Plan a vacation, do an activity, or celebrate a Veteran for Veterans Day. I will share top ideas for traveling and getaways to get you out of the house with Veterans Day Trips.

My father served in the U.S. Army for 20 years. Veterans Day has always been a day when I appreciate the many brave souls who dedicated and sacrificed so much for the U.S. I’m forever honored.

If you’re a veteran, it’s important to remember and honor the brave men and women who have served our country. However, sharing your memories with other veterans like yourself is also essential! As such, we’ve compiled a list of events happening this Veterans Day to help you feel part of something bigger. From free vacations to retreats and more—these are just some of the best ways to celebrate November 11 (or any day).

Veterans Day Trips

About Veterans Day

Veterans Day is a federal holiday that honors United States military veterans. It’s observed on November 11. It was initially called Armistice Day and commemorated the armistice signed between Germany and Allied forces at the end of World War I. Congress adopted the current name for this observance in 1954 to include all veterans who have served in any war or armed conflict throughout U.S. history.

Veterans Day allows us to reflect on those who have sacrificed so much for our country and its citizens, from those who fought in World War II to those who serve today as part of our nation’s All-Volunteer Force.

How Is Veterans Day Celebrated

Veterans Day is a time to honor the service of all veterans and those currently serving in the military. Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States that falls on November 11 each year.

Why is Veterans Day on November 11th? This day was established in 1926 by Congress to honor veterans of World War I, but its name has changed over time. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was first celebrated on November 11, 1919—the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month—to commemorate when the fighting ended in World War I. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation renaming it Veterans Day and expanding its focus to include all American veterans, not just those from World War I.

In addition to being celebrated on November 11 in the United States, Veterans Day is also observed in many other countries worldwide. It’s known as ANZAC Day (an acronym for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) in Australia and New Zealand. In Canada, it’s called Remembrance Day; in England and Wales, it’s known as Poppy Day (in memory of soldiers who died).

Veterans Day Weekend Gateway

Veterans Day weekend is a great time to get out of town and explore! Veterans Day weekend gateways are a great way to spend your weekend. There are many things to do, see, and eat in this area, but one thing that can’t be missed is the free stuff for Veterans!

When it comes to celebrating America’s veterans, there are a lot of beautiful places, cities filled with incredible historical landmarks, and some of the best restaurants and hotels in the country.

Here are a few suggestions for how you can spend Veterans Day weekend:

Explore a city: Stroll downtown and take in all the historical sites. You can even grab a city walking tour map from your tourism!

Eat some good food: There are amazing culinary scenes everywhere. Restaurants that are known for serving up some of the best food in America are not just for tourists either! Locals love them too! You’ll find everything from Italian cuisine to burgers and fries at these great spots.

Experience nature: If you’re looking for something more active than just walking around town or eating at restaurants all day long, then consider going hiking or camping near one of

Veterans in These Destinations:

Visit one of these incredible places for Veterans Day this year:

• The National Mall, Washington, DC
• Boston
• Las Vegas
• San Francisco
• Nashville, TN
• Hawaii National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (HNMCP) in Honolulu and Oahu
• North Hollywood and San Diego, California

Veterans Day in Washington, DC

Veterans Day won’t just be a three-day weekend. It’ll also be a chance to take advantage of some free things in Washington, DC. If you’ve never been here before, you’re in for a treat!

Washington, DC, is the capital of our country and home to many monuments and memorials honoring veterans. The White House, United States Congress, and Supreme Court are also located here. There’s even more than one monument made especially for vets!

There are several national parks within easy reach of DC: Arlington National Cemetery (a cemetery where more than 300 000 people are buried), Natural History Museum at Smithsonian Institution (a museum with dinosaur skeletons), Daughters of Liberty National Monument (which honors women who took part in protests during the American Revolution).

Veterans Day in Boston

Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and is one of the most historical cities in America. It’s also a top tourist destination with plenty to do, see, and eat. If you’re looking for something to do on Veterans Day 2022 in Boston, here are some great ideas:

• Visit the Boston Common—this park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (the same designer behind Central Park). The common has been home to various events since 1634, including protests against British rule during the American Revolution, and later used as a burial ground for Revolutionary War soldiers. Today it’s an open space for people of all ages who want somewhere peaceful to relax!
• Take a stroll down Beacon Street: This street was once lined with mansions belonging to wealthy merchants who lived there back when Boston was founded in 1630s by Puritans seeking religious freedom from England’s King Charles

Veterans Day in Las Vegas

If you spend Veterans Day in Las Vegas, you better plan ahead. The city is packed with activities and events that will make this Veterans Day one of the best.

Veterans Day in Las Vegas is a fantastic opportunity to visit one of America’s greatest cities. Many people come here simply for the famous Strip, but there are numerous other things to do during your stay. You can enjoy a show at a casino or see some great museums and exhibits showcasing Las Vegas’s history and its veterans. If you want something more active, there are plenty of hiking trails you can explore around town—make sure it doesn’t get too hot!

There’s no shortage of things for veterans on Veterans Day: free entry into museums across town, discounts at several restaurants; free drinks at bars if you show your military ID; even free admission into shows like Cirque du Soleil! There may not be discounts on gambling chips (which isn’t surprising), but everything else should be accessible without breaking your bank account (or spending all day walking around).

Veterans Day in San Francisco

San Francisco Veterans Day Things To Do

Veterans Day is a great time to visit San Francisco, CA. This city is known for its incredible views and the Golden Gate Bridge. You can find free things to do on Veterans Day in San Francisco, CA! If you want to explore the city’s history or enjoy some of its world-famous attractions, here are some Veteran Day activities you can enjoy:

• The USS Pampanito Museum – This is one of two museums that allow guests free admission during Veterans Day weekend (2020). The boat has been restored by volunteers and offers visitors a tour around its perimeter; depending on which option you choose, access may be limited due to space constraints, but this shouldn’t be an issue if you plan by booking online before the arrival date​​​​​.*
• Fisherman’s Wharf – If seafood makes your mouth water, this place will satisfy those cravings! A popular tourist attraction located near Pier 39 area where visitors have access to restaurants (Sea Food), street performers & art galleries – All Free!

Veterans Day in Nashville, TN

Nashville, Tennessee, is the perfect place to visit on Veterans Day. The city is the country music capital of the world and has many attractions, including the Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. There are also plenty of great restaurants in Nashville (and some not-so-great ones—but that’s par for the course).

If you’re looking for free things to do on Veterans Day, check out this list:

• Travel by bus or subway for free via Music City Circuit (transit system)
• Visit Fort Nashborough at 1st Avenue North & Commerce Street from 10 AM – 5 PM; learn about human history in Nashville!

Veterans Day in Hawaii

If you’re looking for a place to spend Veterans Day, consider Hawaii. The state is a popular destination for veterans, who often come here to relax and enjoy themselves. There are many free things that veterans can do on Veterans Day in Hawaii, which makes it an even better place to be!

If you’re planning a trip there, don’t wait until the last minute—book your flights now, so you don’t waste any time getting there. You’ll want to ensure everyone has their passports to get through security smoothly; also, be sure they have all their immunization records up-to-date! And remember: It’s going to be hot during this time of year so bring plenty of sunscreens (upwards of SPF 100).

Veterans Day in San Diego, CA

San Diego, California, is a great place to visit in the spring and summer. The weather is perfect for sightseeing, the beaches are beautiful, there are many things to do in San Diego, and there are many free things to do in San Diego. Free events for Veterans on Veterans Day include:

• “The California International Airshow” will be held October 17-18 from 12–4 PM near Lindbergh Field. Admission is free, but parking costs $12 per vehicle (cash only).
• The “Veterans Day Parade” will take place November 11 at 10 AM along Harbor Drive between Pacific Beach Drive and 14th Street in downtown San Diego. The parade route ends at Embarcadero Marina Park South, where there will be a ceremony that includes military displays, entertainment, and an awards presentation at 11 AM followed by an American flag-raising ceremony at noon.

Veterans Day in Alaska

Alaska is a beautiful state with many sites to see. Landmarks in Alaska celebrates Veterans Day by offering free admission to the National Historic Park on Veterans Day, November 11. The park is open from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM, so if you’re traveling from out of town and want to visit this historic site, this is an ideal time!

Other things in Alaska are also accessible on Veterans Day, including tours of the city (bus tour), museums (Alaska Aviation Museum), and more! Check out all these great deals when visiting Alaska on Veterans Day weekend!

Veterans Day in New York City

Feel like visiting New York City on Veterans Day? You’re in luck!

The Veterans Day Parade is an annual parade produced by the United War Veterans Council (UWVC) in New York City. It is the largest Veterans Day event in the United States of America.

The city is offering free admission to the Empire State Building and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and free transportation for veterans on MTA buses and subways.

While you’re there, make sure to check out the following attractions:

• Times Square – This area has so much going on that you won’t have time to do everything. Try stopping by the Toys R Us store or shooting some hoops at one of its basketball courts. If you’re feeling hungry, head to Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., which serves up shrimp inspired by Forrest Gump’s favorite foods (like banana cream pie).
• Rockefeller Center – If it’s nice out, take a break from walking around NYC by sitting in one of these restaurants or grabbing a snack at Shake Shack nearby while enjoying views of Central Park through huge windows that go up two stories high!

In addition to honoring veterans, there will be several activities throughout the city that celebrate the event. These include: (1) a Veterans Day concert, (2) a wreath-laying ceremony at Columbus Circle; (3) a commemoration ceremony at Battery Park; (4) a parade; and (5) other events throughout the day in different parts of the city.

Free Day Tours

If you’re looking for a great way to celebrate Veterans Day, look no further than these free daily tours. From discounted times to full-on freebies, there are plenty of ways to see your country in style this year.

• Free Day Tours: These are just what they sound like—tours that don’t cost any money! For instance, if you’ve always wanted to know where the Statue of Liberty was made or how many steps are on the Empire State Building but were too embarrassed by how much it would cost (or didn’t have enough cash), now’s your chance.
• Discounted Day Tours: Most people don’t go out on the town without looking up their local deals first; why should veterans be any different? Here are some places that offer discounted rates for veterans and active duty members: The Smithsonian American Art Museum has a Senior Pass for seniors over 65 years old (with proof) that costs $40 per year; The National Archives has two passes available for military personnel which allow them access into special exhibits; And finally, The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona offers half off all burial plots purchased before November 30 each year.

Veteran’s Flight Deals

Whether you are planning a holiday trip or just looking for inspiration, there are some fantastic deals on Veterans Day flights:

• Southwest Airlines is proud to offer military and government fares.
• Check out AARP’s full list of discount offers for veterans to take advantage of this Veterans Day.

Veterans Day Discount on Hotels

There are a few things that you should keep in mind. Hotel discounts would likely only be available on November 11. Additionally, the discount may not be applicable to certain rooms or guests.

On Military.com, there’s a list of inns and B&Bs honoring active and retired veterans for Veterans Day with free stays. Offering one free room night on November 10/11. You can enjoy the local Veterans Day celebrations with a free stay. 

Free Retreats for Veterans Day

To honor veterans, you can attend a retreat for free. There are plenty of affordable retreats for veterans open to anyone who has served in any branch of the US military, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Veterans Day offers an opportunity to honor those who have served our country by taking advantage of these opportunities to relax at no cost (other than your travel expenses).

The VA has several programs that provide free vacations/retreats available for Veterans Day:

• The Veterans Retreat Program is designed to help eligible veterans take advantage of fun-filled, stress-relieving vacation opportunities by providing roundtrip transportation to and from the site of a VA-approved retreat.
• The Restored Warrior Vacation Program offers travel grants to help pay for a family member or friend’s transportation costs when traveling with a veteran who has received care at one of the VA’s medical centers.

Free Vacations for Veterans

While it’s never too early to start planning your next big trip, some great deals are going on right now that are worth considering. For example, the Freedom Cruise Line offers free cruises for veterans if they book through June 30. You’ll also get two nights at a luxury hotel and $150 onboard credit! Plenty of other options if this one doesn’t sound like your cup of tea.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this list of Veterans Day trips and activities. We wanted to ensure that there was something for everyone on our list so we included all types of vacations from beach getaways to city tours.