Flying all the way from the Middle East!

Hello everyone, my name is Jhonny, I'm from Lebanon (the country, not the city in Pennsylvania) and this would be my very fist post on these forums. I was following a few threads every once in a while. 

I've been a huge fan of Cedar Point ever since they opened Top Thrill Dragster back in 2003. I've always dreamt of going there. Finally, after landing a good job, I've saved up some money and I'm traveling to the USA with 2 friends!

I'm planning to reach Sandusky on a Sunday afternoon, the 29th of July. 
Going to stay for 3 nights at Hotel Breakers. We will buy the 2-day passes for Cedar Point (without Soak City). We will use them for Monday and Tuesday. We'll spend Wednesday morning on the beach, and then take off. 

Just like any other first-timer on these forums, I have my own set of questions and inquiries.

I've been following the discussions about the Fast Lane passes. For my case it would be a perfect addition! But should we get it for both Monday and Tuesday? Or just one day? Neither one of us has went to CP before this. 

What's the best way to start our day? What's the best way to end it? I'm very excited about Luminosity as well! So I'm sure we'll give it a try, but should we do it on both nights?

Personally I think the best thing to do is to get the Fast Lane pass for Monday and try to get as many rides as possible all day long. Even doing some marathoning on the big ones. Don't give me those looks. This is my first visit ever, and there won't be another one for the next 5 or 6 years. 

As for Tuesday I think it's better not to get FL, that way we'll take our time to go around the park slowly, ride a few of our favorite rides, maybe pass by the Dinosaurs Alive area, go on Sky Ride, get on the train that goes around the park, take our time to take some decent pictures of it all and at night spend a couple of hours at Luminosity. 

And finally, on Wednesday we'll just chill on the beach, sunbathe for a few hours before leaving. 

Sorry for such a lengthy post but I just wanted to share what my experience will be like. So, my questions are:

- do we get discounted 2-day passes with our hotel reservation?
- is it worth getting Fast Lane for both days?
- we are 3 people, so we should get the $45 offer on FL, right? And should we buy them online, or is it better to get them on-site? (I'll post again a couple of days before I go, maybe someone here wants to meet up to get the other offers)
- is Luminosity worth losing time on both nights, or is one time enough?
- what's the best way to go through the rides, which ones should we do first?
- can someone explain how the lockers work? Are they located at each ride entrance?
- should we go on water rides? because we don't want to carry around a set of changing clothes. 
- do they offer on-ride videos or photos? And am I allowed to film on-ride videos myself?
- what are the best places to eat?

Again, sorry for the very long post. I really appreciate anyone who takes time to read and answer my questions.

Thanks again!

-Jhonny

Sounds like you have a pretty good plan already! As for the water rides, since you are staying at Hotel Breakers, go in with your swim suit on and a Tshirt at some point during the day and do a mini marathon on the 3 water rides. Then go back to your room and change and head back in, that's what I do anyways.

Go with fast lane on Monday for sure, then on Tuesday you can always buy it at whatever point you feel it is needed.

I always start out at the magnum gate and head to Maverick when they drop the chain.

Did you make reservations for Hotel Breakers yet? Because you can get the ticket package with your room (discounted tickets) for both days and for everyone staying with you, at that time.

Personally, I would skip Dinosaurs Alive, but that's just me! Are you there to ride or learn about dinosaurs? :)

No video or pictures are allowed on the rides.

They have on ride photos on Millennium Force, Dragster, Maverick, Raptor, Mantis, Magnum, Mean Streak....I think that's all unless you want one on Woodstocks Express! :)

I would do luminosity on Tuesday night so you can get a bunch of night rides with your fast lane on Monday night, but watch the weather because if it is bad they won't have the show so keep an eye out for Tuesday's weather so you don't miss it.

Okay, the swimming suit idea sounds amazing! I'll defensively do that!

Sorry if this sounds stupid, but what do you mean by "when they drop the chain"?

I haven't made the reservations yet, but I did have a quick look at the prices and yes, I noticed the offers they give for the passes.

About dinosaurs alive, I'm just interested to do everything in the park since its a one-time visit, and I don't think it'll take more than an hour, eh?

About the on-ride photos, I'm glad they have them for all those rides! Do you have any idea how much they cost?

And thanks a lot for your informative reply!! :)

Drop the chain......at the Magnum gate they let you through the gate around 845am up to where Magnum crosses the midway where they either have a chain or 2 metal gates on wheels that they have up until after the national anthem is played at 9am. Then be prepared to run ( to the right for Maverick, just follow the crowd) or be trampled over! :).

Visit the Dinosaurs then :)

Not sure on the cost of the photos as I haven't been there this year yet. I want to guess and say anywhere in the $8-$10 range

I also wear water shoes in the park when i go in for the water rides so I don't have worry about getting a locker or stashing my shoes so they don't get soaked.

Okay, very good! I'll run like there's no tomorrow :P

That price for the photos is acceptable, I've seen on-ride photos go as high as $40!

And water shoes, I'm sure to pack those as well!

Thank you very much for your tips!

Marhaba, and welcome to Pointbuzz!

It sounds like you already have a pretty good plan for your trip. Just remember to slow down and appreciate the scenery, take in a couple shows, and don't forget to try a few American amusement park treats along the way.

I hope you have a terrific visit. :)

Thanks! I'll try and enjoy it as much as I can ^_^

If you have,and not saying you won't,a good time,Cedar Point will become addictive. End of July/beginning of August is peak of 'vacation times' but hopefully your Monday and Tuesday will have less crowds.Assuming your group are all roller coaster.amusement park fans,your tuesday will be like monday to do it all over again.

Welcome and ENJOY,ENJOY,ENJOY !!!

When you do come to visit be sure to check out some shows also. With two days you will have time and a live show gives you a chance to take a break from walking around and get some energy back.

With being here for two days even if you plan to hit half of the park one day and the other the next you won't have to worry about rushing and getting on everything in one day.