How to Save Money at the Theme Park
Tips and Tricks for Having Fun Without Breaking the Bank
Jun 11, 2009
Going to your local amusement park can bring fond memories. However, what's the worse memory? Spending hundreds of dollars playing games, buying useless souvenirs and waiting in line for expensive corn dogs. Luckily, there are a few ways you can keep spending down at the park.
Research the Discounts
Talk to your employer about any company discounts for seasonal passes or single tickets. Also, check out the amusement park's website — you could find some sweet deals. For instance, according to MSNBC's "Tips for saving money at amusement parks," "Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J., gives $10 off admission if you buy your ticket online." Also, see if you can get a lot of people together for a group discount. Gather people together from school, your church, your son's baseball team and such.
Bring Your Own Food
Some parks allow you to bring your own food. So if this applies to you, take advantage of it! Bring a backpack full of sandwiches, fruits, veggies and water. However, if the park doesn't allow outside food, walk around and look for good deals. You just might be luckily to find two-for-one deals. L. Marie Dubuque's Suite101 article, "Save Money on Theme Park Food," explains that, "If you plan on coming back to the park after dinner, get your hands stamped and leave the grounds." You will be pleasantly surprised to see how much money you'll save by eating dinner outside of the park. Not to mention, try to save money on drinks. If you happen to find reusable cups as souvenirs, ask the park if this also includes free drink refills.
Cut Down on the Souvenirs
Before you buy a T-shirt with a funny-looking mascot on it, ask yourself this question: Am I really going to wear this? In other words, think about your choice of souvenir before you buy it. And prior to your day at the park, explain to the kids that you don't want to spend money on lots of souvenirs. This will help prepare them and possibly avoid temper tantrums.
Avoid Holidays
Most of all, try to visit the park when it's not a holiday, such as Father's Day, the Fourth of July or Labour Day. Prices are most likely to hike up around those times, which not only include admission fees, but also food, souvenirs and extra shows the park has to offer.
In the end, theme parks can be a great way to have fun with friends and family. Just remember that it's possible to save some money during these great times. Watch your spending on tickets and souvenirs, see if you can bring your own food, and plan your day when it's not a busy holiday. Have fun!
 |
