KANSAS CITY, Mo. - It is the time of year most people start planning their summer vacation.
But this year, the recession seems to be causing a sunburn of sorts with the family budget.
Instead of the beach, many families are looking for ways to have fun and save money at the same time.
That is where the Kansas City Convention and Visitors Association comes into play.
This year, they have launched the
'Sunsational KC Pass'. The promotion offers nearly 200 discounts and special offers to KC attractions, hotels and restaurants.
Hotel DiscountsYou can stay at the Settle Inn in Overland Park, Kan. for $49.99 a night. Or if you want to head into Downtown Kansas City, you can get a room at Comfort Inn & Suites for $64.99.
With gas prices edging back up, then you might want to head to the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Overland Park, Kan. or SpringHill Suites by Marriott. They are offering a free gas promotion which gives guests arriving on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday a free $20 gas card for each night you stay. You must stay for at least two nights. The package starts at $89 per night.
2-for-1 DealsIf you are looking for some family fun while making it an educational experience for your children, or you simply want to enrich yourself in Kansas City culture and history, then you will want to take advantage of the 2 for 1 deals.
The 'Sunsational KC Pass' gives you a chance to check out the Airline History Museum, The Kansas City Zoo, Science City at Union Station, along with the CoCo Key Water Resort and Paradise Park Family Fun & Adventure at half the cost.
Dine & Play DiscountsHeading out for dinner certainly will not cost you a lot either. The Majestic Steakhouse is offering 20 percent off all meals certain days of the week. Maker’s Mark Burbon House & Lounge, The Marquee Bar & Grill and Vinino Wine Bar & Bistro are also offering deals, slashing 15 percent off your bill.
Other restaurants like the Melting Pot, are offering free appetizers.
The Atlanta Bread Company is offering a buy one pizza or pasta with two drinks and you will get a second one free.
Shopping Spectacular Savings If you are in the mood to shop, you can get plenty of deals as well. Velvet Popcorn in Zona Rosa is offering a canister of 3-way popcorn for up to $5 off. At Michael’s Fine Clothing for Men, you can buy one item at its regular price, and receive the second one for half off.
Crown Center is offering families the chance to save money with a free book of savings to more than 50 shops and restaurants in the center.
And who does not enjoy getting something for free? Bag & Baggage in Prairie Village is giving away a free leather business card case. However, to get it, you must download a coupon and have a valid e-mail and mailing address.
Family Fun Special OffersIf you are looking to play ball, you can get Royals tickets in the View Level Outfield for $9 a piece at the newly renovated ‘K’. You can also get a 2 for 1 deal on view level infield seats.
The T-Bones offer tickets for as little as $6 and always have free parking and $1 hot dogs.
If you want to enjoy a soccer match, the Wizards offer tickets as low as $15, and even have all-you-can-eat seats for $35.
FREE Things to Do For those wanting to enjoy some free entertainment, there is plenty to choose from.
For kids, Kaleidoscope in Crown Center offers a free creative workshop for kids aged 5 to 12 from materials used to make Hallmark greeting cards.
The Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead in Overland Park is a great place to see and feed an array of barnyard animals native to the area. It is free to enter but activities will cost you a small fee.
For adults, there is First Fridays in the Crossroads Arts District makes a great date night. You can browse the art galleries and enjoy the street performers for free.
If you enjoy beer, then you might want to consider a tour at Boulevard Brewing Company. You will get a chance to see how beer is made plus receive free beer samples. Reservations are required.
But just like all deals, there are certain restrictions that apply. Be sure you read the details on the the
Kansas City Convention and Visitors Association Web site.
Before you can take advantage of them, you need to download the Sunsational KC Pass or print the applicable coupons.
There you can also find 33 free things to do around the metro.
