The cost of family outings can easily rack up, which is why we’ve compiled a list of local hot spots that cater to kids and are cost-friendly
Keeping your kiddos entertained during the normal hustle and bustle that each week brings can become challenging. On top of that, there is the added cost of entertainment. A movie and dinner with your family can quickly turn into a $100+ dollar evening. A trip to your local theme park can easily add up to $200+.
Tyler is a great place for families to both live and visit. There are always new exciting things to do, new restaurants to try, and new shops to explore. And as you will see, there is plenty of fun to be had without breaking the bank.
We’ve covered 3 categories that will surely keep you and your children occupied during the duration of quarantine. The selections are either 1) outside or 2) following safety precautions that will ensure you and your family continue to remain safe during the pandemic. Just remember to wear a mask, sanitize regularly, and socially distance yourself.
Looking for places to eat?
Tyler is full of delicious foods and does not lack variety. Going out to eat can become expensive at times, so here’s your go-to list for family meals that won’t hurt your wallet.
Happy’s Fish House has kids’ breakfast options for as little as $7.69.
Poke in Da Eye BBQ has a sandwich, side, and a drink for $7.
Slim Chickens has kids’ meals starting at $4.99, which includes an entree, Texas toast, and a drink.
Seeking entertainment?
With virtual school or hybrid school as the new norm, it can be challenging to keep your kids engaged and entertained. Taking them out to the movies, museums, or to a local hotspot are good ways to keep this challenging time fun.
Studio Movie Grill has Kids Eat FREE all day on Sundays. This means your kids (12 and under) can enjoy any meal from the kids’ menu for free while sitting back and watching a movie.
iJump Tyler has weekly specials including Two-For-One-Tuesday, when kids can jump for 2 hours for the price of 1. On Fridays they have Wee Jump from 10am–noon when children ages 6 and under can jump for just $6.
Discovery Science Place has FREE admission for children 2 and under, $8 admission fees for children 2 and up, and $10 for adults. This children’s museum is a great place to ignite curiosity in children’s minds with hands-on exploration, sight-seeing, and learning.
Tyler Urban Air has Jumparoo Fridays from 10am–12pm for kids 5 and under for $8.
Times Square Grand Slam is fun for all with an arcade, movie theater, laser tag, bowling, and a restaurant. They have plenty of family-friendly weekly specials including $6 Monday pizzas, arcade happy hour Monday–Friday, and most importantly, kids eat FREE on Sundays.
Wanting to play outside?
When your kiddos have an adventurous spirit, it can be challenging to keep up with their energy. Outdoor activities like nature walks and wildlife viewing are ways you can balance their energy while getting some much needed R&R that you deserve. Here are some other great options:
Putt-Putt Tyler has weekly specials that are fun for the whole family, including All You Can Play Tuesdays for $13 a person from 4pm until 7pm.
Fun Forest Park is a great place for kids to run around and play for free. The park has picnic areas, baseball/softball fields, soccer fields, a water sprayground, and much more.
The Children’s Park of Tyler embraces nature in a serene and tranquil setting. This park is full of trails, walkways, and fun sculptures that your children will love to look at.
Caldwell Zoo has two programs for children: ZooSchool and Homework Club, which both provide kids with a fun, learning opportunity while attending virtual school. Bonus? This also gives you a break from your “teacher” job.
Tyler Rose Garden is a great space for kids to explore floral species of all kinds, walk on pretty trails, and get some fresh air.
We hope these local spots help bring you and your kiddos joy, while also helping you save money. If you come across any additional spots that aren’t mentioned, feel free to comment them below so other families can save too!
Need more ideas to keep your kids busy at home during quarantine? Check out our blog on Outdoor and Indoor PE Ideas for the Home. For more family-friendly tips, health tips, and more, visit our Hospitality Healthy ER blog. For notifications on new posts and what’s new at HHER, like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.