Amusement Park Vacations
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Amusement parks are still a fun frugal family favorite destination, even in a tough ecomony.

Amusement park vacations are a great summertime family getaway, especially if you're on a budget. From Kiddie Rides to Monster Coasters most amusement parks offer something for everyone, and most of us can find one pretty close to home. But whether it's a day trip or a week long vacation a little planning you can save a lot of money.

When talking about saving money at a theme park, water park or zoo, at first it may not seem there is much you can do, but every little bit helps and you can start with the entrance fee.

Check for flyers locally. Next time you get gas or grab a burger at your local fast food restaurant check for amusement park flyers or discount coupons on display at the register. Many parks and attractions within your region will advertise this way with discount coupons and special deals.

Look at the Soft Drinks you purchase. The next six pack of soda you purchase might have offers from your nearest park. The empty cans might actually be the "coupons" for discounted park entrance fees. (Check brand names like Coke, Pepsi or Mountain Dew).

photo credit: Ben Hayes

Also check under bottle caps. There might be a "Dollars Off" offer inside the next soda cap you pop so be sure to look.
Do what the tourist do. Pick up some travel brochures from the lobbies of some of your local hotels and motels. These booklets offer lots of coupons for fun stuff in your region.
Don't forget to check the web. Look for deals online by checking the parks website. Theme Park City is a wonderful guide where you can find all the Theme Parks, Water Parks and Zoos near you.

Check the resources you already have available. If you're a member of a discount shopping club like Sam's, Costco or BJ's, your membership might entitle you certain park discounts. Also check your memberships to AAA or any other organizations you might belong to. A lot of people sometimes don't realize all the perks that come with their memberships.

photo credit: kevkev44

Always check with your Employer. Lots of businesses offer special discounts to other local businesses. Discounted tickets, dry cleaning and photo developing pick up and delivery are some that I've personally used through an employer. See if your employer offers discounts to your local amusement parks. Human Resources usually handles those kinds of perks.

Make a night of it. Consider an evening visit and make a night of it. Most amusement parks will discount admission if you arrive later in the day.

If you're on an amusement park vacation then spend the day relaxing at your hotel using the pool or seeing local sights.

Once you've got some discount tickets in hand there are things you can do to help save money once you're in the park.

Go outside the park for lunch. Food prices at most theme parks can be high, so save some money by taking a break and leaving the park at lunchtime. Pack a cooler with sandwiches, drinks and snacks and go out to your car to have lunch, or carry it into the park if you can. You could also drive to a nearby fast food restaurant for lunch. Either way you're sure to save money. We've done this and it's actually a good chance to take a breather and get your second wind.

photo credit: kevkev44
Decide on a souvenir spending plan before you get there. I mention this on practically every vacation page on FFM but it's worth repeating. Nothing kills a good time like kids constantly whining for everything they see. Set a limit on souvenir purchases and let your kids know what the rules are before you go. My kids earn their own souvenir money weeks before our trip. Once we arrive they can spend it at their discretion and when it's gone they're done. It gives them total control and they seem to enjoy the whole experience more. I know I certainly do.

You'll be amazed at how frugal your kids will be when it's "their" money they're spending. :)
Share the fun foods.Funnel Cakes, Ice Cream Sundaes, Boardwalk Fries, and Cotton Candy are fantastic summertime treats but usually come in huge portions and can really lighten your wallet when everyone wants one. The simple solution is to share. My kids rarely finish an entire portion by themselves anyway.
Ask for the free stuff. Stop at the guest relations desk in the park and find out about any freebies that might be offered that day. Some parks offer shows, special programs and seasonal events at no additional cost.

Keep your amusement park vacations safe and enjoyable. Make sure everyone wears comfortable shoes, and takes lots of water breaks, especially in the heat of summer. Don't forget to protect your family with a good sunblock and apply it often. Take frequent breaks in the shade, taking extra care with very small children or senior members of your group.