Travel BIG & stick to your budget
We know that traveling can get expensive – check out ways you can $ave when in Mason City
Pinching pennies here-and-there when traveling is difficult, and often times seems impossible when trying to see and do everything you wish. There’s no need to give up on dining out and leisure entertainment, you just need to know the deals when you come to visit! Check out a few insider tips to help you plan accordingly!
Monday
Start off your day with breaths of fresh air as you stroll through beautiful East Park. Let the kids burn energy while playing at Prairie Playground – the area’s LARGEST wooden playground, and see the Cannonball 457, all in one place.
INSIDER TIP: East Park makes the perfect place for a picnic. The gazebo and multiple shelter houses are conveniently located throughout the park. Or, bring a blanket and set-up camp next to the playground. A picnic lunch is a fun way to save a few bucks!
In need of a place for dinner, but don’t want to spend a fortune feeding the family? Try Mulligan’s Bar & Grill! They offer nightly specials throughout the week. Monday night’s 6 oz. top sirloin with a baked potato (or fries), salad and a bread stick is a value that simply can’t be beat – ONLY $8.95!
Tuesday
Satisfy your cravings for mere pennies! Discover deals upon deals every Tuesday in Mason City!
Enjoy #TacoTuesday – chicken or beef and $1.00 beer on tap at Las Palmas. Dollar Burger Tuesday at LD’s Filling Station… and if you’re really Hangry, get saucy at Rib Crib for all-you-can-eat ribs for just $14.99 for St. Louis-style ribs or $18.99 for Baby Back ribs. And don’t forget your dessert, Turtle-Tuesday at Culvers, turtle sundaes only $2.79 for a single scoop.
Don’t forget the entertainment! Whether you’re in the mood for a matinee or a late show, Cinema West Theatre has you covered with $5.00 movies all day AND 10 theatres to choose from. Get cozy and upgrade your seat for an extra $1.50 when selecting a show in LDX. Relax and kick back in their power reclining seats. OH, and don’t forget the popcorn – FREE with the purchase of any size drink!
Wednesday
Looking for something to do mid-week?
Take in art exhibits, ceramics and the famous Bil Baird marionettes at the MacNider Art Museum. Admission to the museum is free and exhibits are always changing. Be sure to stop in the AMAZING gift shop and purchase a piece of art to take home with you.
Enjoy fine dining at the Prime & Wine! Early bird specials are offered Sunday-Thursday from 4:30pm-6:00pm and are a great way to get a fantastic meal (and ambiance) – without paying the price.Try the prime rib sandwich or salmon for only $12.95.
Those of age, should hop into Mason City Brewing for FREE American-Pub trivia every Wednesday and Thursday night. Always free to play and no purchase required – PLUS, a weekly cash prize is up for grabs!
Thursday
Explore Mason City on two wheels by renting a bike using the Bike Share Program – Only $0.50 for the first hour and $2 per hour thereafter! Mason City has many recreational trails worth exploring! Mountain bike along the limestone bluffs or pedal on a leisurely sightseeing cruise along our community bikeways. Download the KoloniShare app to get started!
After a day of biking, you’ll surely be in need of some refreshment. Homemade ice cream from Birdsall’s is a MUST when visiting Mason City! Try a turtle sundae or a malt – and, when peaches are in season, we recommend a scoop of the peach ice cream – only $2.88 for a single scoop waffle cone.
Friday
Mason City is known for our appreciation of arts and culture. Be sure to check out the River City Sculptures on Parade, on a stroll throughout our picturesque downtown. Snap fun pictures as you go and enjoy the fresh air surrounded by stunning architecture and historic charm!
When you’re out and about, you will pass many unique and delicious lunch options in the Downtown District including The Quarry. Located on the Downtown Plaza, the outdoor dining area provides a perfect spot for you, and your crew to enjoy a wonderful lunch. Sit outside and enjoy a nice lunch with your group – try the Quarry Burger or the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich for only $9.00.
If you’re in the mood for an afternoon drink, stop into Fat Hill Brewing for a tasty IPA or cider. Root beer is also available. Brews range from $3-$5. Snag some complimentary pretzels while you’re there – a great mid-day snack!
INSIDER TIP: Not a beer drinker? Bring your own bottle of wine and pay $1 for a corkage fee.
These are just a few options when exploring Mason City, IA on a budget. What are your favorite ways to live it up in Mason City? Don’t be shy, our visitors want to know – share with us at admin@visitmasoncityiowa.com, and on social media! And like always, remember to tag your post #MasonCityIA