The Ultimate Guide to Weekend Deals and Getaways from NYC...WITHOUT a Car!!!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Six Flags Great Adventure & Wild Safari- Jackson, NJ
Here's something the entire family can enjoy! One of MY personal favorite places in the Tri-State area, Six Flags Great Adventure. Six Flags is probably one of the largest attractions in the New Jersey and is ALWAYS packed no matter what day you choose to go. There is something for everyone of all ages. Be sure to check the website to be aware of when special events such as concerts and Glow in the Dark parades take place (Every day except Tuesdays and Thursdays). The most talked about attraction at Six Flags is the Kingda Ka. It is THE tallest AND the fastest roller coaster on this Earth!!! You may have seen it featured on Travel Channel's special on wild rides. I can't comment too much on the experience because I've chickened out each time I've went. These roller coasters give you the ULTIMATE rush. These roller coasters do NOT fall into the category of a carnival ride. I'm here to tell you and your family EVERYTHING you need to know to make your trip to Six Flags Great Adventure worth every penny!
Depart: There are NJ Transit buses that leave Port Authority like clock work! Once one fills up, the next is right behind it! Unfortunately, there isn't a bus that gets you there when the park opens. I STRONGLY urge you to find a coke can, a Dunkin Donuts, even Google to find a coupon for the park! There are GREAT deals such as buy one get one free (only on weekdays), $15 off, and even half off general admission. You are able to buy your admission with your bus ticket at Port Authority for $61. But if you have a coupon you should wait to buy your ticket at the park. You generally save about $6 per person with coupons. The bus ride is an agonizing 2 hrs, but if you leave early you can catch up on some sleep.
Arrive: Once you arrive to the park the Bus driver will inform you on where the bus departs as well as the time it departs. You can also check the NJ Transit website for those details. It's about a 5-7 minute walk to the entrance. The lines are typically very short seeing as there are many booths open for your existence.
Play: Make sure to make the most of your trip. As it gets later in the day the lines will slowly start to decipate. Use your time wisely. The park is very large and if you are interested in covering the entire thing (which is pretty much impossible to do in one day) you have to stay focused. When you want to take a break from the rides, you can play arcade games as well as other games for prizes. The also have extreme rides which you have to pay for such as go-carts and bungie jumping.
Depart: The buses back to Port Authority will begin to leave around 5 pm. Don't quote me on that! Check with your bus operator to see the starting times and the last bus that leaves. Unfortunately, these buses are ALWAYS jammed packed so getting a seat with your loved one is all about luck.
**Tidbits of Advice**
1. Don't bring a purse! Many rides permit you from bringing ANY loose items. There are lockers close by to most major rides but they cost $2 a pop and there is a time limit in which they lock. When you first enter the park to your ride hand side you can utilize those lockers for all day use. Ladies, bring a light clutch. You will still have to put it in a locker, as well as your cell phone, but it won't be as over bearing as a large purse.
2. BUY THE FLASH PASS!!! This is where the most of your money goes. Flash passes are extremely expensive but they are worth every red cent! The Flash Pass is a device that is utilized as sort of a necklace. You go ahead and reserve the time for which you want to ride a specific ride. From there, you are able to do what you please and when your time approaches the flash pass buzzes. From there, you make your way to the ride for your reservation time, they scan the buzzer, and you wait no more than 5-10 minutes. I don't even recommend going to Six Flags unless you have a Flash Pass. The prices vary depending on how exclusive you would like to get. You can check out Sixflags.com for details.
3. If interested in discount food vouchers, check out Sixflags.com for specials. Food can get pretty expensive, but that's where all the fun is.
4. LEAVE YOUR JEWELRY AT HOME! I can speak from experience when I say jewelry is a BAD idea. I've lost earrings upon earrings in Six Flags. These roller coasters have NO mercy among your belongings and neither do Six Flag staff memebers.
5. Wear sunblock and some comfortable shoes! Six Flags is HUGE! You will be doing TONS of walking. None of which that walking will be done in the shade. Wear a hat, and wear sunblock to protect yourself from this schorching summer heat.
Total Price: With Coupon-$56+tax; Without Coupon-$61+tax **These prices do not include flash pass, food, lockers, etc. Please be mindful when planning your trip of these entities.
Total Travel Time: 4 hours + (depending on traffic)
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