Few days create memories like a trip to a theme park with the grandchildren. There is the excitement at the gate, the first ride everyone screams through and the parade at the end of a long, happy day. Tickets for a whole family are a big part of the cost, though, especially on multi-day visits. Theme park discounts for seniors through a membership take money off tickets at some of the best-known parks in the country, plus a world-famous show for an evening out.
Planning a Park Day That Works for Everyone
- Pick the park around the youngest guest. Height limits and nap times shape the day more than anything else.
- Decide how many days. Several member offers apply to multi-day tickets, which also make the visit less rushed.
- Book tickets early. Popular dates around school holidays sell out, and buying ahead lets you lock in the member saving.
- Plan rest breaks. Shows, boat rides and shaded areas give grandparents and little ones a chance to recharge.
- Agree on a meeting point. A landmark near the entrance makes it easy to regroup if anyone gets separated.
Where Members Save on Tickets
Each of these park ticket savings comes with its own minimum stay or booking rule, so it is worth reading the details before you buy.
Walt Disney World Resort
Members save up to $60 on tickets to the Orlando resort, with a minimum three-day ticket. Several days give you time to explore more than one park at an easy pace, mixing the big attractions with gentle rides, character meals and fireworks in the evening. For a family trip of several days, this is one of the largest dollar savings on the list.
Disneyland Resort
On the West Coast, members save up to $35 on tickets to Disneyland Resort in California, with a minimum two-day ticket. Two days are plenty to see both parks, and the compact layout means less walking than many larger resorts.
Universal Orlando Resort
Members save on tickets to Universal Orlando Resort, home to blockbuster-themed lands and rides for older children and teens. It pairs well with a Disney visit for families spending a week or more in central Florida.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Members get up to 10% off tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood, where the famous studio tour takes guests behind the scenes of real film sets. It is a good choice when grandchildren are a little older and love movies.
Cirque du Soleil
For an evening out after the parks close, members save up to 30% on Cirque du Soleil tickets bought online. The acrobatics and music captivate every age, and a seated show is a welcome rest after a day on your feet.
Pacing the Day for Every Age
A theme park day goes best when nobody tries to do everything. Arrive early, when lines are shortest, and tackle the most popular rides first. Use the hottest part of the afternoon for indoor shows or a long lunch in the shade, then head back out for the cooler evening. Comfortable shoes, refillable water bottles and a small bag with sunscreen and snacks make a bigger difference than any ride plan. Most important of all, let the grandchildren choose a favorite or two, because those are the moments they will talk about for years.
Before You Buy
Check the minimum ticket length for each offer and match it to your plans, since a saving on a three-day ticket helps most when you really want three days. Count everyone in the group, including the youngest, as ticket prices differ for children. Look at the park calendar for special events and holiday hours, and decide whether to stay nearby to cut down on travel time each morning. With those details settled, the member discount simply makes a well-planned trip cost less.
Memories Worth Making
AARP is a membership organization for people aged 50 and over, with benefits that cover travel, entertainment, health and everyday spending. Its entertainment partners make family outings more affordable, from a multi-day theme park visit to a night at a show.
With tickets at the parks above discounted for members, the money saved can go toward a special meal, a souvenir for each grandchild or an extra day of fun. These grandparent vacation ideas work for a long weekend or a full week away.
Sign up today and start planning the day the grandchildren will never forget.
Grandparents lining up their next adventure will find more quick reads on 2MinuteRead.