You have it on your list, you’ve traveled a long way, but you don’t want to spend all of your time standing in line.
Don’t be defeated or pass up a once in a lifetime chance to visit an iconic attraction.
Here are a couple of tips for some of the world’s most visited attractions

Disney Theme Parks

The parks make up five of the world’s top 50 tourist attractions.  With those stats you will encounter other visitors looking for the same experience. The Disney experience is like a rite of passage and along with that comes long lines. Take a deep breath and embrace the crowds using our tips below.
Did you know – Disney World’s Magic Kingdom – in Orlando, Florida welcomed 18.6 million visitors last year.  This park tops all of the Disney parks.

Tips:

• Go during the off-season for cooler months and when kids are back in school
• Plan to go on a long weekend when kids have Friday or Monday off
• Skip the fireworks and shows. Instead use this time to line up for rides 
• The park opens at 9am and closes at 10pm.  Go early or later in the day to beat the crowds. Avoid peak time between 11am – 3pm
• Visit at night when there are less crowds
• Purchase tickets online to avoid lines to buy tickets

Time Square, New York City

Last year 50,000,000 visitors made their way to the Big Apple –first place on their list: the flashing lights, Broadway shows and colorful billboards of Time Square. A visit to New York City pretty much requires a visit to the infamous area 

Tips:

• The crowds are hard to avoid. At least you can keep walking – be it slowly 
• Early morning is a great time to get out and have a walk around
• Venture out between 11:30 – 5 to see all that makes Time Square infamous. That’s when you can truly people watch, get mixed in the crazy tangle of people, taxis, bikes and gawkers
• If you are looking for Broadway discount tickets which are sold at booths in the area – go early or spend a little more and order tickets online – many outlets offer the same discounts but with a small service fee
• For restaurants – put your name on the list, ask how long and head out to see some of the near by sites. No need to stand in line
• Skip the restaurants and try some of the street stalls (nothing like a Nathan’s hotdog) or a famous deli where lines move faster than a full service restaurant

 

Taj Mahal, Agra, India

With 7,000,000 to 8,000,000 visitors each year, you are bound to find crowds.  If you’re in India you can not afford to miss this iconic monument with a love story too. The grandeur is breathtaking and there are other buildings and monuments to see along the way. But, be prepared for long lines, crowds as well as many inspiring moments for photographs.
Tips:

• The monument opens at sunrise and this is the perfect time to visit and capture the beauty of the sun against the white marble, this is also a great time to go and beat the crowds. And added plus – sunset provides the same benefits.
• There are guided tours which may move you along faster, but work with a certified travel or tour company to ensure you are getting what you expect
• Take note of days when the monument is closed (Fridays and some holidays).
• It goes without saying, but when planning your visit to India consider the days you will be in Agra. Schedule days which do not conflict with holidays or Fridays.  There can also be impromptu closing too. I have been there when it was closed because of visiting dignitaries 
• Check with your hotel concierge for information including certified tour operators and any unscheduled closings
• You will have to remove your shoes.  Take a small plastic bag to keep your shoes with you and avoid taking time to queue for removing shoes
• Be prepared for walking

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C.

There were a reported 8,000,000 visitors last year to see everything from dinosaur fossils to an insect zoo and so much more. The whole family will love it. There are 19 museums, 1 zoo, 9 research centers and 12 gardens.

Tips:

• Most venues are open from 10am – 5:30pm.  Go early or come later in the day to avoid the busy times
• Avoid mid-day when school groups are visiting (usually noon – 3pm)
• Admission is free – which also brings the crowds, but does allow you to enjoy awesome exhibits and experience Americana at its best.
• Get your time slot for touring and instead of waiting use this time for photos around the area and family shots in the reception areas
• Be prepared for security checks and screenings – speed through by ensuring you do not have prohibited items with you. Leave sharp objects in your hotel

Sydney Opera House, Australia

More than 8,200,000 visitors either toured, walked by but certainly photographed the Opera House. This dynamic structure looks as though it rose from the harbor. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and most visited too.

Tips:

• Avoid the crowds by going on a backstage tour with a scheduled time
• Attend one of the 40-plus weekly performances. You’ll have a wonderful theatrical experience and you’re inside to touch, feel and see the Opera House first hand.
• If you attend a performance check for any optional receptions.  What a great way to see other areas of the Opera House and meet other arts enthusiast too.
• The area is great for walking around to capture the difference views and perspectives of the design. Be prepared to take lots of photos, you will be inspired!
• This area is called The Rocks, and filled with great shops, restaurants and art galleries. Take advantage of visiting the area.  On Sundays one of the main streets is blocked-off for a great market.