2022 prices may be a little different from those listed in this awesome post, but the ideas and tips are still great. After reading here, check out our more recent post on the subject: DFW Family Membership Deals: Waterparks, Zoos, Museums & More!
With the weather in the metroplex getting more bearable, I find myself wanting to go to places that all my kids will enjoy. But let’s be real, I really just need places to take my kids to get us out of this house and NOT bankrupt me! Naturally, my focus has fallen onto places that offer family memberships for a reasonable price AND that allow me to bring my gigantic family of seven as many times as I possibly can—more bang for my buck!
In addition to admission, family memberships often include free parking, special members-only events and hours, discounts at gift shops, and more. In my searching, I’ve found these incredible family memberships throughout the metroplex that pay themselves off in only a few visits!
Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney
Family memberships cost: $80/year (whole family) *Great for large families
Regular Cost: $11 Adults, $8 Children (Ages three-12), Children two and under FREE
Pays for itself: In about two visits (Family of four)
Includes: Unlimited general admission for your WHOLE family, reciprocal admission to more than 300 participating museums and science centers worldwide, discounts, early invitations to events, and more. See full details and other packages here.
Perot Museum, Dallas
Family memberships cost: $119/year (two adults and ALL children)
Regular Cost: $20 Adults, $13 Children (Ages three-17), Children two and under FREE
Pays for itself: In less than two visits (Family of four)
Includes: Unlimited admission for ENTIRE family, exclusive hours, discounts, reciprocal admission to 360 museums worldwide, two additional guest passes, and more. See full details and other packages here.
Dallas Zoo, Dallas
Family memberships cost: $129 (two adults + four children)
Regular Cost: $15 Adults (Ages 12-64), $12 Children (Ages three-11), Children two and under FREE
Pays for itself: In about two visits (Family of four)
Includes: Unlimited admission, FREE parking (normally $10), discounts, members-only events/hours, and more. See full details and additional packages here.
Sci-Tech Discovery Center, Frisco
Family memberships cost: $80 (Family of four), $120 (Family of six)
Regular Cost: $8.50 General admission (Ages three-64), Children two and under FREE
Pays for itself: In 2.5 visits (Family of four)
Includes: Free admission for family, discounts, early invitations. See full details and package options here.
Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch, Pilot Point
Family memberships cost: $115 (two adults, two children)
Regular Cost: $12 Adults (Ages 13+), $10 (Ages three-12), Children two and under FREE
Pays for itself: In 2.5 visits (Family of four)
Includes: Unlimited admission, Safari Tram Ride, entry to petting zoo, animal presentations, and more. See full details and package options here.
Texas Discovery Gardens, Fair Park, Dallas
Family memberships cost: $65/year (two adults and all children) *Great for large families
Regular Cost: $8 Adults, $4 Children (Ages three-11), Children two and under FREE
Pays for itself: Less than three visits (Family of four)
Includes: Free admission to Gardens and Butterfly House, discounts, free one-day admission to State Fair of Texas, and more. See full details and other packages here.
Dallas Arboretum, Dallas
Family memberships Cost: $131 (Member + five guests)
Regular Cost: $15 Adults (Ages 13-64), $10 (Ages three-12), Children two and under FREE
Pays for itself: In less than three visits
Includes: Year-round admission, free parking, discounts, members-only invitations, and more. See full details and other packages here.
Things I learned:
- Children two and under are FREE at most places. You can get an individual (cheaper) membership and bring your little one for free!
- Many family memberships are tax deductible! Look at the websites for details and discuss with your tax professional.
- It may be best to do a trial run with your kids before you make a commitment.
Also Consider:
- Heritage Farmstead Museum, Plano: Family memberships: $65/year for a family of four
- Dallas World Aquarium, Dallas: Family memberships: $195/year for two adults, four children
- Sea Life Aquarium Grapevine: $35/ per person per year
- Fort Worth Zoo: Family memberships: $52 for each adult, $23 for each child
- Parks and recreation family memberships in your area; many offer financial assistance
- YMCA family memberships in your area
Don’t forget family memberships for your Christmas list this year! Did we miss any great deals? Please share them with us in the comments.
