It’s no secret that membership and subscription services are leading the economic tides right now. But when you have a growing family, how do you know which family memberships on the Seacoast are truly worth it? Even more importantly, which give you the most bang for your buck? Between budget factors and an effort to mindfully support the local economy, it can be hard to decide. Lucky for you, I’ve got the roundup of the top seacoast memberships for families…read on!
Seacoast Family Memberships to Local Museums
Here in the Seacoast, we are fortunate to have some of the most incredible museums in New England, right in our back yard. If you are a family that enjoys soaking up the science behind seascapes or exploring hands-on exhibits, a membership to one of these nonprofits is certainly worth it. Our own Seacoast Science Center in Odiorne State Park (Rye) has family annual memberships starting at just $90 and they include free tickets, access to special events, and reciprocity at participating nature centers. Their heavy rotation of family-friendly activities is worth a look alone. But when a membership includes free parking and 1/2 price summer concert tickets, your membership dollar will stretch farther than most.
Similarly, the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is a treasure for families. If you have school-aged kids, particularly ages 6 and under, this museum’s membership is worth every penny. Starting at $90/year, kids can enjoy every nook and cranny of this playful learning space, while the whole crew can enjoy pre-sale access and steep discounts to special events, such as this month’s adorable T-Rex Tea Party.
If one of these best memberships on the Seacoast still doesn’t fit your budget, consider getting discounted one day museum passes from your local library.
Doorstep Composting
As we are more conscientious of our carbon footprint, we work on basic composting to reduce our daily garbage load. If you don’t have the yard space or access to a community composting deposit, local companies like Mr. Fox are a responsible investment. Not only do they do the smelly work for you, but you get a stunning soil delivery for your garden, potted plants, or lawn. Service plans start at $16/month.
The Indoor Play Place
Come February, my kids are at the height of cabin fever and a pass to any of the Seacoast’s indoor play places couldn’t feel more valuable. With four kids in tow, one trip to a playplace is quite an expense for us. A family membership (if utilized) saves our wallets. There are a myriad of options available $299 a year (breaks down to $6 a week) at Portsmouth’s Rumble Tumble in one of the best memberships on the Seacoast.
Gym & Athletics
For households that have even two fitness fans, a family gym membership can be a significant penny-saver. Particularly if the gym has an in-house nursery, like local gyms: Seacoast Sports Clubs, The Works, or the YMCA. The membership is rewarding with other amenities like swimming lessons, group fitness classes, or personal training staff. Both Portsmouth and Exeter’s YMCA facilities deliver the most quantity for cost a year, with as little as $60 per month leaving your bank account. Cost aside, exercising a gym membership as a family is an investment that establishes both healthy habits and emotional confidence early on.
Farm & Fish Shares
Every month, we are spending funds on food, so why not do it smartly while supporting the local economy? The Seacoast has a plethora of farm-to-table programs. However, only a handful of them can really stretch your family’s dollar. How do you know if a CSA or CSF is worth the monthly membership? Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you like to eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, or fish?
- Are you interested in trying new things?
- Do you cook at home at least 4 times a week?
If “yes”, then explore share programs that fits your interest and budget. The Seacoast boasts both amazing agriculture and fish programs. So, it really just boils down to your taste preferences. New Hampshire Community Seafood has fabulous programs for the high fish-consuming families. Seacoast Eat Local connects residents with farms that fit their produce pallet and budget.
Theater & Music
For families who love the performing arts, an annual membership or family pass is certainly worth the price. Families with school-aged children and teens, might find that an annual membership with the Music Hall provides a handy discount to shows throughout the year. Those with slightly younger kiddos might discover that Ogunquit Playhouse has plenty to offer youngsters who love musicals and theater camp programs. But if you’re a summer music festival kind of family, the Prescott Park season pass is the best family investment for diverse, outdoor performances.
