The individuals who have served in any branch of the military have sacrificed so much for our country. The simple everyday freedoms we take for granted are enjoyed because they have fought for them. 

Veterans Day is a day to celebrate and honor those who have served. In recognition of this holiday, as well as throughout the year, many businesses and organizations offer special discounts to further show their support and appreciation. Because Veterans Day is coming up, our team at The Pavilion Senior Living is sharing some of the places that offer veteran discounts throughout the state of Tennessee that you can take advantage of this year.

Tennessee State Parks

If you love the great outdoors, the good news is that veteran get a significant discount on all Tennessee state parks. The Tennessee Department of Veterans Services states, “Veterans Day has been designated as Free State Park Day for Tennessee veterans, including complimentary greens fees and one night of free camping. Tennessee State Parks offers this special discount to veterans annually on Veterans Day.”

Not all of us can get our nature fix for the year in one day, and that is okay. If you want to camp beyond Veterans Day, you may still be able to receive a veteran discount, depending on the time of year. “A Tennessee veterans’ discount for camping within our state parks is available during the off-season (December 1 through February 28/29). The discount is 50% off of our standard nightly base rates depending on the type of site chosen (Tennessee Department of Veterans Services).”

To take advantage of these veteran discounts, you must present proof of prior service (VA benefits card, retired military ID, etc.) as well as Tennessee residency (Tennessee driver’s license or vehicle registration).

Looking for recommendations? Tennessee has several state parks to choose from, but a few of our favorites include:

• Cedars of Lebanon State Park
• Cumberland Mountain State Park
• Edgar Evins State Park

The Nashville Zoo

Get up close and personal with all kinds of animals and wildlife. From visiting clouded leopards and spider monkeys to tigers and kangaroos, the Nashville Zoo is one of the best in the nation. In addition to simply walking and exploring each animal habitat, the zoo offers other adventures and experiences such as behind-the-scenes giraffe and sloth feeding opportunities, a visit to the rhino barn, and so much more!

Event schedules change depending on the season, but the zoo offers 50% off zoo admission for both active-duty military members and veterans.

The Grand Ole Opry 

Known as the home of country music, the Grand Ole Opry is a staple in not only the music industry but also in the state of Tennessee. From seeing unforgettable concerts and shows to taking behind-the-scenes tours, visiting the Grand Ole Opry is a must-visit attraction.

Veterans receive a 10% tax-exempt discount when they show proof of service. 

Graceland

Take a grand tour of Elvis Presley’s home at a discounted rate! Explore exhibits showcasing Elvis’ life, career, wardrobe, gold records, and so much more. Both active-duty and military veterans receive a 6% discount on tickets for a group of up to six individuals for the Elvis Experience Tour at Graceland. This tour includes: 

• Graceland Mansion Audio-Guide Tour
• Self-guided tour of Elvis’ custom jets
• Full access to the all-new Elvis Presley’s Memphis Entertainment Complex (Presley Motors Automobile Museum, Elvis: The Entertainer Career Museum, Elvis Discovery Exhibits)

To take advantage of the discount, tickets must be purchased under one transaction, and proof of military service must be provided. 

Veterans Day is about showing appreciation to those who have served our country and made sacrifices for our freedoms. Several establishments, including restaurants and retail stores, offer military discounts as well, especially on Veterans Day itself. 

At The Pavilion Senior Living, we honor our veteran residents and celebrate them every day. We are so grateful to all the service men and women, and we thank you for your service. 

If you would like to learn more about our care services or what our senior living communities throughout Tennessee offer, we invite you to visit our website.