There are lots of Veterans Day discounts and free meals in 2021 at restaurants and stores to honor our former and current Military Personnel on and around Veterans Day. From free food, free haircuts, free car washes, and more; we want our heroes to feel taken care of and appreciated.
Click on links for offer details and pay close attention to the details, proof of service requirements, and call your location to ensure participation. Most of the offers require military identification of some sort.
While many of the Veteran Day deals are national chains, we found a few Veterans Day discounts local to Columbus, including meals and free admissions. Please let us know if you are aware of other local deals for Veterans Day – we love to support local!
If you’re not a veteran, you probably know someone who is, so make sure to share these deals with them. Better yet, suggest meeting at one of these restaurants so they can redeem their free meal or activity with good company!
2021 Veterans Day Deals
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Free admission to the Zoo for Veterans and current Military members, and their immediate families on November 11, 2021.
True REST Float Spa Free Session
On Thursday, November 11, True Rest Float Spa is closed to the public and only offering free, 60-minute floats to veterans on Veterans Day. Nearby locations are at Easton and Powell. Call (614) 798-8783 to book, and bring military ID or DD Form 214.
In addition, to show support and appreciation for the sacrifices made by men and women who serve the U.S. military, True REST Float Spa has designated the 11th day of every month, as U.S. Military Appreciation Day and offers a free, 60-minute float to any active duty personnel and/or veteran.
Since 2015, True REST Float Spa has given away almost 17,000 complimentary float sessions.
Wexner Center for the Arts
Free gallery admission (always) for veterans and active military members in support of Vets at the Wex, an ongoing public program that works with veterans and their loved ones, many living with the symptoms of traumatic brain injury or PTSD. Just show military or veteran ID. Note: the Wex is closed on Veterans Day and most major holidays.
Veteran’s Day Restaurant Deals for 2020
The offers below are from 2020, we will update as details are released for 2021.
Starbucks
On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Starbucks will offer a free tall (12-oz) hot brewed coffee for veterans, military service members and military spouses at participating U.S. Starbucks stores.
Starbucks will also donate 25 cents for every cup of hot brewed coffee sold nationwide on November 11 to military nonprofits Team Red, White & Blue and Headstrong to support the mental health and wellbeing of military communities
Chicken Salad Chick
Free Chick Special and Regular Drink to any Veteran or active military service member on November 11. Valid at all locations on November 11th, 2020 for service members in uniform or those with a valid military ID or DD214.
- 687 Worthington Rd. Westerville, OH 43082
- 6304 E Dublin Granville Rd. Columbus, OH 43081
Red Robin
Red Robin has changed their Veteran’s Day deal for 2020 due to limited dining capacity. Veterans and Active Military who are Red Robin Royalty members can redeem their FREE Tavern Double Burger with Steak Fries any time between 11/12 and 11/30 for Dine-in or To-Go. You must join the royalty program and/or update membership with military status before November 5 to get the reward added.
Houlihan’s
Houlihan’s Restaurants will honor America’s veterans and active-duty military with a $10 off a $30 food purchase valid for in-restaurant dining or for carryout on Wednesday, November 11, 2020. No proof of service is required for this offer. Orders made via houlihans.com or a third-party delivery service are not eligible for this offer, and the $10 off $30 is not valid with other discounts.
In addition, Houlihan’s offers a 15% off food discount every day throughout the year. Proof of service required.
BJ’s Restaurant
On November 11 all military members who dine-in restaurant receive a complimentary entrée up to $14.95 plus a free Dr Pepper beverage by presenting a military ID or proof of service. Not valid for Take Out or Delivery.
Bob Evans
Free meal on November 11, 2020. Veterans and active duty military can enjoy a free entree from a special menu of seven homestyle favorites on Veterans Day at all Bob Evans Restaurants. Dine-in only, beverage not included. Not valid with other offers, discounts or coupons. Veterans and active duty military simply show proof of military service.
Cracker Barrel
Veterans will receive a complimentary slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake at all Cracker Barrel locations on November 11. to thank them for their service and sacrifice for our country.
Chili’s Restaurants
Chili’s founder, Norman Brinker, proudly served in the U.S. Navy. On November 11, Chili’s offers a special menu for veterans to eat for free from a special menu at the restaurant’s many locations across the United States. Available for in-restaurant only. Valid ID is required. Call your local Chili’s for more information.
- Chicken Crisperws
- Margarita Grilled Chicken
- Bowl of Chili or Soup & Salad
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas
- Just Bacon Burger
- Oldtimer with Cheese
- Cajun Chicken Pasta
Golden Corral
Active or former military members who have served in the U.S. Military can pick up a promotional card during the month of November redeemable for a FREE “Thank You” Meal!
Promotional Cards redeemable from November 1, 2020 – May 31, 2021 for Dine-in Only, Monday-Thursday. Limit one free meal per person while supplies last. Cards must be picked up in November!
Red Lobster
On November 11th, veterans and active duty military and reservists with valid military ID can get a free appetizer or dessert from a special menu at Red Lobster.
Appetizers:
- Lobster and Langostino Pizza
- Seafood-Stuffed Mushrooms
- Parrot Isle Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
- Langostino Lobster-Artichoke-and-Seafood Dip
- NEW! Crab-Stuffed Shrimp Rangoon
- Signature Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail
- Mozzarella Cheesesticks
Desserts:
- Chocolate Wave
- Vanilla Bean Cheesecake
- Warm Apple Crostada
- Key Lime Pie
McCormick & Schmick’s
Veterans, members of the National Guard, Gold Star Parents and Gold Star Spouses enjoy a half priced entrée on Sunday, November 8, 2020.
**All veterans must show official verification; no I.D. required by Gold Star honorees. Veterans Day entrees must be enjoyed at the restaurant. No to-go orders permitted. Reservations recommended.
Charleys Philly Steaks
FREE small and regular cheesesteaks all Veterans and Active Duty Military at domestic non-AAFES locations only. Customers must visit the store in-person to claim. Please bring military ID or proof of service.
Outback Steakhouse
Active military and veterans receive a free Bloomin’ Onion and Coke product on November 11th, 2020. Also, beginning on Veterans Day, customers will have the opportunity to donate (round up their check, or add an open dollar amount) to support Operation Homefront, which makes life a little easier for military, veterans and their families.
Outback Steakhouse also offers a heroes discount daily. All nurses, doctors, medical staff, servicemen and women, police officers and firefighters, with corresponding medical, state or federal service ID, plus Military Personnel and their immediate family members get 10% off their entire check all day, everyday with a valid state or federal service ID.
Pilot and Flying J Travel Centers
Pilot Company and Flying J Travel Centers celebrate Veterans Day with a week-long special offer for all U.S. military veterans. From Nov. 9-15, all veterans are invited to enjoy a free Pilot Coffee of any size and one free breakfast offering, such as the french toast sausage, egg and cheese sandwich.
The Veterans Day Breakfast Combo offer is available through the Pilot Flying J app and is redeemable at participating U.S. Pilot and Flying J travel centers.
Texas de Brazil
Veterans get 25% off regular dinner Monday, November 9, 2020 through Thursday, November 12, 2020 during dinner hours of operation ONLY. To receive offer, guest must mention to server before dining and provide military ID. Valid IDs include military ID, DOD ID, DVA ID or DD214 ID. Offer valid for up to 6 veterans or active military per table/reservation.
Texas de Brazil Heroes Discount offers a 20% Discount for Service Members, EMS and Teachers on dinner and lunch prices (salad area only too!). This offer is valid with a badge or ID for military members/veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, nurses, EMS & teachers. Not valid on holidays or with other discounts.
BIBIBOP Asian Grill
Honoring Veteran’s Day by giving a FREE BOWL to all Veterans and Active Duty Military. All BIBIBOP locations, all day long. To claim their free bowl, veterans and active military members can present a military ID or identify as a veteran or active military member. This offer will be available in-store on November 11th only.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
On Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans can visit their local participating Dickey’s in-store to receive a free Pulled Pork Classic Sandwich!
In honor of Veterans Day, from Nov. 9-15, when guests make a purchase through dickeys.com or the Dickey’s App, they will have the option to add one, five or 10 Pulled Pork Classic Sandwiches to be delivered to local Veteran organizations. Additionally, the Dickey family has pledged to match every sandwich donated to double the efforts to feed Veterans.
The 94th Aero Squadron Vintage
On Wednesday November 11th is Veterans’ Day, all Veterans will receive $20 off their meal from 4 pm – 9 pm.
Little Caesars® Pizza will serve all United States Armed Forces veterans and active military a free Lunch Combo at participating stores. On November 11, from 11:00a.m. to 2:00p.m., veterans and active military members can receive their free $5 Lunch Combo ( four slices of Little Caesars popular Detroit-style DEEP!DEEP!™ Dish pizza, paired with a 20-ounce Pepsi product).
Dunkin’ Donuts
On November 11, veterans and active duty military are invited to participating Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide for a free donut of their choice, no purchase necessary. See full details and other support options here.
Mitchell’s Fish Market
Enjoy 20% off food and non-alcoholic beverages for Veterans, Active Duty Military and Gold Star Families on Wednesday, November 11 *Discount applies to veterans, active duty military and gold star families only. Valid for parties up to 4 guests. Tax and gratuity not included. Must show valid ID. Excludes all Golden Nugget restaurant locations. Discount applies to one appetizer, one entrée, one dessert and/or one non-alcoholic beverage per eligible guest. Dine-In only. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Valid 11.11.2020 only.
Denny’s
Active, inactive and retired military personnel are invited to enjoy a free Build-Your-Own Grand Slam on Monday, November 11 from 5 a.m. to noon. *Includes active, non-active and retired military personnel. Dine-in only. Must show valid military ID or DD214. Hours vary by location.
Menchies
Free frozen yogurt up to 6 oz. for veterans and active military personnel on November 11. Want more than 6 oz? Just pay the difference. Proof of service required.
Quaker Steak & Lube
Free meal up to $15 with non-alcoholic beverage for veterans and active duty military up to $15 plus a free nonalcoholic beverage.
O’Charley’s
Free meal from the Veterans Thank You Menu, or $10 off any meal on the regular menu, on Wednesday, November 11. Additionally, O’Charley’s provides a 10% military discount all year long. Bring their military ID or proof of service, in case they’re asked for it.
Max & Erma’s
Veterans and active military can enjoy a free Cheeseburger, Endless Fries, fountain drink, and chocolate chip cookie on November 11. Dine in only. Simply show proof of military service. Not valid with any other coupons, offers or promotions.
Wendy’s
To thank all of those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Military, Wendy’s nationwide are offering a FREE small breakfast combo with valid military ID on Wednesday, November 11 from 6:30 – 10:30 a.m. No purchase necessary. Offer available nationwide at participating Wendy’s. Veterans and active military who show a valid military ID in-restaurant or at the drive-thru* can enjoy a morning meal on Wendy’s.
Applebees
Applebees may be giving away a free meal on November 11 for veterans and active duty military dine in only, but they have not released a national offer. Offer may vary per restaurant, so we suggest you call your local Applebees for local offer and details. See info. Proof of service required.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
All services members, veterans and first responders get 10% off any visit on Veterans Day and year-round with valid ID
Bonefish Grill
Heroes Discount offering 10% on all service member, veterans and first responders’ checks every day with show of valid ID.
Veterans Day Retail Discounts
Great Clips
On November 11, come in for a haircut and get a free haircut card to give to a veteran to use by December 11. And of course, all veterans can stop in on November 11 to get a free haircut or a free haircut card to be redeemed by December 11.
Sports Clips
Veterans and active duty military can come in on Veterans Day for a free haircut on November 11. In addition, $1 from every hair service on November 11 will be donated to the “Help A Hero” fundraising campaign.
Bed Bath & Beyond
Veterans, active duty and spouses get 25% off their entire purchase November 11 through 14.
buybuy BABY
Veterans, active-duty military and spouses get 25% off their entire purchase in-store and online, November 11 to 14.
Home Depot
Home Depot offers a 10% discount to all veterans on November 11 (as well as Memorial Day and Fourth of July). Home Depot offers the 10% discount year round to active duty and retirees.
Office Depot and OfficeMax
Veterans, active-duty military personnel, retirees, Reservists and their dependents get 25% off qualifying regular and sale-priced purchase November 11 through 13. This offer is valid in-store only.
Grace for Vets
Free car wash for veterans and military members on November 11 at car washes across the country. Many different companies are participating, so find the closest one to you (including Moo Moo, select Turkey Hill, and more). Use the search tool to find a participating car wash near you. All veterans and service personnel get a free car wash at participating locations. Grace For Vets is a non-profit organization that unites the car wash industry in U.S., Canada, New Zealand, Australia with this program.
Fixari Family Dental
On Wednesday, November 11th, Fixari Family Dental will host a free day of dental care for Veterans who are in need of dental care from 7 am – 7 pm. Veterans are eligible to receive a complimentary extraction, filling or cleaning. Call to schedule before they fill up; 614-655-3517.
Target Veterans Discount
10% military discount on purchases made in-store and online at Target.com from Nov. 1-11, 2020 for veterans, active duty, and their families. Click here to verify your eligibility and obtain your coupon.
Lowe’s Veterans/Military Discount
Lowe’s offers 10% off eligible purchases every day to active military personnel, retirees, and veterans. Must sign up online for the Lowe’s personal shopping card to qualify for the discount, and the discount will be linked to the MyLowe’s account. See registration details here.
Big Lots
In honor of Veterans Day, Big Lots is offering a year-round 10% “Always On” discount for active military personnel and veterans who are members of the company’s Big Rewards program.
Walgreens
Veterans, military and their families get a 20% discount on eligible regular priced items, November 11 through 15. This in-store offer is only valid in Walgreens or Duane Reade stores.
Dollar General
Dollar General will provide an 11% discount on qualifying purchases on Wednesday, November 11, 2020 in all store locations or online by using promo code MILITARY11 for veterans, active duty military members, members of the National Guard and Reserve and their immediate family members,
Veteran’s Day Events and Attraction Discounts
Veterans Day Pancake Breakfast
The Westerville Senior Center offers a pancake breakfast in honor of area Veterans on Wednesday, November 11. This event is free to Veterans and $5 for all others. Registration is required at the Community Center (350 N. Cleveland Ave.), there is no online registration available for this event. Due to COVID-19 regulations, this event may change to a drive-thru. All registered guests will receive an email with updates. Activity #404302-01
Veteran’s Day Celebration in Gahanna
The Veterans Memorial Committee of Gahanna will host an observance and memorial brick dedication on November 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 73 W. Johnstown Road.
37th Annual Veterans Day Bean Dinner
There’s no Veterans Day parade this year in Hilliard, but the William R. Schnug Memorial Post 614 will still host their annual bean dinner at their Post Home, 4579 Avery Rd, Hilliard, Ohio.
Beans and cornbread will be available on November 11, 2020 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM. This will be for carry out only. They will be preparing the dinner using all best practices and procedures in effect on that day to insure the health and welfare of all. Anyone wishing to pick up dinners can park in designated parking spots in front of the post and come to the door. You can also call ahead at (740) 993-3979 for anyone wanting to stay in their car and they will bring the order out.
As always, this is a free dinner and open to the public. Donations will be accepted and all donations will be used for the Gifts for Yanks program of the Ohio American Legion. Thanks to the public and the membership for their continued support of this program.
Pro Football Hall of Fame
Veterans and active military plus one guest get free admission and parking to the Pro Football Hall of Fame from November 1-15, 2020. This offer is good for all United States active duty including National Guard Reservists and retired military service members who show a valid military ID at the Hall’s Ticket Office.
A 20% off discount in the HOF Store will also be offered to veterans and active military in November. Throughout the rest of November and every day at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, veterans and active military receive $5 off Museum admission and their spouses and dependents (under 18) receive $3 off.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Veterans, active military, first responders, and their family members (limit 4 total) can book a complimentary two-hour round trip through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park on November 11. Enjoy the scenery and ride the rails through the park. A concession car will be made available throughout the duration of the train ride. Concessions are not available in 2020. NOTE: Sold out for 2020
- Akron Northside Station, 27 Ridge Street, Akron, OH 44308
Train Departs at 10:00 AM - Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Road, Independence, OH 44131
Train Departs at 10:15 AM
National Parks
FREE admission for all on November 11
B&Bs for Vets
Veterans are eligible for one free night at participating B&Bs in the US and Canada. Most of the inns are offering one free room night on Tuesday, November 10 so you can enjoy the local Veterans Day celebrations. Visit the link for lodging near you or pick a destination. You must book directly with the business, and valid ID is required. See local offers below, while available.
Super 8 by Wyndham
Super 8 is honored to welcome active and retired military members, veterans, and their families as our very important guests. Save 15% on our Best Available Rate at participating Super 8 by Wyndham hotels in the U.S. and Canada.* Veteran guests enjoy preferred parking at Super 8.
Red Rood Inn
Red Roof offers military personnel, both active and retired, a 10% discount with promo code “VP606732” all year round. Veterans can also join Veterans Advantage, which is free and offers members additional exclusive military discounts, including a 20% discount at Red Roof with code VP 544993 year round
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- Fun and Tasty Adventure Trails in Ohio
- Discounted and Free Museum Days in Columbus
- Free or cheap events this weekend in Columbus
- Best Fall Date ideas
- Huge list of Happy Hours all over Columbus
- Over 40 Holiday Art and Craft Festivals
- Turkey Trots and Holiday Races
- Christmas Tree Farms and Lots in Columbus
- Locations of Mailboxes for Letters to Santa
- Community Tree Lightings and Holiday Celebrations in Columbus
- Holiday Train Rides in Ohio: Santa Trains and Polar Express
- Columbus Happy Hours
2019 Veterans Day Deals – still verifying for 2020
Military Appreciation Week at COSI: Active, reserved and retired military service get free general admission to COSI, November 6-10, 2019 for Military Appreciation Week. Immediate family members will also receive $2 off general admission. Simply show your military ID or mention that you are a Veteran to receive the offer. Veterans and their party also receive FREE admission to D-Day: Normandy 1944 with COSI General Admission.
Veterans Resource Fair: Thu, November 7, 2019 from 11 am – 2:00 pm at Columbus State Community College (550 E. Spring Street)
Columbus Veterans Day Parade: tba The theme of this years parade is “The Greatest Generation” celebrating the 75th anniversary of D-Day this year and the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII next year. The parade steps off from Nationwide Blvd and High Street the parade kicks off at noon and ends at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. U.S. Marines are collecting new unwrapped toys for Toys-for-Tots program at the end of the parade. See Facebook page here.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus: FREE admission to all veterans and active duty military personnel on tba. Additionally, family members visiting with them can get a discounted admission of only $10 per person. Tickets must be purchased at the door with a valid military ID.
Lynd Fruit Farm: tba for 2020, veterans and active duty military can stop by the market and pick up a gift of appreciation. It’s one small way we can can say thank you! Proof of service requested. 9399 Morse Rd. SW, Pataskala (740-927-8559)
Hilliard Veterans Day Parade: tba from 7-8 pm. The parade will step off from The Franklin County Fairgrounds (GATE 4 on Northwest Parkway at 7:00pm). The parade will proceed West on Northwest Parkway, South on Avery/Main Street, West on Cemetery Road to Scioto Darby Road and South on Veterans Memorial Drive, where it will conclude with a short ceremony at the Veterans Memorial at Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park.
Free admission for military at Newport Aquarium: tba. Active or retired member of the military, a disabled veteran, military reservist, or anyone who has ever served in the Armed Forces, just show your Military I.D.* at the Newport Aquarium ticket window to receive your free admission. Accompanying family members and friends can receive discounts of $3 off adult and $2 off child (ages 2-12) admission.
Crosswinds Dental: FREE day of dentistry for Veterans & 1st Responders on Friday November 15 to show our gratitude for their service and their sacrifice. The event is by appointment only and will fill up quickly. Please call 614-890-3130 to reserve an appointment!
Red Roof Inn: They always offer 10% off room rates for all government, military, vets and retirees
Restaurants deals for Veterans Day 2019
16-Bit Bar + Arcade: 15% off booze to active & retired military and free koozie with purchase of a canned beer.
Bru Burger Bar: Free entree for Veterans on November 11.
Bruegger’s Bagels: Free bagel and cream cheese.
Buffalo Wild Wings: Veterans and active duty military can receive a free small order of traditional or boneless wings and a side of fries on November 11. Beverage, tax, and tip not included. Proof of service required.
California Pizza Kitchen: Veterans and active military will receive a free beverage and entree from a special menu with proof of service on November 11. Excludes airports, stadiums, the Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas, Guam or international locations.
Chipotle: BOGO burritos, bowls, salads and taco orders for all active duty military, reserves, national guard, military spouses, retired military with a valid U.S. military ID and veterans with ID, at all restaurants in the US from open to close on Sunday, November 11, 2018.
Condado Tacos: Two free tacos.
City BBQ: Free lunch for veterans and troops on November 11, which includes a free sandwich, 2 sides, and a drink for dine in or carry out.
El Vaquero (all locations): 20% off veteran customer meals on Veterans Day
Hot Chicken Takeover: Offer a DAILY 50% discount to active and inactive military, and first responders. They support the Columbus Veteran community throughout the year, and partner with community groups that aim to help veterans.
IHOP: On November 11 from 7 am – 7 pm, veterans can enjoy an order of free Red, White, & Blue Pancakes.
IKEA: Free combo meal consisting of entree, side salad or soup and a fountain beverage.
Moe’s Original BBQ Newark: Veterans get a free pork sandwich meal at both the Granville & Newark locations.
Nutcracker Family Restaurant (63 E Broad St, Pataskala): Active Duty, Reserve, Retirees and Honorably Discharged Veterans are invited for a 100% free meal on Tuesday, November 12th from 7am to 8pm. No limitation on what they can order, no special limited menu. This offer is good for anything on our regular menu. Veteran’s will need proof of Honorable Discharge and current Military Members need a Military ID for this free meal offer.
On the Border: Veterans and active duty military members get a Free Combo 2 meal, which features soup or salad, tacos, enchiladas, and other options on November 11.
Primanti Bros: Active or retired military can enjoy a free Primanti Bros. Almost Famous sandwich in honor of their service to America, Sunday, Nov. 10 and Monday, Nov. 11, at all Primanti Bros. locations across six states.
Rapid Fired Pizza: Free dessert pizza when you buy an entree.
Rodizio Grill: Veterans Eat Free with the purchase of a Full Rodizio on November 11 at Rodizio Grill.
Roosters Wings: Show your military ID or forms and get $10 Rooster Bucks to be used anytime in November.
Spaghetti Warehouse: Veterans get a buy 1 get 1 free meal coupon offer. The coupon can be downloaded on Monday, November 4 through Monday, November 11 and redeemed on Veterans Day.
Texas Roadhouse: Veterans Day free meals for lunch with non-alcoholic beverage from 11 am – 4 pm on November 11 for active, former, or retired military.
White Castle: Free breakfast combo or any 1-6 combo with coupon.
Yes! I just found it and added it. $10 Rooster Bucks to be used anytime in November with proof of service.
Roosters? Are they on today?
please add hot chicken takeover. call cameron mictell today, talked to people. no vetearns day thing, but they love burger week and resturant week
Joe’s Drain Cleaning LLC is offering 25% off services scheduled November 8-11 for Veterans and Military Members. See facebook.com/joesdraincleaningllc
Thank you! I’ll add this.
IN HONOR OF VETERANS DAY, PANERA BREAD WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED OUR COUNTRY. WEAR YOUR UNIFORM OR SHOW YOUR MILITARY ID OR DISCHARGE PAPERS AT ANY OF THE PARTICIPATING PANERA BREAD LOCATIONS BELOW ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10 TO RECEIVE A FREE YOU-PICK-TWO MEAL.
Great info!
Just wanted to get future emails of deals in Columbus, Ohio.