Philadelphia has an incredibly rich history and connection to the U.S. military, as it is the birthplace of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Whether you are planning a trip or are a long-time resident looking to explore your own city, many of these great destinations offer discounts to active duty and veteran servicemembers. Additionally, veterans can find numerous discounts on every-day services in the City of Brotherly Love; just be sure to take your military or veteran ID (and call ahead of time to confirm the discount).

Historic Philadelphia Military Museums

Up and down Historic Philadelphia’s cobblestone streets, you’ll find centuries-old landmarks that have played a role in America’s military history; many are free or do offer a military discount.

New Hall Military Museum (Free)

Betsy Ross House ($1 off admission)

National Liberty Museum

Grand Army of the Republic Museum and Library (limited hours of operation)

Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial

Docked on the Camden Waterfront, the Battleship New Jersey is the mot decorated battleship in Naval history. Today, it is a Museum and Memorial that offers a variety of ways to experience the ship, including walk-up tours daily, overnight encampments, group tour packages, and space for meeting and social affairs. Walk-up tours of the Battleship are available every Saturday and Sunday in February and military members receive $5 off admission.

Local Merchant Discounts

Many Pennsylvania counties – such as Montgomery County – offer a free Veteran photo ID card and work with local business owners to actively collect a long list of discounts. The Recorder of Deeds office is authorized to record the military discharge papers of veterans (for free), and these records are accessible only by the veteran, and can be accessed online. To have your papers recorded and to receive your Veteran ID card, you should bring your DD214 and a photo identification card (such as a Pennsylvania Drivers’ License). Check with your local county to see if it is offering the card.

The list of participating merchants varies by county, but for Philadelphia County veterans, several local businesses off great discounts:

• Big Bama Barbeque, 10% discount
• Chiropractic Healthcare Center, 40% discount
• Dave’s Auto and Truck Services, 10% off labor (up to $50)
• Gerhard’s Appliance, Free Delivery from In-Store Purchases
• De Christopher Bros, In, 10% Discount
• Heffler, Radetich, and Saitta, LLP, 20% discount
• Lindt Chocolate at the Premium Outlets, 10% discount
• Mark Sandler Dentistry, 20% off
• Northeast Fence and Iron Works, 10% off materials
• Philadelphia Eyeglass Labs, 25% off, free exam is glasses are purchased
• Philadelphia Premium Outlets, Free VIP Coupon
• The Porch at Courtyard Philadelphia Landsale, 10% discount

Liberty USO

The USO organization serving Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey – known as Liberty USO – is extremely active and a great place to connect with many programs, including special family days and unique events in the community (like the Military Appreciation Day that allowed military members to attend and observe a session of the Philadelphia Eagles’ training camps).

Professional Sports

You can find discounted tickets to many of Philadelphia’s professional sporting events (like the 76ers and the Phillies) the through GovX, a ticket website that offers discounts only to active duty, veterans, reservists, and first responders. After signing up for their free service, you can search and find tickets to your favorite sporting event and teams. Additionally, many of these teams offer Military Appreciation Days with special discounts or freebies. Be sure to check their websites and event/schedule pages.

City Pass

Although not just for veterans and active duty members, you can find great savings if you plan on visiting numerous Philly attractions by purchasing a City Pass. It offers up to a 44% discount on admissions to four Philadelphia attractions, including the Franklin Institute, Big Bus Company and Philadelphia Trolley Works, One Liberty Observation Deck, and the Adventure Aquarium OR the Philadelphia Zoo. The pass is valid for 9 days and will cost you $55 for an adult and $35 for a child.

Written by Megan Hammons