Family fun is especially more of an issue during the summer, when kids are out of school. It’s hard for a parent to not feel a pang of guilt when you don’t have extra money to pour into video games, fares, and expensive activities.

Even during the school year, it’s important to be able to get out of the house with the kids and do something that won’t break the bank. Season passes are great for this purpose. Most big cities offer passes for full, year-round access to several entertainment spots, and you only pay once.

You can buy a season pass for the zoo, and have great fun. Most often, a season pass to the zoo includes free parking.

Not only that, but a zoo membership allows you to access certain events that other pay-per-visit patrons don’t get to attend. You might also enjoy the discounts on food and gift shop items a membership includes.

A local water park is another great option for a season pass. The average cost of visiting water parks is $50 per person per visit. A season pass is about $20-30 more, and you and your kids can visit as many times as you want throughout the open season.

Your savings will emerge on food, drinks, and gift shop items, and you will enjoy member only activities and other special perks.

Aside from water parks, other entertainment parks like Six Flags offer season passes to families who are on a tight budget. If you live near, a season pass is the only way to truly enjoy some of these parks.

Whether you live near or far, if you are planning on going more than twice, it is best to purchase a season pass, since just two visits cost about the same.

Sporting events also qualify for season tickets. Your savings increase with the number of games you buy, and you have the benefit of not hearing your kids complain about always being home with nothing fun to do.

Season passes and memberships ensure your family will get the fun they deserve while helping you save money at the same time. And, in places like the zoo or the art museum, you know that the money you spend will go to good use maintaining the exhibits.

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