I agree with you, concerning better ways to spend your money. We take our kids to the Aquariums, the Zoo, and we've also been to the Serpentarium. With an annual membership to the NC Aquariums/Zoo, you can get unlimited access for a year, with 2 adults, and no limit on the number of kids in your family. I believe the price is $50. You learn so much more, and the animals are protected.