Theme parks can be expensive, but your vacation to Southern California's theme parks doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some ways to save money when visiting the best theme parks in Southern California while still having a blast on your trip. Use the money you save to visit even more theme parks and build memories that will last a lifetime.
SoCal's Favorite Theme Parks
Southern California has some of the top family-favorite theme parks in the United States. The cool thing about visiting theme parks in Southern California is that all of the fun amusement parks are within a few hours' drive of each other. Southern California has a little of everything, from aquariums to thrill rides.
Disneyland® Resort
The Disneyland® Resort in Anaheim has two amazing theme parks: Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park. Both parks are a must-see and full of family fun. Disney California Adventure® Park offers some Pixar-themed thrill rides, including a Cars-themed ride called Radiator Springs Racers.
Of course, if you visit Disneyland® Resort, you need to see the original magical park, Disneyland® Park, home to classic rides such as Splash Mountain and It's a Small World that all generations can enjoy.
SeaWorld® San Diego
SeaWorld® San Diego has interactive displays, exhibits, shows, and thrill rides, all dedicated to educating and entertaining. Thrill rides have underwater themes such as Return to Atlantis, a water ride and a roller coaster.
In addition, they have a little bit of something for everyone in your group, including a toddler area called Sesame Street Bay of Play, where the young children can visit with their favorite characters and enjoy some rides just their style.
Knott's Berry Farm
Knott's started as a simple berry stand on the side of the road in the 1920s. Now they offer world-class roller coasters, a waterpark, and fun for all ages. The Old West Ghost Town is the quintessential part of the park, complete with a traditional wooden roller coaster and other 1800s western-themed attractions. The classic Timber Mountain Log Ride is an older log flume ride that was built in 1969 but revitalized in 2013. Watch out–you may get wet!
LEGOLAND® California Resort
If you have younger kids, LEGOLAND® California is a theme park you can't miss visiting. There is a theme park and a water park, both with many rides and experiences suitable for younger children. But, of course, some rides are thrilling for everyone. For example, Emmet's Flying Adventure Ride is an immersive dive into the LEGO Movie, with a virtual screen surrounding you as you watch flying bricks go by from the Triple Decker Flying Couch.
Universal Studios Hollywood
See where all the magic is made and visit the largest motion picture studio. If you have any Harry Potter fans in your group, they will have a fantastic time exploring Hogwarts Castle and immersing themselves in the magical world of Harry Potter. You can also check out the Jurassic World ride and travel back to the prehistoric age with the dinosaurs.
Money-Saving Tips When Visiting Southern California's Theme Parks
You can avoid overspending at amusement parks if you plan ahead. If you plan and pack essentials, you are already saving money. For example, if it rains and you don't have any other clothes packed, then you need to buy everyone a poncho. Ponchos in the park will cost much more than the ones you get at the store or already have in the house. Let's check out some other money-saving tips.
Purchase Discounted Tickets
When shopping for theme park tickets, be sure to check out Southern California CityPASS® tickets, where you’ll find discounts over regular box office prices. Southern California CityPASS® ticket options include Disneyland® Resort, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, LEGOLAND® California Resort, SeaWorld® San Diego, and Universal Studios Hollywood.
You can build a ticket package that your family will enjoy and have discounted tickets emailed directly to you.
Try To Attend Outside of Peak Season
You can save money on hotels and airfare during the off-season. There will be shorter lines, and you can accomplish more than when you visit in the summer. It's challenging to plan a vacation when your children are in school, but there are options.
For example, you can plan to attend on a long weekend when the kids have a day off. You may pay the same price for admission tickets to the park, but you should save money on everything else when you travel in the fall, spring, and winter months.
Eat Plenty Before You Come
Food in amusement parks is expensive. If you and your family eat before you come, you can save a good bit of money by not eating meals in the park. If you eat a big and fulfilling breakfast, then a funnel cake and a snow cone may satisfy everyone while walking around.
You can also save money if you bring water and snacks. For example, you could pack a picnic lunch and place everything in a cooler. Of course, some theme parks don't allow outside food or drink, so you’ll need to find out before your visit if you can bring these items. Even if you bring your own water, you'll save some money.
Making Theme Park Fun Affordable for Your Entire Family
You can visit the top amusement parks in Southern California on a budget. Southern California CityPASS® tickets offer discounted tickets to some of the top theme parks. You and your family will get a chance to ride roller coasters, visit the zoo, and tour some of the famous parts of California. Choose your theme park tickets today and save with the Southern California CityPASS® tickets.
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