How to Find Cheap Tickets for Amusement Parks in the U.S.
As much as I love spending time at amusement parks, the cost of tickets can quickly add up, especially if you're planning to bring your whole family. However, I’ve learned over the years that finding cheap tickets for amusement parks in the U.S. is not only possible but can be quite easy with a little bit of research. Whether you're visiting well-known parks like Disneyland or lesser-known gems, there are plenty of ways to save big on your admission. Let me share some of my top tips for securing cheap tickets for your next theme park adventure.
Fun Spot America Theme Parks - Kissimmee
2850 Florida Plaza Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34746, USA
1. Buy Tickets in Advance
One of the best ways to save money on amusement park tickets is by purchasing them ahead of time. I’ve found that most theme parks offer significant discounts on tickets bought online rather than at the gate. In fact, I’ve managed to save as much as 30-40% simply by buying tickets in advance.
Many parks also offer special promotions or “early bird” discounts when you buy tickets months ahead of your visit. For example, during off-peak seasons, parks like Universal Studios and Six Flags offer special deals that allow you to save a lot, and these deals are almost always available online. In addition, you can often choose to purchase tickets for multiple days at a discounted rate if you plan to visit a park for more than one day.
Noah's Ark Waterpark
1410 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
2. Look for Discount Websites and Offers
If you’re on the hunt for cheap amusement park tickets, one of the best strategies is to visit trusted discount websites. There are several online platforms, such as Undercover Tourist and TicketsatWork, that specialize in offering discounted park tickets. I've personally used these websites and have always been able to find better prices than buying directly from the park’s website.
These websites often partner with amusement parks to offer limited-time deals or bundles that include admission to multiple parks or additional perks like food discounts. It’s worth checking them regularly as many of these deals are only available for a limited time, and the savings can be substantial.
3. Take Advantage of Multi-Park Passes
Another great way to save on theme park tickets is to consider purchasing multi-park passes. This option is perfect if you plan on visiting multiple parks within the same area, such as in Florida or Southern California. I’ve found that parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios offer multi-park passes that allow you to visit several parks with a single ticket, often at a much lower price than purchasing separate tickets for each one.
For example, in Southern California, the “Go Los Angeles Pass” includes access to popular parks like Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and LEGOLAND California, allowing you to visit multiple parks over a set number of days at a fraction of the cost. It's not just about saving money—multi-park passes also offer the convenience of planning your visit without having to worry about separate tickets.
4. Keep an Eye on Seasonal Sales and Promotions
Seasonal sales and promotions can be a goldmine for cheap amusement park tickets. Throughout the year, most major amusement parks have specific times when they release special promotions. I’ve found that many parks offer discounts during the holiday season, especially around Black Friday, when tickets can be up to 50% off.
Don’t forget to check the park’s website and social media pages for announcements on special events and promotions. For example, some parks offer discounted tickets for residents of certain states or cities, and others run sales during their off-peak months (typically in the winter or early spring). It’s worth setting up email alerts for your favorite parks so that you don’t miss out on these limited-time deals.
5. Consider Group Discounts
If you're planning a trip with a group of friends or family, don’t overlook group discounts. Many amusement parks offer lower rates for groups, and I’ve personally been able to score great deals for my family of four by taking advantage of these offers. Generally, you need to have a minimum number of people in your group—anywhere from 10 to 20—and the tickets are usually discounted based on the total number of guests.
Another tip I’ve learned is to check for group discounts for school or corporate groups. Many amusement parks offer special discounts for schools, summer camps, or even companies organizing corporate outings. If you're a teacher or involved in a community organization, it might be worth reaching out to the park directly to inquire about potential group rates.
6. Look for Discounts Through Your Employer or Memberships
It’s often surprising to learn that many employers and membership organizations offer discounted tickets to amusement parks. Over the years, I’ve discovered that my company offers discounted tickets for several major theme parks, and I’ve taken advantage of these offers whenever possible. Check with your employer or organization to see if they provide any perks like discounted tickets for theme parks or other family attractions.
If you’re a member of organizations like AAA or Costco, you may also be eligible for discounts on park tickets. I’ve purchased tickets through Costco several times and saved a significant amount. Membership-based discounts can sometimes even include special bundles that include food, parking, or exclusive access to certain attractions, which is an added bonus.
7. Be Flexible with Your Visit Dates
Flexibility is key when it comes to getting cheap tickets for amusement parks. I’ve found that ticket prices can fluctuate depending on the day of the week and the time of year. For example, visiting on a weekday rather than a weekend can often result in lower ticket prices, and booking a trip during the off-peak season (typically in late winter or early spring) can save you a lot of money.
Additionally, some parks offer “last-minute” ticket deals for days with lower attendance. If you’re flexible with your dates, you can snag tickets at a steep discount by visiting during less busy times of the year. And if you’re planning a trip to a park with a seasonal schedule, like Halloween or Christmas-themed events, buying tickets early or waiting for the off-season can be a great way to save.
8. Sign Up for Park Newsletters and Alerts
Signing up for newsletters and alerts from your favorite amusement parks is another fantastic way to stay in the loop about cheap ticket deals. Many parks send out exclusive discounts or flash sales to their email subscribers, and I’ve been able to snag some great offers this way. By subscribing to these newsletters, you’ll also be the first to hear about new promotions, special events, and limited-time offers that can help you save money.
Another great way to get exclusive offers is through social media. Many parks use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to post special promotions and surprise discounts. I make it a habit to follow my favorite parks on social media so I don’t miss any deals!
