A Guide to Military Discounts at Major Theme Parks Across the Country
As a military family, finding ways to save while enjoying special experiences with your loved ones is a must. Thankfully, many of the top theme parks in the U.S. offer discounts and exclusive perks for active-duty, reserve, and retired military members, along with their families. From roller coasters to water parks, here’s a breakdown of the best military discounts you can find at popular parks like Sesame Place, Knott's Berry Farm, SeaWorld, and more.
1. Sesame Place – Langhorne, PA
Sesame Place, just outside of Philadelphia, is a great family-friendly destination where young kids can meet their favorite Sesame Street characters, enjoy interactive shows, and ride themed attractions.
Military Discount: Sesame Place offers free admission for active-duty military through the Waves of Honor program. This includes a one-time free admission for the service member and up to three direct dependents once per year.
How to Redeem: You’ll need to verify your military status through ID.me to redeem your tickets online.
Sesame Place also offers discounted tickets for military veterans and retired members, so if you’re no longer on active duty, be sure to check the website for current offers and discounts.
2. Knott's Berry Farm and Knott's Soak City – Buena Park, CA
Knott's Berry Farm is a Southern California classic, known for its thrilling coasters and Old West charm. For those looking to cool off, Knott's Soak City water park is right next door.
Military Discount: Active, retired, and veteran military members receive discounted admission tickets year-round, which can be purchased directly from the Knott’s Berry Farm website or at the park’s ticket booths. In addition, Knott’s Berry Farm hosts Military Tribute Days, which are special days during the year where current and former military members receive free admission and can purchase discounted tickets for family and friends.
How to Redeem: Military ID is required for in-person ticket purchases, and online purchases may require verification through ID.me.
3. SeaWorld Parks Across the U.S.
SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio offer excellent opportunities to explore marine life, enjoy thrilling rides, and catch incredible live shows.
Military Discount: Through the Waves of Honor program, active-duty military members can receive one free admission per year for themselves and up to three direct dependents at any SeaWorld park in the U.S.
Veteran Discount: SeaWorld also extends discounts to military veterans, offering a range of reduced ticket options that vary by location.
How to Redeem: Visit the Waves of Honor website to verify your military status and obtain your tickets online.
In addition to free admission, SeaWorld often offers special deals for multi-day passes, season passes, and dining packages that further enhance the experience for military families.
4. Busch Gardens – Williamsburg, VA & Tampa, FL
Busch Gardens, known for its mix of thrilling roller coasters and animal encounters, is another theme park under the SeaWorld Parks umbrella, so the same Waves of Honor program applies here.
Military Discount: Active-duty members and their families can enjoy one free admission per year at Busch Gardens Williamsburg or Tampa through the Waves of Honor program. Both parks also offer discounted tickets for military veterans.
How to Redeem: Visit the Waves of Honor website, and after verification, your tickets will be available for online purchase.
5. LEGOLAND – Florida, California, and New York
If your family is full of LEGO fans, LEGOLAND is a must-visit. With theme parks in Florida, California, and New York, it’s easy to find one near your next family vacation destination.
Military Discount: LEGOLAND offers discounted tickets for active-duty, reserve, retired, and veteran military personnel at all three of their U.S. locations. These discounts are typically available at the gate with valid military ID.
Special Offers: LEGOLAND often provides military appreciation days where military families can take advantage of deeper discounts on admission or lodging at one of the LEGOLAND resort hotels.
How to Redeem: Discounted tickets can be purchased at the park or through local base ticket offices.
6. Six Flags Parks
Six Flags operates theme parks across the country, making it one of the most accessible destinations for military families. Parks include Six Flags Great Adventure (NJ), Six Flags Magic Mountain (CA), Six Flags Fiesta Texas (TX), and more.
Military Discount: Six Flags offers military discounts on admission tickets that can be purchased at base ticket offices or directly through the Six Flags website. These discounts apply to all U.S. military branches, including active duty, veterans, and reservists.
How to Redeem: Tickets are available for purchase through local military bases or directly from the Six Flags website, often with discounts on parking and season passes as well.
7. Dollywood – Pigeon Forge, TN
Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Dollywood is a charming park with a mix of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and crafts that celebrate Appalachian culture.
Military Discount: Dollywood offers discounted tickets for active-duty and retired military personnel, as well as veterans and their families. This discount can be applied to one-day tickets and season passes.
How to Redeem: Discounts can be purchased online or at the park with proof of military service.
8. Universal Studios – Orlando, FL & Hollywood, CA
Whether you're looking to explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or experience thrilling movie-themed rides, Universal Studios is another exciting option for military families.
Military Discount: Both Universal Studios parks in Orlando and Hollywood offer military-exclusive ticket deals. These include deeply discounted park-to-park tickets and vacation packages that can only be purchased at participating military base ticket offices.
How to Redeem: Military personnel must purchase tickets through base offices to receive the special military rate, and a valid ID is required for park entry.
9. Cedar Fair Parks (Kings Island, Cedar Point, and More)
Cedar Fair owns several popular theme parks like Kings Island, Cedar Point, and Carowinds, known for their world-class roller coasters and entertainment.
Military Discount: Cedar Fair parks offer military discounts on admission tickets, often providing free admission on Memorial Day and Fourth of July weekends. Military discounts can also be found through base ticket offices.
How to Redeem: Tickets can be purchased online, through military bases, or at the park with a valid military ID.
As you can see, there are plenty of military discounts available at theme parks across the country, making it easier for military families to enjoy time together without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, a splash-filled day at the water park, or family-friendly fun, be sure to take advantage of these offers. For the best deals, always check your local base ticket office or the park’s official website for current military promotions and discounts.
Planning your theme park vacation just got easier, so pack your bags and get ready for some unforgettable family fun!
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