Already been to Knoebels, but that's only because a summer camp begone there and they were too cheap to buy hotels. I don't even care about being accompanied in a park, and I honestly find it more fun to not go with my parents, but I need transportation in the first place.
Original Message:
Sent: Jul 13, 2026 07:54 PM
From: Ethan Benedict
Subject: New member + question
If anyone in your family enjoys camping, make a pitch for a few days at Knoebel's. The park is free admission (pay-per-ride), so those who dislike amusement rides (such as my own mother) are not required to pay a day's wages per person just to move from bench to bench.
As for getting your family more engaged in your hobby, I would keep my expectations low for that task. Everyone has their own personal wants/needs/desires, and if someone else's don't align with yours, then there's not much one can do to change that. The most I have been able to accomplish in that task is to allow my extended family to recognize, respect, and acknowledge my love of roller coasters and amusement rides, and be able to leave it at that.
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Ethan Benedict
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Original Message:
Sent: Jul 13, 2026 06:42 PM
From: Colin Jackson
Subject: New member + question
I've been to bgw during the regular season with my family, and none of them seemed too interested. I'm the only one in my immediate family who enjoys coasters above a surface level, or at all, so it's a pain. Its not helped by the lack of engagement and willingness to support my hobby by my parents.
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Colin Jackson
He/Him, from VA
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Original Message:
Sent: Jul 13, 2026 09:44 AM
From: Elizabeth Ringas
Subject: New member + question
Great idea, Wes!
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Elizabeth Ringas, President
(she/her)
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Original Message:
Sent: Jul 13, 2026 08:58 AM
From: Wesley Friend
Subject: New member + question
Hi Colin,
Welcome to ACE and the Mid-Atlantic region!
One of the best ways to get the family hooked is to start with some of the true "show" parks, like Dollywood-places where the roller coasters aren't the only focus, but part of the atmosphere, food, and entertainment all come together.
For the Mid-Atlantic region, be sure to check out Coastin' Through the Snow at Busch Gardens Williamsburg in December. It's a fantastic family event. The park is absolutely glowing with holiday lights, lunch with Santa is often part of the fun, and Busch Gardens really turns up the energy with its seasonal shows and entertainment.
ACE events often include skills competitions that registered attendees can enter, along with plenty of opportunities to meet fellow enthusiasts. As Elizabeth mentioned, ACE can also add significant value to the cost of a regular admission ticket or season pass.
Hope to catch you in a queue sometime-and if you ever need someone to fill the empty seat beside you, give me a shout!
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Wesley Friend
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Original Message:
Sent: Jul 10, 2026 04:43 PM
From: Colin Jackson
Subject: New member + question
The main issue is that neither of my parents enjoy amusement parks. I most likely will try pitching an ACE event for a weekend trip at some point in the next few months, as it may be more appealing to my parents. I've tried listing what I want to do but to no avail, although I can try it again I guess. I've also taken a look at the deals provided to ACE members and am hoping that I can help convince them with that. Thank you for the help nonetheless.
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Colin Jackson
He/Him, from VA
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Original Message:
Sent: Jul 10, 2026 03:33 PM
From: Elizabeth Ringas
Subject: New member + question
Visiting parks on the days that ACE events are hosted may be more attractive to your parents because they receive a better value, have others to socialize with and have activities that they may enjoy if they do not ride coasters.
As a parent, I would appreciate a wish list of parks to visit to help plan and budget because the dreams can seem endless and overwhelming when you are new to the enthusiasts world.
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Elizabeth Ringas, President
(she/her)
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