Senior discounts can make travel affordable, open up entertainment possibilities that otherwise wouldn’t exist, and dramatically reduce the amount seniors pay for medication.
With the number of active seniors growing by the day, more companies than ever are tuning in to the value of marketing to them and are willing to offer them significant discounts to get their business. Whether you are retired or not, if you are over 50, it’s in your interest to take advantage of these deals.
We’ve scoured the travel, dining, entertainment, and healthcare landscapes to come up with more than 100 of the best senior discounts currently available.
Senior Discounts on Restaurants
Papa John’s
Papa John’s offers an eye-opening 25% off for AMAC members. This is an online-only promotion but one of the best you will find anywhere. To take advantage of it, get the promo code from the AMAC Papa John’s page, then sign into Papa John’s (you will have to open a PJ account if you don’t already have one) and enter the promo code. That’s it.
Denny’s
There are nearly 1,600 Denny’s in the US, most of them run by franchisee. The restaurant is famous for its Grand Slam breakfast and traditional ‘comfort food’ fare. While there is no corporate policy on senior discounts, many Denny’s franchises offer a 15% discount to AARP members. Just show your card at checkout. Some Denny’s locations also offer a special 55+ menu with smaller portions and smaller prices.
White Castle
White Castle has nearly 500 restaurants in the US and is famous for the small, square hamburgers they call ‘sliders’. White Castle is always running some kind of promotion, but most White Castle restaurants give seniors over 62 a 10% discount as a matter of course. Just show them an ID with your birthday on it when it comes time to pay.
Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse operates more than 700 restaurants in the US and is a great place to go for high-quality casual dining at reasonable prices. Things get even more reasonable for seniors because AARP members get 10% off their entire check (excluding alcohol). Simply show your AARP card at checkout time.
Friendly’s
Friendly’s has been around for more than 80 years and has always been a great place to enjoy quality American fare at budget-friendly prices. Many Friendly’s franchises offer seniors 60 and up a 10% discount. While other discounts are available for seniors by downloading and printing coupons from organizations such as AMAC.
Chili’s
Although they do not advertise it on their website, we have it on reliable sources that Chile’s offers a 10% senior discount for those over 60. If there’s a catch it’s this: while the corporate-owned restaurants offer it, franchisees are able to decide for themselves if they want to participate. So you may want to call your local Chili’s before going.
The Chart House
The Chart House operates 25 restaurants nationwide that always occupy stunning, seaside locations. Show your AARP card when at checkout and receive a 10% discount. If you like great deals, great seafood, and a romantic, relaxed atmosphere, the Chart House has a table for you.
Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box has more than 2,200 US locations. If you are 55 or older you may be able to deduct 20% off your entire order. This outstanding discount is only available, however, in a limited number of Jack in the Box restaurants. Mostly on the West Coast.
Applebee’s
Applebee’s does not have a blanket senior discount policy that covers all of their more than 2,000 US locations. But many of those locations offer 10-15% discounts to folks 60 and older who have one of their ‘Golden Apple’ cards. Granted, not as many Applebee’s locations honor the Golden Apple card as before, but you can still find some that do. Beyond the Golden Apple, you will also find a fair number of Applebee’s that offer a senior menu at a slight discount.
IHOP
IHOP’s 55+ menu is a complete list of discounted favorites for those 55 and over. Details will vary from location to location. But if you’re into the classic American breakfast, delicious sandwiches, and comfort food dinners that would make mom proud, IHOP has it at a very attractive price.
Waffle House
Waffle House has more than 2,100 locations in 25 states. Every Monday at many of those locations, seniors enjoy a 10% discount on their check. Just show your ID to verify you’re over 60. Because each franchisee is free to set their own discount policies phone ahead to ensure the Waffle House in your location participates.
Burger King
Burger King is the 2nd largest hamburger chain in the world behind only McDonald’s, and serves some 11 million people daily. They are constantly running various promotions like Whopper Wednesday. And on top of that, many of their franchise locations in the US offer a 10% discount to seniors 60 and over. Simply show your driver’s license or other ID when paying.
Subway
It often surprises people to learn that there are more Subway sandwich shops than there are McDonald’s and Burger King’s combined. But it’s true. Subway is the world’s largest fast food chain. They offer a 10% discount for seniors over 60 in the majority of their US outlets. Just ask when you order and show the cashier a driver’s license or other form of ID.
Souplantation
Souplantation is a chain of buffet-style restaurants that focus on healthy food. There are about 100 Souplantation restaurants, and most offer up to 10% off for seniors. However, some locations sweeten the pot significantly Monday through Thursday in the afternoons when they let anyone 62 or over enjoy all they can eat for only $7.99.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Carrabba’s Italian Grill has been around for more than 30 years and has nearly 250 locations, mostly in Florida, which has an enormous population of retired citizens. It’s no surprise then that Carrabba’s would team up with AARP to offer seniors a 10% discount on their bill. Simply show your AARP card at checkout to claim your discount.
Fazoli’s
Fazoli’s is a casual dining restaurant that serves Italian fare in more than 200 locations. They don’t mention it on their website, but if you are 62 or over, you can go to the Fazoli’s Facebook page and join their ‘Club 62’. Club 62 enables you to enjoy numerous discounts such as $4 pasta with a side all day Wednesday. It doesn’t cost anything to join.
McCormick & Schmick’s
McCormick & Schmick’s is a renowned seafood restaurant chain headquartered in Texas. If you love seafood served in a fine dining atmosphere, you’ll love M&S. McCormick & Schmick’s have partnered with AARP to offer members a 10% discount on their bill. The deal is good whether you eat in or order out.
Fuddruckers
Fuddruckers has a number of Senior Platters available at a 10% discount for those over 62. Like a lot of restaurant chains, they don’t mention this type of discount on their website because some franchisees offer it, and some don’t. If you find one that does, all you typically need to do is show an ID with your birthdate at checkout. Keep in mind too that Fuddruckers is always running other discount promotions too. So even if the location you go to doesn’t have the Senior Platters, they’re bound to have some other special running.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell started as a roadside taco stand run by Glen Bell in the early 1950s to become the world’s largest Mexican-food related restaurant chain. Today, most of the thousands of Taco Bell locations in the US offer seniors a 5% discount on their meals. Most that offer the 5% discount will also provide seniors with a free beverage to go with their food when requested.
Ben & Jerry’s
Ben and Jerry started their iconic brand in 1978 with little experience and $12,000. The two sold the company in 2000 for $326 million and moved on to other things. But Ben & Jerry’s continues to expand and now has hundreds of locations in the US, Europe, and Asia. Today, many Ben & Jerry’s locations in the US offer a 10% discount to those over 60. It’s not advertised. Meaning you will have to ask at the shop and show an ID to confirm your age.
Dunkin’ Donuts
If your sweet tooth prefers donuts to ice cream, Dunkin’ Donuts offers a 10% senior discount at many of its nearly 8,000 locations nationwide. You may have heard that Dunkin’ Donuts partnered with AARP to offer a free donut to seniors who purchase a large or extra-large drink. But the company discontinued that offer a couple of years ago.
TCBY Yogurt
Some older folks like ice cream, others like donuts, still others prefer their tasty treats to lean more toward the healthy side of things. TCBY has been around for 40 years and has nearly 500 locations in the US, most of which offer a 10% discount to anyone over 55. Just show an ID with your birthdate on it at checkout.
Senior Discounts at Retail Stores
Belk
The first Belk store opened in 1988. The Belk brothers were pioneers in the practices of buying in bulk and selling at fixed retail prices. Today, there are about 300 Belk department stores in 16 states, and the company is one of the best when it comes to providing discounts to seniors. They offer a 15% discount to those over 55 on the first Tuesday of every month. And have a standing 10% senior discount in most stores the rest of the time.
Kohl’s
While a lot of department stores have hit hard times, Kohl’s continues to thrive. The company is now the largest department store chain in the US, with nearly 1,200 stores serving every state except Hawaii. Every Wednesday, most Kohl’s locations offer a 15% discount to seniors over 60. If you’re not sure whether your local Kohl’s participates in this promo, give them a ring before heading over.
Pep Boys
Pep Boys has been around since 1921, providing automotive aftermarket services for value-minded car owners. Today, the company operates nearly 1,000 service centers in three-dozen states, and they have a standing offer of a 10% discount for anyone over 55. Just show your license at checkout time, and you’re good to go. They also offer a slew of free services you should check out while you’re there.
Michael’s
Unlike a lot of retailers that keep their senior discount quiet, Michael’s proudly displays it on their website. If you’re a photographer or painter or just want to find the perfect frame for your treasured family photos, Michaels will give you 10% off every day of the week. You must be 55 or over and open a Michaels Reward Account to qualify.
Burkes Outlet
Burkes Outlet is part of the Beall retail family. Robert M. Beall, then age 22, started the company in 1915, and it has remained a family-owned and operated business ever since. Today, there are Burkes Outlets in 13 states that sell everything from bedding, to handbags, to men’s and women’s clothing and more. Every Monday, Burkes offers a 15% discount to seniors 60 and over.
TJ Maxx
In an age when traditional retail has suffered at the hands of online shopping, TJ Maxx has bucked the trend. Since opening just over 40 years ago, they have experienced continuous growth and now operate more than 1,200 stores from coast to coast. Recognizing that Florida is home to so many retirees, TJ Maxx offers a 10% discount to anyone 55 or older every Monday at its stores throughout the sunshine state.
Bealls
Bealls is part of the same retail family that includes Burkes Outlet, and they show the same commitment to providing senior discounts as their retail relatives. Every Tuesday at Bealls Department Stores, seniors receive 15% off everything in the store. That includes housewares, apparel, footwear, jewelry, and more.
Bon-Ton
The Bon-Ton Department Store chain underwent a difficult period a few years back but has re-emerged with new owners and a new business model. For the moment, they’re an online retailer that sells everything from appliances to clothing. (Although they have announced plans to reopen some brick and mortar locations.) The company runs ‘senior discount days’ when those 55 and over can enjoy a 5% discount on most items.
Ross Dress for Less
With nearly 1,500 locations in 37 states, Ross Dress for Less is the country’s largest chain of discount department stores. Those 55 and over who sign up for the company’s Every Tuesday Club can enjoy a 10% discount on that day at every Ross store. Just make sure that you ask for the discount at checkout, and be sure to have a photo ID with your birthdate on it.
Banana Republic
Banana Republic started out as a place to get offbeat, quasi safari-style clothing, and over the years, morphed into a middle to high-end clothing retailer. Today, they’re owned by the GAP and operate 700 stores worldwide. In most locations, they offer a 10% discount to seniors 62 and over. The discount is not promoted so you’ll have to ask for it. And have a photo ID with birthdate ready.
Stein Mart
Stein Mart is a discount department store with nearly 300 locations spread across the American South. It sells everything from home decor to trendy fashions. Seniors interested in scoring a significant discount should show up at their local Stein Mart on the first Monday of every month when they can get 20% off all red dot or clearance items. Must be 55 or over and have an ID.
Salvation Army Thrift Stores
The Salvation Army was founded in London more than 150 years ago and has since become a familiar sight in most cities throughout the US. They operate hundreds of thrift stores that offer everything from clothing to housewares. Most of these thrift stores offer significant discounts to seniors. Sometimes as much as 50%. Although the exact amount tends to vary from store to store.
Senior Discounts on Prescriptions
AARP
The AARP is a huge organization with a lot of clout, and they put that influence to good work when it comes to nailing down senior discounts on a variety of products. The AARP Prescription Discount Card was created with the help of pharmacy benefit manager OptumRx. The card can provide AARP members with discounts as large as 61% on brand name and generic drugs at more than 66,000 pharmacies nationwide. If your current insurance or Medicare does not cover a particular drug, chances are good the AARP Prescription Discount Card will.
Kmart
The Kmart Prescription Savings Club costs just $10 per year to join and can save you big on generic medications. For instance, you will be charged a mere $10 for a 90-day supply of qualifying generic meds. This is a great way for seniors to save on those meds they need to take for long periods of time to address chronic conditions like arthritis. Membership in the Prescription Savings Club can also save you up to 25% of things like flu shots.
Costco
Most people are not aware of it, but Costco is the world’s second largest retailer after Walmart. Costco operates nearly 800 member-only discount retail facilities (which it refers to as ‘warehouses’) worldwide. With some 550 in the US. If insurance and Medicare do not cover all your prescription drug expenses, consider signing up for the Costco Member Prescription Program. You’ll get up to 40% off on qualifying drug prescriptions. Family members are also eligible to participate in the program.
CVS
CVS accepts the AARP Prescription Discount Card we profiled above. But they also run their own discount program called the CVS ExtraCare Savings and Rewards Program. The ExtraCare program provides savings in the form of coupons you can obtain through the program’s online coupon center, or which are printed on your CVS receipt. The amount of savings you receive from each coupon will vary. You can also sign up for and access the ExtraCare Program via the company’s handy smartphone app.
Target
In a process that took some six years and concluded in January 2020, CVS acquired Target’s pharmacy and clinic businesses. Most Target pharmacies had already been rebranded CVS pharmacies prior to the completion of this process, and Target customers moved to the CVS Health Network. The acquisition signaled the end of the Target Prescription Savings Plan, but people enrolled in that plan were and are eligible to join the equivalent CVS ExtraCare Savings and Rewards Program profiled above.
Walmart
You would think that the world’s largest retail, and one of the world’s largest pharmacies, would have a pretty robust senior discount program for prescription meds. But their in-house program is largely limited to their famous $4 refills. However, Walmart redeems itself by participating in the AARP Prescription Discount Card program. So make sure you take your card with you when you head over to Walmart.
Narcup
Narcup is short for the National Association for Retired Credit Union People. It’s a large but little known organization dedicated to obtaining deals and discounts for its members, particularly senior citizens. Narcup offers a prescription discount card that’s accepted at more than 10,000 pharmacies nationwide, including CVS and Rite Aid. The card can be used by seniors and their family members to obtain savings as high as 80% on some prescription medications. The card is a free download. But if you don’t have a printer, you can download a digital version of the card directly to your smartphone.
Rite Aid
Rite Aid has nearly 2,500 locations nationwide and is one of the 100 largest corporations in the US. Their considerable buying power enables them to offer some pretty hefty discounts on prescription drugs via the Rite Aid Rx Savings Program. Through the program, seniors and their family members can save up to 20% on most brand name and generic drugs. Signing up for the program is easy. Once you do, you’ll receive an Rx Savings Card that will unlock these savings for you when you present it at checkout.
Walgreens
Walgreens (not to be confused with Walmart) has been around more than 100 years and is the second largest pharmacy chain in the US behind only CVS. Walgreens offers savings on prescription medications via the Walgreens Prescription Savings Club. While most of the savings you will enjoy are in the 20% range, it is possible that on some medications your discount may be as high as 80%. The program is open to everyone, whether they have insurance or are uninsured.
RxFreeCard
The RxFreeCard does not actually provide you with free prescription drugs. The ‘free’ in the name simply refers to the fact that there is no charge to obtain the card. That said, the RxFreeCard can come in very handy for seniors tired of paying full price on brand name and prescription medications. Simply download the card and print it out. Or download an image of the card to your smartphone and show it at your pharmacy. The RxFreeCard is accepted at more than 50,000 locations nationwide, including Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, and more.
GoodRx
GoodRx is similar to the RxFreeCard in that both are available to anyone who wants one, and both are accepted at tens of thousands of pharmacies nationwide. The GoodRx card will yield up to 80% discounts on select prescription drugs. Though, to be real-world about it, most discounts will be around 20%. Still, considering the high cost of prescription drugs these days, every dollar you can save will help. A great feature of the program’s website is that it allows you to search for a particular drug and then shows you the best prices on that drug in your area.
Senior Discounts on Vision and Dental Services
Target Optical
Target sold off their pharmacy to CVS a few years ago but retained their eyeglass division. And that’s good news for seniors as Target Optical provides substantial discounts to AARP members on eye exams, eyeglasses, sunglasses, transition lenses, and contact lenses. Just show your AARP card (along with a photo ID with your birthdate on it) at checkout to cash in on these savings.
Pearle Vision
Pearle Vision is a global eye care brand that was founded in 1971 by optometrist Stanley Pearle. Pearle sold his stake in the company in the mid-1980s, and the business is currently owned by the same Italian company, Luxottica, that owns LensCrafters. Corporate minutia aside, Pearle Vision offers up to 30% discounts on standard lenses and full glasses for AARP members. Just show your AARP membership card at checkout along with a valid ID with your birthdate.
LensCrafters
As we just mentioned, corporate consolidation has resulted in the country’s two largest eye care brands – Pearle and LensCrafters – being owned by the same international conglomerate (Luxottica). So it should come as no surprise that the discount AARP members receive at LensCrafters will look suspiciously like the one they’ll receive at Pearle Vision. Because they are essentially the same. And that’s good because if there isn’t a Pearle near you, there’s bound to be a LensCrafters. Just bring your AARP member card and a photo ID with birthdate.
Sears Optical
Sears is one of the brick and mortar retailers that has been hardest hit by the rise of online shopping. Nonetheless, they are still with us, albeit in a greatly reduced capacity these days. That said, Sears Optical offers some significant discounts to AARP members. They also have (as of this writing) a standing 10% discount offer on a complete set of eyeglasses for those 50 years old and over.
1Dental
1Dental sells alternative dental plans that enable seniors to obtain significant discounts on dental care. 1Dental partners with an extensive network of participating dentists and offers two levels of coverage at different prices. Whichever you choose, however, you are still likely to save a bundle over the cost of regular dental insurance. Simply go to the 1Dental website, select a plan and then use one of the dentists in their network. You may save as much as 60% on some common dental services.
Spirit Dental
Spirit Dental specializes in providing affordable dental insurance to senior citizens. The company offers four different levels of coverage with plans ranging from a very modest $36 per month, to a reasonable $74 per month (as of this writing). There is a one-time deductible of $100, and after that you’re covered for anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 in dental work per year, depending on your plan. Acceptance is guaranteed, and you can even get coverage for dental implants.
Senior Discounts on Groceries
Fred Meyer
Fred Meyer is familiar to just about anyone who lives west of the Rockies. The supermarket chain has been around for just shy of 90 years and does $5 billion in annual sales. The first Tuesday of every month is Senior’s Day, when anyone over the age of 55 is entitled to an additional 10% off all food items. Simply show a valid photo ID with your birthdate on it to receive your discount.
American Discount Foods
If you live in Arizona and can’t get to a Fred Meyers, American Discount Foods is a more than acceptable alternative. This small chain of big supermarkets is a Grand Canyon State phenomenon that recognizes the state hosts a large population of retirees and others seeking refuge from the cold and snow of the northern tier. Every Monday at American Discount Foods, seniors over the age of 62 receive 10% off their bill. Just present your valid ID to the cashier.
Fry’s Food Stores
Staying in Arizona for a moment, Fry’s Food and Drug Stores operates nearly all its more than 100 stores in the state. The company was founded almost 70 years ago in California. But after being sold several times, it consolidated operations in the Grand Canyon State. Every Wednesday at Fry’s, those 55 years old and over can enjoy a 10% discount on their bill. Just show your ID to the cashier to obtain your savings.
Compare Foods
What Fred Meyer is to the west coast Compare Foods is to the east coast. Compare operates dozens of stores, predominantly in the Northeast. In many of these stores, they offer ‘senior only‘ shopping hours in the morning when seniors can get their grocery shopping done in peace while also enjoying a 10% discount. Some Compare stores eschew the daily senior hours and instead offer a 10% discount to seniors every Wednesday. To take advantage you’ll need to be over 60 and show a valid ID with birth date.
Gristedes
Gristedes Supermarkets is another northeastern grocery chain. In this case, nearly all their 31 stores are located in New York City. The company is privately owned and retains something of a small store feel. That kind of personal touch extends to their senior patrons as well. Every Tuesday at Gristedes, seniors receive a 10% discount. You must be 65 or over to be eligible for this discount. And you’ll need to bring along a valid ID.
DeCicco Family Markets
Like Gristedes, DeCicco Family Markets is a New York-only enterprise, with five stores spread out around the greater New York City metro area. As the name suggests, DeCicco is a family owned and operated business that strives to deliver a personal level of service you won’t find in huge supermarket chains. To drive home that sense of community, DeCicco offers a 5% discount to seniors 60 and over every Wednesday.
Publix Supermarkets
Our geographical pursuit of senior grocery store discounts moves south with Publix Supermarkets. Publix was founded 90 years ago in Winter Haven, Florida and now consists of more than 1,200 employee-owned stores sprinkled across the American southeast. At one time, Publix offered ‘senior only’ shopping hours. But those have been discontinued. As of this writing, however, the company still offers a 5% discount to seniors every Wednesday. You must be 60 or older to receive the discount. And be prepared to be asked for an ID.
Piggly Wiggly
Piggly Wiggly celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016 and is something of a Southern institution. Piggly Wiggly was founded in Memphis, Tennessee, and was the first self-service grocery store. That is, the first to allow customers to browse the store and select their own items. Today, there are more than 600 Piggly Wigglys, mostly located in the southeast, and every Wednesday, seniors over 60 receive a 5% discount on all their purchases.
Bi-Lo
There are 39 Bi-Lo Supermarkets sprinkled throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Bi-Lo has been around since 1961 and, over the years, had many owners. But the company has never wavered in its commitment to provide affordable foods to its dedicated customer base. Every Wednesday at Bi-Lo, customers 60 and older can enjoy a 5% discount on their bill when they show a valid ID to the cashier.
Hy-Vee
Finally, we visit the upper midwest, where our pursuit of senior grocery discounts takes us to Hy-Vee Supermarkets. Like Publix, Hy-Vee is employee-owned. As a result, even though there are now more than 240 stores in eight midwestern states, those stores still retain a local flavor. Every Wednesday, Hy-Vee Supermarkets offer customers 55 and older a 5% discount on their grocery bill.
Senior Discounts on Entertainment
AMC Theaters
AMC Theater is 100 years old this year and is the largest movie theater chain both in the world and in the United States, operating more than 10,000 screens in the US and Europe. AMC offers seniors 60 and up as much as 30% off on movie tickets when they show a valid ID when purchasing.
Regal Cinemas
Regal Cinemas operates more than 7,000 screens in the US and, after its acquisition last year by the UK’s Cineworld, it is now part of the world’s 2nd largest theater chain after AMC. Regal Cinemas offers a 20% discount to seniors who are members of AARP and purchase their tickets online. Some restrictions may apply, so contact your local Regal Cinema if you have any questions.
Cinemark Theaters
Cinemark Theaters has more than 500 locations nationwide, which qualifies it as the 3rd largest movie theater chain in the country. Cinemark regular offers up to 35% off on regular movie tickets to those 62 and over (with ID). But they also run ‘Senior Days‘ when those same seniors can get an additional 10% off. Since senior days do not usually adhere to a set schedule, you will need to contact your local Cinemark Theater to find out.
Ticketmaster
Ticketmaster is the largest ticketing agency in the world and controls most of the US mainstream ticketing business. In short, if you want a ticket to just about any big-name show, concert, or performance, you’ll probably need to get them through Ticketmaster. Fortunately, the company has partnered with AARP to provide AARP members with a ‘Buy 3 get 1 free‘ deal. Which essentially amounts to 25% off on lots of four tickets or more.
Showcase Cinemas
Not to be outdone by its larger rivals, Showcase Cinemas offers seniors $7.75 tickets every Wednesday. With the average price of a movie ticket in the US in 2020 around $9.25, that amounts to a 15% discount. At select theaters, the discounted price is $6.50, a 30% savings. The company also offers seniors a $4.50 popcorn and drink combo. Be prepared to show an ID with birthdate when purchasing.
Dollywood
The Dollywood amusement park (named after famed country singer Dolly Parton) gets nearly 3 million visitors per year, making it the largest ticketed attraction in Tennessee. Dollywood offers senior discounts on all its tickets for those over 60. In most cases, that means a $10 discount on tickets.
Senior Discounts on Cellphone Plans
AT&T
AT&T was broken up by government regulators in the 80s but managed to re-emerge in recent years as the world’s largest telecommunications company. They’re also the country’s largest provider of mobile phone services. AT&T Wireless offers a number of discount plans for seniors 55 and over. They also partner with AARP to provide additional savings, including $10 per month savings per phone and $45 in savings on activation fees.
Verizon Wireless
Verizon is right up there with AT&T when it comes to providing wireless phone services to millions in the US. Verizon has a special offer for those 55 and over that includes a flat fee of $60 per month with unlimited 4G LTE data, unlimited talk and texting, HD streaming, and more. If you get two lines, the price per line drops to $40.
T-Mobile One
T-Mobile is a brand name used by German telecom company Deutsche Telekom AG for its US-based services. T-Mobile offers an array of discount plans for those 55 and over that run from $27.50 per line per month for a basic plan (with two lines) to $45 per month for two lines with HD streaming, high-speed data, unlimited in-flight data, and much more.
Consumer Cellular
Consumer Cellular may not be a household name, but they’ve been around since 1995 and currently have some 4 million subscribers. CC offers cellphones designed for seniors as well as phone accessories to those 50 and older using network capacity they buy from AT&T. Their no-contract cell plans are a great deal made even better by the fact that AARP members get an additional 5% off their already low rates.
Metro by T-Mobile
Metro by T-Mobile (formerly MetroPCS) has been around in one form or another since 1994. In 2012 the company then known as Metro was bought by T-Mobile and has benefited greatly from access to the parent company’s extensive network infrastructure. Today, there are about 18 million Metro subscribers, many of them AARP members who enjoy the same discounts on Metro by T-Mobile as those who use T-Mobile One services.
Senior Discounts on Hotels
Hyatt Hotels
The first Hyatt motel was opened in 1954 in Los Angeles. Today, there are some 900 Hyatt Hotels worldwide. In the US, Hyatt offers discounts of 10-20% for AARP members who are 62 and over. Just remember to have your AARP ID ready when booking and when checking in to your Hyatt Hotel.
Wyndham Hotels
Wyndham operates some 9,000 hotels in 20 countries around the world. In the US, Wyndham Hotels is offering AARP members a discount of 10%, and in some cases more, off their best available rates. As with Hyatt, make sure you have your AARP card with you when checking in.
Marriott
When measured by the number of rooms it has to offer, Marriott is the largest hotel chain in the world. It’s also one of the oldest, having been founded nearly a century ago by J. Willard Marriott. Marriott offers a senior discount rate at most of its hotels that is 15% less than the normal rate. The person reserving the room must be the person using the room. That person must be at least 62 years old and bring a valid ID with them when checking it.
Best Western
Best Western started as an informal alliance of small hotels in California right after World War II and has grown steadily ever since. Today, the company operates some 2,000 hotels in the US alone and more than 4,200 worldwide. Best Western offers those 55 and older up to 15% off their standard room rates on all their hotels worldwide. At most of those hotels you’ll also get a complimentary breakfast. Bring an ID when checking in.
Hampton Inn
Hampton is another hotel chain operating in the mid-market space ala Best Western and Comfort Inns. The first Hampton Inn opened in the early 1980s, and the chain was bought in 1999 by Hilton. Hampton Inn offers a 10% discount to those aged 65 and up on any of their thousands of rooms across the US. No AARP membership is needed to enjoy this discount.
Super 8
Super 8 has been around since 1974. It got its name from the fact that you could book any room at the first Super 8 Motel for $8.88 per night. There are now almost 2,900 Super 8 hotels and motels in the US. And while the $8.88 nightly rate no longer applies, they’re still known for their reasonable prices. Seniors who stay at a Super 8 can enjoy a discounted rate that typically varies from location to location.
Motel 6
Like Super 8, Motel 6 gets its name from its original room rate of $6 per night. The first Motel 6 opened in 1962, and today there are more than 1,400 nationwide. Motel 6 makes no secret of their wish to attract seniors and offers an 8% discount for all customers 60 and older. You don’t have to be an AARP member to enjoy this discount.
Comfort Inn
The Comfort Hotel brand has been around since 1981 and is today owned by the Choice Hotels conglomerate. Comfort Inns are designed to compete with the Best Westerns of the world, and you’ll find a lot of similarities. If you are an AARP member (over 50) or over 60 and not an AARP member, you can enjoy a 10% discount at Comfort Inns nationwide.
Clarion Hotels
Like Comfort Inn, Clarion is another imprint of Choice Hotels. There are approximately 250 Clarion Hotels worldwide, and they all provide a senior discount rate for those over 60 (over 50 if you are an AARP member). You’ll be making this reservation through the Choice Hotels site, so don’t get confused.
Sleep Inn
As you are no doubt figuring out by now, Choice Hotels owns a number of popular hotel and motel chains. Unlike some of their other properties, however, the Sleep Inn brand was begun by Choice, rather than purchased by them. Today there are more than 400 Sleep Inns and they all provide the same senior discount as other Choice Hotel properties.
Howard Johnson Hotels
The Howard Johnson brand began as a restaurant chain, which, for about 20 years, was the most popular chain restaurant in the US. Today, only 1 HoJo restaurant is left, and the brand has migrated almost entirely to hotels. Those over 60 can enjoy a discounted rate at the more than 300 Howard Johnson hotels nationwide. That discount will vary from location to location.
Holiday Inn
Holiday Inn opened its first hotel in 1952. And though it’s had its ups and downs over the years, recently it has emerged as a stable and popular brand owned by the British company IHG. There are more than 1,100 Holiday Inn hotels worldwide. Holiday Inn offers discounts of varying sizes to anyone who can show membership in AARP or another senior persons organization.
Days Inn
Days Inn was started by Cecil B. Day in 1970 and is owned today by the Wyndham Hotel Group. There are currently more than 1,700 Days Inn hotels worldwide. As with all Wyndham properties you make your reservation through the Wyndham website, where you will be able to obtain a senior discount of up to 10% at most Days Inn locations.
Candlewood Suites
Candlewood Suites caters more to those seeking a stay of at least seven days, and perhaps as long as 30 days or more. There are some 300 Candlewood Suites hotels worldwide, with all being owned and operated by IHG, the same company that owns and operates Holiday Inn. As a result, you’ll be entitled to similar IHG senior discounts, which will vary by location.
Senior Discounts on Airline, Train and Bus Tickets
British Airways
British Airways is one of the largest airlines in the world. It currently has a fleet of 249 aircraft and serves 160 destinations worldwide. British Airways currently offers AARP members several different discounts, including up to $65 off on economy standard fares, and up to $200 off on business class fares. To take advantage of this offer, sign into your AARP account and follow the instructions.
American Airlines
American Airlines has been around since 1926 and is, by all accounts, the world’s largest airline. American maintains a fleet of more than 800 planes and serves more than 350 destinations worldwide. Seniors 65 and over flying on American can typically receive a 10% discount on most domestic fares. It’s suggested you call the company at 1-800-433-7300 to find out if your flight is eligible.
Delta Airlines
Delta is another of the world’s largest airlines and, like American Airlines, can trace its origins to the 1920s. Delta currently operates a fleet of more than 700 planes and flies to 325 destinations worldwide. While Delta does not have a blanket policy on senior discounts, they do occasionally offer discounted fares for seniors on some routes. It’s advised you call the company at 800-221-1212 to find out which routes are currently offering discounts.
United Airlines
United Airlines is the world’s third-largest airline, with more than 800 planes flying to more than 340 destinations worldwide. Like American and Delta, United is a legacy airline that can trace its roots to the 1920s. United offers senior discounts on many of its routes. Simply go to united.com and select the ‘senior’s category when making a reservation. The discount size will vary depending on the route.
Amtrak
Amtrak was never supposed to last. When it was formed in 1971, it was thought that within a few years, cars would kill off the last trains and Amtrak would be put to rest. But a funny thing happened on the way to extinction. Amtrak’s 6 million passengers in 1971 grew into more than 32 million in 2019. Meaning the American rail experience is still alive. Seniors can enjoy a 10% discount on most Amtrak routes.
Trailways
Unlike Greyhound, Trailways has always been a loose federation of independent bus companies operating under the Trailways umbrella. It’s still that way, with dozens of companies nationwide using the Trailways name and offering a type of unified service. Trailways offers a 10% discount to senior travelers over 65 on all its routes. Though you’ll have to purchase tickets in person and present a valid ID with birth date.
Greyhound
Greyhound has the nation’s largest bus fleet. Until 2007, when it was acquired by the British company FirstGroup, it was the largest American-owned bus company. Greyhound offers a discount of 5% to people over 62 on most of its routes. However, be aware that you may actually be able to save more than that by purchasing tickets during special promotional periods.
Senior Discounts on Rental Cars
Budget
Budget Rent-a-Car was founded in 1958 in Los Angeles and has seen steady, if unspectacular growth ever since. Today, it has nearly 2,000 locations in the US and an almost identical number of locations overseas. While Budget is not the largest American car rental company, it does have one of the best senior discounts. AARP members enjoy up to 30% off the cost of their rental, as well as free upgrades and other perks.
Avis
Avis is a truly global brand with operations in more than 160 countries. Avis was founded 74 years ago by Warren Avis, who sold the company after 10 years. Today, Avis is part of the Avis Budget Group. As you might imagine, being partners with Budget means that the outstanding senior discount you’ll get with one also applies to the other. And indeed it does. Get up to 30% off on your next Avis rental if you are a member of AARP.
Alamo
Alamo Car Rental opened for business in 1974 and had something of a rocky history. Until, that is, it was acquired by Enterprise Holdings in 2007. Now it’s part of the largest car rental conglomerate in the US, along with its sister companies National Car Rental and Enterprise Car Rental. Alamo typically provides up to a 20% discount through its Senior Circle promotion.
Dollar
Dollar Rent-a-Car was established in Los Angeles in 1965 and remained a private company until it was purchased by Chrysler in 1990. Over the years, it changed hands several more times and is now a subsidiary of Hertz Global. From time to time Dollar will offer a 10% discount to seniors. But even when they are not running that promo, they typically have other deals and promos that will net even bigger discounts.
Payless
Payless is about as close as you can get to a niche car rental brand. Begun in 1971, the company was acquired in 2013 by the Avis Budget Group. With 167 locations, you won’t find it everywhere. And, Payless does not offer the same generous senior discounts you’ll enjoy at Budget or Avis. But if you do have a Payless location near you, it will likely offer a 5% discount to AARP members 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Hertz
With more than 30,000 locations worldwide, Hertz is one of the world’s largest car rental companies. The company can trace its roots to 1918 when it had a fleet of 12 Ford Model Ts. Today, the company has nearly half a million rental vehicles in the US alone. Hertz offers a 5% discount to those over 50, although not all locations participate.
Misc Senior Discounts
US National Parks
With so many international destinations currently inaccessible, road trips have become quite the thing. So take advantage of one of the above rental car deals, avail yourself of some of the hotel senior discounts we outlined, and head off to the National Parks. The once-popular Golden Age Passports are no longer available, but seniors can still get up to 50% off on select services such as camping and boat launching when they buy an annual or lifetime National Parks pass. Must be 62 or older to qualify.
Busch Gardens Tampa
Hard to believe, but Busch Gardens have been around for more than 60 years. They were originally developed by the Anheuser Busch Corporation to promote their beer brands, but later morphed into straight-up amusement parks. At Busch Gardens, Tampa, those over 50 can get $3 off a one day ticket. But with park officials trying hard to bring people back after the recent closure, you may be better off checking out some of their other promotions.
Kennedy Space Center
For more than 50 years Kennedy Space Center was the epicenter of human space exploration efforts. The moon missions started here, as did all Space Shuttle missions. After a hiatus of almost 10 years, however, manned launches are back led by SpaceX, whose ambitious plans include manned missions to Mars in the coming decade. Get in on all the action and relive the history with a discounted senior ticket to the Kennedy Space Center.
Grand Canyon Railway
The Grand Canyon is arguably the most awesome natural spectacle on earth. Each year almost 6 million people from all over the world come to bask in the natural splendor. Many enjoy a ride on the historic Grand Canyon Railway that runs from Williams, AZ to the canyon itself. AARP members get a 15% year-round discount.
Conclusion
There you have it. 100+ senior discounts to lively up your everyday life, enable the perfect road trip, help you get the medication you need at affordable prices, and more.
Whether you’re planning a day at SeaWorld with the grandkids, looking for a great place to have a great American breakfast, or planning to watch the next SpaceX launch from Kennedy Space Center, you’ll find a way to do all of those things for less on the above list.
There’s never been a better time to take advantage of the senior discounts these top-flight companies are offering.