People are like fine wines – we only get better with age. And, as my great-aunt says, growing old isn’t so terrible when you consider the alternative! Just a few of the perks of advancing in your years include becoming a grandparent, retiring and spending time doing what you love, and, of course, discounts.
There are so many discounts out there that you can’t possibly be familiar with all of them. And sometimes places don’t offer the discount unless you ask, so it pays to do your homework. Or, in this case, to simply read our list of the top discounts available for older adults.
“But I’m not 65 yet,” you say. Read on! For some of these businesses, you only need to have hit age 50 to get a piece of the action. Others start offering discounts at 55, 60, or 65.
Many of the discounts listed below are offered exclusively to AARP members. You can join AARP for just $16 a year, beginning at age 50.
Shopping
- RiteAid: 20% off on the first Wednesday of each month for those 65 and up, via its Wellness65+ program.
- Kohl’s: 15% off to those 55 and older every Wednesday.
- 1-800-Flowers.com: AARP members get 20% off.
Dining
- Dunkin Donuts: Who doesn’t love their coffee? Show your AARP card and get a free doughnut when you buy a large or extra-large beverage at some locations. Check your local store for details.
- Dairy Queen: Many locations offer 10% off or a free small drink.
- McCormick & Schmick’s: 10% off to AARP members.
- Einstein Bros Bagels: 10% off baker’s dozen.
Travel
- Marriott: 15% or more off room rates at over 4,000 hotels worldwide to folks 62 and older.
- Ramada: Up to 20% off the best available rates to AARP members.
- Best Western: At least 10% off to those aged 55 or up who are also AARP members.
- Just ask! Plenty of airlines, car rental companies, and cruise operators offer senior discounts, so be sure ask about those when booking your next vacation.
Entertainment
- Museums: Many museums offer senior discounts. Both the MOMA and the Guggenheim in New York City charge seniors 28% less – $18 instead of $25 for admission.
- Showcase Cinemas: Discounted admission (recently $6.50 for most) to people aged 60 and up on Wednesdays.
- Regal Entertainment Group: Regal Cinemas, United Artists Theatres, and Edwards Theatres offer $10 tickets to AARP members who purchase online at some locations.
- The Senior Pass: Perhaps the coolest senior discount comes by way of the US government. The lifetime “Senior Pass” gives you access to over 2,000 recreational areas managed by five federal agencies, including all the national parks. In addition to free admission, look for other discounts on amenities or activities at the locations, too. The cost is just $20 for an annual pass or $80 for a lifetime pass once you hit 62.
