in skimpy clothes in front of "strangers" - I know you aren't strangers but you know what I mean) but enjoying the company of the DISers and letting my dd swim so I can talk!!!! I hope that will all the older kids they can possibly help with some of the younger kids (I know my dd will be glad too) so that the adults can talk.

[paras4ri]

Originally posted by Breezy_Carol
I too picture a tiny pool overrun with riddlers.

All dressed like this????

http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Hills/7537/rid732.JPG

[The LK 4]

I too doubt that I will be showing up in my bathing suit for the meet. I am picturing the kids swimming and the adults enjoying the nachos and Coronas!

Wow- lots of interest in the t-shirts! I will try to get a cost estimate soon and then maybe do a pool for the final design - color of shirt, location of logo, embroider usernames? etc.

[The LK 4]

Okay - please yell at me if you see me on this board again during working hours today!

This is my first day back from vacation and I have to complete the payroll today, but I am sitting here dreaming of RiddleCon!!!

[Saffron]

Laura! Please tell bullseye_girl that I can't wait to meet her either! I really can't! And I can play a mean game of Marco Polo or flashlight tag too. in case she's be interested. :p I'm pretty good at Monopoly too, in case there is any down time. :p

I am NOT a coaster person! I'm not even an amusement park ride person. I love WDW because there is so much I can do! Anyway, if anyone needs help with little ones while they ride the coasters, I'd be willing to help out.

I love the logo Bernie! We like the t-shirt idea! I like the little logo on pocket idea!

As far as the pool party goes, does anyone have any ideas about having food or drinks poolside, like how we could work that out? :)

[December99]

Most times places don't let you have food or drinks in the pool area but sometimes places like this have an outside "patio" that is just off the pool. We have done this when we visit my aunt and her family in Wisconsin - let the kids swim and we crack the door open and go outside and sit and have drinks and snacks.....just a thought. But like someone said earlier (I think it was Nancy) Towncrier can give us more info after he has been there in May!!!

[Pembo]

I want t-shirts! Of course thelk4 isn't reading this during work hours...right?! :)

Saffron-Never fear, there is plenty to do for the Non-rider at Cedar Point! There are 10? live shows everyday that are all excellent and are in air-conditioned theaters! Including Snoopy Rocks! on Ice! Plus you can ride the train......I love the train. And people watching is our favorite sport at Cedar Point. There are some soak-em rides in the back of the park and what people wear on those is worth the price of admission! :) LOL!!!!

Hmmmmmmm......I hope those of us "locals" can crash the pool party. We'll need to plan a pre-pool party meet for dinner! :)

About 10 mins from the hotel is a Damon's Restaurant that sits on the Sandusky Bay. I swear the food is better there because of the AWESOME view of Lake Erie and the Bay. ;) Maybe we could reserve some time there too!

[Fire14]

aww pembo you mean i can't wear my white tee and white shorts on thunder canyon? Aww go and spoil my plans why don't ya.

Disclaimer: I know better than to wear white on thunder canyon. I'll be the one going on it 3 times in a row because I didn't get wet enough. My husband will just shake his head and say go get white I'll hold you shoes.

[December99]

Damon's for dinner sounds like a good plan. I am planning on being there by 2 or 3 at the latest so maybe dinner at 5 for those coming in????? Do you know if they take ressies????

[The LK 4]

uh oh, Pembo busted me! Logging off and getting back to work...

P.S. Pre-meet at a restaurant and then pool party? OK for us!

[NancyIL]

Originally posted by Fire14
aww pembo you mean i can't wear my white tee and white shorts on thunder canyon? Aww go and spoil my plans why don't ya.

Disclaimer: I know better than to wear white on thunder canyon. I'll be the one going on it 3 times in a row because I didn't get wet enough. My husband will just shake his head and say go get white I'll hold you shoes.

This warning goes double for you, dear lady! ;)

[Pembo]

My favorites coming off the water rides are those in JEANS! First, why would you wear jeans in the summer? Why would you go on a water ride in them? LOL!!!!!



I'm prety sure Damon's takes ressies. They have an area in the restaurant that is for "large groups". I can taste that onion loaf now.........

[December99]

I will put a post up and be happy to try and get a dinner thing going for those arriving on Friday night!!!! Thanks for the suggestion Pembo!!!!

[Baboo]

Oh goody!!! A dinner meet on Friday night! Sounds great! Maybe if the pool party idea doesn't work for so many, we could all get together at the beach at the State Park? The kids could swim in the lake while the adults party on the beach. At least there, group size wouldn't be a problem.

[WillyJ]

Hmmmmm. . I'm thinking we may need to get a pre-dinner, pre-pool party lunch together too. . .

;)

:teeth:

[The LK 4]

Hmmm... I think that we have too much time on our hands to plan these things!

[Fire14]

Ask my husband about denium shorts on thunder canyon!!! He didn't listen to me and wore denium. I wanted to go on again b/c I didn't get wet(read not a drop) first round. Let's say he took all my water that first round. after that trip he learned to listen to me on matters of CP, water, and Denium.

[glo]

Hey I will be in early on Friday....maybe a breakfast meet too???

I want to hit the pool and swim...

Yepod you bringing your suit??
Willy honey will you be sporting that adorable outfit in one of the posts???

Maggie will you be wearing the dark glasses so no one knows who you are when you walk with him????

I want a t-shirt...just please not a white one ok???

[The LK 4]

glo - I guarantee these shirts will not be white!! Was thinking either lime green (so you can see us in the dark!) or maybe gray.

[December99]

OHIO WILL NEVER BE THE SAME!!!!!!

I will get a dinner post going.

Baboo - have you chosen which park you will be staying at and when you might arrive????

[glo]

Thank you Laura.... :) :) :)

Ok, so what time is the pool party???

Who has their count down clock ready???

Can you tell I am excited???

Anyone coming in earlier or staying later???
I am driving and have the girls and well thinking we may do some traveling ;)

[December99]

After dinner pool party is at 8...I think Willy is wanting to get a pre-pre-pool party going like the minute he gets there!!!! ROFL

[glo]

I am game for the pre pre pre pre pool or otherwise meet party... ;) :)

[WillyJ]

<center><img src="http://publish.hometown.aol.com/watinc0804/myhomepage/tshirtmenubadger.jpg?mtbrand=AOL_US"height="300"> </center>


http://www.magictrips.com/forums/images/smilies/rofll.gif

[December99]

OMG....ROFLMBO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Breezy_Carol]

Willy - love the shirt.


We have 500 miles to drive to get there so I am not sure how early we will get there. Would love to do dinner but doubt if I will make it. Definitely will be there for the 8 PM pool party. (I think it might have been my idea.) Forget the Twilight admission to Cedar Point. I would rather party with DISsers.

[Baboo]

LOL Willy!!! Except my kids will be with me!:eek:

Chris, I think we'll probably stay at Maumee Bay. It looks like a nice place and it's rates are good.

[Saffron]

ROTFLOL! :p That's not the t-shirt design that everyone is thinking about Will, but it's a nice one. People sure would have a lot of explaining to do. LOL!

Glo - why do you think I volunteered to watch the kids for everyone. He'll be standing in line with you guys, not me! :eek: :p ;)

Can you tell we're really looking forward to this! :) :)

[Fire14]

I'm only hour away so I can drive up whenever plus knowing my parents they will come down wed. vist parks thurs fri head home sat.

[The LK 4]

Willy - Good one! I'll try and work that into the design, LOL.

[glo]

lol...Maggie...I got two sweet little twins who would love to meet you :) Actually one of them is a rollercoaster fanatic, but she will be to small :( I want to get them shirts like the one Willy made up, only they will be there too....

So anyone thinking of getting there earlier???

[oldkicker]

I am ROTFLOL at that shirt, Will!!!!! :p :p :p :teeth:

Count me in for dinner and I'll crash your pool party too!

It now looks like we'll be leaving here friday morning and taking a nice, leisurely drive out to Ohio. We should be arriving mid-afternoon. By the time we get the popup set up, we should be ready for a nice dinner. :)

I now have this mental image of a bunch of DISers packed into the pool, wearing WillyJ specials while the manager of the days Inn frets in his office!

Ya know - I think I may just head over to the men's room and splash a little water on my face and call it the pre-pre-pre-pre-pre-pre-dinner-pool-party-pool-party! :)

[paras4ri]

I want one of Will's shirts too....with some minor editing. Can it say:

I couldn't go to Riddle-Con 2003
But it's OK because everyone there
Got Kicked out of the Day's Inn
for swimming without pants!!!!

[WillyJ]

I'm picturing the manager in his office with the door locked and funiture piled against it as a barricade Bernie. . ROTF!!! ;) http://www.magictrips.com/forums/images/smilies/rofll.gif


Can't wait to hang out with you buddy!! :) :) :)


Glo, I'm guessing Magiie and I will roll in about noon Friday. . when we know for sure maybe we can meet up and do a little sight-seeing, pool our bail money, etc. . ;) :teeth:

[helenabear]

Juli, is it really only an hour from where you live?? I somehow thought it took 2 1/2 hours to get there from my house (that was YEARS ago though). Also how do you go up there from where you are? I know I used to take 23 for a while and then catch another highway but for the life of me I can't remember and I don't know of 71 to 250 is too much of a back track.

If it only takes an hour from your house to get there then I can try to rethink this and make it for dinner... maybe sneak out an hour early too just to give me a chance to relax :)

[Lars624]

Willy-That shirt has me ROTFLMAO!!!

I want the Riddle Con shirt for sure Laura!!!!

I'm okay with whatever catered food item everyone else wants.

Dinner on Friday before the Pantless-Pool Party is alright with me!

I'd be glad to hang onto the bail money for you Willy!:D

[DonnaW]

You are all making this sound like so much fun!!! :) I'm still not sure how far this is from the Chicago area???...and I really don't do roller-coasters:( Besides the coasters and of course, the fun pantless Riddle group in the OK Corral, what else is at Cedar Point?? I am still thinking about this one!!!! Either way, I'd love one of the t-shirts!! (Either one!!LOL!)

[December99]

Donna...I've been told it's about 5 hours but I figure like 6 cause I don't drive like a maniac (I swore it took me 7 hours to get to Toledo but that was from here also). Mapquest says 6 hours and 21 min from your area.

Baboo - Maumee was gonna be a possibility of one of our stops on the way. It was a very relaxing stay when we were there 5 years ago. They have a very nice beach area and it was just relaxing. There is quite a bit of exploring you can do between there and Sandusky - the African Wildlife Safari park is also another one of our possible stops on the way. We also plan on stopping at Marblehead and the lighthouse. It is just a very nice place to take a nice drive and relax and see the scenery!!! I loved that area when we were there and told dd we'd have to go back sometime.....So I'm looking forward to this. I'm hoping dh will be able to come cause he seemed interested in the things I told him about. If I get a chance...I'll scan some pics of our trip and post them....just for an "early glance" at what there is to see and do.

[WillyJ]

<center><img src="http://publish.hometown.aol.com/watinc0804/myhomepage/homershirt.jpg?mtbrand=AOL_US"height="350"> </center>

http://www.magictrips.com/forums/images/smilies/rofll.gif

;)

[Kitty 34]

Originally posted by Baboo
Oh goody!!! A dinner meet on Friday night! Sounds great! Maybe if the pool party idea doesn't work for so many, we could all get together at the beach at the State Park? The kids could swim in the lake while the adults party on the beach. At least there, group size wouldn't be a problem.



I like the Beach idea.:D So does hubby;) That is IF we change our plans and come in on Friday like everyone else!!

Guess what tho.......I went to Days Inn website and the $69 offer isn't there anymore:( I had just gotten the OK from hubby to stay at Days Inn instead of Breakers, too. Bummer!

[The LK 4]

Meet schedule for RiddleCon:

Late afternoon snack: 3:30
Dinner: 5:00
Pool Party: 8:00
Late night snack: 11:30
Slumber party: midnight
Breakfast: 8:00
Lunch: noon
Late afternoon snack: 3:30
Dinner: 6:00

etc. etc. etc.

Dan needs lots of opportunities to get pictures of everyone coming out of the restrooms, so drink up people! :D

[NancyIL]

Bummer, Kitty. :( Well...looks like your hubby will get his wish for sand after all.

[Kitty 34]

Might put him in a tent on the sand, Nancy!!:p

[Ranatra]

Glo,
I'm arriving earlier! Will be there sometime on Thursday. So, if you're looking for people for breakfast Friday morning, count me in!

[Baboo]

I'm now rethinking Maumee since it appears to be an hours drive away from CP.:( There are some others in the area that I'm looking at. Does anyone that lives around there know of any good campgrounds in the area?

[WebmasterBarry]

I've been thinking about attending. Maybe my 100th coaster can be Dragster! I'll probably be arriving in Sandusky on Friday morning and wandering around CP.

[NancyIL]

Baboo - Cedar Point has its own campground, but they don't allow tents: http://cedarpoint.com/public/trips/resorts/camper/camper.cfm

[Fire14]

Elaine when I drove it 2 years ago It took me an hour and 1/2 but I had a lot of stuff on my mind and didn't know my way that well. Last year when Danny drove it it took us about an hour maybe a bit more.

[helenabear]

Thanks for that info (and PM) Juli... I am checking that route out on a map (so I can visualize it). I do think that's the way we took a while back. If it does take you even 1 1/2 hours to get there while distracted, then I bet it will take me about 2 and some change (not a full 2 hours) as I get up to the Ashley exit in about 45 minutes or so from my house :)

[Baboo]

Thanks Nancy but unfortunately we tent.:(

[WebmasterBarry]

I was checking rates for the onsite resorts. Breakers Express is the cheapest at around $119! Ouch! :(

[WillyJ]

Hey Barry!!!

I know rooms are a bit pricey up there, but I hope you can work something out and make it buddy!! :) :) :)

[NancyIL]

Originally posted by Barry Hom
I was checking rates for the onsite resorts. Breakers Express is the cheapest at around $119! Ouch! :(

Breakers Express is more than that if you stay there on Friday and Saturday nights: $149 and $159 respectively.

There might be some DISers traveling solo to RiddleCon who would be willing to share their bargain Days Inn room with you.

[Dan Murphy]

How many are coming to this now??

[Baboo]

Barry, this site lists cabins for 39.95 a night for that weekend.
http://www.camp-sandusky.com/

[helenabear]

:sunny:

[Kitty 34]

Anyone staying at Hotel Breakers ($150) who, like me, didn't call Days Inn IN time????:o

[WebmasterBarry]

I checked the Motel 6 and it was like $60! I'm sleeping in the car. :)

[Goofys]

DW and I will be there from the 31st to the 3rd staying at the Days Inn!!! We still need park tickets and are definitely interested in the group rate on those. We are also interested in the lunch and t-shirts and all the fun stuff that is planned!! Can't wait til August!!

[WillyJ]

Cool GoofyS!!! :) :) :)


Barry, tell ya what. . I can let you have one of the pool lounge chairs for $11 a night. . .

I'll just warn you in advance it might be a bit noisy.. ;)

:teeth:

[The LK 4]

Hi Goofys! My aunt used to live in Dormont. I am originally from the South Hills, so I have a lot of relatives living near you. Nice to see you at RiddleCon! :wave:

[glo]

Hey Barry, you can sleep in my New Mini Van for only $15 a night...I t is omfortable and the seats all fold down ;)

Hope you find something buddy :)