If you want to escape the city of Seoul and experience a true “land of fantasy,” Everland is the place to be. Specifically, it is Korea’s largest theme park, offering a unique combination of thrilling rides and a massive zoo known as Zootopia.
However, visiting without a plan can be overwhelming due to the massive crowds. Therefore, you must master the art of “Smart Queuing” before you step through the gates.
Welcome to Level 1. Let me tell you about the time I went to Everland without a plan and spent 4 hours waiting for one ride.
Level 1: The “No Plan” Disaster
Flashback: A sunny Saturday afternoon.
Initially, I thought Everland was just a slightly larger amusement park. So, I arrived casually at 2:00 PM. Unfortunately, that day happened to be one of the busiest days of the year.
Furthermore, I had no idea that a system called “Smart Queue” existed. Consequently, the wait time for the “T-Express” was already at 240 minutes. Eventually, after standing under the hot sun for 4 hours, I finally got on the ride just as I was losing feeling in my legs. For this reason, I don’t want you to repeat my mistake.
Level 2: The Solution (Smart Queue & App Strategy)
Immediately, Ssam gave me the secret formula for a successful trip. “Alice, Everland requires the ‘Pali-Pali’ (Hurry-Hurry) spirit and the official app!”
Here is your essential strategy for the Everland Theme Park Guide:
1. Install the Everland App Immediately
First, you must download the app and register your ticket a day before.
- The Key: As soon as you enter the park, use the app to join the ‘Smart Queue’ for popular attractions like Panda World or Safari World. Otherwise, the reservations will be fully booked by noon.
2. Aim for Weekdays
If possible, visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Indeed, the wait times are significantly shorter than on weekends.
Level 3: Ssam’s Top Picks (Must-See Attractions)
Don’t leave Everland without experiencing these two:
1. T-Express
This is the scariest wooden roller coaster in Korea.
- Feature: It has a 77-degree drop angle that will make your soul leave your body. But the thrill is world-class.
2. Panda World
Home to the “Bao Family,” the superstars of Korea.
- Warning: Viewing times might be limited depending on the pandas’ condition, so check the real-time status on the app.
Level 4: Ssam’s Gourmet Map (Nearby Eats)
After all that excitement, you’ll be starving! Here are the best local spots near Everland.
1. Sot-nae-um (전대에버랜드역점) – Hearty Pot Rice
If you want a clean, traditional meal near the station.
- Signature: Pot rice served with various toppings. It’s healthy and filling for the whole family.
2. Hwang-so-go-jip (황소고집) – Local BBQ Legend
This is where the locals go for real meat.
- Recommendation: The “Whole Skirt Meat” (Tong-gal-mae-gi-sal) is legendary. Specifically, grilling it over charcoal after a long day at the park is pure perfection.
Alice’s Bottom Line: The App is Your Savior
Everland is a massive and beautiful place. However, the joy belongs to those who are prepared. Indeed, finishing your day with Ssam’s BBQ recommendation will make it the perfect trip!
Survival Hangul: Theme Park Edition
- “스마트 줄서기 어떻게 해요?”
- Pronunciation: (Seu-ma-teu jul-seo-gi eo-tteo-ke hae-yo?)
- Meaning: How do I use the Smart Queue?
- “티익스프레스 무서워요?”
- Pronunciation: (T-ik-seu-peu-re-seu mu-seo-wo-yo?)
- Meaning: Is the T-Express scary?