With longer days and warmer weather, summer invites us to spend more, but that doesn’t mean you have to.

If you’re 55 or older, you may be eligible for dozens of under-the-radar discounts across the country, and many of them are more generous than you’d expect.

Whether you're traveling, shopping, dining, or enjoying a quiet day at home, there are deals worth knowing about.



Prices have crept up everywhere—from groceries to gas—and entertainment is no exception. Fortunately, many businesses are offering discounts tailored to older adults, some beginning as early as age 55. While not always advertised, these offers can make a meaningful difference.

Discount eligibility typically starts at 55, 60, or 65, depending on the business. Some companies ask for a government-issued ID, while others provide additional savings through memberships like AARP.

It’s always worth asking—many businesses won’t post their senior deals but are happy to honor them if you do.

Spotlight: Utah’s senior-friendly deals​

If you live in Utah or are visiting this summer, these local spots offer senior-specific discounts:

• UTA (Utah Transit Authority): Reduced pricing available for most passes.
• Loveland Living Planet Aquarium: Seniors receive $3 off standard adult tickets.
• Brighton Ski Resort and Snowbasin: Both resorts offer senior-priced lift tickets and season passes for those 65 and older.
• Salt Lake City Golf Courses: Discounted rates at locations including Bonneville, Forest Dale, Glendale, Mountain Dell, Nibley Park, and Rose Park.
• Utah State Parks: Annual day-use passes are available at a lower rate for seniors.
• Lagoon Amusement Park: Visitors aged 65–74 enjoy discounted admission.

Also read: AMC offers 50% off movie tickets this summer—here’s how to get yours

Nationwide discounts: Dining, travel, shopping & more!​

These chain-wide offers can be found at many US locations, although availability may vary:

Dining​

• Chick-fil-A: Discount policies differ by location—ask at the counter.
• Chili’s: 10% off the bill for guests aged 55 and up.
• McDonald’s: Senior pricing is available on select items at participating locations.
• Denny’s: AARP members save 15% daily, including on breakfast favorites.
• Jamba: AARP members receive 10% off in-store, online, or via the app.
• Buffalo Wild Wings, Sol Agave, and Waffle Love: For these three dining options, AARP members enjoy 25% off the total bill.
• Great Harvest Bread Co.: Buy-one-get-one-free offers for AARP members.
• Menchies: Buy-one-get-one-free offers for AARP members.
• Nothing Bundt Cakes: 50% off baked goods with AARP membership.
• Auntie Anne’s: 10% off for members linked to their rewards accounts.
• Cinnabon: 10% off for members linked to their rewards accounts.

Travel and Entertainment​

• Delta Airlines and United Airlines: For both airlines, select flights offer senior fares—check the “Senior 65+” option when booking.
• Marriott Hotels: Guests aged 62+ can access reduced room rates for up to two nights.
• US National Parks: Seniors can purchase a Lifetime Pass for $80 or an Annual Pass for $20, good at over 2,000 federal recreation sites.
• Best Western, Choice Hotels, Wyndham, and Radisson: For these four options, AARP members can book with exclusive hotel discounts.
• Paramount+: 10% off all streaming plans for AARP members.
• Amazon Prime: Half-price membership available for SSI, SNAP, or Medicaid recipients.
• Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood: For both options, AARP members may save up to $35 on Disneyland multi-day tickets and up to 10% at Universal Studios.
• Cinemark Theatres: Special pricing is available on designated senior discount days.

Also read: These new summer finds are quietly flying off shelves—don’t wait too long

Retail & Services​

• Walmart+: AARP members save $40 annually on membership, which includes delivery, gas savings, and streaming.
• Kohl’s: Every Wednesday, shoppers 60+ get 15% off qualifying purchases.
• Michaels: 10% off the entire purchase, including sale items, for seniors.
• AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon: Each provider offers wireless plans geared toward customers 55 and older.
• Rite Aid: A rewards program exclusive to customers 65+.
• Jiffy Lube: Many locations offer senior discounts—ask locally for availability.

Tips for maximizing senior deals​

1. Ask Every Time: Not all discounts are posted—just inquiring can lead to savings.
2. Carry Proof: A valid ID or AARP card may be required.
3. Combine Offers: Stack coupons or loyalty points with senior discounts when possible.
4. Check Online First: Company websites or customer service lines often list the latest deals.
5. Share the Info: Let your community know—it pays to spread the word.

For a modest yearly fee, AARP offers a long list of member-exclusive deals. From travel and dining to tech and healthcare savings, it can easily pay for itself.

Membership also includes helpful tools, newsletters, and community resources.

Read next: Summer savings alert: ALDI drops prices on 400+ items—up to 33% off
Have you taken advantage of any of the savings mentioned above? Found a great local deal we missed? Your experiences could help someone else save big. Share your tips, stories, and questions in the comments—we’re all in this together.