<p>I have reviewed the info and I can't seem to locate any instructions on parking etc on R-day. We are driving in and are looking for some words of wisdom from the current cadets and/or parents. What is the process in getting on the grounds and to Eisenhower Hall that morning?</p>
<p>You'll get instructions about the parking and shuttle bus set-up along with a parking pass for your car window. In the past, families entered through Stoney Lonesome Gate, parked in one of the upper parking areas above the football stadium (lots of signs welcoming the new class which is exciting), with shuttle buses to take everyone down to Ike Hall. No parking is allowed close to Ike or on the level of The Plain.</p>
<p>To get a feel for the day, there are hundreds of photos here: <a href="http://www.west-point.org/family/mem2009/events.php?EventID=3%5B/url%5D">http://www.west-point.org/family/mem2009/events.php?EventID=3</a> Also check the 2007 page for many, many more. In the photos you'll see the bus loading area and the long lines that form. </p>
<p>There will be reporting times based on SSN and you'll be encouraged to NOT show up earlier than your Cadet Candidate's assigned time. I'm sure there will be discussion here and on Prospective Net about the pro's and con's of reporting at the beginning of the time slot vs. the end. It's all pointless and unnecessary worrying. Anytime during the assigned time is fine.</p>
<p>There will be lines...to get on the buses and again down at Ike. Just enjoy those last minutes with your family and take lots of pictures. Once you get inside to the briefing, it becomes rather surreal and before you can blink, they are gone.</p>
<p>rasdad,</p>
<p>If you're staying at the Thayer, parking won't be a problem. </p>
<p>Also, if you're interested in staying at the Thayer for any other events, you will want to make your reservations right away. Although expensive, the convenience may well be worth it.</p>
<p>momoftwins,</p>
<p>What "other events" should we consider staying at Thayer? We only live 1.5 hours away, so most times (football games, etc) we'll just commute to events.</p>
<p>For A-Day you will have very little time and the cadets aren't allowed to go very far off post. If your cadet wants to chill or just sleep (it's so much fun watching them sleep) the Thayer is the easiest place. They may just want to watch tv as I bet they will be missing it. In addition, if you end up adopting a cadet or two whose parents can't attend A-Day, it will be nice to have a place to take them. Finally, you'll avoid the traffic jam returning just before their deadline.</p>
<p>MOT is right about the convenience of avoiding that report back rush but there are also some pluses to staying in a hotel off-post (in case the Thayer is full, just so you won't worry). Off-post within the distance parameter means just that: off-post and for some Plebes, they really enjoy getting out into a town, seeing something new, riding in the car, listening to the radio (just normal stuff they miss).</p>
<p>USMA_DAD: Staying at the Thayer or in Highland Falls is extra important on visits such as A-Day when your cadet is only afforded "Walking Privileges". This means that the cadet must stay within the immediate Highland Falls area. </p>
<p>Having a place within Highland Falls on A-Day is especially nice since the cadets are looking for a cool place to sit. As I have posted previously, my plebe son said being able to sit in a cool spot and "tell his stories" was a huge pleasure after Beast. Although you may want one-on-one time with your cadet, I recommend having your cadet invite some of his/her buddies who don't have visitors. First, it gives the cadets without vistors some company. Second, I guarantee you will hear some better stories from your cadet it they are sharing them with the other cadets. </p>
<p>Having a room in Highland Falls would be very helpful on Parents Weekend since you will need to go back to your room to change for the Saturday Night formal dinner, reception and dance. Also, it's nice to be close to take advantage of the Friday and Sunday activities. </p>
<p>Warning, make reservations early. When we stopped at the Thayer on R-day, it had already sold out for 2009's graduation day. Parent's weekend and A-Day will be gone before you know it - may already be fully booked. </p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>Great info, aspen. I'd just like to add that the Thayer may put names on a wait list. As you know, some will opt out of R-Day, some will drop out during Beast, and some will not graduate.</p>
<p>Thanks for all the great info!</p>
<p>The Holiday Inn Express in Highland Falls was great--that's where my parents stayed. Also, there are several Bed and Breakfast places around that people really overlook; my parents stayed at one of those for PPW.</p>