How to Save Money on Summer Attractions in Cincinnati

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The costs for families to visit summer attractions can add up quickly…..but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune if you follow these tips.

Do Your Research Before You Go

I LOVE adventures and I’m also a big fan of planning ahead of time to maximize my visit and my budget. I like to find out the times and days that the attraction is are less crowded with a simple google search. For attractions with a larger price tag, I always make sure that I check the weather before I go. Amusement parks can be less crowded on cloudy and rainy days but I don’t want to risk it on days that have a forecast with a high risk of storms for a large portion of the day.

Go to the Attraction’s Website First

By going to the attraction’s website first, you will be informed about special events, hours, and deals. Most attractions have the greatest savings by purchasing tickets directly online before you go versus making a purchase at the gate.

Connect on Social Media

Make sure that you like the attraction’s primary social media accounts (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook.) Facebook is still the most popular for communicating discounts, special events, and giveaways. Some indoor attractions like Dart Rush even have special community groups to help communicate special discounts to their customers.

Sign up for the Newsletters

Another great way to learn about special discounts is by signing up for the attraction’s newsletter directly. For example, Great Wolf Lodge email subscribers are the first to get notifications of special rates even before the website. Check the website for Special Offers and local deal sites like Groupon.

Package Deals

I also like to check local tourism sites for package deals. Cincinnati USA has several packages on their site that combine attractions and lodging together. Some attractions even partner together. For example, Great Wolf Lodge has a special package for guests who also want to visit Kings Island located next door.

Summer Specials

Many attractions offer summer specials where 1 child gets a free or discounted admission with the purchase of a paying adult. Movie theaters, bowling alleys, and other indoor attractions also have lots of great deals to drive traffic in during off-peak times in the summer.

Visit After 4PM

Most area attractions offer a discounted rate for guests who visit after 4pm. For example, Kings Island Amusement Park and Coney Island Amusement Park has online prices listed with the option of after 4 PM.

When in Doubt, ASK!

Several attractions around Cincinnati offer additional discount savings for local bank customers, Military, Seniors, and AAA members.

Search Local Discount Sites

After you have checked the website directly, browse deal sites like Groupon, Cincy Savers, and Living Social for additional savings

Check for Ticket Discounts at Retail Stores

Many retail, grocery stores, and restaurants partner together with attractions to offer additional savings.

Kings Island Amusement Park

If you plan on visiting Kings Island more than once in the next 6-7 months, the best value is a Gold Season Pass which includes the waterpark, parking, and Winterfest. I would also suggest the All Season Dining plan if you are planning on becoming a Season Pass ticket holder.
Purchase a large drink at participating area McDonald’s and you could save up to $20 when you bring the plastic cup to the park.
Discounted Tickets available at Kroger
Buy online for a greater savings

Newport Aquarium

Special Summer Family Hours Sun-Fri after 4pm – 1 child is free with the purchase of an adult regular price admission
Online discounted tickets
Discounts for Military, AAA members and the AARP.