Veterans Day is first a day of thanks to the people who served. It's also a day the National Park Service waives entrance fees for every visitor, and a good moment to know what the parks extend to military families the rest of the year.
What we'd consider this Veterans Day
A national park on the fee-free day
The NPS waives entrance fees for all visitors on Veterans Day. It's a fitting way to spend the date and an easy first trip into a park you've been meaning to visit, crowds permitting.
A trip planned around a memorial or museum
A military museum, a memorial, or a veterans' cemetery makes the day's meaning concrete for kids in a way a parade on TV doesn't. Many run free or reduced admission on the date.
What we'd avoid
Framing it as a day off to shop
The sales are everywhere, but the day is about service, not savings. We keep the center of the day on the thanks and treat any travel as the quiet part that comes after.
Practical
Military discounts run year-round
The major theme parks and many attractions offer military-family discounts every day of the year, not just on Veterans Day. Bring a service ID and ask at guest services; the deal often isn't posted but it's real.
Fee-free covers entry, not everything
The NPS waiver covers the entrance fee. Camping, tours, and concessions still cost what they normally do, so plan those the way you would any other day.
More guides for Veterans Day are on the way. In the meantime, browse our field guides.
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