Summary
Washington DC takes pride in the U.S. Armed Forces and has many places that offer discounts to military members, veterans, and their families. While dozens of the most popular attractions in the nation’s capital are free to everyone, numerous organizations extend savings to active duty Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, reserves, guardsmen, veterans, law enforcement, first responders, and dependents. Consequently, it is advisable to call ahead or check the relevant website to verify discounts. Be sure to bring your ID.
Museums
Dozens of museums in Washington DC are free; however, a few popular ones are privately owned and charge admission fees. The following museums offer savings for members of the military:
- International Spy Museum – $6 discount
- National Crime and Punishment Museum – $2 discount
- Newseum – $3 discount
Entertainment
Here are some great places to save money:
- Washington Nationals Baseball – $3 discount
- Capital Wheel – $1.50 discount
- Washington Redskins – discount varies
- DC United – up to 30 percent discount
- Ford’s Theatre – 50 percent discount on tickets to Ford’s Theatre performances
- Arena Stage – 20 percent discount
- Folger Shakespeare Theatre – 50 percent discount
- Wooly Mammoth Theatre – 10 percent discount
- Theatre J – $15 off
- Young Playwrights Theatre – FREE tickets
- Studio Theatre – 20 percent discount
- Bobby McKey’s – FREE cover (standing room) on Friday Nights “Armed Forces Fridays”
- Round House Theatre – tickets are reduced to $35 and $20
- Signature Theatre – 20 percent discount
Hotels
Many hotels provide discounted rates to active and retired military personnel and their families. Below are details on some of the most well-known name brand hotels. If details are not easily found, just call the hotel directly and inquire.
Hilton Hotels – Save up to 15 percent off at Hilton Hotels, Hampton Inns & Suites, DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, and Homewood Suites brands.
Marriott – The locally headquartered hotel chain boasts over 3,800 locations offering discounted room rates for military personnel. Marriott operates hotels under more than a dozen brands, including luxury, lifestyle collection, and extended stay properties. Learn more about Marriott Hotels and specific locations in Washington DC.
Kimpton Hotels – The European-style boutique hotels offer 10 percent off to veterans.
Starwood Hotels – Government rates are available for military personnel at Westin, Sheraton, Four Points by Sheraton, St. Regis, and W Hotels.
Choice Hotels – Choice Hotels guarantee discounts at over 2,700 participating properties including Comfort Inn, Quality, Sleep Inn, and Rodeway Inn hotels.
Dining
Hundreds of restaurants across the country offer military and veteran discounts, so when in doubt, be sure to ask. Chain restaurants providing price reductions include Hard Rock Café, Applebee’s, IHOP, Cracker Barrel, Longhorn Steakhouse, Wendy’s, Golden Corral, Arby’s, Chick-fil-A, Subway, Quiznos, and more.
Transportation
Amtrak – Amtrak provides active-duty US military personnel, their spouses, and dependents a 10 percent discount on the lowest available rail fare on most trains. The national rail operator runs approximately 85 trains daily to and from Washington, DC.
Rental Cars – Budget, Alamo, and Avis provide military discounts, although rates may vary.
