Plan a Cheap Summer Vacation at an Amusement Park with These Tips

When most Americans think of amusement parks, Disney is often the first thing that comes to mind. Planning a trip to Disneyland is nice, but it can be very costly, especially if you must travel far. Luckily, most states have at least two or three large amusement parks. Six Flags is just one of the few that comes to mind. Although it won’t take you an entire week to explore the park, you could easily spend a day or two. If you are on a strict budget, this may be the perfect vacation.

The key to planning an amusement park vacation on a budget is to stay close to home. As previously stated, most states have a couple large parks to choose from. On average, you could expect to drive three to five hours. That may seem like a lot of time on the road, but leave early or the night before. An amusement park a few hours away is likely just as good as one a plane ride away. Luckily, it is cheaper for most to drive. This automatically means you save money.

Look for discounted admission tickets. Six Flags is just one of the well-known amusement parks in the United States that offers discount tickets. These tickets are usually available on their website or at third-party locations, such as nearby grocery stores. Discounts vary greatly, but you may find deals that come with a set dollar amount off each ticket, buy one get one free, or buy one get one half off. Either way, you save money. Once you choose an amusement park to spend a day or two at, visit their online website. This website can be found with a standard internet search. Look for online specials or a list of local stores where discounted tickets are available.

If your amusement park trip is a two-day trip, consider waiting until the afternoon one day. Many amusement parks offer discounted tickets the later in the day you arrive. For example, it may be cheaper to arrive at the park at 3 in the afternoon. Yes, you miss a good percentage of the day, but not if the park is open until 9 or 10 at night! This approach is best for two-day trips. You have another full day to enjoy the fun.

Limit the number of games you play. Games at amusements parks are neat. It is fun to win a prize. Unfortunately, those prizes aren’t guaranteed. You can pay $2 or $3 to shoot at a target and walk away with nothing. Luckily, most amusement parks have gift shops. You can buy a souvenir, many of which are the same prizes available with games, for a more affordable price. Of course, playing games is part of the fun. You don’t have to completely forego them, just limit the number played.

If you can, bring your own snacks, drinks, and lunch. Many amusement parks allow guests to bring snacks, drinks, and food onto their property. This is because most have picnic tables and barbeque pits. Unfortunately, you may not want to carry a cooler or backpack around all day. Bring a few snacks. For meals, opt for affordable options. Amusement parks are home to a collection of restaurants, including sit-down restaurants. They are nice, but usually very costly. Opt for a quick snack or fast food meal. Not only should it be cheaper, but you have more time to explore the park.

Avoid rides and attractions that cost extra. Most of the rides at amusement parks are included in the cost of your admission, but there are some exceptions. For example, bungee jumping usually costs extra. Unless you have your heart set on bunging jumping, avoid it. Amusement parks, like Six Flags, are filled with hundreds of rides and attractions. You should have no problem filling your entire day with these free rides.

Compare the cost of onsite hotels or consider camping. It is not uncommon for amusement parks to have onsite hotels and campgrounds. Camping should be cheaper. Buy a cheap tent or borrow from someone you know. As for hotels, compare prices, but look for discounts. The cost of your stay may include admission to the park.