When it comes to saving money, family memberships can be a wise investment. Here are five that offer tremendous bang for your buck.
YMCA of Greater Indianapolis
“Me time” can be the saving grace for new parents, and a YMCA membership is a great way to score those precious solo hours. A YMCA household membership not only gives you access to a range of classes – from cardio hip hop to group cycling – it also provides you with two free hours of childcare per day in the YMCA Play & Learn Centers. With the average babysitting rate at just over $10/hour, that is quite a perk. Your tot will be well cared for and entertained. You’ll get a break. It’s a win-win!
Cost: Household rates (2 adults sharing the same household + dependents) start at $70/month and offer unlimited access to 12 facilities throughout greater Indianapolis. Sliding scale fees and military discounts are also available to those who qualify.
Related Article: Indiana Access Pass: Reduced Admission at Attractions Across Indiana in 2023
The Indianapolis Zoo
From exploring the animal habitats to burning off energy at the playground (and splash pad in the summer months) to strolling the gorgeous gardens – outings to the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens never get old. An annual membership offers you the flexibility to visit the zoo on your own terms –whether you plan to stay the entire day or simply want to get out for a few hours. In addition to general admission, membership includes free parking, access to members-only events, as well as discounts in the gift shop, on guest admission, classes, and summer camps.
Cost: A Family Basic membership (2 adults sharing the same household + dependents 21 and under) is $150 for the year. There are also options to add guests or grandparents for an additional fee. For more information, visit: www.indianapoliszoo.com/plan-your-visit/membership
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
From Dinosphere to Playscape to extraordinary exhibits like the current Circus – Starring You! there is never a dull moment at The Children’s Museum. Membership allows you to pay once and visit all year long. Additional benefits include free carousel rides, exclusive members-only events, advance tickets for Lilly Theater shows and discounts on programs and special events.
Cost: Basic Membership (two adults sharing the same household + dependents under 21 or all unmarried grandchildren under 21 for the Grandparent Pass) is $169 for the year. There are also options to add guests or grandparents for an additional fee. For more information, visit: www.childrensmuseum.org/join.
Conner Prairie
Discover the many exhibits at Conner Prairie, from their giant 4-story treehouse to the interactive 19th-century village, plus indoor areas like Create.Connect, Craft Corner and Discovery Station. Membership allows you to pay once and visit all year long. Additional benefits include discounts on camps and Balloon Voyage rides, plus Free admission to special events, including Curiosity Fair, Festival of Machines and Headless Horseman on select nights in October.
Cost: Basic Membership (two adults sharing the same household + all children age 21 and under.) is $110 for the year. There are also options to add guests or grandparents for an additional fee. For more information, visit: connerprairie.org/membership/family-membership.
Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art)
A membership to Newfields will grant you access to the whole 152-acre cultural campus. A Newfields membership is a great options for families wishing to experience art and nature all year long. Membership include free general admission to the galleries and gardens all year plus exclusive members-only viewing times for special exhibitions. Additional benefits include early registration for programs (some of which fill up fast), like Summer Nights.
Cost: A solo membership can be purchased for $55/year, and a family pass is available for $100/year. There are also options to add guests or grandparents for an additional fee. For more information, visit: discovernewfields.org/give-and-join/become-member
