Season Passes – Are They Worth It?

Sometimes we need something to keep us busy. Many of us see amusement parks as the solution. They are fun and entertaining, as well as good for a thrill. Unfortunately, these can be so expensive, even for just a day pass. The solution could be to consider a season pass.

What pass is right for you?

Season passes can offer a solution for the boredom and the high prices, as they can often pay for themselves in a matter of a couple of visits. Of course, there are often levels of passes and the matter of actually being able to afford a pass. So how do you decide what type of pass is right for you?

It starts with knowing yourself. Do you need parking or can you be dropped off? Will you buy drinks or just have water? Will you stay for lunch? These questions can help clue you in to the type of pass you will need.

You also need to consider the frequency of your visits. You know yourself; if you won’t go more than once, don’t buy the pass.

I personally have a gold pass to Carowinds. This made the most since because I live close enough to go often and I need parking (which is included in gold) when I go. I also get a discount on all things purchased with my card.

Consider all options carefully

I also have the drink plan, allowing me to get free drinks every 15 minutes. I knew this was worth the price because buying two drinks every time I go would become expensive, but this way, the price is set at $30 all season.

These kinds of decisions apply to all theme parks. And you should consider them carefully. Don’t buy something you won’t use.

I broke down the prices for various parks below.

Disney

Carowinds

And here are more links to various other parks:

Six Flags: https://www.sixflags.com/america/store/membership

Universal Studios: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/tickets-packages/park-tickets/promo/index.html

What if season passes aren’t for you?

If you can’t see yourself spending this amount of money, no sweat, there are alternatives. Many parks offer a discount on tickets purchased by passholders (like a bring-a-friend discount). You may be able to swallow that cost more easily.

I have also noticed that many companies partner with amusement parks to get discounts on day passes. For example, Harris Teeter and Bojangles offer coupons for Carowinds from time-to-time.

If these discounts still don’t put the park in your price range, that’s okay. There are lots of other ways to satisfy your need for speed. Sometimes, I hang out with my friend and we go for a ride in his (mom’s) convertible. You still get that awesome feeling of the wind in your hair for a cheaper price.

Or perhaps you just wanted the passes to have a fun place to hangout with friends. Instead, you could go bowling or skating. These activities can be just as fun for a fraction of the cost. Or you can relive your childhood thrills and head to the park to ride the seesaw.

No matter what you decide, make sure it is a balance of fun and reasonable, don’t spend more than you can, but be sure to make time for a great time.