How much would you pay to fly through the air on a ride that features two pendulum arms that swing through 230 degrees of rotation, reaching 81 feet high and 45 mph? The family thrill ride, dubbed “Barnstormer” is yours for the boarding this summer at Dollywood theme park in Tennessee.
Now, would you pay more or less to ride the Barnstormer than the Rev-O-Lution at Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut? The ride features 24 outward-facing seats on a spinning disk that moves back and forth along a halfpipe-like track?
Fortunately, you won’t have to dig too deep to experience either one. According to a new survey, most of the nation’s most popular amusement parks are not increasing admission prices this year in light of the sluggish economy. Park managers say their research shows that in these tough economic times many families are planning to take several smaller vacations rather than one large trip, which translates into potential repeat customers in the course of a single season.
Helping to encourage park loyalty are deals for those who are willing to stay longer or return later. For example, Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, recently announced that it is expanding its Fun Card program, which lets guests buy a one-day ticket valued at $64, then use it for unlimited admission for the rest of the season. Previously the offer was only offered to Virginia residents, but this season it’s being offered to anyone.
Ohio’s Cedar Point amusement park is also offering some sweet deals to lure guests to experience thrills, chills and hot dogs. Yes, edible wieners, courtesy of world-famous Pink’s restaurant. The Sandusky-based theme park just opened the first Pink’s east of Las Vegas. All summer long the Hollywood icon will be serving up gourmet hot dogs to park guests.
Meanwhile, visitors to Dollywood will get to take advantage of the money-saving “Dinner’s on Dolly” program, which includes a free meal at select restaurants for anyone who purchases a one-day, regular-priced ticket online. Not to be outdone, Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana, is offering guests parking, unlimited soft drinks and free sunscreen in its ticket price.
Where are you planning to spend your summer vacation?
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