Fun Things to do with Kids in Arizona

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Gymmastics and Tumbling

Desert Tumbling

FUN for kids (ages 2 and up) who want to tumble, flip and twist. Featuring a large spring floor, in-ground trampolines, in-ground foam and resi pits, tumbl trak and mini trampolines. Open Gym offered daily and no membership required.

21501 N. 78th Avenue

Peoria, AZ 85382

Phone: 623-362-1000

Owners: Paul & Wendy Hartman

http://www.deserttumbling.com/

Indoor Play Centers

Imagination Avenue

From their website:

An innovative parent supervised children's play and activity center with more than 3000 square feet of space for children to explore.

(Infant – 6 years).

10610 N. 32nd Street,

Phoenix, AZ 85028

Phone: (602) 765–3192

http://www.imaginationavenue.us/

Toy Town Playcenter

From their website:

Toy Town is a 2,000 square foot, indoor play center located in Ahwatukee (East Valley), where kids can dress up, have a tea party, play with a train set, ride little cars, imagine and get lost in the joys of childhood!

12020 S. Warner-Elliot Loop, Suite 105,

Phoenix, AZ 85044

Phone: (480) 496–4393

http://aztoytown.com/

Dave and Busters

The Million Dollar Midway

This place runs on pure energy. With over 200 games to choose from, we have everything from the classics to the latest and greatest interactive and video games. With a rechargeable Power Card in your pocket and our famous game side service, you win. They also have bowling. This is a bar/entertainment area.

In Desert Ridge Marketplace At Tatum Blvd. And Loop 101

21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 44-1400,

Phoenix, AZ 85050

Phone: (480) 538–8956

http://www.daveandbusters.com/

BounceU

4 Locations around Phoenix:

19209 N 83rd Ave.,

Arrowhead , Arizona , 85382

Phone: (623) 572–0090

22515 N 18th Drive,

Phoenix , Arizona , 85027

Phone: (623) 434–7867

1325 W. Auto Dr. Suite 101,

Tempe , Arizona , 85284

Phone: (480) 940–7867

8550 N. 91st Avenue, Bldg A, Ste 7,

Peoria, AZ, 85345

Phone: (623) 872–0748

http://www.BounceU.com/

Makutu’s Island

Makutu's Island is a 20,000 square foot, multi-level indoor playground. Made for children and adults (yes, you can play too). Our family fun center will more than impress you.

6919 W. Ray Road,

Chandler, Arizona 85226

Phone: (480)-893-0106

http://www.makutusisland.com/

Golfland

Mesa—Video arcade, laser tag, mini-golf, putts playland, go karts, bumper boats, pizza and more.

155 W. Hampton Ave.,

Mesa, Arizona 85210

Phone: (480) 834–8319

http://mesa.golfland.com/default.aspx

Amusement Parks & Rides

Enchanted Island Amusement Park

Located at Encanto Park this Phoenix amusement park has 9 children's rides and pedal boats and canoes for rent.

1202 W. Encanto Blvd.

Phoenix, AZ 85007

Phone: (602) 254–1200

http://www.enchantedisland.com/

Jeepers-Jungle Jim's Playland

From their website:

Designed to please children ages two to twelve, Jeepers! is the ultimate family entertainment experience combining the rides and excitement of an outdoor amusement park with indoor convenience and climate control.

Coupons on their website!

2726 S. Alma School Rd.,

Mesa, AZ 85210

Phone: (480) 820–8300

http://www.jeepersaz.com/

Amazing Jake's Food & Fun

This amazing indoor fun center has something for most everyone. Activities include: bowling, game pavillion, kiddie rides, bumper cars, go karts, laser tag, rock climbing wall and an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet.

1830 East Baseline Road,

Mesa, AZ 85204

Phone: (480) 926–7499

http://www.amazingjakes.com/

Fiddlesticks of Tempe

This 20-acre complex for family recreation includes go-karts, batting cages, miniature golf, bumper boats, lighted driving range and a state-of-the-art video arcade with all-new games recently added! Rookie Go-Karts, Dragon Kiddie Ride and Miner Mike Roller Coaster are designed especially for younger children. Entertainment Book coupons.

1155 West Elliot Road,

Tempe, AZ 85284

Phone: (480) 961–0800

http://www.fiddlesticksaz.com/

Cracker Jax

Family fun and sports park includes: mini-golf, go-karts, putting range/driving range, video arcade and redemption machines, bumper boats, batting cages, volleyball courts and a restaurant.

Entertainment Book coupons.

N. Scottsdale just south of Bell Rd. on Scottsdale Rd.

Phone: (480) 998–2800

http://www.crackerjax.com/

Desert Breeze Railroad

A Train and carousel ride at the park. Be sure to visit their website for directions and a printable coupon. Entertainment Book coupon.

660 North Desert Breeze Blvd.,

Chandler, AZ 85226

Phone: (480) 893–6652

http://www.desertbreezerr.com/start.html

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Located in the heart of Scottsdale, this is a wonderful park with not only an awesome train to ride on, but also a huge locomotive on display. They also have a carousel, an old western town play area, an amazing state of the art playground, food, great parking and more. This is a must do, especially around the holidays!

7301 E. Indian Bend Road,

Scottsdale, AZ 85250

Phone: (480) 312–2312

http://www.therailroadpark.com/index1.html

Maricopa Live Steamers

FREE rides on four different 30-minute routes are offered every Sunday between noon and 5 p.m. The last train leaves the station at 4:45 p.m. Although the rides are free, your generous donations help keep our railroad running.

The Adobe Western Railroad is located on 43rd Avenue across the street from WaterWorld just south of Pinnacle Peak Road in north Phoenix. It is about 2 miles west of I-17 and a mile north of Loop 101. This is a favorite with my boys for sure...the train rides are great!!!!

http://maricopalivesteamers.com/

Castles & Coasters

Over a dozen thrilling rides, video arcade, mini-golf, pizza and more.

9445 Metro Parkway East/I-17 & Dunlap Exit,

Phoenix, AZ

Phone: (602) 997–7575

http://www.castlesncoasters.com/

Swimming

Aqua Tots Swim School

Pool parties at an indoor swim center. With 7 locations in the valley, you're sure to find one near your home.

http://aqua-tots.com/

Hubbard Family Swim School

3 Locations in the Valley. Indoor, heated swim facility with big green water slide, pool games and more.

Phoenix - 32nd Street & Thunderbird

West Valley - 84th Avenue & Thunderbird

East Valley - Loop 202 & Dobson @ Mesa Riverview Opening May 12th 2009

(602)-971-4044

http://www.hubbardswim.com/

The Valley of the Sun YMCA

With 10 locations serving the Phoenix Metro area, the YMCA offers a variety of sporting birthday party options and pool parties.

http://www.valleyymca.org/

AquaSafe Swim School

From their Website:

Aquasafe Swim School is proud to offer indoor swim classes and programs for infants to 12 year olds. Our facility is located in North Scottsdale, in the Family Zone at McDowell Mountain, at the 101 Loop and Bell by the Alltel Ice Den.

New location at 82 W. Ray Road,

Gilbert, AZ 85233

Phone: (480) 425–SWIM.

http://www.aquasafeswimschool.com/

SWIMkids USA

From their Website:

Our swimming lessons are centrally located next to the 101 freeway, only minutes from Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Mesa , Tempe, Ahwatukee and South Scottsdale.

2725 W. Guadalupe Rd.,

Mesa, AZ 85202

Phone: (480) 820–9109

http://swimkidsaz.com/

Kiwanis Recreation Center and Wave Pool

Party dates available during public swim or once a month for private parties. Various packages available.

6111 S All America Way,

Tempe, AZ 85283

Phone: (480) 350–5751

http://www.tempe.gov/kiwanis/

Phoenix Public Swimming Pools

http://www.phoenix.gov/SPORTS/pools.html

Zoos

The Phoenix Zoo

Voted one of the nation's top 5 zoos for kids. Enjoy viewing over 1200 animals, ride the new zoo carousel, take a tour on the safari train, or play in the water at the leapin lagoon sprayground.

455 North Galvin Parkway,

Phoenix, AZ 85008

Phone: (602) 273–1341

http://www.phoenixzoo.org/

Wildlife World Zoo

Visit Arizona's largest exotic animal collection. Be sure to enjoy the playground, ride the African Train, take a pontoon boat ride through the Australian Outback, get off the ground on the Wildlife sky ride and hand feed the turaco and lory birds!

16501 W. Northern Avenue,

Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

Phone: (623) 935–WILD (9453)

http://www.wildlifeworld.com/

Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Located in Camp Verde, it's like finding Africa in the heart of AZ! Come check out the lions, tigers, bears, hyena's, snakes, wolves and much more on your very own Serengeti Safari. Enjoy the giant snake show, predator feed, wildlife preserve trolley ride, and the soon to return Tiger Splash! It's a must see in AZ!

4020 N. Cherry Rd.,

Camp Verde, AZ 86322

Phone: (928) 567–2840

http://www.outofafricapark.com/

Indoor Rock Climbing

AZ on the Rocks-Indoor Climbing

Indoor rock climbing parties, no experience necessary.

16447 N. 91st St, Suite 105

Scottsdale, AZ

Phone: (480) 502–9777

http://www.azontherocks.com/

The Phoenix Rock Gym

Indoor rock climbing parties, no experience necessary.

1353 E University

Tempe, AZ

Phone: (480) 921–8322

http://www.phoenixrockgym.com/

Solid Rock Gym

Indoor rock climbing parties, no experience necessary.

We had my son's 7th birthday party here and the kids LOVED IT!!!!

23620 N. 20th Drive, Suite #24 (at I-17 & 101)

Phoenix, AZ

Phone: (623) 587–7625

http://www.solidrockgymaz.com

Arcades and Mini–Golf

Castles & Coasters

Over a dozen thrilling rides, video arcade, mini-golf, pizza and more.

9445 Metro Parkway East/I-17 & Dunlap Exit,

Phoenix, AZ

Phone: (602) 997–7575

http://www.castlesncoasters.com/

Fiddlesticks Family Fun Parks

Go-Karts, Bumper Boats, batting cages, mini-golf, video arcade, kiddie rides, pizza, snacks & more.

1155 W. Elliot Rd.

Tempe, AZ

Phone: (480) 961–0800

http://www.fiddlesticksaz.com/

Dave and Busters

In The Desert Ridge Marketplace At Tatum Blvd. And Loop 101,

21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 44-1400

Phoenix, AZ 85050

Phone: (480) 538–8956

http://www.daveandbusters.com/default.aspx

Cracker Jax

Family fun and sports park includes: mini-golf, go-karts, putting range/driving range, video arcade and redemption machines, bumper boats, batting cages, volleyball courts and a restaurant.

N. Scottsdale just south of Bell Rd. on Scottsdale Rd.

Phone: (480) 998–2800

http://www.crackerjax.com/

Golfland

Mesa—Video arcade, laser tag, mini-golf, putts playland, go karts, bumper boats, pizza and more.

155 W. Hampton Ave.,

Mesa, Arizona 85210

Phone: (480) 834–8319

http://mesa.golfland.com/default.aspx

Mini-Golf Paradise

A beautiful, fun filled 18 hole INDOOR miniature golf course in a safari setting. They host birthday parties with video games, mini-golf and more.

Entertainment Book coupon.

15230 N. 32nd Street,

Phoenix, AZ

Phone: (602) 274–4653

http://www.minigolfparadise.com/

Movie Theatres

Harkins Theatres

18 local theatre locations with many more coming in the future. Go to their site for the location closest to you. If you are a AAA member you can purchase advance passes for just $6 each…it's a great deal!! You can also buy discount passes through Costco (I think they're $7.50).

http://harkinstheatres.com/

AMC Theatres

8 large theatres in the Phoenix area. Go to their site for the location closest to you. If you are a AAA member you can purchase advance passes for just $6 each…it's a great deal! You can also buy discount passes through Costco (I think they're $7.50).

http://www.moviewatcher.com/index.html

IMAX

3 locations in the Phoenix area, AZ Mills Mall, AMC theatre at 101 and I-17 and AZ Science Center. Go to their site for info.

http://www.imax.com/tempe/

Skating Rinks

Desert Schools Coyotes Center-Polar Ice Den

Themed ice skating parties, video arcade, private party room and more.

Two Locations:

7225 W. Harrison St.

Chandler, AZ

Phone: (480) 598–9400

http://www.polaricechandler.com/

And:

15829 N. 83rd Ave.

Peoria, AZ

Phone: (623) 334–1200

http://www.polaricepeoria.com/

Alltel Ice Den

Themed ice skating parties, video arcade, private party room, a ride on the Zamboni and more.

9375 E. Bell Road north of the 101 and Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd

Scottsdale, AZ

Phone: (480) 585–RINK

http://www.coyotesice.com/

Arcadia Ice Arena

Admission to a public skate, private group lesson, decorated party room and more.

Located on the southeast corner of 38th St. and Thomas Road at 3853 E. Thomas Rd

3853 E. Thomas Rd.,

Phoenix, AZ

Phone: (602) 957–9966

http://www.arcadiaice.com/

Oceanside Ice Arena

The East Valley's original destination for hockey, figure and public skating activities.

Conveniently located near Loops 101 and 202 in Tempe.

1520 N. McClintock Dr.,

Tempe, AZ 85281

Phone: (480) 941-0944

http://www.oceansideicearena.net/default.aspx

Rollero Family Skating Center

7318 W. Indian School Rd.,

Phoenix, AZ 85033

Phone: (623) 846-1510

http://www.rollero.com/

Rollerplex

16083 North 75th Avenue,

Peoria, AZ 85382

Phone: (623) 334-8118

http://www.rollerplex.com/

USA Skateland — Roller Skating

Locations in Chandler, Glendale and Mesa

16083 North 75th Avenue,

Peoria, AZ 85382

Phone: (623) 334-8118

http://www.usa-skating.com/

Bowling Alleys

AMF Bowling Centers

Fun for the whole family! Take the kids bowling, join a league or have a birthday party. 13 locations in the Phoenix metro area.

http://www.amf.com/

Brunswick Zone Bowling Centers

We offer the very best of bowling, billiards and arcade games. Have a birthday party, join a league and more. 7 locations in the Phoenix metro area.

http://www.bowlbrunswick.com/

Dave and Busters

In The Desert Ridge Marketplace At Tatum Blvd. And Loop 101,

21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 44-1400

Phoenix, AZ 85050

Phone: (480) 538–8956

http://www.daveandbusters.com/default.aspx

Water Parks

Big Surf Water Park

1550 N. McClintock,

Tempe, AZ, 85282

Phone: (480) 947-2477

http://www.golfland.com/

Wet-n-Wild

Visit Phoenix's newest and largest water park for the thrill of a lifetime. Wet-n-Wild Phoenix includes 30 waterslides on 35 acres, 11 different water rides, a wave pool, a lazy river, Soak em sprayground, and an incredible Desert Palms Playground for the little ones. You'll want to buy a season pass because after the summer, they're still open weekends through October!

4243 W. Pinnacle Peak Road Glendale, AZ 85310-4002

Phone: (623) 201-2000

http://phoenix.mywetnwild.com/

Golfland SunSplash

155 W. Hampton Ave.

Mesa, AZ 85210

Phone: (480)-834-8319

http://mesa.golfland.com/default.aspx

Kiwanis Recreation Center and Wave Pool

Party dates available during public swim or once a month for private parties. Various packages available.

6111 S All America Way,

Tempe, AZ 85283

Phone: (480) 350-5751

http://www.tempe.gov/kiwanis/

Horseback Riding Stables

White Tanks Riding Stable

Kids love our assortment of ranch animals and a special led ride for lil' dudes. Many of our young (and older) friends come around again and again! Minimum age for trail rides is 8 years.

20300 W. Olive Ave.,

Waddell, AZ

At the entrance to White Tank Regional Park

Phone: 623-935-7455

http://www.whitetanksriding.com/

Cave Creek Trail Rides

Ride horses in Phoenix, AZ with our Southwest cowboys in our optional gear of boots, hats and chaps that we provide. Be a kid again on our gentle horses as you ride through the spectacular Sonoran Desert in the hills north of Phoenix, Arizona. Minimum age is 6 years old. Complimentary pony rides for children under 6 years old. Maximum weight is 250 pounds. All rides are guided, walking horse trailrides.

Because of safety, younger riders have their own horse and can be led by the guide.

LOCATION: Cave Creek Recreation Area is located on 32nd Street North off the Carefree Highway mid-way between Interstate 17 and Scottsdale Road. We are located inside the park. Follow the horse symbols on the signs. Cave Creek Recreation Area offers great views of the Sonoran Desert, as well as opportunities to step back in history 150 years when mining and ranching were a way of life here at Cave Creek.

Toll free: 1-877-942-6700

Local: 623-742-6700

http://www.cavecreektrailrides.com/

Here's another site with fun things to do in the Metro Phoenix area:

http://funwithtobi.com/BirthdayPartyPlaces.aspx

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.

Christmas Gift Basket Ideas

Thanks to Cents'Able Shoppin! in Mesa, AZ for this great blog post! Click this link to see her blog post with pictures, below I have just put the text!

Some ideas for baskets/containment devices:

For a movie basket, you can get a plastic popcorn tub from the Dollar Tree.

For housewarming, baby shower, going to college, etc. basket, you could use a small laundry basket.

Cooking basket, a nice mixing bowl, baking sheet/pan, or plastic container would work.

If you can't find anything, you could use a cardboard box. Just cut it down to where you just have an inch or so for the sides. Then wrap with paper to go with your theme.

Sometimes you can find a cute bag or tote to use to hold your items. This is always a hit with my female friends.

For the guys you can use an empty 6-pk bottle holder from beer (Corona), OR, a re-useable tote bag similar to this HERE.

You can even use a 2-liter soda bottle (without the soda of course) - click on link at top to see pic.

Look for baskets in the local thrift store!

Here are some basket ideas Just to get your creative juices flowing!

House Warming/Wedding picnic basket

You can always pick up cute picnic baskets in the fall for really cheap at the craft stores which is when I always stock up. You can include paper plates, plastic cups, utensils, a deck of cards, table cloth, napkins, cheese, crackers, popcorn, nuts, chocolate, fruit, flowers, wine and/or travel size adult drink (beer or wine..). This usually only costs around $10 and most of it is can be from fillers or your stockpile.

Anniversary Party

You can put in pasta sauce, spaghetti, candles, a bottle of wine, and a wine tool set. The spaghetti, pasta sauce and candles can come from your stockpile. The wine tool set you can get from Kohl's - use a $5 off $5 and 15% off, and pay around $2. So really the only expense will be the wine.

Girly Girl basket

Nailpolish, tweezers, emery boards and toe separators fom the dollar store for pedicures. And then all kinds of clearanced makeup - eyeshadows, eye pencils, lipsticks and glosses, bronzer. Buy the items when it's buy one get one free from Revlon, Loreal, Rimmel, whatever and match the sales with coupons ...plus watch for the orange clearance tags at CVS. Put it all in a hobo bag from Target that is clearanced ....or free with a Target coupon.

Teenage Boys

You can toss in Nivia for Men body wash, a razor, shaving cream, axe body sprays and chapstick. You can also toss in some cheap chocolate (Toblerone is what I got), and some Tag body spray (they love that stuff......) I made these using a 2-liter Coke bottle (see here for instructions).

For the Mailman or Newspaper Delivery Person

Put together treats like assorted snack bars, candy and SOBE water that's always on sale. Stuff they can munch on as they deliver mail.

"Girls Night In" basket

Include PJ's, and a bunch of frees like nail polish, Nivea lip care, Herbal Essences Shampoo & Conditioner, Body Wash, lotion, and toss in a bunch of trial size freebies you scored at Target. Young girls always love getting goodies like these :)

"Survive the Break" - for teachers!

I gave my DD's 4 teachers a survive the break kit.... Nivea Lip Care or Chapstick, Chex Mix, Betty Crocker Cookie Mix, Sprinkles, Cookie Cutters (Dollar Spot at Target), Batteries, Razors, Nail Polish (For the girls), Hershey's Kisses, and the list could go on!

For the Babysitters

Make a basket out of a 4 pack of Starbucks Frappucino drinks (the cardboard) - leave 2 bottles in but take two bottles OUT, and fill the empty space with peanuts, crackers, nailpolish, lip care, etc.

Movie ♥'ers

Fill a 2-liter pop bottles (see my post HERE) with microwave popcorn, popcorn seasoning, and a box of movie candy. Adults and kids alike will not be able to figure out how to get it open...........ha ha ha :)

Baker's Delight

A few baking mixes, brownies, cookie mix, cake mix and frosting....tollhouse morsels, recipe cards (can be made and printed at home on fun paper), a cute pot holder (could even be crafted by the kids if being given to grandparents!... think CHEAP potholder with a kid's hand print!!!) A clearanced spatula or baking accessory. (Easily found at the Dollar Tree!), cute cupcake papers (with polka dots etc..)

Coffee Lover's Delight

Various small gourmet coffees.. I try to get the trial or smallest sizes. Then get various flavors of creamer, perhaps a few exotic teas, some hot chocolate mixes (clearance after the holidays at Target!), biscotti & a few cheap mugs from the dollar store... Then, hand dip some plastic spoons in chocolate (just the spoon not the handle!) - cover the spoon part with plastic and a tie/ribbon and attach a poem or little card :)

Family Movie Night

Go to your local Dollar Tree and you may be able to find a popcorn bucket (plastic) for a buck or two. Fill it with tissue paper, and then include a few movie candies, planters trail mix, 3-5 microwave popcorns, and 1 inexpensive DVD movie to enjoy. Cover it in plastic and tie it with a nice note explaining the concept: Movie Night!

Pampered Princess Pedicure Kit

Stuff a basket with the things that little girsl love the most! Pamper them like a princess! Get a basket at your local thrift store, and fill it with:

3-5 shades of nail polish

Toe Separators

Nail polish remover

Foot Soak - Jasmine and Lavendar Milk Scrub

Good smelling lotion

Emery boards

Nail clippers

Colored Cotton Balls

Cheap flip flops

Tiny Jewels (made to stick on cell phones)

For the "MAN" of the house

Free BBQ Sauce, A-1 steak sauce,Weber marinades and rubs I've received into a plastic cube crate and add the Multipurpose bic lighters and charcoal to it. You can also keep your eyes peeled for inexpensive BBQ Books. Include charcoal, or wood chips for the grill. You can also use a $5 off $5 for Kohls to get some inexpensive BBQ grillin' tools. Go a step further and include a few beers!!

Newborn Baby Basket

Find an expensive basket at the local thrift store and fill it with baby necessities to include:

A few Johnson's lotions, powder, washes etc (easily found for cheap at Target)

Cute washcloth set

Small Toys

Pacifier and pacifier clips- you can even order these personalized for the baby who has everything!

Burp Cloth

Set of onesies or hats..

Wipes / Diaper Samples

For the Teacher

A book for the classroom (or even some vintage books might interest them!)

Clorox wipes / spray

Plug in room air freshener (Sense and Spray or Lasting Impressions)

Refills (they WILL need more! LOL)

Some pens / small school supplies / stickers (as mid way through the year she may be needing more!)

Gum / Mints / Candy

Family Basket

Take a cheap laundry basket, line the bottom with a new, cheap towel and fill the basket with some laundry detergent, fabric softener, razors, soap, shampoo, shaving lotion, body lotion, and a few candles, maybe even some toilet paper!

For your local Law Enforcement (yes....they do work hard!)

A basket of Hand Sanitizer, shout travel wipes for cleaning up their uniform on the go, baby wipes, non-melting candy trail mix, gum ....and Febreeze Fabric Refresher! You can also include Sunglasses, travel first aid kit, good pens, car fresheners, all-in-one knife tool, hand warmers (if they live in a cold area), lint rollers, chapstick, batteries, and windex wipes to wipe their buttons or shoes. The list could go on!!!

For the Man Who Loves to Wash his Car

Does your guy really love to keep his car all clean and shiny? If he does, fill a plastic pail with sponges, cloths, car polish, a couple of cans of beer, and an issue of his favorite car magazine. Great homemade gift ideas for boyfriend or hubby! Woot!

Some ideas to make your basket look very beautiful:

Use tissue paper (2 colors) accordion pleated together, laid across the bottom of the basket and up the sides so it sticks out over the edges. Then place the items on top of the tissue and fan it out.

You can get plastic wrap to go around the basket at your local Dollar Tree...for $1. You can wrap it around the baskets and tie at the top with a bow to make it look like it was professionally wrapped.

Go to the top of this post for the link to the original post to see some great examples!

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.

What I've gotten FREE on Facebook

I decided to try to keep a list because I have gotten quite a few things for FREE on Facebook.

1. $5 gift certificate to Dick's Sporting Goods mailed to me from Tempe Parks & Recreation for answering trivia correctly
2. 2 free movie passes & a free popcorn coupon from Harkins Theatres for winning their haiku contest
3. 2 free admissions to Escalante Pool for answering trivia correctly on the Tempe Parks & Recreation page
   
4. 100 free business cards (that I designed myself) with free shipping at Zazzle.com
5. a Medieval Times mouse pad mailed to me for winning a contest on their Facebook page
6. a free appetizer coupon from Rustler's Rooste roll call contest
7. $10 gift card from Famous Dave's BBQ for answering trivia correctly
8. a free meal coupon at Famous Dave's BBQ for Facebook fan appreciation
9. some free coupons & samples in the mail from Kraft
10. some free feminine hygeine products & coupons in the mail from Kotex
11. 12 free photo cards from Shutterfly (just paid about $3 in shipping for all 12)
12. 3 free candles from Gold Canyon candles (we drove down to Mill & Rio Salado to get them)
13. Gold Toe socks in the mail
    
14. Secret berry scented body spray in the mail
    
15. Coupon for 2 free Rustler's Rooste desserts from their roll call contest (card in the mail)
    
16. Coupon for 1 order of free wings at Rustler's Rooste from their roll call contest (card in the mail)
    
17. 2 free tickets to see A Midsummer Night's Dream performed by Ballet Arizona at Symphony Hall
    

Well, that's all I can think of but there may have been others. I will keep adding to the list as time goes on.

What about you? Comment to let me know. :)

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.on

FREE E-Book: Lonestar Sanctuary by Colleen Coble

FREE E-Book: Lonestar Sanctuary by Colleen Coble.

Amazon has temporarily marked down the ‘Lonestar Sanctuary‘ e-book by Colleen Coble to FREE!

This Free e-book can be read on a Kindle, Blackberry, iPhone, iPod Touch, Android, or your PC or Mac!

Go here to download this Free E-Book!

Then check out more Free Amazon Kindle Books!

Amazon prices change often, so if it’s still Free… the price will still be listed as $0.00.

To learn more about e-books check out this post by Frugal Girls.

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.

Nearly FREEEEE Toy Story 3 Yahtzee Jr. game at Fry's Marketplace TODAY ONLY!!

Nearly FREEEEE Toy Story 3 Yahtzee Jr. game at Fry's Marketplace TODAY ONLY!!

Print a coupon for $5 off any Hasbro toy & or $5 off any Toy Story 3 game available on-line here.

Then head over to your nearest Fry's Marketplace & find their "non-food ad" where you'll find a coupon on the upper left corner of the front page for 30% off any one toy. You might want to call first to make sure they have some left but at the Gilbert & Baseline location they had at least 15 left sitting on the ad rack located just inside the east entrance. Note: These coupons expire TONIGHT.

Go to the toy department & get a Hasbro Toy Story 3 Yahtzee Jr. game which is currently priced at $7.99.

When you check out give the cashier the 30% off coupon torn from their in-store ad (or your newspaper or mailbox) & the $5 off coupon from Target which will save you a total of $7.14 off your $7.99 game.

Also, if you purchase other items so your total is $20 or more you can use the $5 off $20 Fresh and Easy coupon here.


Here's the item description for Hasbro Disney/Pixar Toy Story 3 Yahtzee Jr.:

Shake 'em! Roll 'em! Take 'em! Enjoy the classic fun of the Yahtzee game with these fun dice featuring all your favorite Toy Story characters. Simply roll and match your favorites to win. Fun for the whole family. For 2 to 4 players. For ages 4 years and up

*Note: This coupon says save 30% off any toy but when I used it the coupon worked for BOTH of the toys I bought so if you were to print out up to 3 of these coupons you might be able to get 3 of these games for about ($0.85 x 3) $2.55.

AND, if that works you total before coupons will be about $24.00 so you should be able to use the $5 off $20 Fresh & Easy coupon (the coupon states $5 off your purchase of $20 or more on qualifying "food" purchase so it is up to your cashier or mgr. on duty if they will take this coupon if you don't buy food). Remember, it's not a good idea to ever get cash back (& most cashiers won't give you cash back anyway) so if you plan on doing this you'll need to get about $3 worth of other items so your total won't go negative. A great idea for buying a few extra things are $1.00 gift bags or $1.00 mini jar candles (for gift baskets).

Sorry I didn't find out about this sooner. I hope you're able to take advantage of it tonight before the store closes at 11pm.

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.

Free sample of ice cream cake at Cold Stone Creamery

Just a quick note to let you know what the FREE Cold Stone Creamery ice cream sample looked like in case you didn't get a chance to get one today from 5 pm - 8 pm.

We got there about 7:45 pm & they only had the coffee caramel flavor left.

New Target Coupons on-line

Today I printed a list of coupons from the Target website & wanted to pass it on so you'd know which ones are Target Store Coupons (since the Target website doesn't say if they are & you can only find out after printing them).

Remember, Target Store Coupons can be "stacked" with manufacture coupons on the same item & used at Fry's Food & Drug and Fry's Marketplace stores since they are currently accepting competitor coupons.

There are some good coupons to help you prepare for Thanksgiving, even better, many of them don't expire until December.

STORE COUPONS:

50¢ off 8- or 9-oz. Hillshire Farm lunchmeat
$1 off With purchase of TWO Market Pantry® juices (this can be used on Fry's brand)
75¢ off Multipack Kleenex facial tissue
$1 off With purchase of TWO 7.94- to 9.5-oz. Dove chocolates
75¢ off up & up™ feminine care item (this can be used on Fry's brand)
$1 off Produce item $1 or more
$1 off With purchase of TWO 7-oz. or larger Kraft cheese items
$1 off Bakery item $1 or more
50¢ off With purchase of TWO Kraft puffed marshmallows
50¢ off Country Crock margarine spread
75¢ off With purchase of TWO select I Can't Believe It's Not Butter
1.50 off Pretzels with purchase of Cheez-It crackers or Crispix cereal
$1 off 1.5-qt. Edy's or Dreyer's ice cream
1.25 off With purchase of TWO 6-ct. Klondike ice cream bars
$1 off Kleenex facial tissue 3 individual or multi-pck

Manufacture Coupons:

$1.00 off BUITONI® Refrigerated Pasta or Sauce
$1 off when you buy any TWO Pillsbury® Refrigerated Holiday Cookies
75¢ off when you buy TWO any flavor select Yoplait® products

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.

Disney Store Finds at Arizona Mills Today

So, while I was shopping for a Halloween costume this morning at Goodwill my hubby called me & asked if I wanted to meet him in the food court at Arizona Mills for lunch. I don't make it into Tempe very often because my vehicle GUZZLES gas but he promised to buy me a fruit smoothie so I headed over to meet him. As we were eating I noticed a woman nearby me had a cute Disney trick or treat bag so when we were done we headed over there to pick up a few for our girls. Last year we used those cheap plastic ones & they ended up tearing by the end of the night so I did not want a repeat of that this year. The Disney store had these sturdy, reusable & cute trick or treat bags that can be used by both boys & girls marked down from $2.50 to only $0.99.


Then as we were checking out I noticed that there were 2 huge displays of Toy Story Jesse lunch boxes. The price tag said $12.50 but since the store was a Disney Outlet store I thought they were probably marked down so I asked how much they were. The cashier told me they were only $1.99!!! They are very cute & would make a great gift or back to school item for your favorite little girl Toy Story fan. I was actually going to get one of these at the Disney Store inside Fiesta Mall for my daughter just before school started but she ended up wanting a different style bag.

Here's a pic of the ones at the Disney Store inside Arizona Mills:

Toy Story Jesse lunch box was $12.50, NOW only $1.99 at the Disney Outlet inside Arizona Mills in Tempe

I'm sure there were other great deals in the store as well but since hubby was on his lunch break we didn't have time to shop around. This is my favorite store to get our Disney brand toys & clothes for ourselves & gifts because there are such great deals!

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.

Halloween Costume Idea for $8 or less

My mom & I were both struggling with what we were going to dress up as for Halloween this year. My idea was that we could wear scrubs because they wouldn't be too expensive & it's something we haven't done before. So, this morning I headed to Goodwill & picked up one for her & one for me.

Here is a picture of hers:

She is going to be a labor & delivery nurse because this was scrub was like new & really cute.

Here's mine:

I'm going to be a veterinarian because my youngest daughter loves animals & I thought this was a cute print.

The scrubs at Goodwill are normally $4.99 but if I printed out a coupon for 20% off your order of $10 or more (not valid on sale items like dollar day or 50% off tags, also excludes food & new items) HERE so they were only $3.99 each. They also had scrub pants. I didn't think they were necessary but if you wanted to go all out you could match up a scrub top with a pair of scrub pants, use the coupon & get the whole costume for about $8 + tax if you use the 20% off coupon.

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.

The Haunting - Haunted House

The Haunting Haunted House is Phoenix's LARGEST and ONLY indoor Haunted Attraction!

You can follow them on Facebook HERE.

You can find them on Twitter HERE.
You can find them on MySpace HERE.
You can visit their web site HERE.

Tickets:

At the door: $18 (adults) and $15 (children 12 and under)

Discount Tickets:

Fry's Food & Drug or Fry's Marketplace locations : $3 off orig. ticket price

Hours:

September 24 to November 1, 2010

Thursday and Sunday 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday 7 p.m. – 12 p.m.

Location:

The Haunting Haunted House
Phoenix, Arizona
Location: I-17 & Bell (at the Bell Canyon Pavilions shopping center)
Contact Phone: 623-225-7624

Benefiting:

Susan G Komen for the Cure

, Future for KIDS (helps at-risk children with life enhancement opportunities through sports discipline and life skills coaching), Helping Hands for Freedom (supports military families facing injury and loss, and improves the lives of military personnel and their children as they transition to civilian life through employment, mentorship and leadership programs), and Catalyst Arts Academy (empowers aspiring young artists through excellence in their chosen art, to bring awareness to and benefit other children’s organizations both locally and globally) will directly receive a portion of the proceeds from “The Haunting”.

Here is a list of some other haunted house attractions in Arizona:

Phobia Tucson
Tucson, Arizona
Location: Foothills Mall
Contact Phone: 520-990-9000


Chambers of Fear
Surprise, Arizona
Location: 114th Ave and Bell Road
Contact Phone: 623-255-6896


Spooks and Thrills
Tucson, Arizona
Location: 4450 S Houghton Rd
Contact Phone: 520-298-8980


Crypt Haunted Attractions
Mesa, Arizona
Location: Fiesta Mall


Jack and Jill's Haunted Hill
Phoenix, Arizona
Location: 9847 N 14th Street
Contact Phone: 602-380-6913


Dark Scares
Mesa, Arizona
Location: 6912 E Hampton Ave
Contact Phone: 602-363-8667


The Haunting
Phoenix, Arizona
Location: Bell Canyon Pavilions Shopping Center


The Slaughter House
Tucson, Arizona
Location: 1102 W Grant Rd
Contact Phone: 520-990-9000


Night of Impending Doom
Phoenix, Arizona
Location: 3836 W. Peoria Ave.
Contact Phone: 480-298-0786

I hope you enjoy finding out about all the different ways you can stretch your paycheck.

Please leave me a comment so I know you stopped by

& don't hesitate to ask questions or make suggestions too.