How Much Does a McDonald’s Birthday Party Cost?

A McDonald’s birthday party is a good way to entertain your child’s friends and families without having to worry about cleaning up or prepping food.

From Happy Meals to a PlayPlace, children are guaranteed to have a fun time.

Amir’s Birthday by phalinn, on Flickr
Amir’s Birthday” (CC BY 2.0) by  phalinn

How much does it cost to have a birthday party at McDonald’s?

The cost of a McDonald’s birthday party will greatly depend on the location, the number of kids attending and which package you choose as every location will have its own packages.  With most McDonald’s locations asking for a minimum of 10 to 15 children to commit to the party, the costs can range from $5 to $10 per child, depending on the package chosen.  The average 10-person birthday party can cost $55 to $100, plus tax.

According to Amy Allen Clark, the founder of MomAdvice.com, she paid $59.99 for 10 children to attend her son’s birthday party.  The costs, according to her blog post, included ten Happy Meals, party favors, games, cake and ice cream.

On this forum thread at BabyCenter.com, a mom said she paid $75 for 10 children and it was the smallest party she could do.

A McDonald’s located in San Antonio, Texas, posted its prices online, stating the average price will depend on the party package you choose.  According to their FAQ page, the parties they offer range from $55 to $85, plus tax, and this would include the party supplies and 10 Happy Meals of your choice.

McDonald’s birthday party overview

Depending on the McDonald’s, the average birthday package will include a personal party host, a reservation for up to two hours, a Happy Meal for each guest, invitations before the party starts, a birthday card, hats and a prize bag.

The average party will start off with games for about 30 minutes, followed by serving the food and the cake.  Finally, the presents will be opened by the birthday guest.

The standard party will last 90 minutes.

What are the extra costs?

Some of the party packages are only designed for 10 guests, so if you have more guests coming, you will have to pay for each additional child.  The same can be said about adult meals.

You are able to bring in the cake and/or ice cream for the children, but some locations can provide a cake for an additional fee, usually around $30.  You can also bring any special decorations that you would like to use, with the exception of party hats and goodie bags.  None of these things will be included in the party package and should be budgeted for.

Tips to Know

Not all McDonald’s locations have a PlayPlace or will offer a birthday party.  To find a party place near you, use their official search tool.

Upon confirming a birthday party, most locations will ask for a non-refundable deposit, ranging from $25 to $35.  This deposit will be required in order to confirm your reservation.

Almost all locations won’t shut down the PlayPlace from the public, even though they will rope off the room, making it appear the area is closed.  It doesn’t mean the public can enter, however.

Most locations recommend reserving at least two to three weeks ahead of time.

Outside entertainment is often prohibited.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace Golf Cart Batteries?

Electric golf carts are a popular choice among many golf cart owners because of the durability and the fact they do not have to constantly be refilled with gasoline.  However, like a car or any other form of transportation, a battery is going to die sooner or later.

golf carts at Sirocco Golf Club by kootenayvolcano, on Flickr
golf carts at Sirocco Golf Club” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  kootenayvolcano

How much does it cost to replace a golf cart battery?

In most cases, the cost of  a golf cart battery is going to depend on the voltage, the brand and store you purchased it from.  To budget, be prepared to spend anywhere from $65 to as much as $250 to replace your golf cart battery.  A golf cart battery that is known to last more than 400 minutes on a single charge will often cost more than $125.  Batteries that are less than $100 tend to be a 6-volt brand that you may have never heard of before and will need to be charged more often.

For instance, this UPG 85980/D5722 sealed lead acid battery by UPG retails for $65 to $99.

Sam’s Club, for example, has a variety of golf cart batteries that cost anywhere from $85 to as much as $110.

According to GolfLink.com, one of the best golf cart batteries, known as the T-105, can retail for $100 to as much as $125.  On the other hand, another popular model — the US-2200 — retails for $140 to as much as $200.




Replacing a golf cart battery overview

Popular brands of golf cart batteries include Bag Boy, Club Car, E-Car, Fairplay, Lido, Minn Kota, PowaKaddy, Sun Mountain, Western Golf Car and Yamaha.

Most reputable brands will include a limited warranty with the purchase of a battery.  If the battery will not hold a charge or malfunctions within a certain time period, you will be able to get your money back or have the battery replaced.

The golf cart battery will come with a cord that is used to charge the battery between uses.  It should also come with simple instructions for use and installation.

Golf cart batteries can come in different amp capacities.  The higher the capacity, the longer the charge will hold and the more use you can get out of the golf cart.  However, the higher the amp capacity, the more expensive the battery will be.

What are the extra costs?

Shipping fees may apply if you purchase the golf cart battery online.

If you need a professional to install or swap out the battery, you may have to spend $10 to $25.

While optional, a golf cart charger can cost an additional $100 to $250.

Tips to know:

Research the batteries before making a purchase.  You are going to want to know how long the battery lasts after a charge and how long you should charge the battery before it is full.

The heavier your golf cart is, the more powerful the battery will need to be.  Make sure that you research your weight before deciding on a battery.

Consider purchasing two batteries; that way, if one were to fail, you would have a backup handy.

Always know the dimensions of your battery before making a purchase.  Not all batteries are created equally.

Batteries tend to last longer if they have a lower output.

The faster you drive a golf cart, the more stress you will put on the battery.

If your battery died within a few years, check to see if it is covered under a warranty.

Do not overcharge the battery.  Try to find a charger that will shut off automatically when the battery is done charging.  If not, set a timer so you can remember to unplug the battery after a certain amount of time.

Try to charge your golf cart between each use; do not wait until the battery dies to charge it.

Make sure you turn off lights, radio, or other accessories and remove the key when you are finished using the golf cart.

How can I save money?

As with anything, the prices are going to vary.  Make sure that you price compare before making a commitment.  If you are going to buy online, keep your eyes peeled for any special promotions or coupons that may be available.

If you intend on purchasing more than one battery, you may be able to get a bulk discount.

Installing a golf cart battery is extremely easy to do.  Try to avoid paying a professional to install a battery if they have a charge.  Usually, if you buy a golf cart battery through a particular provider, you should be able to get it installed for free.

The best way to save money on a golf cart battery is to take care of it so it will last as long as possible.

How Much Does it Cost to Restore a Barn?

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Restoring a barn on your property may be done for a few reasons.

It could be due to wear and tear or may be required for safety reasons.

Whatever the reason may be, the costs to restore a barn will depend on the size, the work that’s involved, the contractor hired, geographical location, the material being used and more.

Barn by Kaarina Dillabough, on Flickr
Barn” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Kaarina Dillabough

How much does it cost to restore a barn?

Most barns that need to be restored will simply need to have the wood replaced most of the time.  When you get a quote from a professional contractor, they will more than likely give you a price per square foot, and this, of course, will depend on the condition of the barn and so many other factors like if there are pests, dry rot, etc.  On average, be prepared to spend anywhere from $175 to as much as $425 per square foot to have a barn restored.  This range will often repair any rotting wood and the disposing of the old material.

The prices, in the end, will depend on the age of the barn, the type of wood it’s made from, the current condition, the size, how much clean up is involved and your geographical location.

If you want to get an exact quote for your project, consider using HomeAdvisor.com to gather free professional quotes in your area from licensed, reputable contractors.

ColonialBarn.com, a barn restoration company located in New England, claims that most quotes will be between $200 and $300 per square foot.  They state the fees will really come down to the amount of open space, details, and the number of windows.

Restoring a barn overview

During the average restoration job, a qualified contractor will replace any rotting wood or floor joists, replace the shingles if necessary and repair any broken windows.  Before the work begins, the contractor will be able to design, consult, and offer an official architectural drawing for the customer to approve.  Be prepared to pay extra for new windows, paint, shingles and a new floor.

The most common repairs include replacing the roof, straightening walls, replacing the floorboards, rebuilding the doors, and stabilizing the foundation.

What are the extra costs?

If the contractor has to travel more than 30 miles to a location, he may tack on a fuel or travel surcharge.

Depending on the contractor’s scope of work, some may charge extra to repair floor joists, siding, roof sheathing, foundation and flooring.

If you decide you do not want to restore the barn, demolishing and having it hauled away could cost an average of $4,000 to $10,000.  However, if you are going to go this route, see if you are able to sell some of the barn wood; before you do it, check with your local state to see if there are any rules when it comes to selling barn wood.

Special building permits may have to be pulled, depending on your city and state.

As a result of a newly restored barn, your property taxes may go up because of it.

Instead of just restoring a barn, some people decide to have it renovated for a different purpose.  For example, it is possible to turn a barn into a home.  It could even be turned into a wedding venue or chapel that could then be rented out.  This type of renovation would obviously be much more expensive.

Tips to know:

Make sure that you get a handful of quotes.  You are going to find that a contractor may sometimes not be able to work on the barn because they will not be able to restore it.  However, the opinions are going to vary from one contractor to another.  When choosing a contractor, be sure to choose one who is skilled and has experience with older barns.  Also, try to find one that offers some type of guarantee in their work.

Get everything in writing before hiring a contractor.  You are going to want to know exactly what you are going to get with your payment.

Restoring a barn is going to improve the condition to protect animals, equipment, and even increase your property value.

How can I save money?

Make sure that restoring your barn is going to be worth it.  Some homeowners have the misconception that a barn could be worth a lot when restored.  Sadly, this is not the case most of the time.

Check with your homeowner’s insurance company to see if any part of the barn is covered under your policy.

Check for federal and state tax incentives to see if your barn qualifies for historic preservation.

Check with your local state or city to see if there are any grants you can take advantage of.  For example, TractorSupply.com noted that the Iowa Barn Foundation paid half of a $19,000 restoration bill.  This is usually given when the barn is being restored for farming purposes.

How Much Does a Denver Athletic Club Membership Cost?

The Denver Athletic Club is a private, member-owned club located in the downtown area of Denver, Colorado.

Founded in 1884, the club is known for being one of the oldest and the most prestigious private clubs in the U.S.

free weights by blacklerphotos, on Flickr
free weights” (CC BY 2.0) by blacklerphotos

How much does a Denver Athletic Club membership cost?

The cost of a membership at the Denver Athletic Club will greatly depend on the type of membership you’re applying for, the promotions at the time and if you’re affiliated with any organization that offers discounts.  The one-time initiation joining fees can range from as little as $0 to more than $350, while the monthly dues are anywhere from $135 for an individual to as much as $260+ for families.

According to the Denver Petroleum Club, for example, the initiation fee for the Denver Athletic Club social membership is $375 while the monthly dues are about $137.  For DPC members, the initiation fee is waived while the monthly club dues are $50.

According to a recent review by Alec G. on this Yelp.com page, the cost of joining Denver Athletic Club is $350 and the monthly dues are $214 for individuals under 40. Sarah B., another Yelp reviewer, states that the monthly membership at the club in 2011 was $266.

A 2009 article in The Denver Post states that the Denver Athletic Club’s initiation fee during that year was $250 while the monthly fees were $180 for individuals and $266 for families.

Denver Athletic Club membership overview

The club is opened 24 hours, seven days a week.

Members receive two hours of complimentary parking, an eight-lane swimming pool, gymnasium, indoor running track, squash courts and racquetball courts.

Aside from the 150,0000 square foot athletic facilities equipped with the traditional weight and cardio equipment, members can take advantage of a variety of classes, including cycling, pilates and yoga.

The club also offers massage therapy, a hair salon, spa, dry cleaning, a fully-stocked locker room, men’s health club, private eight-lane bowling alley, dining options and shoe shine/repair services.

Denver Athletic Club members also enjoy reciprocal club benefits and obtain access to more than 200 clubs around the globe such as the New York Athletic Club, the Olympic Club in San Francisco, the City University Club in San Francisco, and The Royal Scots Club in Edinburgh.

New members receive two complimentary personal training classes and a fitness screening by one of the gym’s staff.  This will help you to analyze your fitness plan and goals.

What are the extra costs?

Additional classes, such as gymnastics or swim classes for kids, can cost $15+ per session.

Child care services are offered at the club and can cost $3.50 per hour.

Parking is free for the first 2 hours and $2.50 per hour afterward.  The maximum rate is $12.50 on weekdays and $5 on Saturdays.

Private personal training sessions can be another additional cost to consider.

Tips to know:

Social events at the club include dinner packages, shows and art exhibits, family events, book clubs, concerts, and investment clubs.  There are over 100 events each year Denver Athletic Club members can enjoy with family and friends.

Members are allowed to hold special events, from weddings to mitzvahs, at the club’s ballroom, rooftop sundeck, or at the bowling alley. They can also take advantage of licensed childcare services, med-spa facilities, and physical therapy.

How can I save money?

Consider taking a free membership trial first before enrolling in any membership category.  Doing so will give you a first-hand experience of using the club facilities and will help you find out if the services are suitable for you before you make any long-term commitment.

How Much Does a Movie Theater Birthday Party Cost?

A movie theater birthday party can provide an experience that cannot be had with other parties.  Not only will the children receive drinks and snacks, but the birthday boy or girl will get to pick whatever movie he or she wants and the group will be given a theater all to themselves.

Capitol movie theatre by blondinrikard, on Flickr
Capitol movie theatre” (CC BY 2.0) by  blondinrikard

How much does a movie theater birthday party cost?

The cost of renting out a movie theater for a birthday party is going to depend on the movie theater chain, the time of the year, the day, and the number of people who will be attending the party.  On average, renting out a movie theater for a birthday is going to range anywhere from $350 to as much as $550 per hour for about 20 people.  For every person after 20, it will cost about $5 to $12 per additional person.  This is the price for a private screening.

However, if you do not want a private screening, simple birthday parties will range anywhere from $8 to $13 per person.  This will include the movie of your choice as well as the movie snacks and drinks, but it will not get you a theater by yourselves.

Some theaters may have an outside party room that allows access to the movie theater.  This sort of package would cost around $50 to $150 for the room rental and an additional $7 to $12 per person for the admission ticket and snacks.

For example, Cinemark offers rates for 20 people that range anywhere from $300 to $500 for a private screening.

Regal Cinemas, another popular movie theater chain, said it could cost anywhere from $15 to more than $35 per child, depending on the package chosen.  These prices wouldn’t include a private screening, but a public viewing, along with birthday inclusions such as snacks, and in some cases, bowling.

Carmel Cinema, located in New York, charges $225 for parties of 12.  For every additional child, the costs will go up to $12 per person.

Movie theater birthday party overview

The average movie theater is going to include at least one hour of time in a party room, a movie snack pack that includes popcorn and candy, a drink, and movie of your choice.  Payments will have to be made at least three days ahead of time reserve the screening.

Just like a regular movie screening, parties can either be private or with the public.  During a private screening, the party will have the room to themselves, being able to watch any movie that is currently being shown.  A public viewing will be no different than the average movie experience.  The only difference will be the party package that usually includes the drinks and snacks.

Most movie theaters will have one or two attendants that will work with your group.  These attendants will aid you with the party room, get all the snacks and drinks for the kids, and clean up when the party is over.

What are the extra costs?

As mentioned above, most movie theaters will have a set price for a group of people.  When you go over this allotted amount, they will charge an additional fee for every person.  This fee will range from $5 to $12 per person, on average.

Any damage that occurs during the party will be your responsibility.

3D movies can be an additional charge.

Cake and desserts may be brought to the party at your expense, as well as decorations and party favors.

Some theaters have an additional party room that can be rented for an extra fee; these fees usually range anywhere from $30 to $60 per hour.

Some theaters may not include the popcorn or drinks.

If you have an attendant who helps you run the party, you may want to consider giving that person a tip.

Tips to know:

Some time slots will not be open for a party.  Be sure to talk with your local movie theater to see what days and times are open.  The earlier you are able to book the party, the more likely you are going to be able to reserve the room you want.

Try to schedule your birthday party during a time that will not be as busy with the public.  This will make it easier to control the group of kids.

Adult supervision will always be required for children parties.

Most theaters will have a minimum amount of people required before they book a party.

How can I save money?

Talk with at least three to five theaters in your area.  Most of them are going to be more than happy to give you a quote over the phone or point you to their website that lists the prices.

Renting a room is going to be very expensive compared to just showing up at the theater.  If your party is going to be less than 20 children, you may want to attend the movie as if you would any other movie and then go back to your home to open presents and enjoy cake and ice cream.

How Much Does a Build-A-Bear Cost?

Build-A-Bear Workshop, founded in 1997, was designed to allow customers to go through an interactive process where they can personalize their own stuffed animal of choice and “bring the teddy bear to life.”  As the largest chain in this regard, the company has been known to donate millions to charity and create an award-winning working environment, all while offering a great creative experience for children and adults alike.

As the largest chain in this regard, the company has been known to donate millions to charity and create an award-winning working environment, all while offering a great creative experience for children and adults alike.

Build-A-Bear Workshop by Mot the barber, on Flickr
Build-A-Bear Workshop” (CC BY 2.0) by  Mot the barber

How much does it cost to build a bear at Build-A-Bear?

On average, the basic Build-a-Bear animal is going to cost at least $10 to $25 without any clothing.  As you add each additional piece of clothing, you will have to plan on adding a certain amount for each garment or accessory.  To budget, most people spend around $45 to $80 for a bear that they are happy with that seems complete.  Since there are thousands of combinations, the prices will greatly vary as will the end result.

StepsPrice
Step One: Picking out a stuffed animal$5 to $50, depending on the type, character and if it's part of a name branded collection.
Step Two: Add clothing$3 to $15 per clothing option, depending on the type of clothing. Popular options include tops, bottoms and/or dresses.
Step Three; Adding accesssories$1 to $10, again, depending on the accessories. A themed accessory will be much more than a simple headband.

On , their animals range anywhere from $10 to $25.  For instance, their 15-inch Sandy Cub retails for $10, while the 16-inch My Little Pony retails for $25.  The Disney themed stuffed animals retail for close to $40 without any add-ons.  The popular can cost up to $65 for the bundle, while the Paw Patrol animals retail for $28 for the animal to as much as $65 for the bundle.

We researched the most popular options and included the price averages in the table below:

Type of AnimalAverage Price
Charmander- $61 for bundle
My Little Pony- $28 for just the anmial
- $15~ for accessories
Paw Patrol- $28 for just the animal
- $60 for bundle
Pikachu- $60 for bundle
Promise Pets- $25 for just the animal
Star Wars- $35~ for just the bear (R2-D2, Darth Vader, Kylo Ren, Stormtrooper Bear, Yoda, Rey, Chewbacca, Boba Fett)
- Add $18~ for costume

This forum thread on TripAdvisor.com discussed the costs of building a bear near Disneyland.  According to the responses, members said you should be prepared to spend $20 to as much as $50+ depending on the accessories purchased.

Build-A-Bear overview

At the workshop, you will begin by picking out a bear or animal.  When you pick one out, you will bring it to a stuffing machine where a small fabric heart, that you kiss ahead of time, is placed inside.  This heart will be placed inside the bear before being stuffed.  Once the bear is stuffed, you will be able to take the bear to the outfit section where you can pick out clothes and accessories.  When the process is complete, the workshop will supply you with a cardboard carrier and a birth certificate.

Common accessories that you can fit your bear with include the following: t-shirts, full outfits, purses, jewelry, pajamas, and much more.  Depending on the item, some can be from brands like Sketchers and Harley-Davidson.  Aside from clothing, customers are able to equip their bear with shoes, boots, glasses, headwear, pets, purses, sandals, slippers, socks and sports gear.  There is even furniture that can be purchased for the animal.  There are no limits to the accessories you purchase, and each accessory you add, will, of course, increase the costs.

Build-a-bear has a variety of collections, including My Little Pony, Disney, Girl Scouts, Color Popz, Cody Simpson and Bright Neon.  Their bears can also fit with a certain theme like Christmas, Halloween and Easter.

What are the extra costs?

Clothing is going to range from $5 to $25, depending on the type of outfit.  For example, a simple t-shirt can cost as little as $5, while a football uniform can cost upwards of $25.

In the future, you are able to go back to the store and pick out more items for your bear.  For example, a pair of shoes and socks could cost an additional $10.

Sounds can be added to each bear for an additional $3 to $10.  This could be something that is pre-recorded, or it could be a personalized message from a loved one.

Scentiments, which allow your bears to smell like certain scents, can cost around $3.

You can order and create a Build-a-Bear online and have it shipped to you or to whomever you wish.   Shipping may be free if you spend a certain amount; otherwise, it will be an additional cost.

Tips to know:

To maximize your experience, try to visit the store when it is not busy.  This will allow your child time to make decisions instead of being rushed.

Build-A-Bear is ideal for children who are between the ages of three and nine.

How can I save money?

Be sure to look out for coupons before heading to the store; they are known for having $5 off a $25 purchase.

Join the Stuff for Stuff Club.  For every dollar you spend at the club, you will earn one point, which can equate to a gift card.  According to the point redemption, every 100 points earns you a $10 gift card, and along the way, while you earn points, you can receive freebies.  At 150 points, for example, you can earn a free outfit, while at 250, you can earn a free stuffed animal.  Plus, on your birthday, you will also receive a special coupon.

Download the Build-a-Bear app to also receive special promotions, cool happenings at the local store and/or coupons.

If you are looking for a particular bear and you are not looking to “build” one, try looking for a slightly-used one on eBay and Craigslist.  You can also find some of the outfits on Amazon.com.

Keep in mind that the bear and animal is not the expensive part; it is going to be the accessories and outfits that you want to buy.  If you are going to bring a child, stick to a strict budget and only let them pick out a few accessories.  As long as you limit your accessories, you should be able to stay within a reasonable budget.

There are some off-brand clothing and accessories that will fit build a bear animals.  You can even consider making your own outfit for the bear.

How Much Does Boston Logan Airport Parking Cost?

Boston Logan Airport, administered by the Massachusetts Port Authority, is the departure and arrival point for over 100 domestic and international flights.

Located at the Boston Harbor by Interstate 90, the international airport has more than 40 airlines operating.

Boston Logan Airport, Gate 30 (Jet Blue by beltz6, on Flickr
Boston Logan Airport, Gate 30 (Jet Blue” (CC BY 2.0) by  beltz6

How much does parking at Boston Logan Airport cost?

According to the Massachusetts Port Authority website, Boston Logan International Airport has different options to choose from.

LocationDaily Rate
Boston Rodeway Inn$5
Central Parking Garage$35
Comfort Inn$14
Courtyard By Marriott$7
Economy Parking$26
Embassy Suites$10
Four Points by Sheraton - Boston Logan$8
Holiday Inn Express$15
PreFlight Parking$18
Shuttle and Fly$19
Terminal B Garage$35
Terminal E Lot 1$35

Boston Logan Airport parking overview

Logan International Airport provides various parking options offered at hourly and daily rates.  Central Parking Garage provides easy access to all terminals.  Terminal B Garage has easy access to Terminal B, while Terminal E Parking lots give easy access to Terminal E. Economy Parking is the most affordable long-term parking option.

The airport has 26 charging ports for electric vehicles and 173 parking spots designated for a hybrid, alternatively fueled and electric vehicles.

When you park your car, you will be given a ticket that will need to be placed on your dashboard in clear view.  When you exit, this ticket will tell the parking lot attendant when you parked your car there so that he knows how much to charge you.

Many parking lots offer some sort of security.  This could be as basic as a gate to prevent unwanted people from getting in and out, a camera system that can be reviewed in case anything happens to your vehicle, or possibly even a security guard making rounds every so often to make sure there is no suspicious behavior.

Most airport parking establishments are open 24 hours a day, all days of the week and are usually equipped with automated entrance and exit gates.  Some parking lots will have an option for you to pay at a machine with your credit card, while others will have an attendant there to take your money.

Depending on the airport parking company, the service may include a free shuttle to and from all terminals and free luggage assistance.

What are the extra costs?

Logan Airport also provides a program called Parking Passport Gold that guarantees parking spaces even when the sign says otherwise. Joining this program that ensures a parking space every time costs $200 the first year and $100 for the succeeding years.  The hourly rates for guaranteed parking are higher after the first 4 hours.  If you enroll in Logan’s Parking Passport program, you will be required to pay the enrollment fee of $5.

Those who lose their parking ticket will be charged with the applicable parking fee plus $5.

If you take the free shuttle service, some drivers expect a tip when you get off.  This is usually only $1 or $2 but is still an extra cost to consider for the way there and the way back.

If you prefer to pull right up to the terminal and have other people park your car using a valet service, this will make your costs much higher.

Tips to know:

Always bring your parking ticket with you and avoid leaving it in your vehicle.

Some private parking companies charge on a fixed basis and base the cost on arrival and departure time as well as how long the parking spot will be used.

The Massachusetts Port Authority advises individuals using the parking facilities to pay for parking at an Exit Express Parking Pay Station located in the terminals or garage lobby areas.

How can I save money?

If you will only be at the airport for a short period, park at the economy garage, where the rates usually start after the first hour.  Use the shuttle service to go to the required terminal.  Using the economy parking option can save from $1 to $6 a day.

The obvious way to save money on airport parking is to ask a friend or family member to drop you off and pick you up from the airport.

Local parking garages often participate on .  Check out this daily deal website to see if there are any current savings.

How Much Does a Chick Fil a Birthday Party Cost?

As part of their corporate purpose, many Chick-fil-A locations offer birthday party packages for people of all ages.

If you’ve been a fan of the Chick-fil-A cow, then a birthday party for your child may be a great idea.

Chick-fil-A Morning by Mark Turnauckas, on Flickr
Chick-fil-A Morning” (CC BY 2.0) by  Mark Turnauckas

How much does a Chick-fil-A birthday party cost?

On average, a Chick-fil-A birthday party will cost anywhere from $7 to $13 per child, depending on the amount of food needed.  For instance, a four-piece nugget meal retails for $8.25, while a six-nugget package will retail for $9.  Since every location is independently owned by a franchisee, the prices are going to vary.

To budget, a party of 20 children will cost around $165 to $260.

To receive more information on the Chick-fil-A birthday parties, refer to their official page.

According to this Voices.Yahoo.com article, for example, the average Chick-fil-A birthday party is $9.50 to $12.50 per child.

Chick-fil-A birthday party overview

During a birthday party, Chick-fil-A is able to offer a variety of catering options.

Typical birthday parties are going to include coloring sheets and crayons, chicken nuggets, a small fry, kid’s sized drink and a kid’s size Icedream®.  Every child that is in attendance will also receive a gift bag, a coupon for a future meal, balloons and a unique birthday party t-shirt.  If you want to see what the birthday party looks like, Magnolia Blossom’s Blog did a write up on how her experience was with her son.

During the party, a “Partee” coordinator will be designated to the room.  This attendant will be able to help hand out the food, take orders, accommodate any special requests and even assist the special cow mascot.

The room will be reserved for 90 minutes.

What are the extra costs?

Applicable taxes may apply.  Some people also choose to tip their party coordinator, but at some locations, these coordinators may not be allowed to accept tips.

Cake or desserts, aside from the Icedream, will not be included.  If you want to bring your own cake or dessert, plan on budgeting.

Tips to know:

Birthday parties must have a minimum of at least six children.

If the restaurant has a playground, it will not be shut down for the party.  This means that the playground will still be open to other children who are not with your party.

You are allowed to bring in your own decorations ahead of time; however, they must be approved before bringing them into the restaurant.

Parents have noted that this kind of party is ideal for those that do not need planned entertainment.  Since the only entertainment involved is the playground, younger children may get bored relatively fast.

Since spots can fill up fast, try to make your reservation at least three to six months in advanced.

Parties are often only available during certain time blocks.

How can I save money?

On occasions, you may be able to find local Groupon type deals for a local birthday party.

Since each restaurant is independently owned, some owners may be able to negotiate with you on the pricing.

If you want to have Chick-fil-A food at your party, you could choose to go buy a bunch of kids meals and take them back to your house instead.

How Much Does Atlanta Hartfield-Jackson Airport Parking Cost?

Atlanta’s Hartfield-Jackson International Airport is the busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic, and there are several parking lots, ranging from long-term economical parking to hourly and daily options at the North and South terminals as well as Park-Ride and reserved lots.

The cost of airport parking usually depends on location and duration.

Another MD88 at ATL by Blue Pylons, on Flickr
Another MD88 at ATL” (CC BY 2.0) by  Blue Pylons

How much does Atlanta airport parking cost?

At the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the parking rates at the domestic terminal vary according to the type of parking and duration.  For hourly (short-term) parking in close proximity, the rates are as follows:

Parking at the actual airport is not your only option.  There are many offsite parking lots that offer to keep your car for you while you are away.  For example, the rates for Atlanta airport parking at the near-airport parking company The Parking Spot is $12.95 per day for covered parking and $9.50 per day for open-air parking.

At Peachy Airport Parking Atlanta located in Sylvan Road, Atlanta, the rates are $9 for outdoor parking and $12 for climate-controlled indoor parking.  Peachy Rewards members who reserve online are entitled to a 15% discount off any of Peachy’s regular Atlanta off-airport parking rates at the company’s outdoor or indoor airport parking.

Refer to our table below to see what third-party lots are charging:

NameAverage Rate Per Day
ATL Economy$12
Atlanta Airport Marriott$6
Comfort Inn$7
Days Inn$5
Econo Lodge$6
FASTTRACK$8
Hilton$50
Motel 6 Atlanta Airport$6
PARK 'N Fly$10
Park 'N Go$11
Park-Ride at ATL$9
Peachy Airport
Parking
$14
Super 8$15
The Parking Spot$9
WALLYPARK$10
Wellesley Inn$9

What is going to be included?

Airport parking facilities are usually located in or around the airport and offer guests the option to park their vehicles in an indoor or outdoor facility, and the outdoor facilities can be covered or uncovered.  Parking options may include indoor self-parking or outdoor self-parking.

When you park your car, you will be given a ticket that will need to be placed on your dashboard in clear view.  When you exit, this ticket will tell the parking lot attendant when you parked your car there so that he knows how much to charge you.

Many parking lots offer some sort of security.  This could be as basic as a gate to prevent unwanted people from getting in and out, a camera system that can be reviewed in case anything happens to your vehicle, or possibly even a security guard making rounds every so often to make sure there is no suspicious behavior.

Most airport parking establishments are open 24 hours a day, all days of the week and are usually equipped with automated entrance and exit gates.  Some parking lots will have an option for you to pay at a machine with your credit card, while others will have an attendant there to take your money.

Depending on the airport parking company, the service may include a free shuttle to and from all terminals and free luggage assistance.

What are the extra costs?

The Hartfield-Jackson International Airport charges maximum daily rate for a lost ticket for all types of parking.  This means that if you lose your ticket, you will not receive the discounted long-term parking price.

If you take the free shuttle service, some drivers expect a tip when you get off.  This is usually around $1 to $2.

If you prefer to pull right up to the terminal and have other people park your car using a valet service, this will make your costs much higher.

Tips to know:

Some airport parking facilities offer customers a number of perks for patronizing their parking services.  Among these are a complimentary car wash, a copy of a newspaper, and bottled water.

Due to the volume of traffic at the Hartfield-Jackson International Airport, authorities constantly update each of the parking lots.  Before traveling, be sure to visit the site to check for parking availability and any changes in pricing.

If you are a frequent traveler, consider setting up an account to use the Gold Reserve spot located on the ground floor of reserved spaces at the daily and Park-Ride areas.  The rate for this option is typically higher due to the guaranteed spot.

There are many parking services that only take cash, so make sure that you have enough to pay for your parking.

If you are parked at an off-site parking lot, you may need to call them and let them know when you need to be picked up since not all of them run their shuttles constantly.

How can I save money?

Find coupons that offer discounts off regular airport parking rates.

Consider using the economy or uncovered, long-term parking options.  You can use the free shuttle to proceed to the terminal and return to your vehicle.

Usually, the off-site parking lots will be cheaper than the airport lots.

If you are going to stay at a hotel the night before the flight, see if your hotel has any sort of parking options.

How Much Does a David Lloyd Membership Cost?

The David Lloyd Leisure Group is the biggest racquet, health, and fitness group in Europe.  It operates 80 clubs in the United Kingdom and 10 others across Europe.  The club offers a vast portfolio of family-oriented clubs that provide a range of facilities and services.

With all the clubs combined, David Lloyd Leisure has more than 450,000 members and employs approximately 6,000 health and fitness professionals.

free weights by blacklerphotos, on Flickr
free weights” (CC BY 2.0) by blacklerphotos

How much does a David Lloyd Membership cost?

According to an article on ThisIsMoney.co.uk, the David Lloyd Leisure Group in Beckham, Kent, charges $99.75 a month for membership.  A joining fee is required and costs $100.

A column at TheGuardian.com revealed that two individuals who signed up for a 3-month membership at David Lloyd paid for a $50 signup fee and a $138.60 monthly payment.

Another column at TheGuardian.com  discloses that the monthly membership fee for a family consisting of 2 adults and up to 3 children is $145.

On this forum thread at MoneySavingExpert.com, a member said they had paid $145 a month for an adult and one five-year-old child.

Overall, a membership to the David Lloyd Leisure Group can be anywhere from $50 to $150 for sign up fees and from $100 to $150 per month. 

Membership options

David Lloyd offers two membership options: Racquets Membership and Health & Fitness Membership.  The gym offers membership packages for individuals, couples, people ages 18 to 20, senior citizens and children.

Racquets

Depending on the package chosen, the Racquets Membership option generally offers the following features: access to all or some David Lloyd Leisure clubs in UK and Europe; premium membership; and access to racquets, health and fitness facilities, classes and lessons.  Some Racquets Membership plans are designed for individuals, couples, or for those in the age group of 18 to 20 while others are offered with reduced membership rates.

Health & Fitness

As for the Health & Fitness option, depending on the package selected, the membership provides access to all or some David Lloyd Leisure clubs; premium membership perks; and access to health and fitness facilities.  Some memberships offered under the Health & Fitness option require proof of age or proof of relationship.

David Lloyd Membership overview

The David Lloyd Leisure Group is best known for their racquets program.  All the locations combine to offer over 700 courts, some indoor and some outdoor, which can be used to play tennis, racquetball, badminton, and squash.  There are many opportunities for these sports.  You can simply play with friends for fun, join a league, take lessons, or attend camps and clinics.  There are even exercise programs geared toward the racquets program, such as cardio tennis, fast track, power track, etc.  There are even programs designed specifically to introduce all of these sports to children and instill a love for the game.

The gyms at the David Lloyd Leisure Group offer all of the basic equipment such as treadmills, stair climbers, and elliptical machines as well as state-of-the-art weights machines.  There is also workout equipment such as free weights, medicine balls, tension bands, etc.  If you are looking to work out with a group of people, the club offers many fitness classes such as high energy, dance and weight loss-based programs.

Other amenities include a health spa, a salon, Jacuzzis, steam rooms, restaurants and many pools, some indoor and some outdoor, depending on the location.

What are the extra costs?

Depending on the membership chosen, additional fees may be required for some classes and lessons as well as some selected facilities such as the Amida Spas.

A sign-up fee may be required, with some members reporting a fee of $50.  This will all depend on the current promotion and time of year.

Canceling a membership after a 12-month period may incur charges of up to $200.

Transferring to one fitness package to another may require administrative fees, which can cost up to $100.

If you are going to sign up for classes, this will be an extra cost.  There are also personal trainers available for private or group sessions that will be additional.

Tips to know:

The David Lloyd Leisure Group runs 77 David Lloyd Leisure Clubs, 1 Next Generation Club, and 2 Harbor Clubs in the UK.  There are also 10 locations in Europe, particularly in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Brussels, and Dublin.

When signing up for a membership, always make sure to read the fine print and to understand the terms and conditions provided by the gym.

Not all membership options offered at every David Lloyd club are the same.  Be sure to check the options and features at the club you plan to enroll in before you sign up.

How can I save money?

Choose a membership type that offers reduced rates.  Make sure, however, that the features that come with it are suitable for you.

Before joining any class or lesson, make sure to ask about the rates and the services that go with it.

Sign up for a trial period, if available, before enrolling in a long-term contract.

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