i have been to this thing twice, once the crowd was very light, once it was a little heavier; parking is $5. as far as the crowds are concerned, i have not had any problem walking right up to the box office and purchasing a ticket (& they DO take plastic). markers, pens, pencils, all ok... the exhibit is very spacious, so there is a place for you to stand and work as long as you do not mind the occasio