Whoo Hoo! Theme parks, amusement parks, rides, thrills, adventure, fantasy… all spells big vacation bucks! Or does it? There are ways to save while spending time in amusement and theme parks whether that’s for a week long vacation or a day-trip adventure. Here are the expert’s pointers to getting the most for your thrill-packed dollars!
Tickets:
Purchasing your amusement park’s passes or tickets in advance, before you get to the ticket booths, can offer a real savings. Check online for specific special offers at sites like ThemeParkInsider.com, AmusementPark.com or MouseSavers.com. Do an online search using terms like: coupons theme parks, or coupons discounts Disney.
Timing can make a huge difference. If you can go “off season” you’ll save money and avoid crowds. The time of day may also make a difference for example, discounts are frequently being offered for visits after 4:00 p.m.
Opt for multi-day passes and package options. Also, before you purchase passes, consider how you want to handle your dining and food options. You nay want to include a food pass as part of your admittance package as well. (see below “Food: Off-site may not be better for food”)
Ask for discounts: Ask if they accept membership discounts from groups like AAA, AARP, Sam’s Club or Costco, veterans, emergency workers, unions, etc. No harm in being creative and asking whatever you can think of!
- Check with your credit card company to see if they have a promotional deal in effect.
- Your employer may also have discount offers.
- Always ask if there are price differences for seniors and/or students and/or children/youth.
- Groups receive discounts. Find out what qualifies for a “group” discount; if you qualify you could receive some nice savings.
- Locals may receive discounts. Many parks offer discounts to local residents, be sure to ask about this if you live nearby.
- Celebrating a special event, birthday or anniversary?
Discounts may apply, or a special acknowledgement, coupon, freebie or upgrade.
Lodging: Both on-site and off-site offer advantages, and either may end up being better for lodging. It’s well worth a little time do to some research on hotel and transportation rates and package deals that are offered both in the park itself, and in surrounding areas a little ways out from the park. If inquiring on lodging in an area outside the park perimeter be sure to ask if there are discounts on their room rates, and in addition, ask if they offer discount packages for park admission, and/or transportation to and from the park. Sometimes a package deal from the park with lodging on-site will be the better option but you won’t know until you check.
Food: Off-site may not be better for food. Sometimes a pre-paid package for all you can eat on-site is the better bargain. This really depends on how you anticipate spending your days and nights. If you plan on being on-site for the bulk of the time, a pre-paid package will probably be the way to go. But if you plan on splitting your time between the park and touring or relaxing around the pool or shore, you may be better of on your own.
Shopping: For souvenirs off-site and in nearby towns will almost always be the better way to go.
More in these videos:
- Insider Theme Park Tips - Theme park employee, Hailey Marie
- 13 Secret Ways to Save at Disney - Travel reporter, Jason Cochran
- Disney World Insider Saving Secrets - Disney Savings Guide author Beth Hayword
More money saving travel posts:
- Money Saving Mobile & Cell Phone Travel Apps
- Road Trip Money Saving Travel Tips
- Traveling? Cutting Transportation Costs
- Cheap Car Rentals, Money Saving How-to Tips
- Cheap Parking Tips
- The Best All Around Never Fail Money Saving Tips for Travel
- Save Money on Travel Lodging, Hotels, Cruises
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