Getting older comes with its own perks, and they extend far beyond just wisdom and experience! If you ask us, senior discounts are definitely high on the list of benefits. These financial advantages acknowledge the contributions of seniors and provide a well-deserved break on many expenses. From dining out with friends and family and traveling to new destinations, all the way to everyday expenses like groceries and prescriptions, companies across the country come with yearly, amazing deals specifically for seniors. It’s a widespread practice that makes retirement and later life more affordable and enjoyable.
These discounts definitely make it easier to enjoy life’s pleasures while also saving a couple of bucks, which can add up significantly over time. For those on a fixed income, these savings aren’t just a bonus; they are a vital tool for managing a budget effectively. Since the year just started and we’re eager to find out more about all the delicious discounts awaiting us, we couldn’t help but make a list with all the places where we’re welcome to mindfully spend our hard-earned money. Think of this as your ultimate guide to unlocking savings and enhancing your lifestyle without financial strain. So here are some of the best and most valuable discounts targeting seniors this year!
Dining discounts
Eating out is a wonderful social activity and a delightful break from cooking, a joy that doesn’t really have to break the bank for seniors. There are plenty of popular restaurant chains offering all kinds of senior discounts, making it a lot easier for seniors to enjoy their favorite meals at a reduced price. These can range from a percentage off the total bill to special menus with lower prices and portion sizes appropriate for a senior’s appetite. Many establishments from fast-food to fine dining recognize the value of their senior patrons and are happy to offer these deals.
While many national chains have well-publicized offers, don’t forget to check with your local, independently-owned establishments. For those who are living in California, particularly, local eateries provide all kinds of special deals for seniors, but this is a nationwide trend. Local gems often have unadvertised specials, and a simple, polite question to your server can unlock some fantastic savings. Whether you’re looking for a classic American diner for a hearty breakfast, a favorite Italian spot for a family dinner, or just a cozy cafe for coffee and a pastry, there’s definitely something for everyone’s taste and budget.
Entertainment discounts
There’s quite a lot of entertainment to be enjoyed in every community, and seniors can greatly benefit from reduced pricing at many venues, making it easier to stay active and engaged. Movie theaters, for instance, oftentimes come with discounted tickets for seniors, which makes it easier to catch the latest blockbuster without actually stretching your wallet. Major chains like AMC, Cinemark, and Regal all have senior pricing, especially for matinee showings, allowing for a fun afternoon out that’s also budget-friendly.
Besides the big screen, live performance venues as well as concert halls offer all kinds of special rates for senior citizens. This can include anything from local community theater productions to major symphony orchestra concerts and ballets. For those who are interested in cultural experiences, there are plenty of museums, art galleries, and historical societies with lower admission prices for seniors. These institutions are often eager to encourage lifelong learning and community participation from every age group, so they proudly offer these reduced rates.
To have access to such discounts, the first step is always to check the venue’s website for more details, usually in the “Tickets” or “Plan Your Visit” section. If you can’t find information online, a quick phone call or simply asking at the ticket counter can yield great results. Don’t be shy; these discounts exist to be used! Some places could even require a membership to get the best rates out there, so it’s definitely worth doing a bit of research beforehand. Joining a local senior center or community association can sometimes unlock a whole new tier of local entertainment deals.
Travel discounts
Traveling can be quite a rewarding experience, especially during retirement when you have more time to explore. Luckily, there are numerous senior discounts to help our elderly loved ones explore more for less money. Airlines and train services, like Amtrak, often offer reduced fares for senior citizens, making both short trips to see family and long-distance adventures wildly accessible. Bus lines like Greyhound also feature senior fares, providing another cost-effective way to travel the country. Remember to be flexible with your travel dates, as off-peak travel can yield even deeper savings.
Also, nearly all major hotel chains provide special rates and package deals for seniors, which can significantly lower the cost of accommodations. Plus, some travel agencies that specialize in offering deals for older travelers can curate entire vacation packages with these savings built-in. These specialized agencies can also cater to specific accessibility needs, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free trip. For the more outdoorsy, seniors can even get the much-needed discount on park passes and permits for some state parks and campsites, making it cheaper to enjoy the great outdoors.
Retail discounts
Shopping is definitely more enjoyable when seniors know how to grab that deal and make their money go further. There are plenty of major retail stores that designed specific days as “senior discount days.” On these designated days, which are often mid-week, they provide a specific type of percentage-off deals to senior shoppers on most items in the store. This includes grocery stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, and clothing retailers. Besides the national chains, local shops and boutiques around your own community often have their own offers for seniors, fostering a wonderful connection between small businesses and local residents.
How to access and maximize senior discounts
Getting senior discounts is often just a matter of knowing where to look and who to ask. Being proactive is the key to unlocking these savings. Here are some of the most important tips to ensure you never miss out on a deal:
- You should always carry a form of ID that verifies seniors’ age. A driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or even a passport will work perfectly. While a photo on your phone might be accepted occasionally, having the physical ID is the most reliable method.
- Make sure you bring any membership cards for programs they might be a part of. An AARP or Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) card is essential, but don’t forget cards from local senior centers or clubs, as they may have their own partnership deals.
- Ask if a senior rate is available, even if nothing is really advertised. A simple and polite, “Do you offer a senior discount?” is often all it takes. The worst they can say is no, and you might be pleasantly surprised at how often the answer is yes. Many businesses are happy to oblige.
- Check some store flyers and websites for special senior discount days. Look through the weekly circulars that arrive in your mail or are available at the store entrance. Online, look for a “Deals” or “Promotions” tab on a company’s website.
- Join various loyalty programs at seniors’ favorite stores and restaurants. These are typically free to join and provide points, exclusive coupons, and early notifications about sales, which can often be stacked on top of a senior discount for maximum savings.
- Consider some memberships in organizations like AARP for additional discounts. AARP, in particular, functions as a massive hub for savings, offering a pre-vetted network of discounts on everything from car rentals and insurance to restaurants and tech products. The small annual fee can pay for itself after just one or two uses.
Get personalized assistance from senior helpers
Seniors and their families can easily enjoy significant savings by simply taking advantage of the vast array of available senior discounts. These savings can accumulate quickly, freeing up funds for hobbies, travel, or other financial goals. Whether you want to dine out, enjoy a film, travel, or just shop for everyday necessities, these discounts can easily enrich seniors’ lifestyles without really affecting their budgets. It’s a powerful way to take control of your finances and enjoy a more vibrant, active, and affordable life. Family members can also play a helpful role by researching these deals for their loved ones, making it a collaborative effort to maximize savings.
Amazon Prime
For those who rely on the convenience of online shopping, this is a game-changer. Amazon provides up to 50% off a monthly Prime membership for seniors who get government assistance, such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To qualify, you simply need to verify your eligibility with a valid EBT or Medicaid card. A Prime membership includes fast, free shipping on millions of items, access to the Prime Video streaming service with thousands of movies and TV shows, and Prime Music. In fact, we never need an excuse to fill our Amazon cart, but we have one anyway.
Papa John’s
Craving a pizza night? AARP members could get 20% off online orders, which applies to regularly priced menu items at participating locations. This fantastic deal allows you to enjoy premium ingredients, better pizza, and better prices. To get the discount, you typically need to access Papa John’s through the AARP discounts portal or use a specific promo code found there. It’s an easy way to save on a delicious and convenient meal for the whole family.
Marriott
Planning a trip? Anyone who’s 62 and older is automatically eligible to save a minimum of 10% on a Marriott hotel stay at thousands of their properties worldwide. This includes their vast portfolio of brands, such as Courtyard, Residence Inn, Fairfield, and JW Marriott. You need to make sure you book your room under the name of the senior guest and select the “Senior Discount” rate when booking online, since the wide majority of hotels can and will confirm your age via ID during check-in. This discount typically applies to non-premium rooms and may have some blackout dates.
IHOP
Hello there, pancake lovers! The International House of Pancakes is famous for being senior-friendly. IHOP offers a 55+ menu with amazing, discounted prices for customers who are 55 years and older. This special menu features smaller, more appropriately sized portions of their most popular dishes at a lower price point. Some of these items, such as the pancake and egg combo or the 55+ sampler, are almost 20% off the price of their full-sized counterparts. It’s available all day, every day.
DoorDash
If you prefer getting your favorite restaurant meals or even groceries delivered right to your door, this is a fantastic introductory offer. DoorDash offers AARP members 25% off their first order of $15 or more. This is perfect for those days when you don’t feel like cooking or going out. Make sure you visit AARP’s website for more details on how to redeem the coupon, which usually involves linking your AARP and DoorDash accounts to unlock the benefit. Keep an eye out for future deals as well!
Walgreens
Well, the first Tuesday of every month is Senior Day at Walgreens, a highly anticipated event for savvy shoppers. Customers who are 55 and up and who are enrolled in the free myWalgreens rewards program can receive up to 20% off their purchase on eligible, regular-priced items. This also includes everything from toiletries, vitamins, and household goods to snacks and cosmetics (exclusions like prescriptions, alcohol, and dairy apply). The discount is also within reach for online shoppers, and it generally lasts for the first week of every month on Walgreens.com.
Kohl’s
This is a great weekly opportunity for incredible savings. Shoppers who are 60 and older can stop by any Kohl’s location on Wednesdays to get a special 15% discount off their purchase. This applies to a wide range of clothing, home goods, and other merchandise. While it cannot usually be combined with other percentage-off coupons, it can often be used with Kohl’s Cash, making for a powerful savings combination. Just mention the discount to the cashier and present your ID to verify your age.
T-Mobile
Staying connected is more affordable than ever with T-Mobile’s senior plans. Customers who are 55 and older can sign up for one of T-Mobile’s discounted “Unlimited 55+” plans, which also gives users two unlimited lines starting at just $60 a month with autopay. This is a massive saving compared to standard plans. Some of the plans also include amazing perks such as subscriptions to Apple TV+ and Netflix, in-flight Wi-Fi, and even a complementary AAA membership for a year, providing incredible value beyond just the cell service.
Amtrak
All passengers aboard! It’s time to see the country by rail. Amtrak provides a 10% discount on most rail fares for passengers who are 65 and older. This discount applies to the regular adult fare on most Amtrak trains, making it a more affordable and relaxing way to travel. The discount may have restrictions on certain routes, such as the Acela Express, and it’s always wise to book in advance for the best availability and pricing. You can take this as a sign to book your next scenic train trip.
Hertz
As soon as you arrive at your destination, make sure you save money on your car rental to explore with freedom. Drivers who are 50 and older can join the Hertz Fifty Plus Program to score as much as 20% off base rates, especially when renting a car through Hertz. This program is free to join and provides significant savings on a wide range of vehicles. In some cases, the benefits can be combined with other promotions or coupons for even greater value, so always check for other stackable deals.
LensCrafters
Clear vision is priceless, but the eyewear itself doesn’t have to be. Through a partnership, AARP provides members with steep discounts on glasses at LensCrafters, such as 50% off lenses with the purchase of a frame, 30% off sunglasses (even non-prescription ones), and 10% off contact lenses. This comprehensive deal covers all your vision needs. Additionally, members can also get their eyes checked for a low $55 co-pay at participating locations, which is a substantial saving on a vital health service.
Denny’s
Hello there breakfast lovers! Denny’s is another champion of senior value. Did you know that Denny’s also has a discounted 55+ Menu, available whether you decide to dine in or simply order online? It features fan favorites in sensible portions and at lower prices. Moreover, AARP members can easily claim a 15% discount on their entire check at participating Denny’s locations. And just a heads up: customers need to show proof of age for the 55+ menu or a valid AARP card for the 15% discount. Note that you usually can’t combine these two offers.
Chili’s
For a casual and fun meal out, Chili’s has you covered. Chili’s provides seniors aged 55 and older with a 10% discount on their check, which applies to all food items and non-alcoholic beverages. Participation can vary by location, so it’s always a good idea to confirm with your server before ordering. Behold, as your sign to try the new Big Smasher Burger is out there, patiently waiting for you, and now at a discounted price!
National Parks Service Pass
Explorers, hikers, and nature lovers alike, this one is tailor-made for you and is arguably one of the best deals available anywhere! U.S. citizens who are 62 and older can purchase a Senior Annual Pass for just $20. Better yet, you can opt for a Senior Lifetime Pass for a one-time fee of $80. This incredible pass will offer free access to more than 2,000 national parks and federal recreation sites. It also provides discounts as high as 50% on select amenity fees, like camping, swimming, and boat launching. The pass covers entrance for the pass holder and all passengers in a personal vehicle.
For more context, it’s worth noting that the standard individual daily park passes can reach $20 each, meaning the lifetime pass can pay for itself after just a few visits. It is an investment in a lifetime of adventure and exploration of America’s greatest natural treasures. The pass can be purchased online or at a participating federal recreation site.
Michaels
You can easily get your craft on at Michaels and save while you do it. Anyone who’s over 55 years old can receive 10% off their entire purchase every single day. But that’s not all! The discount also includes sale items, which is a rare and fantastic perk that allows you to stack your savings. To get this benefit, you’ll need to create a Michaels Rewards account online and verify your age. Once that’s done, the discount can be used both in-store by providing your phone number and online when you’re logged into your account.
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