A family ticket for an attraction like a theme park, museum, or other event typically allows admission for two adults and a set number of children or teenagers under a certain age. The specifics can vary depending on the venue’s policy, but a family ticket generally provides entry for two parents/guardians and 1-4 kids or teens.
What is the typical age range for kids with a family ticket?
The most common age range for children to be covered under a family ticket is ages 3-12 years old. Some venues extend this to ages 3-17 or 2-17 years old. It depends on the specific attraction’s policy. For example, Disneyland considers ages 3-9 to be “kids” while Universal Studios Hollywood tickets cover ages 3-12. Always check the fine print when purchasing a family ticket to confirm the age range at that location.
How many kids are usually included?
The standard family ticket includes 2 adults and 2 or 3 kids but can sometimes cover up to 4 or 5 kids. Here are some examples of major theme parks’ family ticket policies:
- Disneyland – 2 adults and 3 kids
- Universal Studios Hollywood – 2 adults and 2 kids
- SeaWorld – 2 adults and 3 kids
- Six Flags Magic Mountain – 2 adults and 4 kids
For museums, zoos, aquariums, and other attractions, the number of kids can vary from 2-4 depending on their policy. Some may offer tiered pricing for family tickets that cover just 2 kids vs. 3 or 4 kids. It’s always best to check the specific details when purchasing tickets.
Can family tickets include teenagers?
Most family tickets will also cover teenagers up to around age 17, with the rationale being that they are still dependent on adult supervision. For example, the Smithsonian museums consider ages 18 and under as “youth” for family packages. Some venues like amusement parks may set an age limit like under 14 for kids’ tickets. So teenagers from 15-17 may need to buy separate admission. Check the policy for teenagers and tweens when buying a family ticket.
Are there discounts for infants and toddlers?
Very young children under age 2 or 3 are typically free at most attractions with a paying adult. Once they are older than the infant/toddler age, which can be anywhere from 2-4 years old depending on the place, they need their own ticket. For example, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers free admission to babies under 1 year and SeaWorld San Diego lets kids under age 3 in for free. Always inquire about discounts for babies and toddlers – they often get free or reduced admission but still take up a spot in the family ticket headcount.
Can you buy a family ticket for extended family?
Family tickets are designed for the traditional family of 2 parents and kids. Grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins etc. usually cannot be bundled into a standard family ticket. However, some venues offer more flexibly defined group packages. For example, the San Diego Zoo has a “Family Pack” for 2 adults + kids but also has “Group Packages” for parties of 6, 15, or 25 people that could include extended family. Check carefully for any group packages that allow bigger parties to be bundled into one discount ticket.
Do both adults need to be present for family tickets?
Typically, both designated adults need to be present to redeem a family ticket. Single parents or other guardians traveling without another adult usually cannot benefit from the family discount. However, some theme parks like Six Flags Great America offer single-parent family tickets for one adult and dependents. It’s worth inquiring if you’ll be visiting without another grown-up in your group.
Can you upgrade individual tickets to a family ticket?
Most of the time, you need to proactively purchase the family ticket package upfront for the bundled discount. But some flexible venues will allow you to upgrade individual tickets to a family package upon arrival, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. For example, the Monterey Bay Aquarium will let you convert tickets to a family package onsite. Check ahead of time for upgrade policies just in case.
Are family tickets cheaper than individual tickets?
One of the big advantages of family tickets is that they usually offer significant savings compared to purchasing individual adult and child tickets separately. For large families, the cost difference can really add up. For example, at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, a family package for 2 adults + 3 kids is $84 total. Buying those 5 tickets individually would cost $137 – so the family deal offers close to 40% savings. Family tickets make it more affordable for households to enjoy attractions together.
When are family tickets not accepted?
While family tickets include discounted admission for groups, they usually have blackout dates where they are not valid. Attractions like theme parks often block out busy seasons like summer holidays when family packages cannot be used. There may also be restrictions on using family tickets for special events, concerts, festivals, etc. And upgraded experiences like VIP tours or front-of-line access sometimes exclude family package perks. Check the fine print for any date restrictions when purchasing.
Can you split up and use family tickets individually?
No – family packages require all members to enter together. You cannot purchase a family ticket and then use the tickets separately. All individuals covered by the family discount must be present upon entry and may have to proceed through the gate together. So don’t buy a family deal if you plan to visit on different days. Family tickets are designed for everyone to enjoy the attraction as one group.
Do family tickets include parking or other perks?
Beyond discounted admission, family tickets sometimes come with other benefits like free parking, meal vouchers, retail discounts, photo packages, and more. For example, the Monterey Bay Aquarium family ticket includes 2 adult + 3 kid admissions, free parking, reusable water bottles, and discounts on purchases. Be sure to see what extra perks may be bundled with the family package.
Are there any family membership options?
For attractions like museums and zoos that are open year-round, buying an annual family membership can be worthwhile. Family memberships provide unlimited admission for 12 months along with other benefits like guest passes, discounts, early entry, etc. Local institutions like science museums, children’s museums, arboretums, and botanical gardens often offer family memberships as a better value than paying for individual visits.
Conclusion
Family tickets allow groups of at least 4 (2 adults + kids) to visit attractions together at a discounted bundled price. Policies vary, but they generally cover parents and a certain number of kids ages 3-17 for one upfront cost. Family packages offer major savings over individual tickets and make experiences more affordable for whole households. Be sure to check fine print for blackout dates, age ranges, and any extra perks included. Carefully read the specifics before purchasing, and family tickets can provide easier, cheaper access to local fun and entertainment.
