1st time going to AX, anyone have tips or advice from experience?

like it seems impossible to be able to see everything with the way the schedule is staggered and i guess they have a line system. does this mean i can't jump around to another lecture if i hate the lecture i'm in? and which day is the best to get merch? and is the parking insane (it says $42 each day nani the fock?!?)? and where the hell is the food? they didn't mention any food vendors, would i have to leave the venue to go find some? thanksss