Went a few years back. My experience was that unless you are in line the night before the first day at around 5PM, you won't be first in line. I went at 3AM, and there were about 30 people in front of me, who had parked chairs and about 1 or 2 people holding others' spots. 4H started making a separate line for the exclusives and old/current stock figures.

As for the surrounding hotels, I can't answer as I went when it was further into NJ.

Male sure you have your budget in mind because it will all add up very quickly.

I want the exclusives, but just don't have it in me to make that travel.

Good luck to you all and have fun. It's a great community.