Mastering Rider Swap at Dollywood
Dollywood is a wonderland of thrilling rides and family fun, but if you’re a parent with a little one who doesn’t quite meet the height requirements or is too nervous to ride, you might be wondering how to enjoy those big coasters. Enter: Rider Swap! This fantastic program allows both adults to experience a ride without having to wait in line twice. Let’s break down how it works at Dollywood.
What is Rider Swap?
Rider Swap, or Child Swap, is a super helpful feature at Dollywood. It’s designed for families with young children who don’t meet ride height requirements or are too nervous to ride. One parent rides first, while the other stays with the child. Then, they swap, allowing the second parent to ride without waiting in the regular line again.
How Does Rider Swap Work at Dollywood?
Approach the Ride Attendant: When you reach the ride entrance, let the attendant know you’d like to use Rider Swap. They’ll typically direct you to a designated area or give you specific instructions.
First Rider Enters the Line: One parent will enter the regular queue line. The other parent will wait with the child who cannot ride.
Inform the Attendant at the Loading Station: When the first rider reaches the loading station, they’ll inform the attendant that they’re using Rider Swap.
Second Rider Boards: After the first rider finishes their turn, the second rider can board the ride through the exit or a designated alternate entrance, often with minimal or no wait.
Enjoy the Ride! Both parents get to experience the thrill of the ride without having to wait in line twice.
Tips for Using Rider Swap at Dollywood:
Plan Ahead: Plan out which rides you want to experience, check the height requirements in the chart below beforehand. If you are choosing to use rider swap make sure you build in double time for that ride in your touring plan.
Communicate Clearly: Make sure to clearly communicate with the ride attendants that you’re using Rider Swap. They’re there to help!
Take Advantage of the Wait Time: While one parent is in line, the other can enjoy some quality time with the child who isn’t riding. Consider finding a nearby show, playground, or snack stand.
Coordinate with Your Partner: Decide who will ride first and who will wait. Good communication makes the process smoother.
Use the Dollywood App: The app is your best friend when navigating Dollywood. Check wait times and show schedules to maximize your time.This takes you back to utilizing out 7 Step Process!
Utilize the Measuring Station: Dollywood has a measuring station near the front of the park. It is a great idea to measure your children there, so you know what rides they can and cannot ride before you get to the attraction.
Why Rider Swap is a Game Changer:
Okay, let’s talk real talk about why Rider Swap is basically a superhero power for parents at Dollywood. Honestly, it’s not just a ‘nice to have’ – it’s a game-changer. Think about it: before Rider Swap, if your kiddo was too small for a ride, someone was always missing out. Either you skipped the coaster altogether, or one of you was stuck waiting while the other had all the fun. But with Rider Swap, it’s like Dollywood’s saying, ‘Hey, we get it. You’re a family, and you all deserve to have a blast! Dollywood gets that families come in all shapes and sizes, and they’ve created a system that makes everyone feel welcome. So, seriously, go conquer those coasters! With Rider Swap, you can have your cake and eat it too – and make some amazing memories along the way. It’s like a little slice of magic, just for us parents!
