Knott's Berry Farm: A Senior's Guide to Visiting with Grandkids
Knott's Berry Farm, that SoCal gem, offers up a nice balance of exciting rides, homespun-themed attractions, and, of course, those world-famous boysenberry treats. Yet theme park-ing with grandkids can be an endurance contest, especially for seniors with very active children.
Don't stress!
With a little planning and some smart strategy, you and your grandkids can create a lifetime of memories at Knott's while keeping your comfort and energy level in check. Plan now with these must-have theme park tips for seniors and families.
Planning Your Adventure: Setting the Stage for Fun
Before you ever step foot in Ghost Town, a little pre-trip preparation does wonders.
First and foremost, arrive early. Seriously, arrive before the park officially opens or shortly thereafter. Those early morning hours are absolute gold, as you zip right through security and ride popular rides with little or no wait.
Second, become a Knott's virtual expert:
- Your best friend is the Knott's Berry Farm website.
- Download the park map.
- Check out the descriptions of the rides.
- Most importantly, learn about accessibility details.
You will avoid so much stress during the day if you are aware of where the restrooms, first aid stations, and rest areas are located.
The park also provides a mobile app. This is a great time to ask one of your older grandkids to help you download the map or another helper.
If those thrilling roller coasters are a necessity for your grandkids, consider buying a Fast Lane pass. This allows you to skip the regular lines, which can be a godsend, especially during peak season.
Let's Talk About Food
Meal planning is also necessary.
Knott's has varying dining options, including quick-service restaurants and table-service restaurants. Review the menus on the Internet and decide where you would like to eat before you go. Having a dining plan saves time and money.
If you wish, bring your own snacks and drinks to supplement your meals.
Don't forget to look for discounts! AAA discounts or senior discounts can cut ticket prices by a lot. Every little bit counts.
Getting Around the Park: Clever Tips for a Trouble-Free Day
Once you're inside, don't hesitate to use features to improve accessibility at Knott's Berry Farm.
Knott's is very accessible with wheelchair-accessible restrooms, relief areas, and other amenities that are designed to make your experience comfortable. If you have a handicapped placard, utilize the handicapped parking on Grand Avenue.
Remember to pace yourself. This is not a race!
Don't pack it all into one day. Take regular breaks, sit in comfortable areas, and just soak up the atmosphere. The themed areas of the park, such as the quaint Ghost Town, provide ample opportunity for leisurely walking and photo opportunities.
Before you head to any ride, check out the ride descriptions on Knott's website. Pay special notice to height restrictions, the level of intensity of the ride, and any potential health concerns. Don't forget, it's all right to sit out a ride and let the grandkids have fun.
Take your time to enjoy the park. No need to follow a rigid program. Let the grandkids take charge, but don't hesitate to call for a break or a visit to a less populated corner when the need arises.
Use Park Hacks
The Knott's app is a treasure trove of facts, including ride wait times, dining deals, and park maps in real-time. Visiting on off-peak days or weekdays will also spare you the crowds and the lines.
Hydrate! Pack a refillable water bottle and refill throughout the day. Especially during the warmer months, staying hydrated ensures your energy remains high.
Comfort is king. Wear warm, comfortable shoes, preferably broken-in ones, and dress in layers so you can adapt to changing temperatures.
Stay in Touch
Ensure that your phone battery is fully charged and inform your family of where you are going. Have a family location app so you can monitor all members. Make sure any older grandkids or other family members have smartphones; there are also charging stations at the park.
Of course, enjoy the boysenberry treats! A cool boysenberry punch, a soft serve ice cream cone, or a piece of boysenberry pie are all a treat to be had.
Special Considerations for Seniors Visiting Knott's Berry Farm
Handicapped Parking is available! Senior visitors can use these parking areas on Grand Avenue to make it easier to access the park entrance with grandchildren.
Be aware of first aid assistance at the park.
The first aid stations are staffed by trained park personnel who can offer relief for any minor illness or injury. Visiting the park with other adult family members is highly encouraged, plus, they can carry additional water bottles and snacks.
Are your grandkids of varying ages? Remember, if you are bringing younger grandchildren, there is a park chaperone policy for guests 15 and under.
There are metal detectors at Knott's Berry Farm. Metal detection and bag checks upon park entry are to be expected. Packing a lightweight backpack or fanny pack may be less cumbersome than a large tote bag.
Keep height restrictions in mind for rides. Double-check the rider height restrictions for every ride to prevent disappointment.
Remember, the park app is your go-to guide, providing real-time updates on ride wait times, dining promotions, park maps, and more tips for having fun with grandkids.
Creating Lasting Memories
Taking your grandkids to Knott's Berry Farm is a wonderful way to create memories that will last a lifetime. With some planning, self-pacing, and utilization of the park facilities, you can enjoy a fun experience for everyone.
Remember, the point is to have fun, not to ride every ride in the park. So sit back, absorb the atmosphere, and enjoy the time with your grandkids. Besides, those sweet memories are the best souvenirs of all.
The Palms La Mirada champions these memories and understands the vital importance of senior-friendly outings and intergenerational activities. Our team of senior living professionals is committed to providing residents with vibrant social lives through active social calendars, creative activities, events, dining experiences, and more.
Book a tour of our unique community or contact us to learn more about senior living in La Mirada, CA.