There are lots of Veterans Day discounts and free meals in 2023 at restaurants and stores to honor our former and current Military Personnel.
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 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!
2023 Veterans Day
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We love finding and sharing about deals on Columbus on the Cheap.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It's also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
Veteran’s Day Events and Attraction Discounts
Annual Veterans Day Parade in Hilliard
Sunday, November 5, 2023
The William R. Schnug Memorial Post 614 of the American Legion hosts the Veterans Day parade, starting at 2 pm.
The parade will leave the Franklin County Fairgrounds and travel down Main Street to Scioto Darby Road. It will enter Municipal Park on Veterans Memorial Drive, ending at the Veterans Memorial Park. A brief ceremony, 21-gun salute, and Taps will occur at the memorial.
Delaware Veterans Parade
Sunday, November 5, 2023 at 3 pm at the Delaware County Fairgrounds. The route follows Pennsylvania Avenue, Sandusky Street and ends at Wilmer Street (near Ohio Wesleyan University).
Veterans and groups showing support can register to participate in the parade. See FB page.
Veterans Day Pancake Breakfast
The Westerville Senior Center offers a pancake breakfast in honor of area Veterans on November 7, 2023 at Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel, 409 Altair Parkway.
Breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m. with a 9 a.m. presentation. Tickets are required for entry. No online tickets are available; on sale in-person, only, at the Community Center (350 N. Cleveland Ave.)
Veterans Parade Cannon Firing at the Ohio Statehouse
Cancelled for 2023. The 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A fires a Civil War cannon at 11:30, 11:45 a.m. and 12 p.m. to begin the Veterans parade in Columbus. After the cannon has been fired three times, the parade starts at noon.
Parade goers are welcome to watch the cannon demonstrations on the front lawn of the Ohio Statehouse, near the corner of Broad and High Streets, and stay as the parade proceeds through the intersection.
Columbus Veterans Day Parade
Cancelled for 2023
The Columbus Veterans Day parade honors and remembers the sacrifice made when a veteran signed a blank check for service to our nation.
It steps off from Nationwide Blvd and High Street at noon, and ends at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
November 7, 2023. Veterans, active military, first responders, and their family members (limit 4 total) can book a complimentary one-hour ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Enjoy the scenery and ride the rails through the park.
Akron Northside Station, 27 Ridge St., Akron, OH 44308
Departs 10:00 am and 12:30 pm
Delaware County Veterans Breakfast
November 11, 2023 at 8:30 am at the AG Center in the Delaware County Fairgrounds, Delaware, OH 43015. Buffet breakfast is followed by a presentation on The Making of the Ohio Fallen Heroes Memorial.
Breakfast is free for veterans and one guest. Seating is limited and reservations are required. In order to secure your seat, please register by Nov. 1.
National Veterans Memorial and Museum
Veterans Day Ceremony and Free Admission
November 11, 2023. Free admission on Veterans Day at National Veterans Memorial and Museum for everyone, all day long from 10 am – 5 pm.
Ceremony at 11 am, and several other events throughout the weekend.
The museum always offers free admission for U.S. military Veterans, active-duty military, and Gold Star families.
Hilton Columbus Downtown Veteran cocktail
Throughout October and November, 2023, and in celebration of Columbus’ National Veterans Memorial and Museum’s 5-year anniversary, Hilton Columbus Downtown is donating $5 for every drink sold of its limited time specialty cocktail, The Veteran ($15).
Available at Spark, FYR Short North and Gallerie, The Veteran is made with Watershed Four Year Bourbon, Watershed Apple Brandy, Benedictine, Pommeau and Winter Melon Bitters.
City of Powell Veterans Day Ceremony
November 11, 2023 at 11 am at Greater Powell Veterans Memorial, 47 Hall St, Powell.
The Greater Powell Veterans Memorial is a place for reflection and remembrance of those who served the country.
Veterans can be remembered and honored through the Greater Powell Veterans Memorial Brick Program. Veteran bricks feature the honoree’s name, branch of service, the name of the war in which he or she fought, specific achievement or years of service.
Veteran’s Day Ceremony in Gahanna
November 11 at 11 a.m. The Veterans Memorial Committee of Gahanna hosts a memorial brick dedication at Veterans Memorial Park, 73 W. Johnstown Road. To learn more about the Veterans Memorial Park or to purchase a brick for a future Memorial Day or Veterans Day ceremony, click here.
Pro Football Hall of Fame
November 11, 2023
- Free Admission and parking to all U.S. service members, National Guard and veterans plus 1 guest (all day).
- Free Admission for Blue Star Mothers and Gold Star Families
- Free commemorative Veterans Day Pin (while supplies last)
- 20% Discount at the HOF Store. Coffee and donuts available for all veterans.
The Veterans’ Services Expo is 9AM to 1PM with vendors stationed throughout the Hall to educate Veterans of the services available to them.
Stark County Veterans Service Commission Executive Director De Ann Williams will be the featured speaker at noon in the Hall’s James Allen Family Gold Jacket Lounge during the Expo.
Donald R. Hallman LGBTQ Veterans Recognition Awards
Stonewall Columbus hosts an evening of appreciation of our LGBTQ Veterans on Thursday, November 16 at 5:30 pm. Please join us as we acknowledge and thank these honorees for their service to country and community during a brief recognition presentation.
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.
Note: The Wexner Center gallery visits are currently free for all visitors thanks to donor support.
Military Discount at COSI
Ongoing military discount at COSI: Active, Reserve, and Retired Military – $2.00 off per person in the immediate family with proper ID.
Free National Parks Admission
FREE admission for all at National Parks on November 11
Free days at U.S. national parks + Free National Parks Pass for 4th grade families
2023 Veteran’s Day Restaurant Deals
Denny’s
Veterans and military personnel* receive a FREE Original Gran Slam® on Friday, November 10th, 2023 from opening to Noon.
*Includes active, non-active and retired military personnel. Dine-in only. Must show valid Military ID or DD214.
Roosters Wings
Friday, November 10, 2023. Anyone who presents their Military ID, DD214, DD1172, NGB55, or NGB22 form at a participating Roosters location will receive a free $10 Roosters Buck as a show of appreciation!
Pilot Flying J
November 10-12, 2023. Service members and their families verified through ID.me in the myRewards Plus app will receive a free meal credit valued up to $12 in the app.
Peach Cobbler Factory Columbus
Veterans and active duty military can enjoy a FREE dessert at Peach Cobbler Factory Columbus on November 11, 2023 from noon – 10 pm. Just show proof of service, no purchase required.
This is a Veteran-owned business!
4691 Morse Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230
Mugshots Bar & Grill
On November 11, 2023, Mugshots Bar & Grill is giving a free Mobster Meatloaf or Personal Pizza to ALL veterans or active duty. See website.
This is a Veteran-owned business!
111 S. Main st. Pleasantville, OH 43148
City Barbeque
November 11, 2023. All veterans and active US military are welcomed to stop into any City Barbeque joint for a free sandwich, one side, and a drink. Offer only valid Saturday, November 11, 2023. This offer is only valid in-store for dine-in or carryout. Details.
Applebees
November 11, 2023 For 16 years, Applebee’s has served more than 10 million meals in honor of our nation’s heroes.
On Nov. 11, veterans and active service members can enjoy a FREE meal from a select menu, including: 6-oz. Top Sirloin, Double Crunch Shrimp, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Chicken Tenders Platter, Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Oriental Chicken Salad or Three-Cheese Chicken Penne.
Veterans will also get a $5 Bounce Back Card to use within 3 weeks. Details here.
BIBIBOP Asian Grill
November 11, 2023 Honoring Veteran’s Day by giving a FREE BOWL to all Veterans and Active Duty Military. All BIBIBOP locations, all day long. To claim a free bowl, present a military ID. This offer will be available in-store on November 11th only. See details.
BJ’s Restaurant
On November 11, 2023, current and former military who dine-in at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse will receive a FREE Chocolate Chunk Pizookie® with an $11.95 purchase
But that’s not all – Veterans will also receive a complimentary appetizer on their next visit with a $14.95 purchase. Offer valid on Sunday, 11/12/2023 through Sunday, 12/31/23, for dine-in and takeout only.
Bob Evans
Veterans and active duty military can enjoy a homestyle meal at Bob Evans on Nov. 11. The restaurant is offering them a FREE meal on Veterans Day.
The select Veterans Day menu includes the following: Country Biscuit Breakfast, Brioche French Toast, The Mini Sampler, Buttermilk Hotcakes, Soup & Salad Combo, Country Fried Steak Dinner Bell Plate and Bowl of Rolled Out Oatmeal.
Bonefish Grill Everyday Heroes Discount
November 11, 2023: All veterans, active duty military, first responders and their families can enjoy a complimentary Bang Bang Shrimp® starter and NA beverage. See details.
Heroes Discount offering 10% on all service member, veterans and first responders’ checks every day with show of valid ID.
Bru Burger Bar
Free entrée for Veterans on November 11 at Bru Burger Bar.
California Pizza Kitchen
November 6-8, 2023: Join CPK in support of DAV (Disabled American Veterans) November 6th – 8th, 2023 for a Fundraiser.
On Monday November 6th to Wednesday November 8th visit any* California Pizza Kitchen, and CPK will donate 20% of all food and beverage sales when you mention you are there to support Disabled American Veterans by mentioning or showing the flyer, or social post. Purchases include dine-in, take-out, catering, and online orders at cpk.com when you enter PROMO CODE: DAV at checkout.
November 11, 2023: This Veterans Day, California Pizza Kitchen is serving vets and active military members a FREE non-alcoholic beverage and choice of an entrée from a prix fixed menu.
In honor of Veterans Day, when you dine in with us on Saturday November 11th 2023, all persons in your party will receive a bounce back card to come back between November 12th-November 21st and receive a Buy one Get one free, pizza, pasta or a salad*.
See details for both CPK Veteran promotions here.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
On Saturday, November 11, 2023, Carrabba’s Italian Grill is offering a complimentary dine-in appetizer or dessert paired with a soft beverage for veterans and active-duty military with show of ID. Available all day, no purchase required.
Vets are honored every day at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. The restaurant’s Heroes Discount is offered all year long — 10% off for all service members, veterans and first responders.
Chicken Salad Chick
Saturday, November 11. FREE Chick Special and regular-size drink for veterans or active duty military in honor of Veterans Day on Saturday, November 11! Stop by in uniform or with your military ID/DD214 to redeem. Details on Facebook.
- 687 Worthington Rd. Westerville, OH 43082
- 6304 E Dublin Granville Rd. Columbus, OH 43081
- Grandview Crossing, 1056 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215
Chili’s
Chili’s founder, Norman Brinker, proudly served in the U.S. Navy. On November 11, 2023, Vets can enjoy a FREE entrée from a select menu, including the following: Old Timer with Cheese, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, Three-Piece Crispers with fries, or Chili or Soup with a side salad.
El Vaquero
November 11: 20% off to all Veterans and Active Military in-store at all Columbus-area El Vaquero locations.
IHOP
On November 11 from 7 am – 7 pm, veterans can enjoy an order of free Red, White, & Blue Pancakes at IHOP. Beverages and gratuity not included.
U.S. Veterans and active duty military simply show proof of military service. Dine-in only. 1 per guest. Free menu item may vary by location.
Red Robin
November 11, 2023. Veterans and Active Military get a Free Red’s Tavern Double Burger with Bottomless Steak Fries. They can also sign up for the military rewards program for offers and discounts throughout the year.
Rodizio Grill
November 11, 2023. All Veterans* dining in at Rodizio Grill on Saturday, November 11th will receive a free Full Rodizio with the purchase of at least one adult Full Rodizio. *Proof of service required. Valid for dine in only 11/11/23.
Starbucks
On November 11, 2023 Starbucks is pouring free tall (12-ounce) hot or cold brewed coffee for Veterans, military service members and military spouses who visit participating U.S. Starbucks stores on Nov. 11, 2023. Details here.
Tim Hortons
On Saturday, November 11, Tim Hortons U.S. locations will be honoring those who have so bravely served our country by offering a FREE small hot coffee to all active military members and veterans.
White Castle
November 11, 2023. Veterans and active-duty military get a free individual combo meal or a breakfast combo meal when dining at a participating restaurant on November 11.
Mitchell’s Fish Market
Sunday, November 12, 2023. Enjoy 20% off food and non-alcoholic beverages for all Veterans on November 11. Valid for parties up to 4 guests. Tax and gratuity not included. Must show valid ID. Dine in only. Details here.
Golden Corral
November 13, 2023 from 5 pm – close. Honoring active and former military members for over 20 years through Military Appreciation Night. Active or former military members who have served in the U.S. Military can enjoy a free “thank you” meal, including retirees, veterans, active duty, National Guard or Reserves. Dine-in only.
Outback Steakhouse
Vets are honored every day at Outback Steakhouse. Outback’s Heroes Discount is offered all year long — 10% off for all service members, veterans and first responders.
Perkins Restaurant and Bakery
November 10 or 11, 2023. Perkins Restaurant and Bakery is saluting members of the armed forces this Veterans Day with a complimentary meal. Active duty, retired military and veterans enjoy a FREE Magnificent Seven entrée. The meal includes two (2) eggs, two (2) Applewood smoked bacon strips and three (3) buttermilk pancakes.
Perkins Restaurant and Bakery has locations in 32 states. It’s up to each location whether this offer is for Nov 10 or 11, so call to check your location.
Texas de Brazil
Texas de Brazil offers a 15% Heroes Discount on dine-in dinner and lunch prices (salad area only too!) for Service Members, EMS and Teachers. See exclusions on website.
2023 Veterans Day Retail and Business Discounts
Veterans Appreciation Day at Moore Dental in Lewis Center
November 9, 2023. Complimentary same-day dental care for veterans in need at Moore Dental. Open to all non-active duty veterans. Call 740-548-5100 to schedule an appointment.
iDrive Exotics
30% off all exotics car rentals for ALL Veterans and Active Duty through the end of November. See pricing, models, and details on the iDrive Exotics website or call 614-831-1377.
This is a Veteran-owned business!
True REST Float Spa Free Session
On Saturday, November 11, 2023, True Rest Float Spa is closed to the public and only offering free, 60-minute floats to veterans. 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.
Free carwash at Grace for Vets
Free car wash for retired and active military members on November 11 at car washes across the country through Grace for Vets.
Many different companies are participating, so find the closest one to you (including Moo Moo, Speedway, 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.
Free haircut for veterans at Great Clips
All veterans can stop in on November 11 to get a free haircut, or a free haircut card to be redeemed by December 1 (must be redeemed by veteran or active military member).
On November 11, anyone can go to Great Clips for a haircut and will get a free haircut card to give to retired or active duty military personnel to use by December 1.
Sports Clips
Veterans and active-duty service members can get a FREE haircut at Sports Clips on November 11. In addition, the salon will donate $2 for every haircut service provided on Nov. 11 to the VFW’s “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship” program.”
Target Veterans Discount
In honor of Veterans Day, from Oct. 29 to Nov. 11, Target is offering all U.S. active-duty military personnel, veterans and their families 10% off two separate purchases. (Some exclusions apply.)
To receive the offer, you must first confirm eligibility by registering here. After verification, the exclusive one-Target Circle offer will be available in customer’s account to use in-store or online.
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.
Home Depot Military Discount
Home Depot offers a 10% discount to all active duty military personnel, reservists, retired or disabled veterans and their immediate families. Veterans who do not have a VA service-connected disability rating may only be eligible for the military discount during national holidays such as Memorial Day, July 4th, and Veterans Day.
10% discount is applicable to purchases with an annual $400 maximum discount. There are some exclusions, including installation products or services, Gift Cards, special buy appliances, and some commodities, such as building materials. The discount is not available for online purchases. Read full details on website.
Walgreens
Veterans, military and their families get a 20% discount on eligible regular priced items, November 10 through 13 at Walgreens. In-store only; myWalgreens is membership is required.
10% discount year round at Big Lots
Big Lots now offers a year-round 10% “Always On” discount for active military personnel and veterans who are members of the company’s Big Rewards program.
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.
Looking for all of the holiday fun in Columbus? Check out these pages!
- Subscribe to Columbus on the Cheap's email list
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