Cost of summer fun adding up for Edmonton families

Increases in the price of attractions like Fort Edmonton Park are adding up for some Edmonton families.

Admission to the Edmonton Valley Zoo and the John JanzenNature Centre have gone up 50 cents per ticket.

The price to get into Fort Edmonton Park is $26 for adults, and $21 for children and youth, up from $18.15 and $13.55 in 2014,although the new fee offers unlimited rides for the first time.

The extra cost adds up for people on a budget.

Erin Christensen, a single mother, says she has to stretch every dollar she's set aside for entertainment.

"Our summer treat is coming here," she said.

Michelle Valente, a visitor from Ontario, said she took her kids to the Royal Alberta Museum and the water park at West Edmonton Mall, but she may skip Fort Edmonton Park.

"I feel educational things shouldn't be that expensive."

Not every fun summer activity has a price. Some parents say their children are just as happy in public parks.

The city also offers the Leisure Access Program, which gives low income Edmontonians free access to fitness centres, pools, and city attractions like Fort Edmonton Park and the Valley Zoo.