On a Dime: Family Activities
In the final entry of our On a Dime series, we’re taking a look at family activities for all ages! There are a lot of cost-friendly ways to get out and try new things, as well as fun ways to make a whole day out of your adventures, and lastly, ways to learn and interact with our community!
Work Hard, Play Harder
When it comes to great deals for families that like trying different activities, an evening at Jupiter’s at the Crossing is a wonderful way to have some fun. Between half priced Arcade Mondays, half priced Billiards on Tuesdays, and free Bingo on Saturdays, there’s a ton of fun to be had, plus pizza deals most days of the week!
Looking for a little more thrill? Elevate Trampoline Park is fun for the whole family. The 30,000-square-foot indoor activity center provides exciting and safe forms of entertainment and exercise for jumpers of all ages. There are deals every day of the week, some including food and others simply allowing the family entrance to jump. Plan an evening on the first Friday of the month for Glow Nights, or Toddler Time at a discount Monday-Thursday from 10am – 2pm.
A Day at the Park
To save money and make some wonderful memories, plan a day at a local park! Bring a picnic lunch to Meadowbrook Park in Urbana for a day of adventure. The kids can use the playground, then everyone can take a break to eat before exploring the Wandell Sculpture Garden. With all the walking and playing, make sure to bring snacks and water.
Another wonderful day spent at the park can be found in Monticello’s Allerton Park and Retreat Center. Built as a private residence by artist and philanthropist Robert Allerton in 1900, Allerton Park offers a unique opportunity to experience art, nature, and history away from the distractions of everyday life. Explore 14 miles of hiking trails, wander through formal gardens with over 100 garden ornaments, marvel at the century-old Mansion, and best of all, enjoy the grounds for free. Of course, a donation is always welcome.
Learn and Interact
When it comes to an opportunity to play and learn as a family, the greater Champaign County area is full of opportunity. Downtown Champaign’s Orpheum Children’s Science Museum is full of fun activates, including seasonal exhibits, LEGO and board game themed weekend events, and a whole list of engaging, educational experiences at the low price of $5 a ticket.
Another fun filled way to learn about the area’s history is the Monticello Railway Museum. Some museums forbid touching or climbing on the exhibits, but at this Outside of Ordinary museum, you can actually ride a Diesel Train! Plus, winter months turn the train into the Polar Express, and other events make it easy to find another time to come back and explore.
Hopefully you enjoyed our series on finding great deals! If you have a great deal you’d like to share with us, feel free to email our Communications Manager at @taylorb@visitchampaigncounty.org.