Top Vacation Destinations for Veterans Using VA Discounts

Traveling can be a great way for veterans to unwind, explore new places, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Many destinations offer special discounts and benefits for veterans, making travel more affordable and accessible. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top vacation destinations for veterans using VA discounts, highlighting the best spots to visit and the unique benefits available to those who have served.

1. National Parks

The United States is home to a vast array of national parks, each offering stunning natural beauty and a chance to experience the great outdoors. Veterans can take advantage of the following benefits:

• Free Annual Pass: The America the Beautiful Pass offers free entry to national parks for veterans, allowing them to explore iconic sites such as Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon.
• Discounted Campgrounds: Many national parks offer discounted camping fees for veterans, making it more affordable to enjoy extended stays in these scenic locations.

Some must-visit national parks include:

• Yosemite National Park: Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, giant sequoias, and striking granite cliffs, Yosemite is a must-see destination for nature lovers.
• Yellowstone National Park: The first national park in the world, Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful geyser.
• Grand Canyon National Park: One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders, the Grand Canyon offers unparalleled views and a range of outdoor activities.

2. Washington, D.C.

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. is rich in history and offers numerous attractions that honor the service and sacrifices of veterans. Veterans visiting Washington, D.C. can take advantage of the following benefits:

• Free Admission to Museums and Monuments: Many of the city’s museums and monuments, such as the National Museum of American History and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, offer free admission.
• Discounted Tours: Veterans can find discounts on guided tours of the city’s landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol, the White House, and the National Mall.

Key attractions in Washington, D.C. include:

• Arlington National Cemetery: A solemn and historic site, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of military personnel and includes the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• National World War II Memorial: This impressive memorial honors the 16 million people who served in the U.S. armed forces during World War II.
• Smithsonian Museums: The Smithsonian Institution offers a collection of museums, many of which provide free admission, allowing veterans to explore a wide range of exhibits and artifacts.

3. San Diego, California

San Diego is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and strong military presence. Veterans visiting San Diego can enjoy various discounts and benefits, including:

• Reduced Admission to Attractions: Many of San Diego’s top attractions, such as the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld, offer discounted admission for veterans.
• Military Lodging: The Naval Base San Diego and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton provide affordable lodging options for active duty and retired military personnel.

Highlights of San Diego include:

• Balboa Park: Home to museums, gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park offers something for everyone.
• USS Midway Museum: Explore the historic aircraft carrier and learn about its role in naval aviation history through interactive exhibits and displays.
• La Jolla Cove: A picturesque coastal spot, La Jolla Cove is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying stunning ocean views.

4. Hawaii

Hawaii is a dream destination for many, offering pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Veterans visiting Hawaii can take advantage of several benefits:

• Discounted Accommodations: Many hotels and resorts in Hawaii offer special rates for veterans, making it more affordable to stay in paradise.
• Military Lodging: Military bases in Hawaii, such as Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, offer lodging options for active duty and retired personnel.

Key attractions in Hawaii include:

• Pearl Harbor: A visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a must for veterans, offering a chance to honor those who lost their lives during the attack and learn about the events that led the U.S. into World War II.
• Waikiki Beach: Known for its iconic shoreline and vibrant atmosphere, Waikiki Beach is a great place to relax, surf, and enjoy the island’s beauty.
• Haleakalā National Park: Home to the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakalā National Park offers stunning sunrise views and unique landscapes.

5. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is renowned for its entertainment, nightlife, and luxurious resorts. Veterans visiting Las Vegas can enjoy various discounts and perks:

• Discounted Shows and Attractions: Many of the city’s top shows and attractions offer discounted tickets for veterans, making it easier to experience world-class entertainment.
• Special Hotel Rates: Numerous hotels and casinos in Las Vegas provide special rates for veterans, ensuring a comfortable and affordable stay.

Highlights of Las Vegas include:

• The Strip: The iconic Las Vegas Strip is home to some of the city’s most famous casinos, hotels, and entertainment venues.
• Fremont Street Experience: A vibrant pedestrian mall with live music, light shows, and a range of attractions, Fremont Street is a must-visit destination.
• Red Rock Canyon: Just a short drive from the city, Red Rock Canyon offers beautiful hiking trails, scenic drives, and rock climbing opportunities.

6. Orlando, Florida

Orlando is a top destination for family vacations, known for its theme parks and entertainment options. Veterans visiting Orlando can take advantage of various discounts and benefits:

• Reduced Theme Park Admission: Many of Orlando’s top theme parks, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, offer discounted admission for veterans and their families.
• Military Lodging: The Shades of Green Resort, located on Walt Disney World property, provides affordable lodging exclusively for military personnel and their families.

Key attractions in Orlando include:

• Walt Disney World: With four theme parks and numerous entertainment options, Walt Disney World offers something for everyone in the family.
• Universal Studios Florida: Explore thrilling rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows at Universal Studios.
• Kennedy Space Center: Located just an hour’s drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center offers an opportunity to learn about space exploration and view historic spacecraft.

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Veterans visiting New Orleans can enjoy various discounts and benefits:

• Discounted Tours and Attractions: Many of the city’s top tours and attractions offer special rates for veterans, including historic walking tours and riverboat cruises.
• Reduced Hotel Rates: Numerous hotels in New Orleans provide discounted rates for veterans, ensuring a comfortable and affordable stay.

Highlights of New Orleans include:

• French Quarter: Known for its lively atmosphere, historic architecture, and world-famous Bourbon Street, the French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans.
• National WWII Museum: This impressive museum offers interactive exhibits and displays that explore the history of World War II and the role of the United States.
• Café du Monde: Enjoy a taste of New Orleans with a visit to Café du Monde, famous for its beignets and café au lait.

8. Branson, Missouri

Branson is a popular destination for live entertainment, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions. Veterans visiting Branson can take advantage of various discounts and benefits:

• Reduced Show Tickets: Many of Branson’s live shows offer discounted tickets for veterans, making it easy to enjoy world-class entertainment.
• Special Hotel Rates: Numerous hotels and resorts in Branson provide special rates for veterans, ensuring a comfortable and affordable stay.

Key attractions in Branson include:

• Silver Dollar City: This 1880s-themed amusement park offers thrilling rides, live shows, and unique attractions for the whole family.
• Table Rock Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, and water sports at Table Rock Lake, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Branson Scenic Railway: Take a scenic train ride through the Ozark Mountains and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

9. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is known for its charming historic district, beautiful squares, and Southern hospitality. Veterans visiting Savannah can enjoy various discounts and benefits:

• Discounted Tours and Attractions: Many of Savannah’s top tours and attractions offer special rates for veterans, including historic walking tours and riverboat cruises.
• Reduced Hotel Rates: Numerous hotels and bed-and-breakfasts in Savannah provide discounted rates for veterans, ensuring a comfortable and affordable stay.

Highlights of Savannah include:

• Historic District: Explore the cobblestone streets, historic homes, and beautiful squares of Savannah’s charming historic district.
• Forsyth Park: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Forsyth Park, known for its iconic fountain, beautiful gardens, and recreational facilities.
• Bonaventure Cemetery: Visit the historic Bonaventure Cemetery, famous for its beautiful sculptures, moss-draped trees, and rich history.

10. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions. Veterans visiting Gatlinburg can take advantage of various discounts and benefits:

• Reduced Admission to Attractions: Many of Gatlinburg’s top attractions, such as Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg SkyLift, offer discounted admission for veterans.
• Special Hotel Rates: Numerous hotels and cabins in Gatlinburg provide special rates for veterans, ensuring a comfortable and affordable stay.

Key attractions in Gatlinburg include:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore the stunning beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains with hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Ober Gatlinburg: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities at Ober Gatlinburg, a popular year-round resort.
• Anakeesta: Experience the magic of Anakeesta, an outdoor adventure park offering zip-lining, treetop canopy walks, and breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains.

Conclusion

Traveling can be a rewarding and enriching experience for veterans, and many destinations offer special discounts and benefits to show appreciation for their service. From national parks and historic cities to beach destinations and theme parks, there are plenty of options for veterans to explore and enjoy.