This is a common question that comes up when booking tickets for events or attractions that offer discounted “family” ticket pricing. The specifics can vary depending on the venue or event, but in general the answer comes down to their policy on what constitutes a family for ticketing purposes.
Quick Answer
The quick answer is that it depends. Some family tickets are limited to 2 adults and a set number of children, while others may allow any group with a mix of adults and children to qualify. Venues or events offering family pricing will typically have fine print on their website or in terms and conditions that spells out the exact policy.
Defining “Family” for Tickets
Venues and events offering family ticket pricing get to define what they consider a family for the purposes of ticketing. There is no universal standard definition. Some common approaches include:
- 2 adults + set number of children – This is a popular approach where the family ticket might cover 2 adults and 2 or 3 kids for example.
- 1-2 adults + any number of kids – A more flexible policy where one or two adults can be accompanied by any number of children.
- Any group with both adults and kids – The broadest definition, allowing any group with at least one adult and one child to be considered a family.
The specific adult to children ratio and age ranges for “child” tickets can vary too. For example, a venue might set their child ticket cutoff at age 12 or 17 rather than the more common 18.
Why Family Ticket Policies Vary
There are a few key reasons why family ticket policies tend to vary between different venues and events:
- Cost control – Defining stricter parameters around what constitutes a family group is one way for venues to limit the financial discounting on the tickets.
- Capacity limits – A broader family definition means the venue has to accommodate larger groups, which can be a challenge depending on the space.
- Target audience – The event may be catering to a specific family demographic and composition.
- Prevent resale – Stricter family definitions deter people from buying discounted tickets simply to resell them to non-family members at a higher price.
Ultimately the specific family ticket policy boils down to the preferences and objectives of whoever is organizing the event or managing the attraction.
When 2 Adults Do Qualify for Family Tickets
While less common than policies requiring kids, some venues and events do offer family tickets broad enough to encompass just 2 adults. Here are some examples of when 2 adults can take advantage of family pricing:
- Sporting events – Some sports teams define family tickets based on number of seats only, not specifically requiring kids.
- Theme parks – Large theme parks tend to have flexible policies allowing any group with both adults and kids.
- Movies – Movie theaters may consider any group attending together as eligible for family rates.
- Museums – Museums sometimes have family rates that simply require 1 adult + 1 guest of any age.
- Concerts – Outdoor concert series often let any group claim family discounts.
If the policy is vague or unstated, it never hurts to inquire with the box office beforehand if two adults can be considered a family. The worst they can say is no.
Tips for Booking as a Family
If the event or attraction does allow two adults to utilize family ticket pricing, here are some tips:
- Read the fine print – Check online ticketing sites closely for family policy details. Venues often spell it out there.
- Call the box office – Speaking to a representative provides an opportunity to ask about policies.
- Book early – Family tickets frequently have allotments that sell out more quickly.
- Bring ID – Be ready to show documentation proving you reside at the same address.
- Use family lanes – Look for special family lines or entrances when available.
Booking online typically makes it easier to purchase family tickets for two adults than buying in person at the venue box office. Many ticketing sites allow you to simply check a box confirming you meet the family criteria when selecting ticket type.
When 2 Adults Don’t Qualify
If the event requires children to qualify for family ticketing, there are still a couple options to consider:
- Split up – One adult buys the family package with kids while the other buys an individual adult ticket.
- Look for promos – Check sites like Groupon or LivingSocial for 2-pack adult ticket deals.
- Ask about exceptions – It never hurts to call and explain your situation. Venues may sometimes make exceptions.
- Wait for sales – Monitor for specials like Cyber Monday when family requirements are loosened.
While paying full adult rates isn’t ideal, planning ahead and being a little flexible can still help you score some savings and sit with your whole group.
Bottom Line
So can two adults use family tickets? The bottom line is…it depends! Don’t assume you can or cannot qualify based on the terminology alone. The venue’s specific definition of “family” determines if a couple, two parents, two siblings, or any other group of adults can pay those discounted family rates for tickets. Be sure to carefully check their family policy for specifics before purchasing tickets. With some strategic planning, there is still hope to score those savings!
Venue Type | Family Policy Examples | Likelihood of 2 Adults Qualifying |
---|---|---|
Sporting Events | 2+ tickets in group, no specific age requirements | High |
Theme Parks | 1 adult + 1 child guest | High |
Concerts | Any group attending together | High |
Movie Theaters | At least 1 adult + 1 child under 12 | Medium |
Museums | 2 adults + up to 4 kids | Low |
Plays & Shows | 1-2 adults, kids under 18 | Low |
Key Takeaways
- Family ticket policies vary widely between venues and events.
- Carefully check the fine print for definitions of what counts as a “family”.
- Booking online makes it easiest for 2 adults to use family pricing.
- With some flexibility, 2 adults can often still sit together and save.