These are great tips! I've taken my family 4 times and can't wait until we feel comfortable enough to return. I wish we lived closer--I would absolutely go regularly.

My biggest tip to "maximize your value" is to wake up early--going at rope drop (when most people are still asleep) means we can enjoy rides with minimal wait times! I know that doesn't really "save" you money, but time is money at crowded amusement parks. A ride that typically has a 60+ minute wait is sometimes a walk-on. I still remember going on Space Mountain twice in a row one morning. The cast members let me just stay on the ride as no one else was in line.

Thanks for sharing your tips!