Amusement Parks are Fun (But Costly)
Ways to Save Money When You are Visiting Amusement Parks
Before you know it summer will be here, and it will be time to visit amusement parks. Spending the day at an amusement park is certainly a fun summer activity. Making the most of your time spent at amusement parks is certainly something every consumer savvy individual aspires to do.
The Admission Is The Tip of the Iceberg
Beyond the admission price, there are many expensive items you will encounter once you enter amusement parks. Foods from the concession stand, vending machines, bottled water, stroller rentals, locker rentals, and souvenirs all add up. A one-day trip to the amusement park can easily turn into the cost of an out-of-state vacation if you’re not careful.
Let's Start At The Top
Let’s start with the admission price. Here you will want to look for every possible discount that you can find because this is a big ticket item. If you are a AAA member check with them for possible discounts. Also, keep your eye out for discounted flyers found at local convenience stores. Depending on the price structure, it may make sense to buy a season pass. This may sound outrageous at first, but a season pass may only cost twice the price of full admission and sometimes even less than twice the price. If you live in close proximity to a favorite amusement park, you might want to consider a season pass.
Don't Forget to Hydrate
Food beverages are a large costly item for a family. If the amusement park allows it, you may want to consider leaving the park and getting lunch at a local restaurant. Drinks are expensive, and there may not be many ways for you to save money on beverages such as water. If it is a hot day, you will simply need to budget a lot of money for bottled water.
Shop Around
Don’t forget to look for amusement parks that have free parking and free admission. Yes, there are still parks that offer both these things. They are usually small parks in towns off the beaten path, so to speak. If you can park for free and pay per ride that you go on, you will save money. Another benefit is that you can bring along a lunch from home. So, look for amusement parks that offer such old-fashioned capabilities.