In a previous post I raved about Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay. While the nation’s other mega-amusement parks may dwarf the historic Wisconsin theme park in regards to size, if you are looking for big savings, shorter lines and massive family fun, then Bay Beach can’t be beat.
Fortunately, you don’t have to trek to the Dairy State to get more bang for your buck. The country is filled with smaller amusement parks that offer major savings to budget conscious travelers.
Take a look:
OREGON
Oaks Amusement Park in Portland, Oregon, has been in business since 1905. It was originally built as a “trolley park,” a park built by a streetcar line to attract disembarking riders, but these days families flock to the park for serious chills and thrills. Some of the most popular thrill rides include Scream-n-Eagle and Looping Thunder Coaster. There’s even a special area designated for toddlers and preschoolers called Acorn Acres. The best part: Admission is free, while individual ride tickets sell for $2.25. You can save more by purchasing a ride bracelet for $14.50.
TEXAS
The Joyland Amusement Park in Lubbock, Texas, charges just $4 a person for general admission on Saturdays and Sundays. Thrill seekers should consider investing in a ride armband, which costs $17.50 a person. The band allows guests to ride all day, and beats paying $2 for individual rides. During the week, armbands are $12.50.
WEST VIRGINIA
Camden Park in Huntington, West Virginia, is a landmark in the area that has been operating since 1902. It sells general admission tickets for $21 ($15 for kids under 48 inches tall and seniors), which includes access to all rides and a new mini-golf course.
TENNESSEE
Lake Winnepesaukah, a family-owned amusement park in Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers gate admission for $5 and ride tickets for just 95 cents each. If your kids are major ride-aholics, then you can save more by purchasing an unlimited ride pass for $21.
NEW MEXICO
Admission to Cliff’s Amusement Park in Albuquerque is just $2.50. An all-day ride pass costs $25 for guests over 48 inches and $20 for those under 48 inches, or you can pay as you go, with individual rides priced at $2, $4 or $6.
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