May 21, 2012
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Spring break is finally here - but since you decided to stay home, what are you going to do?
We found fun ways to spend the day with your kids and save you some money at the same time.
While Margaret Slattery's children nap, she's online, looking for deals.
"If you look hard enough, you can probably get anything you want at half price."
Her family decided on a "stay-cation" this year, so instead of playing at home, she's found ways to have fun and save money. This week, they'll go to the Chattanooga Aquarium, Chuck E. Cheese and Ruby Falls.
"They each get their own little helmet, with a light, and they get to keep that, and they go in a special part of the cave that's not normally open to kids," says Slattery.
She's using coupons for most of the activities.
"There are so many different coupon bloggers, even locally, that are wanting to share the information."
If you're looking for free, then simply look in your backyard. Knox County Parks and Recreation has miles and miles of trails you and your family can enjoy.
"Anything you want, if you want a short, small walk around a park that's enclosed in a park, or if you want hiking out in the mountains, we've got trails for every interest," says Ellen Blasius with Knox County Parks and Recreation.
It's also holding Golf Clinics this week at Beverly Park and Concord Park Par-3 courses for children 8 to 14 years old.
"For kids that have already played, a little bit they'll get more advanced teaching, but kids who have never played before will learn how to hold a club, learn how to putt, the chipping and driving," says Blasius.
No matter where your plans take you in East Tennessee, Margaret says to make the first stop, your computer.
"There's almost everywhere you can save something on what you're doing, so, check online before you go and try to spread your money as far as it can go."
To get you started, below we have links to several different websites with activities in and around the Knoxville area. We also have the link to Knox County Parks and Recreation so you can find a park or trail near you.
If you have other good sites, share them with us!
