More Bang for Your Buck: Family Activities

(WSVN) -- Every year, the Appel family has spent the last days of December playing in the Maryland snow.

But this year will be different.

Mother Vicki Appel says, "This year we wanted to be home for a change. We wanted to be in our own house."

Father Jared Appel says, "We are going have to find ways to entertain them and still survive the month to pay our mortgage."

"There is such a wide range of activities you can enjoy just for the price of parking," says Ernie Lynk of Crandon Park.

"It's gives you the chance to go out in a very protected area, very shallow water."

Shawn Thorimbert, General Manager of the Miami Manatees, says, "We want you to come here and say, 'WOW! that was fun!'"

"We are promoting a family four pack," says Shawn. "It is four tickets, four hotdogs and four drinks for $25."

How about if you want to reward your kids for a successful semester? Boomers in Dania is offering free tokens for good grades.

"There is an amazing wealth of fun activities," says Brian Rill of the Grave's Museum.

They're even hosting a New Year's Eve sleep-over for 25 dollars a child.

Or your kid can practice becoming the next "American Idol" at the Miami Children's Museum.

"We have a music gallery where kids can make and record their own CD."

"This gives us the chance to do fun activities that they wouldn't normally do."

Contact: lmartinez@wsvn.com