Happy Days Out For The Whole Family

A day out with the family always seems like a great idea – until you discover that everyone has different ideas about where they’d like to go and what they want to do. Particularly true in families that have children across a wide age range, it makes it difficult to find something that pleases everyone.

Traditionally, theme parks have been the preserve of older children and thrill-seeking adults, but these parks, especially those in Europe, have followed the USA’s model of providing a range of rides and activities that suit all ages.

1. Adults

Just because you’re an adult it doesn’t necessarily follow that you love thrill rides. Those who do can happily spend all day queuing for roller coasters and water rides, always on the lookout for the scariest experience or the most extreme ride. Others may prefer more sedate boat rides, scenic walks or sophisticated shopping. A park that can cater for the less adventurous parents and grandparents will often manage to lure the whole family through the gates.

2. Teenagers

The majority of teenagers love rides; and the faster, scarier and more daredevil the better. Teens can usually be allowed to roam the park without adult supervision, just meeting up for lunch or for a family ride. The enclosed environment of the park, together with modern safety measures and the convenience of mobile phones mean that teenagers can have their independence and parents can relax.

3. Younger children

Extreme rides have height, and health warnings allow parents to decide what sorts of rides are suitable for younger children. Whilst some kids want to experience the bigger rides, others are happier with theatre shows, low-thrill rides and other experiences.

A theme park that can cater for the whole family offers value for money as well as a great day out. It allows parents to share experiences with their kids, it gives teenagers the independence they need, and it gives everyone something to talk about on the journey home. A good theme park indulges all the senses and usually leaves you wanting more – so why not go back again tomorrow?

Save Time And Money On Theme Park Days

Many people, especially families, can be put off visiting big theme parks because of the costs. Once you’ve added up the entry fee, the on-site catering, the travel, the souvenirs and any other expenses, it can turn out to be an expensive day out. Here are some ways you can enjoy the thrills without counting the cost:

1. Buy tickets online

Most major theme parks let you buy tickets online and these are often cheaper than the prices at the gate. Alton Towers, the UK’s biggest theme park, charges around 20% less for online tickets than it does at the front gates, and that’s a saving that can make a big difference to your day out.

2. Take your lunch with you

Theme park catering can be expensive, and it’s not always the sort of food you want to eat. Save money by packing a picnic – there’s nearly always somewhere nice to sit and eat - and your time is better spent queuing for rides than for food. Be aware that most theme parks will want to check your bags as you go through the gates, but it’s worth 5 extra minutes there for the cost saving.

3. Think before you buy

Souvenir shops are very tempting, but stop to think before you buy something themed after every ride. Limiting your budget means that you are far more likely to buy something you really want, rather than bits and pieces that you’ll never look at or use.

4. Stay close to the park

A lot of theme parks have hotels on site, which is handy, but expensive. Instead, try a guest house or a bed and breakfast that’s close by. That way, you can stay for much less, but with the park still only a short drive away. And if you can get cheap park entry on your second day, you can make a weekend of your theme park visit for a lot less than you might think. You can also extend your stay and visit other attractions with the money you save!