What is your favorite US/IOA secret?

[HayGan]

OK, so I am a newbie (well, I was at US back in '91 during my sister's MAW but that doesn't count) From my time on these boards recently, I realize that US/IOA does not take as much time to plan as the Mouse Mecca does. However, I know there have to be some tips that you Redheads have that will help the rest of us newbies out. We all know about FOTL and express passes but what are some other not so well known tips that can help with touring? For instance, in another thread I read about walking through a different entrance to save time.

So what are your best tips or little known secrets (at least the ones you are willing to share) to make our trips to US/IOA even more fantastic?

 

[jewell]

Great question HayGan!!! I'm excited to read the replies from the seasoned US goers!

 

[Kath2003]

Upon entering IOA, almost everyone turns left.
Turn right and you can ride Duelling Dragons, Jurassic Park etc. with no wait whatsoever.

You will need to arrive EARLY if you want to ride Spidey or the Hulk without a wait.

Ice Dragon is better than Fire Dragon.

Lockers are a pain, but necessary. Carry one bag for your whole party if you all intend to ride; it's much easier to shove one bag into the locker than wait around for everyone to get their belongings together and put them in.

If you want to be in Fear Factor at US, you need to arrive and volunteer at least 70 minutes before hand.

Jaws is better at night.

 

[TIGGERGUY]

The single rider lines at ROTM and MIB are often practically walk ons.

For the kids, Velociraptor water cannons in Camp Jurassic are a big hit.

You can bring food and drink into the parks.

The phone number you see in the Spider Man ride really works (or at least it used to).

 

[nhrenee]

IOA: If you plan on going on MIB read this sticky before you go!(It's at the top of the page) Sticky: MIB tips for left and right hand lanes

Spend some time looking around and up in "Port of Entry". I think it gets a pass with so many people because it's right after the turnstyles. You're either excited and want to hit the rides or you're leaving and just want to get the heck outa there.

 

[ATAfamily]

If you tend to push your sunglasses up on top of your head when getting in line for an indoor ride, make sure you take your sunglasses off the top of your head before getting on the ride. If you forget you may be forced to replace them with an overpriced pair Esp. on MIB & ROTM (I speak from experience)

 

[ATAfamily]

If you have AAA or an AP, remember to use them for a 10% discount when shopping and eating within US, IOA & Citywalk.

 

[mark2311]

Jaws is better at night.

I remember reading this before my 2007 trip and thought 'Yeah, right'. The difference is phenomenal. Its a completely different ride. What is a slightly jumpy boat ride during the day turns into something a lot scarier at night.

It just seems more real. Probably because you can't see him coming 'til he's trying to eat you whereas you can always see the shadow under the water during the day.

 

[jewell]

I remember reading this before my 2007 trip and thought 'Yeah, right'. The difference is phenomenal. Its a completely different ride. What is a slightly jumpy boat ride during the day turns into something a lot scarier at night.

It just seems more real. Probably because you can't see him coming 'til he's trying to eat you whereas you can always see the shadow under the water during the day.

I wish I could ride Jaws at night, it sounds like a lot of fun! Unfortunately, when we are there in June, the parks close at 7:00pm and it will still be light.

Great tips everyone, I'm writing a lot of them down!

 

[macraven]

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=909615