Things You'll Need:
- A phone
- Internet connection
- Courage to ask questions
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Step 1
Do some research and price comparison on your own but understand that many times, attraction tickets that are included in an accommodation package are often heavily discounted to the hotelier/innkeeper and the innkeeper will often pass the savings along directly to the guest without a markup. Remember, the innkeeper wants to put a "head in a bed" because this is where they make their money.
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Step 2
Inquire about discount tickets for the attraction you plan to visit at your credit union. Many credit unions will carry either tickets or coupons that are not available to the general public.
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Step 3
Ask if there are discounts through your company. Many larger companies and hospitals will also carry discount coupons or tickets in their Human Resource offices.
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Step 4
If you work in a large office building with a concierge, ask for discounts. Large downtown offices often have a concierge in the lobby or an offsite location that carries coupons or tickets. Attractions may even run special promotions with these concierge outlets that aren't available anywhere else.
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Step 5
Call your AAA office or the AAA office in the town you are visiting and inquire about tickets. AAA is a big player so they will often be able to purchase attraction tickets at a much deeper discount than anyone else. Many offices do this as a convenience to their members so these discounts will be passed along to their members with little or no markup. Many attractions may work with AAA on promotions but not all promotions will be posted at the front gate so do some research before you leave.
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Step 6
Always be sure to ask the hotel or attraction if they offer a AAA discount. Marketing professionals are trying to see if they are spending their advertising dollars wisely so they won't post the fact that you can get a AAA discount at the window if they are trying to get you to reference an ad or promotion for tracking purposes. If you don't ask for the discount, you often won't get it so be sure to ask.
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Step 7
Visit popular attractions mid-week. Not only are crowds smaller but many attractions offer savings during days when they need the business. If you can visit during these times, you'll realize not only savings in money but also in time.
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Step 8
When you arrive in town, check the front desk of your hotel for discount coupons. Most attractions work directly with the local hotels or concierge to encourage guests to visit them. If you don't see something at the front desk, ask the front desk staff for discounts.
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Step 9
Find out if your attraction has a "next day free after 3" or similar policy. Many attractions will allow guests to enter the attraction after 3 p.m. and then use the same ticket to return the next day for free or at a considerable discount over admission rates. Be sure to inquire. This is a great way to break up a visit at a large attraction or slow down the pace at one when you want to take it all in.
