Finding fun things to do with the kids can empty your wallet faster than trying to fill up your gas tank these days. But I have discovered five great family outings in the Multiplex that will not break the bank.
Late Nights at the Dallas Museum of Art
On the third Friday of each month the DMA is open for fun until midnight. Each Late Night offers a completely different experience. I have learned a few West African dance moves from students at the Booker T. Washington Performing Arts School and took a Face to Face exhibit. You can enjoy a glass of wine before the kids venture to create the next refrigerator masterpiece during the Late Night Studio Creations. General admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students with a current school ID. Admission is free for children under the age of 12. The next Late Night is scheduled for Friday, February 17, 2012 from 6 pm to midnight.
Take the M-Line Trolley Uptown
You family will enjoy riding a little piece of history through Uptown Dallas. The trolleys are all heated and air-conditioned and run 365 days a year. The best thing about the M-Line is that it won’t cost you one thin red dime. All rides are completely free, although voluntary fare donations are welcomed. And you will find that Uptown Dallas is filled with wonderful and trendy restaurants. I would suggest getting off at The Fish to try the Korean Tacos ($7.00). And if you have already had dinner; try the best cupcakes in town ($3.00) at The Cupcakery. The trolley runs Monday – Thursday 7 am to 10 pm, Friday 7 am to midnight, Saturday 10 am to midnight, and Sunday 10 am to 10 pm.
Cinemark #14 Movie Theatre in McKinney
Going to the movies to see the latest movie can put you in the poor house. Most movie theatres are charging a whopping $9.00 or more. Well, drive a little farther and see Safe House for less than four bucks. The Early Bird (first show of the day) is only $3.25 and adult matinees are $3.50. If you like to sleep in on Saturday you can purchase an adult ticket for $5.25 and a child ticket for $3.25. A family of four can see a new release for as little as $13.00. Cinemark #14 is located at 1701 South Central Expressway,McKinney,Texas75069. For show-times you can call (972) 562-0408. Also, check out Ruth Ferguson’s Review of Safe House in this week’s issue of the North Dallas Gazette.
Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park Dallas
What kid doesn’t love Sponge Bob? Well, explore the other animals of the ocean at the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park Dallas. The aquarium was recently renovated and the changes are just amazing. They have stingrays, jellyfish, white alligators, and sharks. And every day at 2:30 pm they have feeding demonstrations. You have not lived until you have feed a stingray or shark out of your bare hand. And unlike other family outing spots the Children’s Aquarium will allow you to bring a picnic. General admission is $8 for ages 12 and up and $6 for children. If your child thinks he is Sponge Bob then I would suggest purchasing the annual pass $20 for adults and $15 for kids.
