Attractions & Things To Do Discounted This September

Making memories doesn't have to mean draining your bank account. Whether you're planning a big family vacation, looking for a unique date night idea, or just trying to find something fun to do on a Saturday afternoon, the world of local activities and attractions has never been more accessible. Gone are the days of paying full price for theme park tickets or endlessly searching for something new to try in your city. Today, a vibrant online marketplace exists specifically to connect you with discounted experiences, from tours and spa days to museum passes and escape rooms.

But how do you navigate this world of digital vouchers, limited-time offers, and promo codes to ensure you're getting the best possible value? Understanding how these platforms work is the key to unlocking major savings. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know, from the different types of deals you'll find and the importance of reading the fine print to the inside track on cancellation policies and pro tips for stacking discounts. We'll cover the biggest names in attractions and the hidden local gems, all with the goal of making your next adventure more affordable.

Navigating the flood of offers can be a full-time job, and that's where we come in. At DealNews, our experts work around the clock to track down and verify the absolute best offers on local activities, travel, and entertainment. Whether it's the latest verified Expedia promo code or a deal on Six Flags passes, we sort through the noise to bring you top-tier savings, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying.

What Kinds of Attractions and Experience Deals Can I Find in 2025?

Long gone are the days when "things to do" deals were limited to a discount on a round of mini-golf. Today, the landscape of bookable experiences is massive, covering everything from world-famous theme parks to niche local workshops. The sheer variety might surprise you, with deals available for nearly every interest, budget, and travel style. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, a foodie, or a parent looking for kid-friendly fun, there's a deal out there waiting for you.

Here’s a look at the major categories where you can expect to find significant savings:

• Theme Parks: This is a huge category, featuring deals on single-day tickets, multi-day passes, and seasonal events for giants like Universal Studios, Six Flags, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, and Busch Gardens.
• Major Attractions and Landmarks: Find discounted admission to iconic sites, from city observation decks and national monuments to world-class zoos and aquariums like the Georgia Aquarium or the San Diego Zoo.
• Travel and Getaways: Many deal sites have expanded far beyond local activities. You can often find entire vacation packages, with discounts on hotels, flights, and all-inclusive resorts, making it a one-stop shop for trip planning.
• Local Experiences and Tours: This broad category includes everything that makes a city unique. Look for deals on guided city tours, food and wine tastings, sightseeing bus routes, harbor cruises, and even ghost tours.
• Outdoor and Adventure Activities: For those who like to get their heart pumping, you'll find discounts on activities like ziplining, kayaking, ski lift passes, guided hikes, and whale watching excursions.
• Kids and Family Fun: A go-to for parents, this category features deals on indoor trampoline parks, laser tag, bowling, children's museums, and family entertainment centers.
• Live Events and Entertainment: This includes more than just concerts. Find deals on movie tickets from chains like AMC and Regal, as well as discounts on sporting events, comedy shows, and theater productions.
• Spa and Wellness Packages: Perfect for a relaxing day, this category offers savings on massages, facials, salon services, and access to thermal spas or yoga classes.
• Classes and Workshops: If you're looking to learn a new skill, you can often find deals on cooking classes, pottery workshops, dance lessons, and other hands-on educational experiences.

The beauty of this marketplace is its blend of global brands and local flavor. You can just as easily find a deal for a major attraction in Orlando as you can for a small, family-owned brewery tour in your own neighborhood. It's a fantastic way to both save on must-do vacation activities and discover hidden gems right at home.

Don't forget to check for an Uber promo code before you travel; it's a simple way to save on your ride from the airport to your hotel or while you're out exploring the city's top attractions.

What Do Discounts Look Like?

The savings you'll find come in several different forms, so it pays to know what to look for. The most common type of offer is a straightforward percentage-off discount, where the price is directly reduced by a certain amount, such as "Up to 40% off Universal Halloween Horror Nights Tickets." These are often available for a limited time and are the bread and butter of deal sites. You'll also frequently see promo codes or coupon codes, which you apply at checkout for an additional discount. For example, a single Groupon promo code can often be applied to a wide range of offers, slashing prices on everything from a local spa day to a full vacation package that includes hotels and flights.

Beyond direct price cuts, keep an eye out for other types of value-driven offers. "Buy One, Get One Free" or "2-for-1" deals are popular for movie tickets, tours, and other experiences for two. Similarly, "Kids Go Free" promotions are a staple for family-friendly attractions like LEGOLAND, where a child gets free admission with the purchase of an adult ticket. Don't forget to leverage rewards and loyalty programs you may already be a part of. Programs like Bank of America's Museums on Us offer free admission to hundreds of museums on select weekends, while memberships like AMC Stubs or AAA provide standing discounts on tickets and concessions. By combining these different types of offers, a savvy deal-seeker can stack savings and make any outing significantly more affordable.

To complete your travel plans, don't forget to look for savings on your flight; we frequently see American Airlines coupon codes that can help reduce the cost of getting to your destination.

Where to Save the Most on Travel Attractions This Year

September is a prime time for both last-minute summer vacations and planning for the fall season ahead. With the end of summer in sight and Labor Day deals beginning to pop up, it’s a fantastic month to find significant savings on attractions and experiences. Knowing where to look is half the battle. From major travel booking sites to specialized deal aggregators, the discounts are out there if you know how to find them. We've been tracking the best of the best, and a few key players consistently rise to the top for delivering serious value.

Get Local With Groupon

Groupon remains a powerhouse for finding a huge variety of local deals, major attraction tickets, and even full travel getaways. It's a go-to source because of the sheer breadth of its offerings and its frequent use of stackable coupon codes. We've seen them run big seasonal promotions like their Epic Summer Discounts and Labor Day Sales, which often feature a site-wide promo code like "CELEBR8" or "GROUPON" that can take an extra 15% to 30% off already-discounted local activities. This is your spot for finding deals on everything from wine tastings and axe throwing to museum passes and family fun centers. They are also a key destination for tickets to major seasonal events, with deals like up to 40% off Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights.

Score Big at the Big-Name Theme Parks

If a trip to a theme park is on your agenda, booking directly or through a partner deal can lead to huge savings, especially for families. LEGOLAND, for example, frequently runs "Kids Go Free" promotions, where you can get a free child's ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket, a deal we see often during their Brick-or-Treat sales events. For thrill-seekers, Six Flags has been offering incredible value with its MVP Pass. We recently saw a deal for the pass at just $5.99 per month, which included access to over 40 parks, free parking, and even a free ticket for a friend, making it one of the lowest prices of the year.

Booking With Travel Giants like Expedia and Priceline

Major travel aggregators like Expedia and Priceline give discount codes, which are excellent resources for bundling your entire trip. Book flights, hotels, and activities all in one place. While they might not always have the same deep, standalone discounts on local experiences that you'd find on a site like Groupon, their value often comes from package deals and the convenience of a single itinerary. It's always worth checking their "Things to Do" tabs for your destination. We keep a close eye on these sites for valuable offers, and when a great Expedia promo code for activities or packages becomes available, you can be sure we'll feature it.

Save on a Trip to the Movies

Sometimes a simple trip to the movies is the perfect outing, and you should never pay full price. Loyalty programs are your best friend here. For example, AMC Stubs members can get 50% off tickets on Tuesdays and Wednesdays just by signing up for their free Insider club. Regal Cinemas also rewards its members through the Regal Crown Club, offering special promotions like their recent Conjuring Universe Marathon, where tickets started at a spooky $6.66 in anticipation of the new film.

Enjoy Culture and Nature for Less

You don't always have to pay to enjoy the country's best cultural and natural wonders. For outdoor lovers, the America The Beautiful National Park Annual Pass is a must-have, and many people can get it for free. The pass is complimentary for current military members, veterans, Gold Star families, 4th graders, and citizens with a permanent disability. For museum-goers, the Bank of America Museums on Us program is a fantastic perk, offering free admission to over 225 museums nationwide on the first full weekend of every month for cardholders. Planning your visits around these dates can save a family a significant amount of money.

Bundle Attractions With City-Specific Passes

If you're planning to visit multiple attractions in a single city, a bundled pass can offer some of the best value available. Instead of buying individual tickets, these passes grant you admission to a variety of local hotspots for one discounted price. A great example is the Pogo Pass, which is available for cities like Phoenix, Austin, and Las Vegas. We've seen deals for these passes at a massive 55% off when using a promo code like "dealnews," making it an incredible bargain if you plan to hit even a few of the included venues. Always do the math, but for an action-packed weekend, these passes are often a clear winner.

Think Beyond the Ticket with Experience Gifts

The world of "things to do" also includes unique, hands-on experiences that are perfect for gifting or for treating yourself. Platforms like Giftory specialize in curating these types of activities, from high-speed driving experiences and scenic flights to dinner cruises and exclusive meals. During their Labor Day Sale, we saw an extra 20% off with a coupon code, which stacked on top of existing discounts of up to 30% off. Similarly, Groupon is an excellent source for deals on brewery, winery, and distillery tours, often with extra promo codes that knock another 20% or so off the price. These are great for finding something a little different from the typical tourist attraction.

Look for International Discounts

Deal hunting isn't just for domestic travel. If your plans are taking you abroad, it's worth checking for discounts on international attractions as well. Major parks and landmarks around the world often have special offers available, particularly for specific groups. For instance, we've highlighted a fantastic deal from Disneyland Paris that offers a 25% discount on park tickets for guests with disabilities and one companion. This is a significant saving that many travelers might not be aware of, proving it always pays to do a little research before you travel, no matter where you're headed.

Key Things to Know About Attractions Discounts

Finding a great deal is exciting, but knowing the ins and outs of how these discounts work is what separates a good buy from a great one. Once you've found an offer that catches your eye, a few questions usually pop up about the restrictions, timing, and what to do if things don't go as planned. Here are the answers to the most common questions our readers have about using attraction and experience discounts.

When is the Best Time to Find Deals?

Timing is everything. You can often find the best and most plentiful deals during major holiday weekends, especially three-day weekends like Labor Day, Memorial Day, and President's Day, when sites run big sales events. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are also massive for travel and activity deals. For travel-related attractions, the shoulder seasons (the time between peak and off-peak seasons, like September-October and April-May) can also be a goldmine for discounts as companies look to attract more visitors. And don't forget the power of the mid-week slump; attractions like movie theaters often offer their best discounts on Tuesdays to draw in crowds on slower days.

What Are the Restrictions on Discounts?

This is the most critical area to pay attention to. Always, always read the fine print before you purchase. The most common restriction is blackout dates, meaning the voucher or ticket may not be valid on certain days, especially Saturdays, holidays, or during special events. Vouchers also have firm expiration dates, so make sure you can use it before it expires. Other restrictions can include the deal being valid for new customers only, requiring a reservation in advance, or being excluded from use with any other offers. For site-wide promo codes, be aware that they often have exclusions and may not apply to certain categories like major event tickets or travel packages.

Are Rewards Programs Worth It?

Absolutely. In fact, they should be one of the first places you look for savings. Many of the best rewards programs are completely free to join, so there's no reason not to sign up. Programs like AMC Stubs Insider and Regal Crown Club offer exclusive discounts on movie tickets and concessions just for being a member. The Bank of America Museums on Us program is another fantastic example, providing free admission to hundreds of museums for cardholders on certain weekends. Since there's no cost to you, these programs offer pure value and can save you money on activities you were already planning to do.

What's the Deal with Refunds?

Refund policies can be tricky and vary widely between platforms and offers, so it's essential to check the policy before you buy. For general activity vouchers (like for a spa or local tour), many platforms like Groupon offer a short refund window, often around three days, as long as the voucher hasn't been redeemed. After that, or once it's used, the sale is typically final. For date-specific tickets to things like concerts, sporting events, or special theme park nights, the rule is almost always that all sales are final and non-refundable.

Can I Use Multiple Promo Codes on One Order?

Generally, no. Most online checkout systems are designed to accept only one promo code per transaction. The practice of using more than one code is often called "stacking," and it's a feature that very few retailers or platforms allow. You'll usually have to decide which single coupon code gives you the biggest discount. The only common exception is that you can sometimes use a gift card and a promo code in the same transaction, as the gift card is treated as a form of payment.

How Long Do Discounts and Vouchers Last?

It's important to distinguish between the deal itself and the voucher you buy. The deal—the opportunity to purchase the discounted offer—is often for a limited time, which could be a few days for a flash sale or a few weeks for a seasonal promotion. The voucher you receive after purchasing also has its own lifespan. Some vouchers are valid for several months, giving you plenty of flexibility. Others, especially for specific events or performances, are only valid on a single, predetermined date. Always check both the "purchase by" date and the "redeem by" date.

What if My Promo Code Doesn't Work?

This is a common frustration, but there's usually a simple explanation. First, double-check for typos; it's always best to copy and paste the code directly. If it still doesn't work, the issue is likely one of the following: the code has expired, it doesn't apply to the specific items in your cart due to exclusions, you've already used that code on your account, or it's a code that's only valid for new customers. Read the terms and conditions of the promo code to see if any of these restrictions apply.

What if There's a Problem With My Order or Voucher?

If you run into an issue, such as a business refusing to honor your voucher or finding out a location has closed, your first point of contact should be the customer support of the platform where you bought the deal (like Groupon, Expedia, etc.), not the business itself. Have your order number and voucher details ready. These platforms usually have a buyer protection policy or guarantee that covers these situations and will work to find a solution, which could include a credit or a full refund.

Is a Voucher the Same as a Ticket?

Not always, and this is an important distinction. A ticket is typically for a specific event on a specific date and time, like a concert or a Halloween Horror Nights entry. Once you buy it, your spot is confirmed. A voucher, on the other hand, is more like a prepaid credit for a service that you must redeem later. For example, if you buy a voucher for a massage, you still need to call the spa to book your appointment. The voucher proves you've paid. Always read the terms to see if you're buying a direct ticket or a voucher that requires an extra step.

Do I Need to Make a Reservation After Buying?

For most services and experiences—like spa treatments, restaurant deals, tours, or classes—the answer is almost always yes. Buying the voucher is just the first step. You still need to contact the merchant directly to schedule your visit, and you should mention you have a voucher when you book. For popular activities, it's wise to book well in advance, as voucher-holding customers are often subject to the same availability as everyone else.

Can I Buy a Deal as a Gift?

Yes, this is a very popular feature on most deal platforms. You'll typically see a "Buy as a Gift" option near the purchase button. When you choose this, the voucher is sent to the recipient's email address (or to you, to forward later) without the price displayed. It's a great way to give an experience instead of a physical item. Just be sure the recipient will be able to use the voucher before it expires and in the correct location.

Does the Deal Price Include Gratuity or Taxes?

This is a big one, especially for service-based deals like massages, meals, or guided tours. As a general rule, gratuity is almost never included in the voucher price. It's customary and courteous to tip your service provider based on the full, pre-discount value of the service, not the price you paid for the deal. As for taxes, the policy can vary. Some deals include taxes, while others require you to pay them to the merchant upon redemption. The fine print will always specify this, so check it carefully to avoid any surprises.

What Else Should You Consider This Year?

As you hunt for the best deals on attractions and experiences, remember that flexibility can be your greatest asset. If your dates are flexible, you can often unlock lower prices by visiting attractions mid-week or during the off-season. Traveling during the shoulder season not only saves you money on tickets and tours but often means fewer crowds, giving you a better overall experience. Also, always think about the complete cost of an outing. A deeply discounted ticket is great, but factor in ancillary costs like parking, food, and souvenirs, which can add up quickly.

Finally, don't underestimate the power of simply asking. If you're a student, senior, or military member, many attractions offer standing discounts that might not be advertised on deal websites. It never hurts to check an attraction's official website or call their box office directly to see what unpublished discounts are available. Sometimes the best deals are the ones you find with just a little extra research.

How We Find and Publish Deals

Our process for finding and sharing deals is a blend of cutting-edge technology and human expertise. We use sophisticated software to scan thousands of online retailers and marketplaces 24/7, flagging potential offers as they go live. But that's just the first step. Our team of deal experts then takes over, meticulously vetting each potential offer. We verify the price, check the terms and conditions, and compare it to historical data to ensure it's a genuinely good deal and not just a marketing gimmick. Only the deals that meet our high standards for value and reliability get published on our site for you to see.

Why Trust DealNews?

For over 25 years, DealNews has been dedicated to one simple mission: helping you save money. When it comes to finding the best value on travel and experiences, that mission is as strong as ever. Every day, we publish hundreds of deals covering a massive range of categories, from the latest tech and clothing to dream vacations and local activities. That extensive experience is channeled into making sure that every single offer we list is the best price you're likely to find anywhere. Our primary commitment is to you, our reader, and our recommendations are always based on the quality of the deal itself.

Want to make sure you never miss out on a great offer? The easiest way to tap into our expertise is by signing up for the DealNews Select newsletter. We'll send a curated list of the day's absolute best deals directly to your inbox every weekday. And if you have a specific attraction or destination in mind, you can set up a deal alert. We'll send you an instant notification the moment a new deal that matches your search goes live, so you can be the first to know and save.