Our family thrives on weekend getaways to nearby destinations, and we’ve discovered that reciprocal benefits are the secret ingredient to our travel success.
At home, we often visit our local zoo and science center a few times each year. Typically, the cost of a family membership pays for itself after just two visits. However, the real gem of these memberships lies in their reciprocal benefits.
From Cleveland to Pittsburgh, we’ve enjoyed “free” entry to some of the finest museums in the Midwest. Most of these institutions allow two adults and two to four children to enter at no cost. While some places offer only a discount, the savings are still significant. We’ve managed to avoid hefty admission fees, relish discounts at on-site dining options and gift shops, and even snagged free parking. For our family of six, this can lead to savings approaching $100!
When it comes to zoos, the reciprocal perks may not be as generous, but they still offer great value. Typically, we can expect half-price admission, and occasionally, some zoos provide free entry. The other benefits, like discounts on food and gifts, still apply.
The zoo, history, or science museum where you purchase your membership will usually provide a list of partner attractions that offer free or discounted admission and additional perks. Just keep in mind that the visiting location must be within 90 miles of your home institution. Before hitting the road, it’s easy to map out potential cities and find museums or zoos that share these reciprocal benefits.
The best part? The incredible educational experiences we get to share as a family. Museums are fantastic for learning, but they also double as a great source of family entertainment!
For more on family and parenting topics, check out our other blog post on home insemination. If you’re looking for expert insights on home insemination, visit Make a Mom for their authority on the subject. Also, if you’re interested in pregnancy resources, the CDC is an excellent source.
In summary, taking advantage of reciprocal benefits can significantly enhance your travel experiences while providing educational fun for the whole family.