Discount theme park tickets are now available near you.

Theme parks are an integral part of the summer experience for kids of all ages. Unfortunately, a day at the amusement park can put a huge dent in your wallet. Admission, parking, and food can easily run over $150 per person. The Maryland Recreation and Parks Association (MRPA) is helping to make admission more affordable this summer with its annual discount amusement park ticket program. The MRPA is partnering with county parks and recreation programs around the state to provide discounted tickets to parks in Virginia and Maryland.

Discounts of up to 50 percent are available to the following theme parks in the DMV area:

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Dorney Park 

Dutch Wonderland

Hershey Park

Kings Dominion

Maui Jack's Waterpark

Sahara Sams

Six Flags America

Six Flags Great Adventure

Water Country USA

New Firebird Coaster at Six Flags America, image courtesy of Six Flags

The best values in the ticket program include Six Flags America at $46 (normally $78.24) and Six Flags Great Adventure, $46 (normally $82.99). For the first time in the history of the program, tickets for Dorney Park, Dutch Wonderland, Kings Dominion, and Six Flags Great Adventure will be available for purchase online. Certain parks have deeper discounts for early and late season dates; you can view the entire price list here.

Tickets for all participating parks are available for purchase in person and by mail. To find the nearest ticket sales location in your county, visit the MRPA website. Discounted parking passes are available for some parks, and children under 3 will be admitted free at all parks. Tickets are valid through the end of the season; there will be no refunds or exchanges for unused tickets. Theme park tickets available vary at each location, so be sure to call ahead before you visit. 

What is your favorite area theme park to visit in the summer? Tell us in the comments!