Save at Top Theme Parks This Summer

Legoland

With more than 50 shows, rides, and attractions, Legoland offers something for everyone in the family. You won't want to miss Miniland USA, where you can explore seven areas of the United States completely constructed out of Legos.

A Legoland membership is a great way to save, especially for longer stays. The basic plan includes one year's unlimited admission to the park and costs less than $40.

Legoland, California (Photo: The Lego Group)

Knott's Berry Farm

Once an actual berry farm, Knott's Berry Farm has transformed into a theme park, where you can meet one of the greatest comic strip characters of all time, Snoopy. Thrill seekers will also enjoy the park's many death-defying rides, including Xcelerator, which launches passengers 82 mph in 2.3 seconds.

You can find deals in the What's Hot section of the park's website. Booking tickets online will also save you time and money. A vacation package may also help you cut costs.

Camp Snoopy at Knott's Berry Farm, California (Photo: Knotts Berry Farm)

Cedar Point

It's that time of year again: the sun is shining, schools are on vacation, and the thrill of a new adventure is in the air. This summer, you can reconnect with your inner kid by visiting one of the country's top theme parks. However, rising gas prices and expensive entrance fees can discourage even the most enthusiastic of travelers. Here are several ways you can cut costs without cutting corners on a great vacation.

Home to the most rides on earth, Cedar Point is not for the faint of heart. The park offers water rides, carousels, and 17 roller coasters, including the Corkscrew, the first triple loop coaster in the world.

Cedar Point's hotel-and-ticket vacation packages may be just the key to save a little extra dough, as many include free extras like restaurant discounts and parking vouchers. Also, guests of Cedar Point resorts can enter the park 60 minutes before it officially opens. AAA members can also receive discounts on park tickets.

Corkscrew coaster at Cedar Point, Ohio (Photo: Cedar Point)

SeaWorld San Diego

With performing killer whales, friendly dolphins, and a journey to Atlantis, SeaWorld San Diego offers an underwater adventure unlike any other. Be sure to check out one of the many animal shows, where you can see comedic sea lions, acrobatic pilot whales, a dramatic walrus, and, of course, Shamu.

During 2007, visitors get a second day free when they purchase a one-day pass. The park also offers Hot Deals online, which may help save a little extra cash.

Walrus performance at SeaWorld San Diego (Photo: Seaworld)

Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World brings all of your favorite Disney characters to life in its four theme parks and two water parks. 2007 is the Year of a Million Dreams, and the park is urging guests to live out their own dreams with many new events and attractions.

Disney World can be the trip of a lifetime, but it can also be the expense of a lifetime if you're not careful. Discounts are available on the Disney website for hotels, tickets, and packages, so check these before booking. It also pays to stay at one of Disney's resorts as there are many added benefits, including extra magic hours, early admission, and late stays at the parks.

Main Street, DisneyWorld, Orlando (Photo: Walt Disney Company)

Universal Studios

Universal Studios gives visitors the chance to let their inner movie maker or film fanatic shine, while exploring the behind-the-scenes action of a studio setting. And thrilling rides such as the Revenge of the Mummy, allow you to see the blockbusters of the past in a whole new light.

Check out the Hot Deals section of the Universal website to find the most up-to-date discounts available for the park. At press time, you could purchase a one-day pass for $61 and receive an entire year's admission free, plus several other special park perks.

Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Studios, Hollywood (Photo: Universal Studio)

Holiday World

Holiday World provides the perfect excuse to celebrate Christmas, Halloween, or Thanksgiving throughout most of the year. The park has three of the world's top-rated wooden roller coasters, including the Raven, which honors Edgar Allan Poe's spine-tingling poem. Splashin' Safari is also a perfect place to cool off on a hot day.

There are several ways to reduce the cost of a trip to Holiday World, including discounts for bringing a Pepsi can or a Bunny Bread wrapper to the park.

Hallow Swings at Holidayworld, Indiana (Photo: Holidayworld/Splashing Safari)

Dollywood

Named after the spunky country singer, Dollywood embodies much of the spirit of its namesake, while offering visitors thrilling entertainment in the Great Smoky Mountains. With wooden roller coasters, live entertainment, water rides, and major festivals, there's never a dull moment in the park.

To get your money's worth, purchase a pass at the gate after three p.m. and get the next day free. This offer is only valid until November, but it's one of the best ways to stretch your dollar. Also, be on the lookout for online specials through the Dollywood website throughout the year.

Thunderhead Rollercoaster in Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (Photo: Dollywood)