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As the recession continues and summer heats up, families are faced with decisions. Where do we go for a getaway? How can we entertain the kids? How much will our vacation cost? Luckily, many travel-related operators such as hotels, airlines, restaurants and even family entertainment venues have taken notice and are offering affordable ways in which many can enjoy being away from home despite the down economy.
Meet me at the Zoo
For affordable entertainment close to home, families can take a trip to the local zoo. In Cincinnati, the zoo is using giraffes to bring in the crowds. With gas prices on the rise, travelers don’t want to have to go very far to enjoy a day out.
Attendance increased 34% to more than 372,000 visitors in the first five months of 2009, according to a recent survey conducted by the Cincinnati Zoo.
At the Saint Louis Zoo, which charges for some attractions but not admission, attendance rose 13% to 1.2 million visitors as of June 4.
Other incentives such as memberships allowing unlimited visits once a year and discounts for special events are what attract the most crowds.
Theme Parks
In the current challenging market environment, much innovation has taken the form of new pricing promotions rather than record-breaking rides and attractions (which can be expensive to invest in). In addition to reducing costs for daily and seasons admissions, many of the leading parks are offering special deals on vacation packages and for military families.
For the first half of 2009, Disney is offering a seven-night vacation package for the price of four nights. Booking on certain dates will also earn a $100-200 gift card, redeemable on dining or merchandise inside the Disney parks.
Despite the recent announcement of its filing for bankruptcy, Six Flags is offering its Play Pass, which allows yearlong access to 15 Six Flags parks across the country, for the same price as a one-day ticket ($60). The purchase comes with an additional four free tickets, which are usable by friends and family on select days.
As an extra incentive to boost attendance, zoo and theme park operators could allow guests to bring in their own snacks. This way, families could save money and enjoy healthier options. Moms would also be at ease knowing their kids have an alternative to the sugary/greasy foods that amusement parks offer.
