How to Save on Amusement Parks in Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas, is home to some of the most exciting and family-friendly amusement parks in the Southwest. From thrilling roller coasters at Six Flags Over Texas to interactive water play zones at Hurricane Harbor and the educational fun at the Fort Worth Zoo’s interactive exhibits, there’s no shortage of ways to spend a day outdoors with the whole family. But with rising ticket prices, parking fees, food costs, and add-on experiences, a day at the park can quickly become a financial burden—especially for larger families or those on a tight budget.

Thankfully, saving money on amusement parks in Fort Worth isn’t just possible—it’s practical with the right strategies. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing, a summer vacation, or a birthday celebration, knowing how to cut costs without sacrificing fun can transform your experience from stressful to spectacular. This comprehensive guide reveals proven, actionable methods to save significantly on admission, parking, food, and extras at Fort Worth’s top amusement and family entertainment venues. By following these steps, you’ll maximize enjoyment while minimizing expenses—ensuring more days at the park throughout the year.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Compare Park Options

Fort Worth and its surrounding areas offer more than one major amusement destination. The most well-known is Six Flags Over Texas, located just across the border in Arlington—but it’s not the only option. The Fort Worth Zoo, while not a traditional amusement park, features ride attractions, splash pads, and seasonal events that rival many theme parks in entertainment value. Other nearby alternatives include Legoland Discovery Center in Grapevine, the Cattleman’s Square Family Fun Center, and the Texas Live! complex with its outdoor play areas and family dining.

Start by comparing ticket prices, operating hours, and included attractions across these venues. For example, Six Flags Over Texas may offer more high-thrill rides, but the Fort Worth Zoo provides free general admission for children under 3 and discounted rates for Texas residents on select days. Use comparison tools like Google Maps or local parenting blogs to assess which park delivers the best value for your family’s interests. Don’t assume the most famous park is the most cost-effective.

2. Purchase Tickets in Advance Online

One of the simplest and most effective ways to save is buying tickets online before arriving at the park. Most major parks, including Six Flags Over Texas and the Fort Worth Zoo, offer discounted admission for online purchases—often 10% to 30% off the gate price. These discounts are designed to encourage early planning, reduce lines at ticket booths, and improve crowd management.

Always check the official website of the park you plan to visit. Avoid third-party resellers unless they are verified partners (like Under Armour or local tourism boards). Some parks even offer “early bird” pricing if you book at least two weeks in advance. For example, Six Flags frequently runs promotions where tickets purchased before 5 p.m. on the day of your visit are priced lower than those bought at the gate after 5 p.m.

3. Look for Local and Regional Discounts

Many businesses and organizations in the Fort Worth area offer exclusive discounts to residents. Check with your employer—some companies partner with local attractions for employee discounts. Libraries in Tarrant County often provide free or deeply discounted passes to the Fort Worth Zoo through their “Library Pass” program. These passes typically allow free general admission for up to four people and can be reserved online through the library’s website.

Additionally, local credit unions, grocery chains like Kroger or Albertsons, and retail stores like Sam’s Club or Costco often sell discounted park tickets in bulk. Costco, for instance, regularly offers Six Flags multi-day passes or combo tickets with Hurricane Harbor at a fraction of the retail price. Always ask at your local membership warehouse or credit union about upcoming promotions.

4. Visit During Off-Peak Times

Timing your visit can lead to massive savings. Avoid weekends, school holidays, and summer break peaks if possible. Weekdays—especially Tuesday through Thursday—are typically the least crowded and often come with reduced ticket rates. Some parks, including the Fort Worth Zoo, offer “Value Days” during the spring and fall months where admission is as low as $5 for adults and free for children under 12.

Even within a day, timing matters. Arriving when the park opens (usually 10 a.m.) allows you to ride the most popular attractions before lines build up. Some parks offer “early entry” for guests who purchase premium tickets, but even standard admission guests benefit from shorter wait times early in the day. Additionally, visiting during the last two hours before closing can sometimes result in discounted “last chance” tickets or free parking.

5. Bundle Tickets and Add-Ons

Many parks offer bundled packages that combine admission with meals, parking, or merchandise. While these may seem expensive upfront, they often represent significant savings over purchasing items individually. For example, Six Flags offers “All-Day Dining Passes” that allow unlimited food and non-alcoholic drinks from select locations for a flat fee—often less than the cost of just two meals purchased à la carte.

Similarly, combo tickets that include both Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor water park admission are typically 25% cheaper than buying each separately. The Fort Worth Zoo offers “Zoo & Ride” packages that include admission plus access to the carousel, train, and zip line—all for a single price. Always review the fine print: some bundles require you to use all components on the same day, while others offer flexibility over multiple visits.

6. Use Cashback and Rewards Apps

Modern technology can help you earn money back on your amusement park spending. Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Honey offer cashback on online ticket purchases. Simply search for the park’s official website through the app before clicking through to buy your tickets. You can earn anywhere from 2% to 10% cashback depending on current promotions.

Additionally, many credit cards offer reward points or travel credits that can be redeemed for entertainment expenses. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture often have bonus categories for “entertainment” or “travel” purchases, which can include theme park tickets. If you’re planning a trip, consider using a rewards card for your ticket purchase and then redeeming points for future outings.

7. Bring Your Own Food and Beverages

Food and drinks at amusement parks are notoriously expensive. A single bottle of water can cost $5, a hot dog $12, and a funnel cake $15. Most parks in Fort Worth allow guests to bring in sealed, non-alcoholic beverages and small snacks. Always check the park’s official policy before you go—some have restrictions on glass containers, coolers over a certain size, or homemade meals.

Plan ahead by packing reusable water bottles, granola bars, fruit, sandwiches, and trail mix. Many parks have water fountains and refill stations near restrooms. The Fort Worth Zoo even provides free ice water at select locations. Bring a small insulated bag to keep food cool and avoid buying overpriced snacks inside. This simple step can save your family $50 or more per day.

8. Skip the Souvenirs or Set a Budget

Souvenirs are one of the biggest budget killers at amusement parks. From plush toys to branded shirts, hats, and light-up toys, the temptation is real. But these items rarely hold long-term value and often end up forgotten in a closet.

Set a clear spending limit for souvenirs before entering the park—say, $20 per child. Allow each child to pick one item within that budget. This teaches financial responsibility and prevents impulse buys. Alternatively, consider purchasing souvenirs from local gift shops outside the park, where prices are typically 30% to 50% lower. Many parks also offer online stores where you can order merchandise after your visit at discounted rates with free shipping.

9. Take Advantage of Free Admission Days and Promotions

Many parks offer free or heavily discounted admission days throughout the year. The Fort Worth Zoo, for example, hosts “Free Family Days” in partnership with local sponsors, usually once a month during the off-season. These events are often promoted on the zoo’s website and local news outlets. Six Flags occasionally runs “Kids Free” promotions during spring or fall, where children under 12 receive free admission with a paying adult.

Sign up for email newsletters from each park you’re interested in. They frequently send exclusive discount codes to subscribers. Follow their social media pages—Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter—for flash sales and last-minute deals. Local radio stations and community boards sometimes give away free tickets through contests. Don’t overlook these opportunities—they can turn a $100 outing into a $0 one.

10. Consider Annual Passes or Membership Programs

If you plan to visit more than twice a year, an annual pass or membership is almost always worth it. The Fort Worth Zoo offers a variety of membership tiers starting at $65 for individuals and $105 for families. Members get unlimited admission for a full year, free parking, discounts on food and merchandise, and access to members-only events. Six Flags offers a “Gold Pass” for around $120, which includes unlimited visits, free parking, and discounts on food and photos.

Compare the cost of multiple single-day visits against the annual pass price. If you’re planning three or more trips in a year, the pass pays for itself. Many memberships also include reciprocal benefits with other zoos and attractions nationwide through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) or the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA). For example, a Fort Worth Zoo membership might grant you free or discounted entry to the Dallas Zoo, Houston Zoo, or even the San Antonio Zoo.

Best Practices

Plan Your Visit Around Weather and Events

Fort Worth’s climate is generally warm, but summer heat can be extreme. Plan your visits during cooler months (March–May or September–November) when temperatures are more comfortable and crowds are smaller. Avoid visiting on days with extreme heat advisories or thunderstorms—many rides shut down during inclement weather, and you’ll waste your admission.

Also, check the park’s event calendar. Special events like “Boo at the Zoo” in October or “Holiday Lights” in December often come with higher ticket prices. While these events are magical, they’re not always cost-effective. If you’re budget-conscious, visit during regular operating hours instead of during special ticketed events.

Travel Smart: Use Public Transit or Carpool

Parking fees at Six Flags Over Texas and other major parks can range from $25 to $35 per vehicle. To avoid this, consider carpooling with other families. Splitting the cost among four cars can reduce your per-person parking expense from $35 to under $9. If you’re traveling from within Fort Worth city limits, check if public transit options like Trinity Metro’s Route 10 or the TRE train connect to nearby stops. While not all parks are directly accessible via transit, combining a train ride with a short Uber or Lyft trip can still save money.

Use Loyalty Programs and Club Memberships

Many parks have loyalty programs that reward repeat visitors. Six Flags’ “Fright Fest” and “Holiday in the Park” programs offer points for every visit, which can be redeemed for free tickets or merchandise. The Fort Worth Zoo’s “Zoo Crew” program gives members early access to new exhibits and exclusive discounts on birthday parties.

Additionally, membership in organizations like AAA, AARP, or the National Trust for Historic Preservation can unlock additional discounts. Even if you’re not a member, ask at the ticket counter—some parks honor these affiliations on a case-by-case basis.

Track Your Spending and Set a Daily Budget

Before you leave home, create a realistic daily budget for your outing. Include tickets, parking, food, souvenirs, and any extras like photo packages or ride wristbands. Allocate a fixed amount per person and stick to it. Use a budgeting app like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) to track your spending in real time.

Set a “no-spend” rule for impulse purchases. If you want to buy something unplanned, wait 10 minutes. Often, the urge passes. This simple habit can prevent overspending and keep your outing financially sustainable.

Bring Your Own Essentials

In addition to food and drinks, bring sunscreen, hats, reusable towels, and portable fans. Park merchandise for these items is often overpriced. A $15 sunscreen bottle at the park might cost $5 at Walmart. Bring a small backpack to carry essentials—it’s more convenient than renting lockers, which can cost $5–$10 per use.

Engage with Park Staff for Hidden Perks

Frontline employees often know about unadvertised deals. Ask the ticket booth attendant or guest services if there are any “today-only” promotions, complimentary ride tickets, or free event upgrades. Sometimes, they can offer a free upgrade to a premium ride or a complimentary photo with a character if you mention it’s a special occasion.

Tools and Resources

Official Park Websites

Always start with the official website of the park you plan to visit. These sites offer the most accurate pricing, real-time wait times, weather updates, and exclusive online discounts. Key sites include:

• Six Flags Over Texas: www.sixflags.com/overtexas
• Fort Worth Zoo: www.fortworthzoo.org
• Legoland Discovery Center: www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/dallas

Local Discount Platforms

Several platforms aggregate local deals and free passes:

• Tarrant County Library Pass: Offers free zoo admission (visit your local branch)
• Go City Pass: Bundles multiple attractions in North Texas
• LivingSocial Fort Worth: Occasionally features discounted park tickets
• Facebook Groups: Search “Fort Worth Family Events” or “North Texas Free Activities” for member-shared deals

Cashback and Coupon Apps

Use these apps to earn money back or apply coupons at checkout:

• Rakuten: Cashback on online ticket purchases
• Ibotta: Rebates on food and merchandise bought at park concessions
• Honey: Automatically applies coupon codes at checkout
• Google Pay / Apple Pay: Often have localized promotions for local attractions

Mobile Apps for Real-Time Savings

Download the official apps for each park. Six Flags’ app shows real-time ride wait times, allows mobile ordering for food, and sends push notifications about flash sales. The Fort Worth Zoo app includes a map, animal schedules, and a “Today’s Deals” section with last-minute discounts.

Community Resources

Reach out to local community centers, churches, and nonprofits. Many host annual “Family Fun Days” with free or low-cost tickets to local attractions. Organizations like United Way of Tarrant County and the Boys & Girls Clubs often distribute free passes to families in need.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Martinez Family Saves $217 in One Day

The Martinez family of four (two adults, two children aged 8 and 10) planned a weekend trip to Six Flags Over Texas. Without any savings strategies, their estimated cost would have been:

• Adult tickets: $75 x 2 = $150
• Child tickets: $65 x 2 = $130
• Parking: $30
• Food and drinks: $80
• Souvenirs: $25
• Total: $415

Instead, they:

• Bought tickets online in advance: saved $30 (15% discount)
• Used a Costco combo pass for both Six Flags and Hurricane Harbor: saved $60
• Carried in water bottles and snacks: saved $50
• Used Rakuten for 8% cashback on online purchase: earned $16
• Visited on a Tuesday in September (off-peak): saved $20 on ticket price
• Set a $15 souvenir budget per child: saved $40

Final cost: $198 — a savings of $217 (52% off).

Example 2: The Johnsons Get Free Admission with a Library Pass

The Johnsons, a family of three, wanted to visit the Fort Worth Zoo but couldn’t afford admission. They checked their local library’s website and discovered the “Library Pass” program. They reserved a pass online, printed it at home, and arrived at the zoo with no ticket cost. They brought their own lunch and used the zoo’s free parking for library members. They spent only $12 on a single souvenir and $5 on a train ride. Their total cost: $17.

They returned three more times during the year using the same library pass (which allows unlimited use for a year) and saved over $400 in admission fees alone.

Example 3: The Thompsons Earn Points for a Free Trip

The Thompsons used their Chase Sapphire Preferred card to purchase a Six Flags Gold Pass. They earned 3x points on the purchase—6,000 points total. They later redeemed those points for a free night’s stay at a nearby hotel, which they used as a base for two additional park visits. The pass paid for itself in three visits, and the hotel stay was essentially free. Their total out-of-pocket cost for four park visits: $120.

FAQs

Can I bring my own food into Six Flags Over Texas?

Yes. Six Flags allows guests to bring in sealed, non-alcoholic beverages and small snacks. Coolers are permitted but must be no larger than 12” x 12” x 12”. Glass containers, alcohol, and large meals are prohibited. Always check the park’s website for the latest policy before your visit.

Are there free days at the Fort Worth Zoo?

Yes. The Fort Worth Zoo offers free general admission on select days throughout the year, typically sponsored by local businesses or community organizations. These are usually announced on their website and social media. Check the “Events” section monthly for updates.

Do I need to buy a parking pass if I use a rideshare?

No. If you arrive via Uber, Lyft, or public transit, you do not need to pay for parking. Designated drop-off zones are available at all major parks. However, confirm drop-off locations on the park’s website to avoid confusion.

Is an annual pass worth it if I only plan to go twice a year?

It depends. For Six Flags Over Texas, a Gold Pass costs $120. If a single-day ticket is $75, then two visits would cost $150—so the pass saves you $30. For the Fort Worth Zoo, a family membership is $105, and two adult tickets are $60 each ($120 total), so you break even. If you value parking, discounts, and early access, even two visits make the pass worthwhile.

Can I use coupons from Groupon for amusement parks in Fort Worth?

Some parks accept Groupon vouchers, but many do not. Always verify with the park’s official website or customer service before purchasing. Third-party deals may have blackout dates, expiration restrictions, or require advance reservations. Official direct purchases are often more reliable.

Do children under a certain age get in free?

Yes. At the Fort Worth Zoo, children under 3 are free. At Six Flags, children under 3 are free, and children 2–3 may receive discounted tickets. Always confirm age cutoffs on the official site, as policies vary.

Can I get a discount if I’m a teacher or military member?

Many parks offer educator and military discounts. Six Flags offers a 10% discount with a valid ID. The Fort Worth Zoo offers a 20% discount for active military and veterans. Always ask at the ticket booth or check the “Special Offers” section of the website.

What’s the best time of year to visit for savings?

Early spring (March–April) and late fall (October–November) are ideal. Crowds are smaller, weather is pleasant, and parks often run seasonal promotions. Avoid summer holidays and spring break for the best deals.

Conclusion

Saving money on amusement parks in Fort Worth isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about making smarter choices. By planning ahead, leveraging local resources, using technology to your advantage, and understanding the hidden perks offered by each venue, you can enjoy unforgettable family experiences without draining your bank account. Whether you’re visiting once a year or every weekend, the strategies outlined in this guide will help you stretch your budget further and create lasting memories without financial stress.

The key is consistency. Start small: buy tickets online once, bring your own snacks, and sign up for a newsletter. Over time, these habits compound into significant savings. Combine them with loyalty programs, cashback apps, and community partnerships, and you’ll find that a day at the park becomes not just affordable—but exceptional.

Fort Worth’s amusement parks are more than just rides and attractions—they’re community treasures. By saving smart, you’re not just protecting your wallet; you’re ensuring that these spaces remain accessible to families from all walks of life. So plan your next outing wisely, pack your bags, and get ready to enjoy the thrills—without the guilt.