Our family went to Canada’s Wonderland yesterday (Tuesday) thinking it might not be too busy. Wrong.

Luckily we did land in there early so the kids weren’t stuck waiting for hours to get on the Behemoth. If you haven’t heard of the Behemoth, it’s an insane roller coaster that loops and speeds all over the place with one crazy steep spike that goes straight down. You can see what it’s like on this video and here’s a pic I snapped of it.

Arriving early saved us time but our picnic saved us money. I wasn’t sure if we were allowed to bring our own water or food so I was nervous when it was my turn to go through the gate. My giant purse/tote bag set off the metal detector so I proceeded to open my bag for them to check it.

Some of the strange stuff in my purse:

• First aid kit

• Sun block

• Insect repellent

• Rain ponchos

• Granola bars

• Rice crispie squares

• Water bottles

We got through the gate anyway. That was a relief because a drink of water costs 3 or 4 dollars a bottle which I think is insane. There were seven of us and we needed at least three bottles each. Even at $3 each that’s $63 for water alone. (edited this even though I know my times tables)

For food we brought pita bread and humus, granny smith apples, cheese, submarine sandwiches, potato chips, baby carrots, granola bars and rice crispie squares. If you want a  hot dog at Canada’s Wonderland, you’re looking at $5.50. The things we brought were also much healthier. I know potato chips aren’t healthy but nobody’s perfect.

We went back to the van a couple times to raid the coolers and eat but the granola bars kept us going in between. That was a workout on its own because we usually had to walk half a mile just to get out of the park and the parking lot is huge.

Once there though it was great because there were beautiful big trees for shade and grass beside the parking lot. We set out our stuff after putting blankets on the ground and enjoyed a quiet picnic. If you eat inside Canada’s Wonderland, it’s convenient in that it’s fast but it’s also crowded. You’re lucky if you can find a place to sit.

We arrived at about 9:00 am and left at 9:30pm so by that time we were beat. They all went on a bunch of other insane rides and we hit the water park to break up the day.

I went on the Backlot Stunt Coaster, which I suppose is a tame roller coaster. It used to be called the Italian Job and I don’t know what’s up with the name change but it was good enough for me. My husband was funny because he held onto his baseball cap the whole time.

I’m not sure what other amusement parks are like but if you can bring your own food and water it can save you hundreds of dollars. I can only imagine how much we would have spent since we were there for 12 hours.

Tags: General, Holidays //