veterans day weekend trips

• Cover Letters
• Jobs I've Applied To
• Saved Searches
• Subscriptions
• Marine Corps
• Coast Guard
• Space Force
• Military Podcasts
• Benefits Home
• Military Pay and Money
• Veteran Health Care
• VA eBenefits
• Veteran Job Search
• Military Skills Translator
• Upload Your Resume
• Veteran Employment Project
• Vet Friendly Employers
• Career Advice
• Military Life Home
• Military Trivia Game
• Veterans Day
• Spouse & Family
• Military History
• Discounts Home
• Featured Discounts
• Veterans Day Restaurant Discounts
• Electronics
• Join the Military Home
• Contact a Recruiter
• Military Fitness
• 2023 Military Travel and Recreation Discounts for Veterans Day

As an affiliate partner Military.com earns from qualifying purchases.

Find 2023 Veterans Day military travel and recreation discounts here. Visit often because the list will be updated frequently as new discounts come in.

All of the discounts have been confirmed, either through press release or direct communication with the company. Check out all the other discounts being offered this Veterans Day.

• Veterans Day Restaurant Offerings
• Veterans Day Retail Offerings
• Veterans Day Events
• Military Appreciation and Giving Back to Veterans on Veterans Day

Keep in mind that most businesses require proof of military service. Not sure what type of ID you need to prove that you're a veteran? We compiled a list of  common types of veteran identification .

Related:  VA Home Loan: Are You Eligible?

Not all franchise locations participate in their national chain's Veterans Day programs -- be sure contact your nearest establishment to make sure they are participating.

Make sure to visit the Military.com Discounts Center for more discounts and articles. And sign up for the  Military Deals and Discounts Newsletter  to get even more discounts and information in your inbox on how Military Families can save big.

2023 Veterans Day Travel and Recreation Discounts:

The following is a list of Veterans Day discounts offered for travel and recreation in 2023.

9/11 Memorial and Museum -- Throughout Salute to Service, November 8 through 12 , military veterans, active military, retired military, and their guests may reserve complimentary tickets.

Akron Zoo  -- Veterans receive free admission with valid military ID, and immediate family members receive 50% off admission, November 8 through 12 . Go to the ticket counter to purchase tickets.

Aquarium of the Pacific -- Veterans and active-duty military personnel get free admission on November 11 .

Arizona State Parks -- Veterans, active-duty military, and National Guard get free entrance on November 11 .

Army Corp of Engineers Recreation Areas -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will waive day use fees at its recreation areas nationwide November 11.

B&Bs for Vets -- Hundreds of inns and B&Bs will honor active-duty military and veterans for Veterans Day with free stays. Most of the inns are offering one free room night on November 10 or 11 , but offers may vary.

Birmingham Zoo -- Veterans, active-duty military and five dependents (up to six total) get free admission November 11 through 12 . Guests must show proof of military service.

Capital Wheel -- Active and retired military can experience The Capital Wheel for free on November 11 with a valid military ID.

CheapOair   -- Use the promo code VTRN25 and save up to $25 off CheapOair's fees on flights when you book October 6 through November 15 .

Cincinnati Zoo  -- All members of the military will receive free admission on November 11 . The offer also allows military personnel to purchase up to six half-price admission tickets for members of their immediate family.

Colonial Williamsburg -- For the entire Veterans Day Weekend, November 10 through 12 , active-duty military, Reservists, retirees, veterans, National Guardsmen and their immediate dependents get free admission.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum -- On November 11 veterans and active–duty military members get free museum admission alongside up to three immediate family members. Proof of military affiliation must be presented.

Dave & Buster's -- Veterans get a free entree (up to $20) and a free $10 Power Card with a valid veterans ID card on November 11 .

Durham Museum -- Veterans and their families get free admission on November 11 . Veterans can also enjoy a free hot dog meal at the Soda Fountain.

Gilroy Gardens -- Gilroy Gardens offers free admission for active-duty and retired military with valid ID November 10 to 12 . Military can also get up to 6 free tickets for friends and family. 

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden   --   Veterans get free admission on November 11 .

Hagley Museum and Library -- Current military members, veterans, and their families get free admission on November 11 .

Killington Resort -- Active-duty, retired and honorably discharged members of the military receive a free lift ticket on November 11 .

Knott's Berry Farm -- Active-duty military and veterans receive discounted admission for themselves and up to 5 guests during Military Tribute Days, November 1 through 16 and November 27 through December 14 . Tickets can be purchased online or at the Knott’s Berry Farm ticket booths.

La Quinta by Wyndham -- Eligible military members enjoy 12% off Best Available Rate at participating La Quinta by Wyndham hotels. Plus, Wyndham Rewards members receive 1,000 bonus points for one qualified stay booked direct by December 8 and completed by December 11, 2023.

Main Event -- On November 11 , active-duty military and veterans get a free double cheeseburger and 30 minute Fun Card with ID.

Mammoth Mountain -- Veterans and active-duty military members can ski or ride for free on November 11 . To redeem your free lift ticket, visit the ticket window at Main Lodge and present a valid military ID.

Montgomery Zoo  -- Veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their dependent family members receive a 50% discount on regular daytime admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, November 5 through 11 .

Monticello -- Veterans get complimentary admission November 10 through 12 .

Montpelier -- Veterans and active-duty service members get a free "Highlights of Montpelier" tour and Museum Shop discount on November 10 and 11 .

Mount Vernon -- All active-duty, former, or retired military personnel are admitted for free on November 11 .

Museum of the Bible -- Active-duty service members and veterans, and their spouses and children receive free admission from November 11 through 18 . Present your military or veteran ID cards at Ticketing.

Nashville Zoo -- Active-duty military personnel, veterans and their immediate families receive free admission on November 12 . Advance reservations are not required.

National Parks -- On November 11 , get free admission to all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee.

National WWI Museum and Memorial -- Admission is free for veterans and active-duty military personnel, November 10 through 12 .

Natural History Museum of Utah -- From November 10 through 12 , the Natural History Museum of Utah offers free admission to former members of the U.S. military, plus one additional guest each.

NEW Zoo & Adventure Park  -- Veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their immediate families get free zoo admission on November 11 .

North Carolina Zoo -- Military personnel, veterans and one accompanying guest get free admission November 6 through 12 .

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park -- Veterans and active-duty military members can enjoy the Northwest Trek for free on November 11 . Immediate family members receive half-off general admission. Offer is not valid on online purchases or premier tours (Wild Drives/Keeper Adventure Tours).

NY Waterway -- Active-duty military and veterans ride the ferry for free on November 11 .

OTL Seat Fillers -- Los Angeles Area military, veterans, and military families can register as a new Los Angeles Seat Filler before November 12 for two free months of seat filling tickets for two. No credit card needed. Various shows like plays, musicals, comedy shows, and special events.

Pickleball Kingdom -- From November 11 to 13 , veterans play for free.

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium -- On November 11 , veterans and active-duty service members get free admission, and their families get half-off general admission. This offer is valid at the Zoo admission window and not valid on online purchases. 

Pro Football Hall of Fame -- Veterans plus one guest get free admission and parking to the Veterans Day Event & Expo on November 11 . A 20% off discount in the Hall of Fame Store will also be offered.

San Antonio Zoo -- Active-duty, retired, veteran members of the military, National Guard and Reserves get free admission throughout November . Plus, up to four immediate family members can receive 50% off single day tickets on date of visit.

Sedgwick County Zoo -- Veterans, military personnel, and their families get free admission for their entire party on November 11 . Must present valid military ID or proof of active deployment. Offer is also valid for Gold Star families. Includes daily admission only, not applicable for Wild Lights tickets.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom -- Veterans and active-duty military personnel will be given complimentary park admission with valid military ID, November 10 to 12 . Family members are eligible to receive $19.99 park admission (up to 4 in group). All redemptions will take place at the front gate.

St. Louis Wheel -- Veterans and active-duty military ride for free on November 11 .

Super 8 by Wyndham -- Eligible military members can save 15% on Best Available Rate at participating Super 8 by Wyndham hotels. Plus, for a limited time, Wyndham Rewards members receive 1,000 bonus points for one qualified stay booked direct by December 8 and completed by December 11, 2023.

UFC GYM   -- Active duty and retired military personnel get complimentary Recovery services, complimentary passes, membership deals and more at select UFC GYM® and UFC FIT® locations. Participants may redeem the special offers beginning on November 11 and throughout the end of November. 

Winchester Mystery House -- Veterans and their family members get 30% off for Winchester Mystery House Daily Estate Tour Tickets, November 1 through December 31 . Must buy at box office and show valid Military ID.

Woodland Park Zoo -- Active, retired, reserve, and veteran U.S. military personnel and one guest get free admission on November 11 . In addition, up to six family members with valid ID will receive $3 off admission on Veterans Day.

World of Coca-Cola -- Military members can purchase up to 4 general admission tickets for 50% off for their friends and family November 3 to November 12 . Use promo code VETS2023 at check out. Advance purchase necessary. Military ID must be presented upon entry.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts -- Eligible military members can enjoy everyday savings of up to 15% off Best Available Rate at participating hotels. Plus, for a limited time, Wyndham Rewards members receive 1,000 bonus points for one qualified stay booked direct by December 8 and completed by December 11, 2023.

Related:  Many auto insurance companies offer discounts for military veterans.  Compare competing insurance rates and receive a quote in minutes .

Enjoy AARP Membership for Up to 43% Off

AARP salutes you for your service to our country with a special membership offer. Enjoy savings on dining, travel and more all year long with your AARP membership! Join today and start saving now .

Stay Up-to-Date With Military Discounts

Want the scoop on military discounts? From travel to phones and everything in between, troops, military families and veterans can stay on top of military discounts.  Become a Military.com subscriber and get full access through our newsletter.

Heather Sweeney

You May Also Like

Service members and families are being honored during Military Appreciation Month 2023 with a variety of discounts.

Need some gifts ideas to brighten Mom's day? Grab your military ID and get discounts on the following gifts!

The Transportation Security Administration's Credential Authentication Technology reads the cards' INDEF date field as...

Department of Veterans Affairs beneficiaries now have access to free financial coaching through the Veterans Benefits Banking...

Veteran Holidays

• 2023 Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Deals and Discounts
• 2023 Veterans Day Deals, Discounts and Freebies
• 2023 Veterans Day Retail Deals and Discounts
• Veterans Day 2023 Parades, Events and More
• Giving Back to Veterans on Veterans Day
• Vietnam Veterans Day
• In Honor of Veterans Day
• Here's How to Maximize Your Free Veterans Day Food Deals

Get the Deals & Discounts Newsletter

Get weekly military discounts on food, travel, lodging, moving, entertainment and more.

View more newsletters on our Subscriptions page.

Verify your free subscription by following the instructions in the email sent to:

Veterans Day Discounts & Events

Businesses salute our military heroes on Veterans Day with a host of discounts and freebies for veterans, service members and...

Restaurants are saluting Veterans Day with free meals and discounts for veterans, service members and their families.

We scour the universe for the best military travel and recreation discounts to celebrate veterans and Veterans Day. Find...

Businesses are saluting Veterans Day with a host of discounts and freebies for veterans, service members and their families.

Veterans Day is the perfect opportunity to attend events such as parades to learn about the importance of the Veterans Day...

For Veterans Day, several organizations roll out promotions that support the military, veterans and their families.

Select Service

• National Guard

More Veterans Day Articles

Like the original memorial wall in Washington D.C., the replica -- eight feet high and stretching more than 200 feet --...

"The Metal Detector" began airing on PBS and on PBS.org starting on Nov. 11, 2023.

The king, wearing the uniform of the Marshal of the Royal Air Force, laid a wreath featuring 41 open-style fabric poppies.

"Today, our minds are full with the terrible images emerging from Israel and Gaza. These are just two of the more than 100...

In May, Tom Carper announced that he'd be retiring from the Senate after 14 successful campaigns in Delaware for statewide...

Military Holidays

• Air Force Birthday
• Army Birthday
• Coast Guard Birthday
• Celebrating July 4th
• Marine Corps Birthday
• Memorial Day
• Military Appreciation Month 2024
• Military Family Appreciation Month 2023
• Military Spouse Appreciation Day 2023
• National Guard Birthday
• Celebrate the Navy Birthday
• Veterans Day 2023

Veterans Day Travel Deals and Discounts in 2023

Unlike many other holidays, traveling during Veterans Day can be more difficult for families. However, for the military community, this can also mean freebies, discounts, and less stress. Veterans Day travel deals are available for attractions in your backyard and across the country.

Suggested read: What Is Veterans Day 2023? Honoring All Who Served

5 Veterans Day Travel Deals You Won’t Want to Miss

Here at VeteranLife, we work to bring you the best in military culture, which includes Veterans Day travel deals. However, these third party offers are subject to change any time. Be sure to double-check any deal and read the fine print before you commit. Also, have your military ID at the ready. Nevertheless, here are five great options to travel for less.

1. American Forces Travel

American Forces Travel is an exclusive online travel booking platform for the U.S. military community, providing substantial discounts and supporting Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs. Through Priceline, active and retired service members, their families, honorably discharged Veterans, and DoD civilians receive discounted travel arrangements. This includes no booking fees and reduced fees when changing the following:

• Rental cars
• Vacation packages

Priceline doesn’t charge for bookings or cancellations, but other suppliers may have their own fees and terms. Regardless, American Forces Travel remains a bargain for the military community, enabling travel to a variety of locations worldwide at a fraction of the cost.

2. National Parks

Of all the Veterans Day weekend travel deals, it’s hard to argue that any are more patriotic than free admission to America’s National Parks. Free to enter on Veterans Day for Vets, both active-duty military and Gold Star Families receive free passes to see America the beautiful.

Events and tributes are going on all weekend long, with many of the sites in the National Park System involving our nation’s military directly. Be it battlegrounds, military sites, or you’re simply looking to get outdoors, there are several options throughout the country.

3. Your Local Zoo

Lions and tigers and bears…oh, and deals! You can save money on Veterans Day travel far and wide visiting many of the zoos and aquariums found throughout the country. However, each location may vary on its terms and conditions. Despite this, many zoos in the U.S. honor Vets by providing free admission.

You can often find discounts and/or free admission for active duty military as well as families within the military community. Here are some of the best places to go on an adventure and see some of nature’s most interesting creatures up close and personal:

• Baton Rouge Zoo
• Birmingham Zoo
• Blue Zoo Spokane
• Buttonwood Park Zoo
• Cincinnati Zoo
• Columbus Zoo
• Indianapolis Zoo
• Louisville Zoo
• Montgomery Zoo
• NEW Zoo (Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo)
• Nashville Zoo
• Oklahoma City Zoo
• Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
• Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
• San Antonio Zoo
• Sedgwick County Zoo
• Sequoia Park Zoo
• Sunset Zoo (Manhattan)
• Woodland Park Zoo
• Zoo Atlanta

4. B&Bs for Vets

The Association of Lodging Professionals (ALP) offers Veterans and active duty military members BOGO and/or free overnight stays for Veterans Day weekend. Furthermore, through the B&Bs for Vets Program , you can stay at one of the many bed and breakfast locations participating in the event.

Although anyone who qualifies is allowed to participate, priority access is provided to those who have never used the opportunity before. Therefore, if you have already participated in the program, and others have not, they will likely receive a turn should the available slots become full.

5. Expedia Limited Time Military Travel Deals

Expedia’s military-only travel deals are the company’s way of giving back to those who protect us every single day. Active duty and Veterans can enjoy this perk; however, here’s what you’re going to need to know:

• You can book hotels, flights, rental vehicles, or a combination of these accommodations.
• It’s important to note that these benefits aren’t always available.
• If you’re feeling impulsive and want to take a trip, Expedia is a great site to bookmark.
• However, if you’re planning a trip on short notice, you should also have other options.

Enjoy this perk on Veterans Day and all year long. Just be sure to check throughout the year and to always have a plan B.

Related read: Find the Funniest Veterans Day Meme Here

Explore America for Less Through Veterans Day Travel Deals

Serving our nation means sacrifice. Thankfully, many organizations are recognizing what it takes. Furthermore, Veterans Day travel deals are a great way to see our nation without breaking the bank. Don’t forget, even beyond November 11, many companies offer discounted and free travel options for Vets and active duty military.

Read next: Are Banks Closed on Veterans Day? – Understanding Bank Holidays

About Buddy Blouin

Buddy Blouin is a content writer that loves creating through the written word. Outside of searching through keyword data and creating blogs, he enjoys creating cocktails, cooking, and enjoying the Beautiful Game.

OptinMonster?

Suggested articles.

Here’s How Vets Can Access Healthcare Services Under the MISSION Act

April 17, 2024

Military Brat Meaning: Embracing Its Origin

How Civilians Can Incorporate Military Discipline Into Their Everyday Life

April 16, 2024

Women Veterans Should Know About These Available Resources and Benefits

15 Best Summer Vacation Locations Veterans Will Love

Hilarious and Common Military Acronyms & Their Meaning

April 15, 2024

social share vertical

Social share under atricle, style for comment bubble in article page, script for social share horizontal.

• Cabin vacation
• Camping w/cookouts – Specific dates available
• Archery – Olympic Range
• Hiking trails
• Children’s playground
• We provide opportunities to participate in a family oriented outdoor experience, expeditions, or safari adventures.
• We promote and provide hunter education; teaching the craft of the harvest and the meaning of the circle of life. 
• We support managed utilization of natural resources and sustainable hunting, promoting the North American model of conservation.  

• Adopt a military family
• Caring with meals
• Charity guides
• Christmas holiday support
• Church resources
• Humanitarian aid
• Info. about the U.S. military
• Interest-based support
• Memorial Day
• Practical insights in caring for
• Send cards and letters
• Send care packages
• Significant days, observances
• Suggested reading (adults)
• Suggested reading (children)
• Thank you cards, free
• Teacher resources
• Toolkits and steps to helping
• Tools to coordinate care
• Veteran and spouse businesses
• Veteran hospital support
• Veterans Day
• Adoption, infertility
• Air travel assistance
• Arts (creative expression)
• Basic training
• Cards and letters
• Care packages
• Chaplain resources
• Children and teens
• Christian encouragement
• Civilian contractors
• Classifieds
• Counseling, crisis numbers,
• Crafts, sewing, etc.
• Deployment support for
• Disaster preparedness or aid
• DIY - Do it yourself websites
• Downloads and printables
• Emergency communication
• Equine therapy
• Family coaching, mentoring
• Family support organizations
• Female veterans
• Financial assistance
• Financial guidance
• Free family-friendly activities
• Get connected
• Gold star families
• Health, fitness, medical
• Homeless (or at risk) veterans
• Home schoolers
• Hotlines (reporting)
• Humor, comics, comedy
• Income tax preparation
• Legal aid or assistance
• Local opportunity and services locator
• Military brats
• Military OneSource
• Military working dogs
• Music (therapeutic opportunities)
• OPSEC, PERSEC
• Parents of military personnel
• Photography
• Poems and essays
• Post-traumatic stress (PTSD)
• Radio and podcasts
• Real estate
• Recreational opportunities, retreats, vacations (free)
• Reintegration
• Relevant, encouraging articles
• Sellers of military-themed items
• Service dogs, companion pets
• Social media directories
• Spouse clubs, coffee groups
• Spouse employment, education
• Transition to civilian (ETS)
• Transportation
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Travel assistance
• Travel, Space A flights
• Veterans Day promotions
• Veterans service organizations
• Veteran stories
• Wishes granted
• Wounded warrior families
• Flyers to print and share

Money-saving Veterans Day deals and travel perks for the military and veterans

Editor's Note

As we honor all those who have served our country this Veterans Day, did you know many businesses across the U.S. offer deals as a thank you for military members and veterans?

From free food and theme-park admission tickets to airline perks like free checked bags and discounted hotel stays, read on to see all the deals vets can take advantage of this year.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Free admission to theme parks

Many theme parks offer military members and veterans free admission (in some cases, throughout the year) and some extend that offer to their family members, including:

• Legoland (Florida) : Active-duty service members receive free admission every day of the year; veterans and military family members receive 60% off tickets.
• Legoland (California) : Active military members can receive a 10% discount on admission throughout the year.
• Colonial Williamsburg : (Virginia.) Veterans, active-duty military and their immediate dependents receive free admission on either Memorial Day weekend or Veterans Day weekend, in addition to a 25% discount off a single-day admission ticket for themselves and dependents throughout the year.
• Mystic Aquarium : (Mystic, Conn.) Active-duty military receive free admission.
• Crayola Experience : (Plano, Texas.). All veterans, active and retired military members receive free admission throughout November; immediate family members receive 25% off admission.
• Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens : All members of the military — active and retired — receive free admission to the zoo on Veterans Day, in addition to $5 off adults and child admission.
• Birmingham Zoo : Free admission for military and dependents on both Memorial Day weekend and Nov. 9-11 for Veterans Day .
• Aquarium of the Pacific : (Long Beach, Calif.) On Nov. 11, all veterans and military personnel receive free admission.

Read more: The Essential Guide to Legoland Florida

Free admission to national parks

Any visitors to any one of the 400 National Parks will receive free entry on Nov. 11, not just veterans. Additionally, many of the parks host Veterans Day-related events, including in-person and virtual ceremonies, parades, concerts and service projects, a list of which can be found here .

Related: Use points to stay near national parks

Free haircuts and car washes

Veterans and active, inactive or retired military personnel can get a free haircut on Veterans Day at Great Clips, which has more than 4,400 franchises in the U.S. and Canada. If you are not quite due for another haircut, stop in at the shop to pick up a certificate that you can redeem from Nov. 12 through Dec. 10, 2021.

If your car is in need of a nice cleaning, there are more than 1,600 car washes that will wash your car for free for veterans and service personnel thanks to the nonprofit Grace For Vets, which has given more than 3 million free car washes since 2003.

Many restaurants honor active military members and veterans by offering discounted or free meals, including the following national chains:

• Applebee's : Active-duty military and veterans and their families receive 10% off their bill year-round, but veterans get a free meal annually on Veterans Day.
• BJ's Restaurant Brewhouse : On Veterans Day, all current and former military will receive a free entree plus a free Dr. Pepper.
• Chili's : On Nov. 11, all veterans and active-duty military members will receive a free Veterans Day meal.
• Denny's : All active, non-active and retired military personnel will receive a free Grand Slam breakfast on Veterans Day.
• Fogo de Chão : Military veterans and active-duty personnel will receive 50% off their meal – and up to three guests dining will get 10% off their meal – on Nov. 11.
• Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub : On Veterans Day, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., all veterans and active-duty military will receive a free lunch from a special Veterans Day menu.
• Olive Garden : Olive Garden will offer veterans and active-duty military personnel who dine in a free entrée from a special menu on Nov. 11.
• Outback Steakhouse : All servicemen and women receive a 10% heroes discount daily, in addition to a free Bloomin' Onion and Coca-Cola product on Nov. 11 for active and retired military.
• Red Lobster : On Nov. 11, all veterans, active-duty military and reservists will receive a free appetizer or dessert, in addition to Military Mondays, where all active-duty military personnel receive 10% off their meal every Monday.
• Texas de Brazil : Veterans get 25% off dinner between Nov. 8-11.

Related: Amtrak Launches 10% Discount for Veterans and Active Duty Military

Discounted hotel rates

U.S. military personnel are offered discounted rates at many hotels throughout the entire year:

• Best Western : Veterans, military and government personnel enjoy discounts at or below per diem rates at Best Western Hotels & Resorts throughout North America.
• Choice Hotels : Active-duty or reserve military members, retired military, National Guard and U.S. Coast Guard members are all eligible for Lifetime Gold Elite status with the Choice Privileges rewards program. The hotel will also award military 2,500 bonus points after their next qualifying stay. They can also save up to 15% on your next hotel stay by booking in advance through their Feed a Vet program , which provides free meals to current and past members.
• Hilton Hotels & Resorts : State, federal and U.S. military employees can take advantage of the Government/Military rate box and receive discounted hotel rates. The hotel chain also offers 10% savings for active and retired military, veterans and their families on leisure stays.
• InterContinental Hotels Group : With the IHG Military Appreciation Rate, active or retired U.S. or Canadian military personnel, or dependent family members, will receive discounted rates at participating IHG hotels across Canada, the United States, Central and South America.
• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts : Military members, veterans and their families receive up to 15% off the best available rate at participating Wyndham Hotel Group locations. Additionally, military guests are automatically upgraded to Wyndham Rewards Gold membership and get 1,000 bonus points after completing their first qualifying stay.
• Marriott : Discounted federal, state and local government rates are available to government and military personnel.
• Motel 6 : All active and retired military personnel and their families can receive up to a 10% discount at over 1,400 locations.
• Red Roof Inn : Government employees, military, veterans and retired military receive 10% off for government and military official travel as well as leisure travel.

Related: The best credit cards for active-duty military

Airfare discounts and benefits

Similar to discounted hotel rates, military personnel also receive discounted airfare on select major carriers. Just note these discounts are typically discluded from promotional or web fares, where you might actually find less expensive prices. Many airlines will also extend free checked bags or other benefits to military personnel.

Alaska Airlines : Active-duty personnel and their dependents get up to five free checked bags up to 70 pounds each, in addition to other benefits, including preboarding privileges and a 15% discount on food purchased in flight, complimentary Alaska Lounge day passes for active-duty U.S. military personnel who are traveling on orders and a Veterans Advantage discount in booking flights.

American Airlines : Government or military fares are offered in some markets, but you will have to call to book. Veterans and their families can save up to 10% on domestic and international flights by enrolling in VetRewards and booking through Veterans Advantage. Active U.S. military personnel, traveling on orders, can check five bags for free; those traveling for leisure can check three bags for free. Active military members can also receive special perks such as early boarding and access to the Admirals Club . TPG has even been told that American Airlines allows active U.S. military members (and their family members traveling on the same reservation) to receive complimentary access to preferred seats and main cabin extra seats from an airport agent, if available.

Delta Air Lines : For active-duty members of the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, Delta provides exclusive discounts on travel. To book personal travel or travel on military orders, call the Delta Military and Government desk at 800-221-1212. On military orders, you can check up to five bags for free and two to three bags for personal travel (two bags if traveling on in Basic Economy, Main Cabin, or Delta Comfort; three bags if traveling in first class, Delta Premium Select, or Delta One). Active-duty military personnel will also receive preboarding access and military members and U.S. State Department foreign service officers can check their pets as baggage when traveling on active transfer orders.

Frontier Airlines : U.S. military passengers with active-duty status will receive one free personal item, one free carry-on bag and two free checked bags.

Hawaiian Airlines : Baggage fees are waived for U.S. military personnel — travelers on military orders (including qualified dependents) will receive up to five bags for free; those on personal travel will receive up to two bags for free.

Related: Why the Amex Platinum card is best for active-duty military

JetBlue : U.S. active-duty military, retired military veterans, National Guard and Reserve members can receive a 5% discount on all JetBlue flights. There are two offers: Veterans Advantage and Active Duty Military Personnel . Active-duty personnel traveling for duty (and their dependents) can check up to five bags for free. Active-duty personnel traveling for leisure (and their dependents) can check up to two bags for free.

Southwest : Southwest offers special tickets for military and government personnel, but you must call to book. All Southwest passengers receive two checked bags for free, but military passengers traveling on active duty or permanent change of stations orders will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, as long as none of the pieces exceed 100 pounds and 80 inches.

Spirit Airlines : For active-duty military, Spirit will provide two free checked bags and a free carry-on, in addition to the included free personal item .

United Airlines : U.S. military veterans, active-duty military, National Guard and Reserve members and their families will receive up to a 5% discount on tickets purchased on United.com (the flight must be operated by United or United Express). You must register with Veterans Advantage first to take advantage of this discount. Active-duty military personnel traveling on official orders or for pleasure can also check extra baggage free of charge. In some cases, military dependents will also be included. Additionally, active-duty members will receive preboarding and access to United Club locations .

Bottom line

If you are an active military member or veteran, first and foremost, thank you for everything you've done and continue to do for our country.

Now, go ahead and enjoy your perks, which will ultimately never be enough to show our gratitude.

Related: The best Chase Sapphire Reserve benefits for active-duty military

Additional reporting by Caroline Tanner.

13 Most Patriotic Destinations for Veterans Day Weekend

by LA Family Travel Editors | Nov 1, 2022 | Destinations , Family Adventures , USA

(This article may or may not contain affiliate links. What does that mean?)

On Veterans Day, we take time to honor all those who have served in our country’s armed forces. But amid ads for Veterans Day sales, days off of school, and preparations for the busy holiday season, it’s easy to lose the meaning of the day. This year, cut through the clutter by planning a special trip to help families learn more about our veterans and their service to our nation. Try one of these destinations recommended by travel experts all over the nation to honor the heroes who keep our country safe.

NO TIME TO ENJOY THIS ARTICLE NOW? PIN IT OR BOOKMARK IT FOR LATER!

Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a place to take the kids to understand the importance of Veteran’s Day, look no further than Los Angeles! The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is hosting an event where it’s docked in San Pedro that includes a tour of the ship, a ceremony on the fantail, a concert, and food. It’s an up-close look at the ship, which was commissioned in 1943.

Manhattan Beach hosts an annual Veteran’s Day ceremony. The tribute includes the participation of the Manhattan Beach Police Department Honor Guard, school groups, and Boy Scouts. It’s a great way to see the community come together, and there are plenty of things to do in Manhattan Beach to spend the rest of your day.

Air Force One at the Reagan Presidential Library. Photo by The Evolista .

The Reagan Presidential Library also hosts a Veterans Day celebration with live music, a Civil War encampment, a military vehicle display, and a program honoring all branches of the military. Make sure to check out the full-sized reproduction of the Oval Office and walk through the plane that served as Air Force One for six presidents.

To stay in Manhattan Beach, try the Shade Hotel , which is only three blocks from the beach. For a luxury experience in a more central location, stay in Santa Monica at Santa Monica Proper Hotel .

Recommended by Jenifer from The Evolista

San Francisco

San Francisco is a great destination to visit with your family on Veterans Day, with plenty of events and activities to add to your San Francisco itinerary . The city hosts its annual Veterans Day parade in Fisherman’s Wharf on November 6. On November 11, there is a three-hour cruise on the San Francisco Bay aboard the historic presidential yacht USS Potomac , which is a floating National Historic Site.

Fishermans Wharf in San Francisco. Photo by Destination Checkoff.

The San Francisco Bay Area has several military museums that are perfect to visit on Veterans Day. Fort Point , near the Golden Gate Bridge, was a military fort built in the 19th century to protect the bay, and it is now a National Historic Site. The USS Pampanito is a World War II-era submarine on Pier 45 and is open for tours. In Alameda, you can tour the USS Hornet , a World War II aircraft carrier that served as a recovery ship for the Apollo 11 and 12 moon missions.

For a mid-range, family-friendly hotel that is centrally located to the Veterans Day parade, try the Courtyard San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf . 

Contributed by Anu Agarwal of Destination Checkoff

Emporia, KS

In 1953, Emporia citizen Alvin J. King suggested that Armistice Day be expanded to include all veterans, and Kansas congressman Ed Rees took the proposal to Congress. It passed and became law when President Eisenhower signed the bill, and the first national observance of Veterans Day took place in 1954. Every year, Emporia, Kansas, has led the celebration in honoring our armed forces with an All Veterans Tribute Week including a FreedomFest , concerts, memorial services, and their famous Veterans Day parade. 

All Veterans Memorial Park in Emporia, Kansas. Photo courtesy of Visit Emporia .

Don’t miss the All Veterans Memorial Park , which honors all veterans from the Civil War through the Gulf War and features a Sherman tank and a Huey helicopter. Be sure to check out historic downtown Emporia, including Commerical Street, the Lyon County History Center, and the Emporia Arts Center. Plus, Emporia is the Disc Golf capital of the world, so try a game while you are there! 

This Bed and Breakfast is a unique place to stay, and features lots of cozy amenities. 

Recommended by Lelan Dains of Visit Emporia

DON’T MISS! Visiting 3 Presidential Houses With Kids

Discover San Diego’s rich military history this Veteran’s Day with museums, monuments, and more. The USS Midway Museum aboard the decommissioned USS Midway aircraft carrier is the most visited of the 100-plus historic naval ship museums in the continental United States. Berthed at Navy Pier along San Diego Bay, the Midway is a floating tribute to the hundreds of thousands of men who served their country aboard the ship for nearly 50 years. Highlights include self-guided audio tours; more than 40 exhibits and displays, including many restored aircraft; and access to the mess deck, berthing spaces, hangar deck, flight deck, and island superstructure.

USS Midway Museum. Photo by Paul Nicholson .

The San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park is home to a massive collection of classic military aircraft ranging from the dawn of flight through WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the jet age, and beyond. The museum also features an International Aerospace Hall of Fame, honoring the inventors, engineers, pilots, and industrialists who created and built airplanes.  

Along the paths of Cabrillo National Monument sit the remains of coastal defenses built to protect the approaches to San Diego Bay. While visiting the park, you will find base-end stations, fire control stations, searchlight bunkers, and other remains of troubled times. Housed in an old radio station, the exhibit “They Stood the Watch” shares the story behind these remains, and ranger talks are often given on weekends.

The Port of San Diego showcases an inspiring collection of military heritage artworks dubbed the “Greatest Generation Collection” along its Embarcadero. For example, the “USS San Diego (CL-53) Memorial” is a striking monument commemorating the distinguished World War II service of San Diego’s namesake cruiser. The “Homecoming” sculpture depicts the happy return of a sailor from the sea, reunited with wife and child. The black obelisk and bronze sculptures of the “Aircraft Carrier Memorial” honor all who’ve served on the Navy’s aircraft carriers. The Admiral Sprague bust presides from its pedestal over the “Battle of Leyte Gulf Memorial,” a fitting remembrance of one of the most desperate and heroic naval actions in U.S. history. Lastly, the “Military Tribute to Bob Hope” honors the famed entertainer’s efforts. All artwork is located in a beautiful waterfront park on Harbor Drive at the G Street Mole in downtown San Diego.

For lodging, book Intercontinental: San Diego , located one block from the USS Midway Museum and the USS San Diego Memorial.

Recommended by Jordana from the San Diego Tourism Authority

Don’t Miss! San Diego Family Camping: Campland on the Bay Review

New Orleans

There’s much more than music and beignets in this energetic city. The creativity runs deep and every bit of it seems to have gone into the National WW II Museum . We didn’t have much time when we visited and that was a mistake. The couple hours we spent going through the immersive exhibits taught me more about this war than I had learned in years of school. Lots of newly declassified information put into visually pleasing exhibits. Lots of personal moments shared publicly for the first time. These faceless men and women we send off to fight our wars have all the loves, and inner turmoil that we have, and this museum gives us the big picture and slides right into the most private of moments too. The National WWII Museum is much more than just the Holocaust, which is how I largely know WWII. It’s about military strategy and how the Allies fought against Hitler and his horrible henchmen. Despite the occasionally gruesome topic matter, it’s a museum I would definitely bring my young boys to visit. Exposing our young generation to this topic matter is the best insurance we have against it happening again. The museum is enormous. Four separate pavilions, a restaurant, and teaching hall surround visitors with the sights and sounds of the war. Each pavilion has multiple floors. There’s even a 4D theater showing a documentary that speaks to the turn of the war. The National WWII Museum is at once thoughtful and inspiring and easily a weekend experience.

Starting on Veteran’s Day 2022, a brand new nighttime exhibit called Expressions of America showcases the war through a light show, 1940’s inspired music , and personal accounts of the struggle. Don’t miss the vintage cocktails! Other Veterans Day activities include  ‘ Feed the Troops at Higgins Hotel ‘ and the annual Victory Ball , a lavish reception featuring cocktails and culinary creations, live music, and entertainment.  

A big band style show to fit the era – photo by National WWII Museum

The museum has dinners and big band shows and is constantly expanding and building upon the arts and contributions of this era. Check the show page to see what’s available before you go. Plan your visit by dedicating the first part of the day to exploring the past and then head out to appreciate the freedom these men and women ensured through the culinary, artistic, and toe-tapping delights for which New Orleans is famous.

Next door, the Higgins Hotel is an art deco luxury masterpiece stewed in decorations of this time. Rooms are decorated in bright colors and sharp furnishings with paintings that are tributes to our veterans. There is no better way to immerse and enjoy an intentional weekend in New Orleans and walk away with a piece of history.

CHECK IT OUT!!! Higgins Hotel Room Reveal! Come inside our room and see what it was like!

Recommended by Rina Baraz Nehdar of LAFamilyTravel.com

Chicago is the perfect city for a mix of history, fun, and culture this Veteran’s Day. The National Veterans Art Museum is an excellent way to view art inspired by military service and combat, all by artists who are actual military veterans. Some of the exhibits change, but permanent galleries include those dedicated to Tim O’Brien’s book The Things They Carried and Kurt Vonnegut  (both authors are bound to show up on your child’s summer reading list). 

The Pritzker Military Museum & Library , which also features rotating exhibits, is dedicated to preserving and teaching military history. The highlight, however, is permanent: the Medal of Honor Gallery. Read about the gallantry and valor of the heroes who have earned this prestigious award while in combat.

Chicago in the fall. Photo by Antonio Gabola on Unsplash.

If you’re looking to stay in the city, the Hilton Chicago is a perfect option for families. The hotel offers one- and two-bedroom suites plus quick access to Grant Park, Shedd Aquarium, and much more. Since it’s a large travel hub, there are numerous flights, buses, and trains to Chicago daily, meaning the hardest part of getting your family to Chicago is getting them out of the house on time!

Recommended by Rachel of Bucket List Places

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of the most family-friendly places to visit to learn about the history of the United States. The Museum of the American Revolution is the perfect place for kids to learn and see history come to life. There are living history demonstrations, theatrical performances, history-inspired crafts, and free coloring books. This museum shows how the country started with the fight for independence from England. If you can’t make it in person, the museum offers a virtual field trip that takes kids beyond the battlefield. There are learning kits for school-age kids in grades 2-8. 

The Museum of the American Revolution. Photo by Dan Mall on Unsplash.

A cherished institution in the city is the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial . This memorial honors the brave 648 hometown heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and features granite slabs etched with reproductions of photographs from the war.

The best place to stay for families is at The Rittenhouse Hotel . It offers the best amenities for families with kids, plus it’s close to the zoo. Recommended by Corritta Lewis of Itz a Family Thing

Washington D.C. 

The memorials of Washington, D.C., are impactful places to see the cost of freedom. While these tributes honor those who gave their lives in the service of their country, the sites also are fitting reminders of the bravery of all veterans who have served. The World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial are centrally located near the National Mall. Visit Arlington National Cemetery to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the nearby U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and Military Women’s Memorial.

World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Photo by Paul Nicholson .

While the well-known Smithsonian Air & Space Museum features some military memorabilia , discover more in-depth military history at the National Museum of the Marine Corps , the United States Navy Memorial Visitors Center , and the National Guard Memorial Museum (which has a musket from 1775!). If you’re unsure where to start, book a tour by veteran-owned DC Military Tours . While you are in D.C., you might even get the opportunity to take a peek inside the workings of our current military by touring the Pentagon . 

Holiday Inn: Washington Capitol – National Mal l is an excellent place to stay due to its affordability and central location.

Recommended by Christy of L.A. Family Travel

Don’t Miss! How to Plan the Ultimate Washington D.C. Trip with Kids

Tuskegee, AL

Honor brave Tuskegee pilots and see one of the best parks in Alabama by visiting the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site at Moton Field in Tuskegee, Alabama.

The park features Airmen Hanger 1 and Hanger 2, where you can learn all about the historical contributions of the first black military aviators in the U.S. Army Air Corps (AAC). These incredible individuals were trained at the Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama and flew to both Europe and North Africa during World War II.

Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Learn about the Tuskegee Airmen and their missions as you explore over 20 outdoor and indoor exhibits that detail fascinating facts about their military contributions. You can also picnic near a scenic overlook and enjoy historic buildings from the 1940s. 

For lodging, spend the night at the Days Inn by Wyndham in Shorter, Alabama. It’s nothing fancy but is a nice, budget-friendly hotel that is well-located near the site.

Recommended by Victoria of Southern Trippers

If you’re looking for an educational place to commemorate Veteran’s Day, Pearl Harbor is undoubtedly one of the best. Located close to Honolulu, Pearl Harbor National Memorial teaches visitors about one of the most pivotal moments in the history of the nation—the bombing of Pearl Harbor and how it led the United States into WWII.

Visiting Pearl Harbor’s grounds and museums is free, but it does cost extra to visit some of the memorials and sights there. In addition, reservations are encouraged as it is difficult to see the USS Arizona Memorial without them. You will also need to make reservations on the National Parks website to see the USS Oklahoma and the USS Utah .

Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Photo by Megan Starr of Next Is Hawaii .

There are plenty of other Honolulu attractions worth visiting that are also good places to learn more about the U.S. military and our fights for freedom. The U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii is located at Fort DeRussy Military Reservation in downtown Honolulu and is a great place to visit for those looking to learn a bit more. Other sights on Oahu worth checking out are the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific , Tropic Lightning Museum , Brewseum & Home of the Brave Museum in the Kakaako neighborhood, and the various observation stations around the island.

The vintage White Sands Hotel is beautiful and affordable and has recently renovated rooms. 

Recommended by Megan of Next Is Hawaii

Gettysburg National Military Park is one of the best places to celebrate Veteran’s Day with kids as they learn about the Civil War and see where one of the most famous battles took place. In the visitor’s center, families can see the uniforms worn by both Confederate and Union soldiers and learn about the equipment used during the time. Make sure to check out any special programs going on for the day, as sometimes there will be weapon demonstrations or other interesting events. 

For touring the battlefield, you can either book a guided tour through the visitor center or buy one of the excellent audio guides in the gift shop to do your own driving tour. Plan to make several stops to get the most out of your visit.

Gettysburg National Military Park. Photo by Kristin Secor of World on Wheels .

If you can’t make it until after Veteran’s Day, consider going on Dedication Day (November 19), which is the anniversary of when President Lincoln dedicated the Gettysburg cemetery by delivering the famous Gettysburg Address speech. There will be a parade of Civil War reenactment soldiers through town as well as an evening ceremony in the cemetery where lanterns are placed by all the graves and the names of the soldiers are read.  

For a convenient and family-friendly place to stay during your visit, consider Country Inn & Suites by Radisson . This hotel has free breakfast and an indoor pool and is only a three-minute drive from the battlefield.

Recommended by Kristin of World on Wheels

Charleston, SC

The aptly named Patriots Point is a naval museum in Charleston, South Carolina, with the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier as the centerpiece. Touring the aircraft carrier gives kids an idea of what it takes to serve in the Navy, with tiny bunks, mess halls, and every inch of space used as efficiently as possible. The main hangar deck of the carrier is filled with historic planes and fascinating exhibits that share tales of daring military exploits, from the brave pilots of the Doolittle Raid to the amazing sailors who brought disabled ships safely back to port after battle.

Patriots Point. Photo by Christy Nicholson.

At Patriots Point, families also can explore the USS Laffey destroyer and see the immersive Vietnam Experience Exhibit. While you are there, book a ferry ride out to Fort Sumter , where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. And don’t miss Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island, which has been the site of U.S. defenses since the American Revolution. The Mills House is a beautiful hotel in the middle of historic downtown Charleston. It’s within easy walking distance of the Charleston City Market and only a 15-minute drive from Patriots Point. 

Nearby Bases

When planning a trip to honor veterans, don’t forget to look close to home. Some military bases allow visitors, and many have unique museums offering perspectives on military history. Just three hours away from Los Angeles, Fort Irwin offers a glimpse into army training procedures with its community tours (even lunch is an MRE, a Military Meal Ready to Eat). The National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida, hosts an impressive collection of aircraft (and the Blue Angels practice nearby!), although currently, the museum is open only to Department of Defense cardholders and their guests. The museum at Fort Sam Houston in Texas, a National Historic Landmark, is open to the public, who only need to stop by the base’s visitors center and show an ID. 

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Photo by Todd Diemer on Unsplash.

This Veteran’s Day, plan a special trip to honor the heroes who keep our country safe. Check out these destinations recommended by travel experts across the nation.

Veterans RV Meetup

One group of veterans has found a special way to commemorate Veterans Day by spending it together. Special Military Active Recreational Travelers , or SMART, is a nationwide RV travel club for veterans. They host meetups throughout the country, including regional musters for Veterans Day.

Bo and Karen DeBlieux have been a part of SMART since 2013-2014, and this year they are hosting a Veterans Day muster in Louisiana. Bo, a U.S. Army veteran, says members of SMART benefit from the camaraderie and friendships that are formed through the group.

A SMART RV plate bearing the group’s slogan. Photo by Bo and Karen DeBlieux.

The Louisiana muster includes opportunities for sightseeing and area activities, as well as nightly dinners and games. There will be a flag retirement ceremony and an Army vs Navy baseball game. 

SMART’s slogan is “Seeing the Country We Defend,” and membership is open to all active, retired, and honorably discharged veterans from U.S. and Canadian armed forces. To join, visit SMARTRVing.org . For tips on getting started with RV travel and choosing the right vehicle, visit GoRving.com . 

Of course, you don’t have to wait for Veterans Day to put these spots on your travel list. Use these ideas for your itinerary to add history and gratitude to your next vacation. And if you’re staying close to home this Veterans Day, remember to reach out to those who have served and thank them for their service.

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE CONSIDER PINNING OR SHARING IT!

Recent Posts

• 5 Fabulous Mother-Daughter Trips Perfect for Mother’s Day
• A Michigander’s Guide to the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan
• Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Teens: Destinations That Even Eye-Rolling Teenagers will Love!

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

Military & Veterans Travel Guide – Ideas, Discounts & Resources [2023]

James Larounis

Senior Content Contributor

545 Published Articles 1 Edited Article

Countries Visited: 30 U.S. States Visited: 35

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

31 Published Articles 3102 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Travel Organizations for Military Service Members & Veterans

Travel deal websites for military service members & veterans, airline discounts & allowances for military service members and veterans, accessing airport lounges while flying as a military service member or veteran, military lodging, booking a rental car as a military service member or veteran, booking a cruise as a military service member or veteran, buying theme park tickets as a military service member or veteran, mobile apps for military service member or veteran discounts, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Many people view the military community almost as an extended family. If you’re part of that special club in any capacity, you’ll often feel the gratitude and appreciation being directed your way by everyday members of the public, as well as a host of business owners who can offer you more than just their thanks for serving your country.

Over 8 million consumers are part of that community when you count active duty, retired personnel, reservists, and military employees. Adding in the immediate families of past and present military personnel, you soon appreciate that this a big group of people who businesses would like to recognize and keep happy.

Many travel and leisure providers (and credit card issuers) offer discounts to service members and veterans as their own gesture of appreciation for the time these people have served. However, it can often be difficult to instantly locate military and veterans discounts on general travel websites or know where to get the best possible travel deal.

This guide aims to provide resources that military personnel and veterans can use to find travel discounts. There is a wide range of continuing and promotional discounts and incentives available, and these can often be found via resources like travel clubs, booking websites, attraction websites, and airline, hotel, and cruise websites.

Here is a comprehensive guide to getting recognition for your military service in the form of discounts, special offers, and incentives.

There are a number of organizations and programs that military service members and veterans can join to get special access to travel benefits and other advantages. These programs are often free for those who are eligible, and applications can be submitted online. Here are several organizations to choose from:

• Armed Forces Vacation Club (AFVC) — The AFVC is a membership organization for active duty, guard, reserve, and retired military employees. It offers weeklong resort vacations at thousands of resorts in over 100 countries starting at very low prices, including last-minute vacation deals, “space available” deals, and short-stay deals. Members can also buy travel certificates to be redeemed at affiliated resorts. For travelers in need of inspiration, the AFVC features a Vacation Planning Resource Center full of vacation ideas and travel tips.
• In Honor of our Troops Foundation (IHOOT)  — This organization originally started by offering veterans 1 free vacation per year. They have also added another program — the IHOOT Acquisition Program — that offers discounted accommodation rates to members all year round. You can apply for free vacations that are aimed at offering rest, recuperation, and healing to help military families reconnect with each other. There are 100 locations, including accommodations in places like Hawaii, California, and Mexico. Although the stay is free, airfare is not included. It is also suggested you apply at least 6 weeks before your intended vacation date.
• The Military Wallet — Sign up for a free newsletter to stay up to date with some of the latest deals and incentives available to veterans and check out the Travel Discounts page to get information on tickets and other travel options at reduced costs.
• Operation We Are Here   — This website has a variety of air travel assistance links for the military community.
• SMART RVing — This site aims to source the most competitive RV rental and accommodation prices available for military veterans, and there are regular rallies throughout the country that you might want to attend.
• United Services Automobile Association (USAA) Travel Deals  — USAA offers insurance, banking, investment, and retirement services to both active and former military service members and their families. In addition to the free financial resources that USAA members receive, veterans can also check out the special travel deals. On the organization’s  Travel Deals  page, visitors can explore  car rental services  as well as deals on flights, hotels, cruises, and travel insurance that can only be accessed by registering online as a member.
• Vacation for Warriors — Specifically aimed at providing free vacations for soldiers who are injured during combat, Vacations for Warriors is a non-profit that was set up in 2014. These vacations are made possible with the help of commercial organizations like American Airlines, which donated 1 million AAdvantage miles, along with other transferable hotel points and timeshare options.

Hot Tip: Aside from travel bookings, some of these websites can even provide discounts on car buying, home repairs, loans, and more!

Many travel discounts are available to military service members and veterans even if they do not belong to an organization. The following websites offer military travel deals online:

• American Forces Travel — This Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program is for active military, Guard or Reserve, U.S. Coast Guard, retired military, and all eligible MWR patrons. Hotel, flight, and rental car deals are supported by Priceline , cruise and vacation packages are on offer, and event tickets are bookable through TicketNetwork.
• CheapTickets — By visiting the CheapTickets military page, active-duty service members, those on reserve, National Guard members, and veterans can sign up to verify their military or veterans status to get discounts of up to 18% off.
• Hotwire — Active, retired, and veterans of the U.S. military, and their spouses and minor children get $10 off Hot Rate hotel bookings
• ID.me Shop — See specific military rates for a variety of travel categories, including hotels, flights, cruises, car rentals, theme parks, tours, and more.
• Military.com — Military.com is a website dedicated to providing military service members, veterans, and families with community support and information on the benefits they might have access to. Visitors can find advice on military travel, getting military deals, and military lodging options. The website also gives travel advice and has a large section of travel discounts.
• Military Fares  — Military Fares is a website that allows users to search a variety of airlines, hotels, and car rental for military rates. The platform is a Priceline Partner Network that provides an extensive offering of flights. Recent military deals that users have purchased are displayed so visitors can get an idea of what rates might be on offer when they’re searching.
• Travelation — This search page dedicated to military travel deals makes it easy to book flights with military and veteran discounts. There is also a military promotional code for additional savings.
• Veterans Advantage — Enroll with Veterans Advantage and get access to a number of travel discounts, special offers, and medical/insurance services that are included as part of the membership package. Qualification includes anyone who served in the military and immediate family members. There is an annual membership plan available for $4.99 per month, but if you take advantage of the various offers and discounts, the savings should be far greater than this fee. Plus, the $55,000 insurance coverage that comes as part of the deal is worth having.

Keep in mind that sometimes when you book through a site that offers discounts to military and veterans, you might not receive miles or points for your flight or stay or on-site benefits that may come with elite status.

Hot Tip: The TSA provides expedited security screening for all members of the U.S. Armed Forces and offers assistance with the screening process for veterans and wounded warriors. Check out our guide to TSA military benefits  for more details.

Most major airlines offer discounts like reduced flight costs, but you might also be offered a free checked bag or other incentives. If you are booking direct, many airlines don’t often advertise military rates on their website, so you might have to call to ask if a discount is available.

Here are some airlines that offer discounts or benefits to active-duty service members or veterans :

• Air Canada —Eligible active and retired members of the Canadian and U.S. military are able to check up to 3 bags.
• Alaska Airlines — Receive 5% off through the Veterans Advantage program. Those on orders receive 5 complimentary checked bags, as well as free Alaska Board Room access. Other benefits include priority boarding for those in uniform and a 15% discount on food purchased inflight with an active ID.
• Allegiant Airlines — Receive up to 5 free checked bags, free boarding pass printing, and free advanced seat selection.
• American Airline s   — Active-duty military on orders receive 5 free checked bags, or 3 checked bags on all other itineraries. Uniformed service members also receive Group 1 boarding on all flights.
• Delta Air Lines — Active-duty service members are allowed up to 5 free checked bags.
• Frontier Airlines — Baggage fees are waived if you are on active duty.
• Hawaiian Airlines — Receive up to 5 free checked bags for military on active orders, or 2 checked bags for those on leisure travel, and 5% off airfares with the Veterans Advantage program.
• JetBlue — Receive up to a 5% discount with the Veterans Advantage program or by booking directly through JetBlue for service members on active orders. Up to 5 checked bags are free when flying on orders.
• Southwest Airlines — Special rates are available at 800-1-FLY-SWA (not online).
• Spirit Airlines — Active-duty military are allowed 2 free checked bags and a free carry-on, in addition to the already free personal item.
• United Airlines — A discount of up to 5% off of tickets is offered via the Veterans Advantage program.

Bottom Line: You may have to call the airline you’re booking with directly to inquire about military fares and special benefits, as many times these rates aren’t published publicly online. You may also want to compare the rates offered against the best websites for booking flights at the cheapest prices .

Before or after your flight, having access to an airline lounge is a great place to relax, use the restroom, or grab a quick bite to eat.

These are the opportunities for military or veteran access to airport lounges:

• American Airlines Admirals Club — If you’re in uniform and flying American, you and your immediate family can enter the lounge without any cost.
• United Club — If you’re flying United and are in uniform or have active military orders, you can access the lounge.
• USO Lounges — There are approximately 300 locations both in and out of airports that active duty, guard, reserve military and their dependents, and retired military can access with a valid ID.

Many airports also offer military-specific lounges, like the Freedom Center at Detroit (DTW) and Military Hospitality Lounge at Miami (MIA) . Visit our extensive list of detailed U.S. airport guides to find out more about the lounges at the airports you plan to transit through.

Hot Tip: Active-duty military members are eligible to not be charged the annual fee of The Platinum Card ® from American Express. This premium travel rewards card comes with some amazing benefits for service members, including complimentary access to over 1,400 lounges such as The Amex Centurion Lounges ,  Delta Sky Club (when flying with Delta), Escape Lounges — The Centurion Studio Partner ,  The International American Express Centurion Lounges , s elect Virgin Clubhouses, select Lufthansa Lounges, and  Priority Pass Select membership. See our guide on the Amex Platinum military benefits that you can leverage as an active military member.

Booking a Hotel, Resort, or Casino as a Military Service Member or Veteran

Military service members and veterans seeking some rest and relaxation should check out the websites below to take advantage of deals on hotel , resort, and casino bookings:

• Aqua Hotels and Resorts — Both short-stay and long-stay military discounts for these Hawaiian resorts are available.
• Beaches and Sandals — Military members get an additional 10% off on top of special promotions for these family-friendly all-inclusive Caribbean resorts.
• Best Western — Veterans, military, and government personnel are eligible for a discount at or below per diem and can also apply for the Best Western Service Rewards Program.
• Caesars Entertainment — Eligible military and veterans can save up to 35% on rooms.
• Choice Hotels  — Receive lifetime Gold elite status and a military discount on hotel stays.
• Hilton Hotels  — Depending on the hotel, you’ll receive a military or government discount.
• Hyatt Hotels  — Book with the military rate and receive a discount.
• IHG Hotels — Active-duty service members will receive a military and government discount.
• Marriott Hotels — A discounted military rate varies by property for active-duty service members.
• MGM Resorts — Veterans and military receive a specially-branded MGM Rewards card and a 10% discount at select hotels.
• Veterans Holidays — Part of the Wyndham Worldwide hospitality group, this site offers veterans resort stays at heavily discounted prices (some as low as $50 per night for a condo!). There are over 200,000 resort accommodation options to choose from worldwide and at least 100 different countries to visit. Veterans Holidays offers free membership to all veterans of the U.S military, and the travel discount scheme allows you to bring guests on vacation, too.
• Wyndham Hotels — Active and retired military members, veterans, and their spouses are welcomed with discounts, bonus points, and more, including Wyndham Rewards Gold membership.

Hot Tip: Make sure that you’re getting the best price on your next hotel stay — check out our guide to the best websites for booking hotels at the cheapest prices .

It is worth mentioning that if you are trying to save on costs, you might be able to find military lodging near your chosen destination.

You can find accommodation if you plan your trip in advance and allow time to reserve a place at least 60 days in advance. Visit DOD Lodging to see what options are available. There are centralized reservation systems available to book accommodations with the U.S. Army (866-363-5771), the U.S. Navy (800-628-9466), or the U.S. Air Force (888-235-6343). If you want to stay at a U.S. Marine Corps or a Coast Guard lodge, you will have to search for the lodge closest to your destination and contact them directly.

Hot Tip: Check out our list of the best military credit cards for active-duty members  and veterans .

There are a number of car rental companies that provide discounts to military service members and veterans:

• Avis — A 25% discount on car rentals is provided for service members.
• Alamo — Military members receive a discount, including a damage waiver, and there are no additional driver or underage fees.
• Budget — U.S. military veterans, active-duty military, National Guard and Reservists, and their families receive up to 25% off with a Veterans Advantage membership.
• Dollar — A 5% discount is offered to Veterans Advantage members.
• Enterprise — Active-duty members and veterans are eligible for a discount.
• Hertz — Receive discounted rates, 1-class car upgrades, and membership in the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program .
• Thrifty — A 5% discount is offered to Veterans Advantage members.
• National — Discounted rates are available after selecting your military branch of service.

Make sure to sign up for the rental car company’s loyalty program so you can take advantage of additional benefits during your rental period.

Even cruises offer discounts for military service members, veterans, and their families, and these deals can often be located online. Here are some resources from cruise booking websites as well as the cruise lines themselves:

• Carnival Cruises — Active and retired members are eligible for savings on cruises, depending on the departure.
• Celebrity Cruises — Active and retired military can save depending on the cabin they book, with higher savings for ocean view rooms.
• Disney Cruise Line — Savings on up to 1 stateroom per booking for active and retired service members.
• MSC Cruises — Enjoy up to 10% savings on cruise departures, plus no penalties if you get redeployed.
• Military Cruise Deals  — Veterans can find low rates on cruises, with special discounts obtained through their military status. The site also monitors all bookings and will offer lower rates if they become available — even after booking.
• Norwegian Cruise Line — You can save on Norwegian cruises using the Veterans Advantage program.
• Princess Cruises  — Veterans can check out what benefits they may be eligible for when booking a cruise, including free onboard spending money that can be used for spa treatments, specialty dining, shopping in boutiques, and shore excursions.
• Royal Caribbean — You’re able to save on cruise fares for everyone in your stateroom if you book the military rate and show ID upon check-in.

Hot Tip:  If you’ve booked your cruise and you’re wondering how to pack, check out our printable cruise packing list including lots of great tips and advice. 

Theme parks are fun for the whole family, and military service members and veterans with families are no exception. Military rates help families save on their fun-filled visits to theme parks. The Information, Tickets and Travel (ITT) office on local installations also offers savings on area attractions and special events, and can even help with hotel and cruise bookings.

Here are some resources to help veterans find military rates on theme parks:

• Busch Gardens and SeaWorld — Active and retired military save on tickets by credentialing through ID.com and then purchasing tickets through that portal.
• Cedar Point — Single-day admission tickets are offered at a discount off of the front gate price.
• Dollywood — U.S. active or retired military, veterans, and military reservists, spouses, and dependents with valid military personnel IDs are eligible for a 30% discount on 1-day admission tickets, and you can upgrade this ticket for a discounted military Season Pass.
• LEGOLAND — Active-duty military can receive free admission to LEGOLAND Florida Resort & Water Park . Veterans, non-active military, and military families are eligible for discounts of 10% to 25%. At LEGOLAND California Resort , a discount of 25% to 50% is offered.
• Schlitterbahn New Braunfels — A special discount is offered through local installations or online.
• Undercover Tourist — This is a popular website for purchasing discount tickets to parks like Walt Disney World, Universal, or SeaWorld. Military discounts are not offered, but this is a great site to check to see if you’re getting the best deal!
• Universal Orlando Resort — Special pricing is available for active and retired members of the U.S. military. Members can also access special vacation packages that include hotel accommodations, theme park tickets, and early park admission.
• Universal Studios Hollywood — Active and retired U.S. military personnel are eligible for discounts through their participating military ticket office. An in-person discount of $3 off is offered at the gate with credentials.
• Walt Disney World — Active and retired members of the U.S. military are eligible for special deals but must contact their participating U.S. military base ticket office.

Hot Tip: Planning your next amusement park or water park vacation? Visit our helpful guides for inspiration!

If you want to be able to search for travel deals using your phone, it makes sense to have some apps installed that can help when you don’t want to browse the internet.

Apps you may want to download include:

• Ibotta ( iOS , Android )
• Military Discounts Free ( Android )
• Rakuten ( iOS , Android )
• RetailMeNot ( iOS , Android )
• ShopSavvy ( iOS ,  Android )

While some of these apps provide discounts to the general public, the savings may be more significant than using a military-specific program.

To those who serve or who have served, your time, talent, and dedication to protecting our nation hasn’t gone unnoticed. Many vendors, airlines, hotels, and cruises provide opportunities for you to save while you travel, or receive exclusive perks and services.

Booking through these programs can save a significant amount of money, and it’s always beneficial to search around to take advantage of the best deals.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best websites for booking military travel deals.

Our favorite resources for military travel deals are Military.com , Travelation ,  Expedia, and Veterans Advantage .

Do airlines offer military discounts?

Yes, many U.S. airlines offer military discounts or accommodations, including Delta , Frontier , JetBlue ,  Southwest , and United .

How do you get military discounts on flights?

In most circumstances, you will need to visit the individual airline’s website or call them to receive the discount, as there are procedures to verify your identity and eligibility. There are also some third-party providers that sell discounted flights or vacation packages for military members.

Do military spouses get priority boarding?

Most airlines offer some type of priority boarding for active-duty military for service members in uniform. What’s unclear is whether spouses can get priority boarding as well, though in most circumstances, airlines will be lenient and allow spouses to board with the active servicemember.

Was this page helpful?

About James Larounis

James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in dozens of travel publications.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

America's national parks are free to visit on Veterans Day and many are tied to the military

Each Veterans Day , Americans reflect on how veterans have served and sacrificed for this country, but that remains top of mind year-round at historic battlefields, memorials and military parks around the U.S.

More than 100 National Park Service sites are directly tied to the military, and all of them are free to visit on Veterans Day, a free entry day across the parks system.

“What better way to honor those who served their country than to visit a national park that preserves the places where they the belong?” the National Park Service asks on a list of military sites and national cemeteries under its umbrella.

Some sites are holding special events for Veterans Day, while others share their stories daily, weather permitting. Here are just a few of the free events around the country.

A veteran's legacy: How veterans and Gold Star Families can get free lifetime access to national parks and why

‘Remembrance is vital': Honoring 40 years of the Vietnam wall

Fort Donelson National Battlefield will hold guided Reflections on Veterans Day  walks at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. at Fort Donelson National Cemetery in Dover, Tennessee. Fort Donelson is tied to the Civil War.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve in Chalmette, Louisiana will hold its daily  Chalmette Battlefield - Battle of New Orleans Talk at 2:45 p.m. The Battle of New Orleans was critical in the War of 1812.

Yorktown Battlefield Part of Colonial National Historical Park in Yorktown, Virginia, will hold a  Yorktown Battlefield Walk at 10 a.m. and ranger talks at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The programs are offered every day except Tuesday. Yorktown was key in the American Revolution.

The big picture: As we honor Veterans Day, we examine the population of those who served

Veterans Day freebies: How restaurants are thanking veterans

The World War I Memorial in Washington will host an Eleventh Hour, Eleventh Day, Eleventh Month talk at noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. and Daily Taps will play at 5 p.m.

The World War II Memorial in Washington will hold a Veterans Day Observance at 9 a.m.

The Korean War Veterans Memorial Foundation will hold a wreath-laying ceremony at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington at 3 p.m.

The RSVP window has closed for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund's Veterans Day Ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial  in Washington, but the program will stream live online starting at 1 p.m.

Additionally the National Museum of the American Indian, which is part of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, will formally dedicate the National Native American Veterans Memorial at 4 p.m. It will be preceded by a 2 p.m. procession of Native American veterans and their families along the National Mall. Both events  will be livestreamed .

The American Battlefield Trust, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving battlefields and sharing their history, has highlighted several more  Veterans Day programs here . 

To find other events on Veterans Day or any day, visitors can search the National Park Service’s event calendar by date and location.

• $409 R&R Vacations
• High Demand
• Short Stays
• Mandatory All-Inclusive Resorts
• Optional All-Inclusive Resorts

Get started with planning your next getaway!

• Resort Vacation Certificates
• Reward Dollars
• Last Minute Vacations

Get Premium to enjoy deeper discounts and exclusive benefits.

• Orlando, FL Vacations
• Las Vegas, NV Vacations
• Eastern Canada Vacations
• Branson, MO Vacations
• Myrtle Beach, SC Vacations
• Maui Vacations
• Antigua and Barbuda Vacations
• Argentina Vacations
• Arkansas Vacations
• Aruba Vacations
• Aspen / Snowmass Village Vacations
• Australia Vacations
• Bahamas Vacations
• Barbados Vacations
• Bermuda Vacations
• Bonaire Vacations
• Bradenton and Sarasota Vacations
• Cancun and Cozumel Vacations
• Captiva and Sanibel Islands Vacations
• Cayman Islands Vacations
• China Vacations
• Coastal North Carolina Vacations
• Cocoa Beach Vacations
• Costa Del Sol Vacations
• Curacao Vacations
• Dallas, TX Vacations
• Daytona Beach, FL Vacations
• Denver Vacations
• Destin and Fort Walton Vacations
• Dominican Republic Vacations
• East Coast of Spain Vacations
• Finland Vacations
• Florida Keys Vacations
• Fort Lauderdale, FL Vacations
• Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN Vacations
• Grenada Vacations
• Guadeloupe Vacations
• Hilo Vacations
• Hilton Head, SC Vacations
• Honolulu Vacations
• India Vacations
• Inland Massachusetts Vacations
• Jamaica Vacations
• Kauai Vacations
• Knoxville, TN Vacations
• Kona Vacations
• Lake Conroe, TX Vacations
• Lake Okeechobee Vacations
• Lake Tahoe, CA Vacations
• Martinique Vacations
• Massanutten, VA Vacations
• Mazatlán Vacations
• Miami Vacations
• Palm Beach Vacations
• Palm Springs, CA Vacations
• Panama City Beach Vacations
• Poconos, PA Vacations
• Portugal Vacations
• Saint Lucia Vacations
• Sint Maarten / Saint Martin Vacations
• Southern Colorado Vacations
• Steamboat Springs Vacations
• Tenerife South Vacations
• Tobago Vacations
• Turks and Caicos Islands Vacations
• Vail & Breckenridge Vacations
• Venezuela Vacations
• Washington, D.C. Vacations
• Western Canada Vacations
• Western Colorado Vacations
• Williamsburg, VA Vacations
• Winter Park Vacations

Westgate Resorts to Give Away 1,000 Free Vacations to U.S. Military Families

Nov 02, 2022

ORLANDO, Fla. – November 3, 2022 – This Veterans Day, Westgate Resorts is thrilled to honor 1,000 active-duty U.S. military members, veterans and Gold Star families with a free three-day, two-night action-packed Orlando vacation at the Westgate Salutes Military Weekend 2022 celebration. This year marks Westgate’s 11th year of giving away vacations to the incredible military personnel who have served this nation and their families, totaling more than 26,000 complimentary vacations gifted since starting this initiative.

Starting at 9 a.m. EST on Friday, Nov.11, 2022, the first 1,000 eligible military personnel to sign up exclusively through the Westgate Resorts Mobile App and complete the military appreciation form will enjoy a complimentary weekend stay for up to four guests in a Studio Villa at Westgate Vacation Villas & Town Center Resort from Friday, Dec. 9, 2022, to Sunday, Dec.11, 2022. In order to sign up, service members must download the Westgate Resorts Mobile App and sign up with a completely free World of Westgate Loyalty account. Only World of Westgate Members will be able to access the complimentary stay form and the only way to sign up will be through the Westgate Resorts Mobile App. Additionally, a valid DD214 form for combat veterans or a current active Military ID will be required to confirm the final reservation.

“It is our honor to welcome and pamper thousands of the most deserving American heroes for a weekend filled with great music, beautiful weather and patriotism,” said David Siegel, founder, president and CEO of Westgate Resorts. “Having served in the military myself, I know the importance of quality family time for those who are actively serving or who have recently served our country.”

This Westgate tradition is filled with family-fun activities including an annual 5K run, military vehicle demonstrations, live entertainment and so much more. Event guests will enjoy free admission to Westgate’s Shipwreck Island Water Park and witness mesmerizing illusions by our Las Vegas headlining magician Jen Kramer. Invited military families will also enjoy two private outdoor concerts featuring Nashville favorite the Chris Weaver Band and Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino’s Soul of Motown, a high-energy musical salute celebrating Motown legends. A spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky, capping off the patriotic weekend. In honor of our country’s valiant military personnel, Westgate Resorts is also raising funds to support veteran causes and donating $5 from every Whiskey Romeo sold, a specialty cocktail made with Horse Soldier Bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, cinnamon and a lemon twist garnish. The $12 Whiskey Romeo will be available all weekend for guests to enjoy and help support their fellow U.S. military service members.

Westgate’s Military Weekend 2022 is made possible by several incredible sponsors who proudly support the men and women of our armed forces including SeaWorld Orlando, voted the #1 Theme Park in the Country by USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and Interval International, an industry leader in providing quality resort exchanges and travel services to timeshare owners across the globe.

Download the Westgate Resorts Mobile App and become a WOW Member for the only chance to receive one of 1,000 complimentary vacations at the Westgate Resorts Military Weekend!

In order to register for the vacation giveaway, follow these simple steps :

1. Download the Westgate Resorts Mobile App BEFORE Nov. 11, 2022

2. In the Westgate Resorts Mobile App, click the “Sign up for a new account” tile

3. Once the account is set up, click the World of Westgate (WOW) Loyalty tile and follow the simple steps to enroll in the completely free program

4. On Nov. 11, 2022, at 9 a.m., open the app and register for the Westgate Resorts Military Weekend

5. After registering, complete the DD214 form to confirm the reservation

For more information on Westgate’s Military Weekend 2022, please visit www.WestgateSalutes.com .

ABOUT WESTGATE RESORTS

Westgate Resorts is the largest privately-held timeshare company in the world and one of the largest resort developers in the United States. Founded in 1982 by David Siegel, the company is headquartered in Orlando with seven Orlando hotel resorts , and 22 themed destination resorts nationwide, featuring more than 14,000 luxury villas and hotel rooms in popular vacation destinations throughout the United States such as Orlando, and Cocoa Beach, Florida; New York City, New York; Park City, Utah; Las Vegas, Nevada; Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Williamsburg, Virginia; Branson, Missouri; and Mesa, Arizona. In 2022, the company launched the cutting-edge World of Westgate (WOW) Loyalty Program, an exclusive program that rewards Westgate Owners and Hotel Guests with prestigious perks and privileges at no added cost. The company has garnered many distinct accolades, including the 2022 ACE Project of Excellence Award from the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) for Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, recognition from Forbes Travel Advisor ranking Westgate Park City Resort & Spa as a recommended resort in its 2022 Star Awards and 73 Best of State Awards for Westgate Park City Resort & Spa after winning ten years in a row. Westgate Resorts locations are known to feature a variety of unique restaurant, retail, and spa concepts, including Los Amigos Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar , Villa Italiano Chophouse, Drafts Burger Bar, Edge Steakhouse, Westgate Marketplace & Deli, and Serenity Spa by Westgate. For more information about Westgate Resorts, visit WestgateResorts.com . Find Westgate Resorts on LinkedIn , Instagram , and Facebook .

Media Contact:

Jessica Murray

The Zimmerman Agency

850-668-2222

[email protected]

Request For Proposal

Help us protect your privacy, please do not include in your message any sensitive personal information such as credit/debit card number, bank/checking account number, social security number, driver's license number or equivalent data. We will contact you as needed to complete your request.

Your form has been successfully submitted.

Westgate Resorts

This website uses cookies to improve your digital experience. By continuing your browsing, you agree to the use of cookies. To learn more, please view our privacy policy .

10 Things to Do for Veterans Day in Washington, D.C.

Veterans Day was initially established to honor Americans who had served in World War I. The national holiday is celebrated each year on Nov. 11, the anniversary of World War I ending in 1918. Today, Veterans Day honors military service members of all wars for their patriotism and willingness to serve in the military and sacrifice for our country. Veterans Day is a great time to visit the monuments and memorials in Washington, D.C . Many of the landmarks and attractions around the region host special events in honor of America’s veterans.

Remember the Fallen at the Arlington National Cemetery

Victoria Chamberlain / TripSavvy 

Across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., in Arlington, Virginia, the Arlington National Cemetery is a United States military cemetery whose 624 acres serve as a final resting place for many soldiers who gave their lives defending the country. On Veterans Day at 11 a.m., visitors can head to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for a special wreath-laying ceremony featuring a 21-gun salute to the lives lost in America's wars. Seating in the amphitheater is limited, so visitors should plan to arrive at least a half-hour before the ceremony starts.

Pay Respects at the Women in Military Service Memorial

Public Domain

Located at the Gateway to Arlington National Cemetery, the Women in Military Service for America Memorial is the only major national memorial dedicated to the women who gave their lives defending the United States. On Veterans Day, starting at 3 p.m., stop by for a special event commemorating the women heroes of our nation with an afternoon of formal military honors, keynote speakers, veterans' remarks, and a wreath-laying ceremony.

Watch a Ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Dedicated to the many lives lost in the Vietnam War, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located on Constitution Avenue at Henry Bacon Drive in northwest Washington, D.C. At 1 p.m. on Veterans Day, stop by this magnificent structure for a special presentation honoring the veterans of this tragic and bloody war. During the event, guests will be able to watch color guard performances, listen to speakers including several prominent Vietnam veterans, and witness a ceremonial wreath-laying that pays tribute to not only Vietnam's veterans but the vets of all of America's wars.

Remember the Fallen at the Vietnam Women's Memorial

Cliff (CC BY 2.0) / Flickr

Located adjacent to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, this small statue dedicated to the women who sacrificed their lives during the Vietnam War hosts its own Veterans Day event from 9 a.m. to noon each year. During the event, Vietnam-era veterans and the children of veterans tell stories "in their own voices" about their experiences. There will also be stories featuring soldiers of the current struggles in Iraq and Afghanistan, and other locations worldwide.

See the Wreath-Laying at the World War II Memorial

Stop by the World War II Memorial on 17th Street between Constitution and Independence Avenues at 9 a.m. on Veterans Day for a special wreath-laying ceremony dedicated to the 400,000 American lives lost during the Second World War. After the ceremony, stick around to hear the stories of living veterans of the war and pay tribute to the fallen at the large reflecting pool and monument.

Pay Respects at the Navy Memorial

 AgnosticPreachersKid / Wikimedia Commons

The Naval District of Washington will lay a wreath at the foot of the Lone Sailor at the Navy Memorial commemorating Veterans Day from 11 a.m. to noon. The Memorial Plaza is midway between the U.S. Capitol and the White House, directly across from the National Archives on Pennsylvania Avenue. After the ceremony, you can wander around the plaza and view the largest map in the world, known as the "Granite Sea," or pay respects to the fallen Navy service members at the iconic Lone Sailor statue, which has a replica on the beach of Normandy, where the United States first made landfall in the Second World War.

Listen to the National Cathedral Veterans Day Tribute Concert

Each year on Veterans Day, starting at 5 p.m., the Washington National Cathedral honors the service of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces with a special concert tribute event. Featuring performances by the U.S. Marine Corps Orchestra, the Washington National Cathedral Singers, and selected readings from American War Letters, this unique event is one of the biggest in the Capital Region honoring this special day of remembrance. Veterans and their families and the general public are welcome to attend this free event, which doesn't require reservations or ticketing. Still, seating is limited, so plan to arrive at least an hour early to ensure you don't miss the concert.

Head to Mount Vernon for a Day of Events

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Veterans Day, George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens in Virginia—located just under 30 minutes south of D.C.—hosts events and activities honoring the soldiers of America's wars. Special activities include a patriotic community concert by the all-veteran barbershop chorus at 11 a.m., and a wreath-laying ceremony at the tomb of our first commander-in-chief, George Washington, at 2 p.m. Active duty military personnel and veterans are admitted free-of-charge. The wreath-laying is included with regular Mount Vernon admission. The barbershop concert and Martha Washington program are free for all to attend.

Watch the Northern Virginia Veterans Day Parade

Although Washington, D.C., doesn't host its own parade for Veterans Day, visitors to the capital region can head out to Manassas, Virginia, on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. for a special parade honoring the veterans of America's wars. The Northern Virginia Veterans Day Parade is a community-oriented event that includes military and high school bands, pipe and drum corps teams, military units from the various Armed Services of the United States, and members from local veterans' organizations. Free to attend, this special parade is the largest of its kind in the region.

Cut the Cake at the National Marine Corps Museum

Official U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Robert Knapp/Released

For a special treat this Veterans Day, head out to the National Marine Corps Museum in Triangle, Virginia, to celebrate the birth of the Marine Corps, which was founded on Nov. 10, 1775. During this special event, which takes place on the day before Veterans Day, guests can enjoy a giant cake in honor of the birthday of the Marine Corps that is cut with a ceremonial sword. After the cake-cutting, stick around for a wreath-laying ceremony honoring the soldiers who defended America in its many wars.

The 26 Best Washington, D.C. Monuments and Memorials

Visit 8 United States War Memorials That Honor the Fallen

Arlington National Cemetery: What to See and Do

The 16 Best Things to Do in Arlington, Virginia

November 2019 Festivals and Events in Washington, D.C.

September 11 Memorial Events in Washington, D.C.

20 Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

The Best Fall Getaways for Families

50 Best Free Things to Do in Washington, DC

Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC

Best Iconic & Historic Attractions

U.S. Marine Corps Iwo Jima War Memorial

Top National Parks for Memorial Day

15 Top Things to Do in Northern Virginia

12 Best Things to Do in Virginia

Veterans Day Parade in New York City

20 Retreats for Veterans and Active Duty Military

20 Retreats for Veterans & Active Duty Military

This week I came off a relaxing week at a totally free retreat for military veterans and their families in western Michigan.

As a result, I was inspired to share with our largely military clientele base a list of 20 retreats for veterans and/or active duty military. Many of these retreats are available to significant others and families as well.

What’s even more amazing is that all of these retreats are FREE! However, a few require a small, refundable commitment fee, and you must go through an application process with all of them. I’m so excited to share this list with you, so let’s get right into it!

20 RETREATS FOR VETERANS & ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY

Landing zone grace.

Who is it for? Special Operations Forces from all branches of the military, and their families.

What can you expect? Landing Zone Grace is a place of respite for combat weary warriors and their families. It is a secure and confidential place for our Warriors and Rescuers to come home to. This family farm aims to provide a sanctuary of rest, renewal, and hope to Special Operations Forces transitioning from combat to life at home.

Where do retreats take place?: Virginia Beach, VA.

Mayslake Ministries Coming Home Retreat

Who is it for?  Veterans and their significant other.

What can you expect? Mayslake Ministries offers a free Catholic retreat program. The program is designed to help participants spiritually heal and reconcile with God, themselves, and others. At this retreat, veterans are encouraged to share their story in a safe environment.

Where do retreats take place?  Mundelein, IL and Racine, WI.

Active Heroes Retreat Center

Who is it for? Veterans, active duty, and their families.

What can you expect? The Active Heroes Retreat Center is the first retreat in America designed by military families to help military families heal. Visitors can schedule a day to visit the grounds during hours of staffing, plan a cabin vacation, or sign up for selected camping dates.

Where do retreats take place? Shepherdsville, KY.

Project Sanctuary

Who is it for? Retreats are open to active-duty service members, veterans, Guard and Reserve families from all branches of the military and all eras. All families, including the LGBTQ+ community are welcome at our retreats. Families/couples that are looking for a therapeutic environment to help them reconnect, navigate communication challenges, help all members of the family (including children) learn and understand Post Traumatic Stress and how to work together in challenging times restore family cohesion will benefit from our therapeutic retreats.

What can you expect? Project Sanctuary hosts therapeutic retreats in five states across the country that are staffed and designed by Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, licensed counselors and social workers.

Where do retreats take place? Various locations across the U.S.

Warriors and Quiet Waters Fishing Experiences

Who is it for? Post 9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones.

What can you expect? Through the experience of fly fishing, Warriors and Quiet Waters (WQW) is a catalyst for positive change in the lives of post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones. WQW is an organization that helps veterans rekindle their love for the outdoors.

Where do retreats take place? Various Locations in Montana.

Camp Patriot Veteran Retreat Ranch

Who is it for? Disabled or wounded veterans.

What can you expect? Camp Patriot Veteran Retreat Ranch is a one-of-a-kind facility and dedicated to wounded and disabled veterans of all generations. The ranch encompasses over 90 acres of gorgeous fields and pine forests. Also, it has access to a spring-fed lake and the Yaak River. Guests are offered an authentic Montana back-country experience combined with modern day luxuries.

Where do retreats take place? Various locations in Montana.

Dare to Dream Ranch

Who is it for? Military veterans and their families.

What can you expect? Dare to Dream Ranch is a holistic and alternative military retreat for service members, veterans, and their families. Therefore, they offer yoga, massage, nutrition education, and exercise opportunities.  They use equine, hypno-, group, and plant therapies. Their programs are designed to help with post-traumatic stress (PTS), anxiety, depression, military sexual trauma (MST), and mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Where do retreats take place? Foster, Rhode Island.

Travis Mills Foundation

Who is it for? Injured veterans and their families.

What can you expect? Participants receive an all-inclusive, all-expenses-paid, barrier-free vacation in Maine.  Retreats include adaptive activities, bonding with other veteran families, and much-needed rest and relaxation in Maine’s outdoors.

Where do retreats take place? Manchester, MN.

Freedom Alliance Heroes Retreats

Who is it for? Combat wounded service members or veterans and their families.

What can you expect?  Freedom Alliance helps military couples repair and renew their marriages. They help fathers reunite and build stronger bonds with their children. They show their appreciation for the times that combat deployments separate families. Freedom Alliance realizes the individual needs of participants, therefore, they specially tailor the retreats to each individual.

Where do retreats take place? Various locations.

GratitudeAmerica

Who is it for? Servicemembers, veterans, and their families.

What can you expect? GratitudeAmerica’s mission is to provide restorative retreats to participants affected by deployment exposures. GratitudeAmerica Military Support Retreats are a breakthrough, four day immersive, and intensive experience. They design retreats to help combat veterans and their supporters make peace with their past.

Where do retreats take place? Various locations in Florida.

Veterans Yoga Project

Who is it for? Vets recovering from stress-related challenges, and their spouses or partners.

What can you expect? These healing retreats provide participants with instruction and practice in self-regulation techniques. Veterans Yoga Project offers opportunities for engaging in various therapeutic social activities. Also, they provide guidance on healthy lifestyle choices, and education about the role of nutrition in recovery and resilience. Additionally, they raise awareness of community-based veterans resources for post-retreat reintegration.

The Warrior Connection

Who is it for? Veterans with PTS or MST, and close family members.

What can you expect? The Warrior Connection (TWC) provides residential retreats and services to Veterans and their families to heal the invisible injuries incurred while in uniform. All TWC programs and services are open to Veterans of all eras.  The Warrior Connection will arrange free travel from all 50 states. TWC provides separate retreats to male service members, female service members, and the spouses or close family members of service members with PTS.

Where do retreats take place? Brattleboro, VT.

Samaritan’s Purse Operation Heal Our Patriots

Who is it for? Wounded and injured servicemembers, veterans, and their families.

What can you expect? Operation Heal Our Patriots is a project of Samaritan’s Purse designed to strengthen the marriages of wounded and injured members of the U.S. military. The project includes a weeklong wilderness retreat at Samaritan Lodge Alaska. These retreats provide physical and spiritual renewal to participants. With picturesque scenery, individual cabins for couples, and dedicated staff, couples are allowed to escape the pressures of home and focus on renewing their marriages. During the week, they participate in Biblically-based marriage enrichment classes, devotions, and recreational activities. Activites range from bear watching to fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

Where do retreats take place? Port Alsworth, AK

Sandy Cove Ministries Operation Oasis

Who is it for? Recently deployed servicemembers and their families.

What can you expect? Sandy Cove’s Operation Oasis ministry was designed to help military families reconnect following the long and challenging separation caused by war.  There are various retreats to choose from, including a five-night family camp vacation, a valentine couples getaway, a fall couple’s weekend, or a two-night getaway.

Where do retreats take place? North East, MD

Project New Hope

Who is it for? Combat veterans and their families.

What can you expect? Project New Hope fosters family togetherness through a wilderness getaway. They provide combat veterans and their families with the education, training, and skills necessary to manage their lives after wartime service. The repair of relationships is a primary goal. And of course, to have fun in the process!

Warrior Expeditions

Who is it for? Any veteran who has served in a combat zone with an honorable discharge.

What can you expect? Warrior Expeditions provides veterans with everything required to complete a long-distance outdoor expedition at no cost to the veteran. They outfit veterans with some of the most highly rated equipment, clothing, and supplies available from the outdoor retail industry. Warrior Expeditions provides gear and skills training needed to successfully complete the expedition and shadows veterans during the first leg of their journey to answer questions and troubleshoot issues. Participants will receive support in the forms of transportation, lodging, and food from community supporters located along the trail. Available expeditions include a Warrior Hike, Warrior Bike, and Warrior Paddle.

Where do retreats take place? Hikes: The Appalachian Trail (GA – ME), The Arizona Trail (AZ), The Buckeye Trail (OH), The Continental Divide Trail (NM – MT), The Florida Trail (FL), The Ice Age Trail (WI), The Mountain to Sea Trail (NC), The Pacific Crest Trail (CA – WA). Bike: The Great American Rail Trail (DC – WA). Paddle: Mississippi River (MN – LA).

National Veterans Wellness & Healing Center

Who is it for? Veterans, active duty military, reservists, and their significant others who have been diagnosed with PTS.

What can you expect? National Veterans Wellness and Healing Center provides week-long retreats that offer traditional and non-traditional healing methods. Throughout the week, there is a mix of Native American healing ceremonies, equine reintegration training, various alternative therapies, and couples and group counseling sessions. The natural setting of Angel Fire in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is the perfect location to bring couples to a place where nature can assist with the healing process.

Where do retreats take place? Angel Fire, NM.

Operation Second Chance

Who is it for? Wounded, injured, and ill veterans and service members with a 70% or higher V.A. rating, and their families.

What can you expect? Operation Second Chance (OSC) offers a variety of retreats depending on the individual’s injuries and their ability to getaway. They provide short local overnight trips to those who need a quick getaway but cannot travel far. They also provide longer retreats for those who are further in their recovery and can get away for more extended periods. During the retreats, they offer many different activities for the individuals to choose from and allow wounded veterans and their families to rest, relax, and complete activities on their own.

Where do retreats take place? Varies.

Save a Warrior

Who is it for? Active or former military veterans and/or first responders who are struggling with PTS.

What can you expect?  Save a Warrior (SAW) provides counseling services in the fields of mental health and wellness, suicide prevention, and PTS to participants. SAW provides an alternative, warrior-led, holistic service. Participants walk away equiped with a community of support, and effective techniques to overcome the symptoms associated with PTS and suicidal ideations.

Where do retreats take place? California and Ohio.

Michigan American Legion Wilwin Lodge at Cygnet Cove

Who is it for? All active-duty service members, and veterans, and their families.

What can you expect? A nationally recognized facility, Wilwin at Cygnet Cove sits on 1183 acres in a peaceful wooded arena in Michigan.  Wilwin is a place for hope and healing, recovery and renewal, education and inspiration, sharing, and support. Available activities and amenities include wildlife watching, fishing on the 65-acre spring-fed lake, a pontoon, paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, board games, picnics, BBQ cookouts, hiking, golf cart driving and bicycling.

Where do retreats take place? Custer, MI.

A BONUS RETREAT FOR CAREGIVERS

Hearts of valor.

Who is it for? Caregivers of wounded service members.

What can you expect? Hearts of Valor is a network of caregivers of wounded, ill, or injured service members. Through empathy and mutual understanding, Operation Homefront created this community of support for those whose lives are forever changed by the wounds of war, seen and unseen. They offer retreats throughout the year in cities around the United States. There is no cost to attend, and it’s an opportunity to come together and gain additional tools for successful caregiving.

Where do retreats take place? Varies across the U.S.

Well, there you have it. Twenty + one retreats for veterans, active-duty military, and their families and caregivers. Which would you like to try? I’d love to hear from you! Let me know if you apply, and if you get chosen to go.

If there is a retreat that you know of that I left out, let me know.  Maybe we’ll do another retreat roundup in the future.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melanie Lemus is the Communications Specialist for Vision to Purpose providing self-help, business, and career-focused topics.

ABOUT VISION TO PURPOSE

Vision to Purpose is an organization dedicated to helping individuals and businesses succeed by offering tailored career, life, and business solutions.

Need a resume writer? How about a career coach? Perhaps a business consultant? Look no further, Dr. Bennett and the Vision to Purpose team can help! You can learn more about Vision to Purpose by visiting www.visiontopurpose.com.

• Business Consulting
• Career Coaching
• Higher Education
• Job Talk Podcast
• Life Coaching
• Resume Writing
• Testimonials
• Working Through Covid19

Ready to Take Action to Find Your Next Job, Grow Your Business, or Move Forward on that Book?

Let’s Chat and Unlock Your Potential! Click the Button to Contact Us Now!

More from the blog

Linkedin recommendations [preserve them], mindset and positive first impressions, episode 11 navigating a career pivot, 5 reasons to job search during the holidays, pound the stone by joshua metcalf (book review), the slight edge mindset [small steps, big changes], cultivating a ceo of your life mindset, episode 10 crafting your personal brand for success.

© Copyright 2022 Vision to Purpose. All Rights Reserved. Payment and Privacy | Website Design by Made To Be Unique

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

Veterans Day Weekend 2023 in San Francisco: 11 Best Things To Do With Kids

Looking for the best things to do in San Francisco and the Bay Area this Veterans Day weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your list for this long weekend!

Saturday is Veterans Day, and some honorable events are happening all over the Bay Area. Celebrate the holiday at the USS Hornet Museum , or enjoy free admission at the Peanuts Museum for the Veteran's Day Dedication . Then, jam out at a family  Golden Gate Bandshell Concert  with Charity and the JAMband. 

You could also take advantage of Free National Park Day with a day trip to Yosemite or Muir Woods. Or, head over to the Oakland Zoo for the opening weekend of Glowfari . 

Soak up some local fall fun with  fabulous family road trips , and discover more autumn adventures in our  Fall Fun Guide for San Francisco Bay Area Families .

Are you on social media? We are constantly posting local events and funny mommy moments on our Facebook and Instagram . Let's be friends! 

More Things To Do in San Francisco Bay Area This Week with Kids:

• 100 Things To Do in San Francisco with Kids Before They Grow Up
• Fall Fun Guide for San Francisco Families
• 100 Things To Do in California with Kids Before They Grow Up
• San Francisco Bay Family Event Calendar
• Subscribe and Get this in Your Inbox

Fall in Yosemite is unbe-leaf-able. Photo by Mike Barlow via Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Best Things To Do Veterans Day Weekend in San Francisco Bay Area

Oakland Zoo is up in lights for Glowfari, featuring hundreds of beautiful glowing animal lanterns scattered throughout. Families can walk around the animals of the forest with iconic wildlife, frosty friends of the Arctic, the Deep Ocean, and the swap of the Bayou.  read more

IlluminOdyssey

Inspired by the science of light, CuriOdyssey is presenting its popular exhibit, IlluminOdyssesy, with interactive activities and kid-friendly glowing art. The four-level Redwood Halls transform into a glowing forest of science where families can walk through a botanical maze, play with rainbow refraction, paint with light, and more.  read more

Veterans Day Dedication and FREE Day at the Peanuts Museum

Families can enjoy free admission all day at the Shulz Museum as well as special activities in honor of Veterans Day. See military planes fly overhead, explore military vehicles, and watch important films like Bon Voyage, Charle Brown and Charles Schulz...to Remember .  Then check out all the cool activities for families at the Peanuts Museum!  read more

Diwali: Festival of Lights

Discover the meaning and rich traditions of Diwali during our festive celebration. Make a Diya lamp, learn about traditions, delight in Rangoli artwork, and enjoy music and dance. Get ready to learn some dance moves with a performance and instruction by Sindhu Ravuri and a performance by Indraadhanush: Center for Excellence . read more

Free National Park Day

Enjoy free admission to a variety of local parks as well as historical vessels for Veterans Day. Local parks include Cabrillo National Monument, Muir Woods National Monument, San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Yosemite National Park, and others.  read more

Veterans Day at the USS Hornet

Honor Veterans Day at the USS Hornet on the 80th anniversary of the commissioning of the ship. Activities include wreath laying, guest speakers like Admiral Samuel J. Cox, open cockpits, food vendors, an open island for touring, and a flyover by the Memorial Squadron.  read more

Golden Gate Bandshell Concerts

Enjoy free live music in beautiful Golden Gate Park through mid-November. Genres in singer/songwriter, reggae, soul, jazz, an afternoon for kids, and special holidays. This is an all-ages, family-friendly event.  read more

Oakland's Magic Kitchen

Go on a culinary adventure with Quercus (Fairyland's brand-new puppet mascot), and Chef Mica Talmor, owner and creative force behind Pomella on a tasty day at Children's Fairyland.  A day filled with food, fun, and wellness, kids can help out in the kitchen while sharing food facts and culinary basics like an apple and veggie salad and fresh pita bread. After the show, all guests can taste and take home the recipe.  read more

Amazing Bubble Man

With over 30 years of delighting audiences with magic, science, and lots of bubbles, Louis Pearl is bringing his talent to the Bay Area. Combining comedy and artistry, along with audience participation, attendees of all ages are mesmerized by tricks like square bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, and even bubble tornados.  read more

2nd Saturday on the Farm

The 2nd Saturday of the month hosts Saturday on the Farm at the Agricultural Museum in Watsonville. Kids can learn how to milk a cow, ride a tractor, and enjoy a puppet show.  read more

Inner Sunset Flea

Voted one of the best flea markets in the Bay Area, the grassroots-organized Inner Sunset Flea is a haven for those looking for a great bargain for unique finds. Over 30 resident, artisan, nonprofit, and local business vendors are there for families to shop and hang out, as well as food and activities for the kids.  read more

• 800-395-2525
• Email Sign Up
• HappyStays Guest Login

Find Property by Name

Private pools are open and april & may stays are up to 15% off.

• OBX Autumn: Itinerary for Veterans Day Weekend

You are here

• History & Culture

12 Oct 2023

Outer banks autumn.

It's hard to believe that 2023 is almost over, but here we are with the holidays just around the corner. And while the holidays are a joyous and exciting time, they can also be pretty stressful. So why not consider enjoying a sweet Outer Banks vacation before the demands of the holiday season kick in?  We're booking RIGHT NOW for stays in November and December, so be sure to look at our  available rentals  and book your next weekend retreat or weeklong stay. Enjoy an early Christmas present and get ready to enjoy the Outer Banks in the off-season . Swimming in the ocean isn't the only thing great about the Outer Banks! We've got weekend itineraries for November and December to help you get the most out of your Outer Banks autumn & winter stay.

This itinerary is for Veterans Day Weekend on the Outer Banks. Check out our guide to all the happenings for Veterans Week with our guide here .

Friday, November 10

8:00 AM - Easy Breakfast at a Local Favorite!   For a tasty sit-down family breakfast, stop by Henry’s Restaurant at 3396 N. Croatan Hwy. in Kill Devil Hills between 7AM and 1PM. Open year-round, Henry’s has a menu selection that will satisfy even the pickiest palate. Try “The Captain” which offers 2 eggs cooked to your preference, grits or home fries, toast or biscuits, and your choice of protein (like country ham, pork chop, ham, sausage, and bacon!) You can also order breakfast sandwiches, omelettes, hot cakes and more!  View full menu . Check out other recommended breakfast options  here.

10:00 AM - Wright Brothers National Memorial!  Since you're already in the area, now is the best time to make a stop at the  Wright Brothers National Memorial . Come explore the exhibits and the monument to celebrate the "12 seconds that changed the world." This was the time of year that Orville and Wilbur were trying to get their flying machine up in the air, so come take a walk around the grounds and enjoy the brisk, refreshing winds of the Outer Banks in December!

12:00 PM - Lunch in Kill Devil Hills!  There are so many great restaurants in Kill Devil Hills to enjoy a delicious meal. Head on over to  Mama Kwans  for a fantastic lunch of fresh seafood or  Country Deli  for fresh meats and cheeses and a laid-back atmosphere.

2:00 PM - Afternoon at Jockey's Ridge ! As we're making our way down the island, the next stop is  Jockey's Ridge State Park  where you can run around on the dunes, have some fun in the sand, or head on across the street to  Jockey's Ridge Crossing  to get some holiday shopping in! Grab some dinner in the area, head back home and eat at the house, or head on over to the Outer Banks Brewing Station early for an amazing selection of beer and seafood, starters, and options for the whole family including gluten-free and vegetarian options.

9:00PM - Attend the War Hippes Concert at Outer Banks Vrewing Station!  For drink, delicious eats, and amazing music, head to Outer Banks Brewing Station for the War Hippies Concert, part of the Dare Arts Veterans Week events on the Outer Banks. They've been topping the musical charts over the last few years and are bringing their music to continue their ongoing advocacy work for veterans and their families. What better way to start/end your Outer Banks vacation than to enjoy some amazing music with a positive message and commitment to veterans.

Saturday, November 11

9:00 AM - Visit Dowdy Park Holiday Farmer's Market!  Get started on that Christmas shopping early by taking a trip to the Dowdy Park Holiday Farmer's Market! Locals and visitors alike like the wide variety of incredible homemade goods and fresh produce that everyone brings to the market. Enjoy all of these special treats with a wonderful holiday spin, making your time on the Outer Banks so much more special. Spots at the holiday market go quick with only the best entrepreneurs on the beach showing up to make your holiday shopping easy.

11:00 AM - Stop By the Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station!  Head down toward Hatteras Island for the day and make your first stop at  the  Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station  to learn more about this little-known organization that eventually became part of the Coast Guard and learn about the daring water rescues that changed the course of history.  Stop by the  Hatteras Island British Cemetery  in Buxton where you'll encounter the resting places of two unidentified British sailors who found their way ashore in Buxton during the turbulent times of World War II. Their silent presence serves as a testament to the profound impact of history on this remote and cherished stretch of the Outer Banks.

1:00 PM - Explore the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse!  After grabbing some lunch at one the quaint eateries on Hatteras Island, head down to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse . Take a look at this memorable structure that was relocated to its current spot in 1999. The visitor center and two historic lightkeeper's quarters are also on site. Take in this beautiful piece of local Outer Banks history and keep an eye out for the ghost cat that lives by the lighthouse!

2:00 PM - Take an Afternoon Trip to Ocracoke!  Since you're already on this side of the island, why not hop on the Ocracoke Ferry and spend the afternoon exploring Ocracoke Island? S ee the  British Cemetery . This  piece of land has been leased in perpetuity to the British Commonwealth, serving as the eternal resting place for four brave souls who tragically lost their lives on May 11, 1942 when a German U-Boat torpedoed a British ship. Visit the Ocracoke Lighthouse and go shopping at one of the dozens of shops that are within easy walking distance of the main area in town. Check out Springer's Point Preserve and see if you can see the ghost of Blackeard on the water. Grab dinner at one of the amazing restaurants on the island and be sure to get back on the ferry before 8:00 PM. 

Sunday, November 12

7:00 AM - Run (or Watch) the TowneBank Outer Banks Marathon!  Are you a runner? Family of a runner? Enjoy supporting runners? Whether you're running or watching,you will not want to miss the TowneBank Outer Banks Marathon. This year, the rest starts at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, takes you down into Manns Harbor before ending right by the Waterside Theatre, home of The Lost Colony . The OBX Towne Bank Marathon is the oldest continuously running road race in the Outer Banks! The marathon course is fast and flat, which makes it the perfect place for your first marathon or even your own personal record! Participants will enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery along the course as it twists and turns across the islands of the Outer Banks. Spectators line up to cheer on all the athletes and as you cross the finish line, the party is right there waiting for you! The post-race celebration will feature live music and entertainment, as well as excellent southern barbecue (free for all runners!) and an awesome beer garden for all those 21+.

12:00 PM - Lunch in Downtown Manteo!  After the race, head to one of Manteo's premiere dining spots for a delicious lunch. Whether you're looking for something light on the water or a full seafood feast, you'll find something to satisfy your entire family. Make your way to Ortega'z Southwestern Grill & Wine Bar for something south of the border or Poor Richard's Sandwich Shop for a French Dip or a Reuben. Striper's Bar & Grille or Lost Colony Tavern is perfect for a traditional sit–down restaurant while Darrell's will get you set up with all the Southern fixings.

3:00 PM - Explore Elizabethan Gardens!  If you've still got the energy to explore, check out Elizabethan Gardens! Even during the fall, there are plenty of beautiful plants to see and explore as you walk around this gorgeous garden. There's also a wide variety of flowers that bloom in November, so be sure check out what's in bloom here and enjoy your trip through the gardens. Take lots of pictures and enjoy the fresh air!

5:00 PM - Seafood Dinner at Home!  Pick up some fresh local seafood from a local seafood market and head back to your cozy vacation rental for a relaxing evening dinner. Enjoy some time together under the stars and let yourself just relax and enjoy the comfortable temperate weather of November on the Outer Banks. Check out our stargazing guide for some information on how to get the most out of your trip and consider booking one of our rentals with a warm, bubbly Hot Tub for even more relaxation!

7:00 PM - Enjoy a Bonfire on the Beach!  There are few things better than sitting around a bonfire on the beach on a cool autumn night. Listen to the sounds of the ocean and cook up some s'mores for an unforgettable night of family fun. For an even more relaxing vacation, let Outer Banks Beach Fires  do the leg work.  When you book your Beach Fire Package, Outer Banks Beach Fires will build and tear down your beach fire for the night. All you have to do is show up and enjoy! Be sure to check out their fantastic assortment of upgrades including a S'Mores Package, Tables, Coolers, Speakers, and additional Tiki Torches. And as a Seaside Vacations guest, you'll be able to take advantage of Outer Banks Beach Fires'  Club Seaside  offering! Simply  book  one of Outer Banks Beach Fires' many appealing beach fire packages and mention  Club Seaside  to get  10% off your Beach Fire Package !

Book Your Next November Stay Now!

Beach bonfires.

Looking for a  last-minute deal  on an Outer Banks vacation rental home?  Click here ! We're booking RIGHT NOW for the rest of the year and 2024!

Give our wonderful Guest Services Team a call today at (866) 884-0267 or take a look at our  available rentals  to get started planning your next historic adventure to the Outer Banks. And don't forget about our  layaway plan , which makes booking your dream vacation easier than ever. So don't wait. We're booking Outer Banks vacation rentals year round and we're excited to help you create memories to last a lifetime. We're here to help make your OBX vacation fun, exciting, and hassle-free. Give us a call today! Be sure to provide accurate information and make any necessary payments. 

Explore our website and give us a call to help kick-start your unforgettable Outer Banks vacation today.  Be sure to follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube ,  Pinterest , and  TikTok  to stay up to date on all of our specials, new & featured homes, and tips & tricks for making the most of your next Outer Banks vacation.

We’ll see you at the beach.

About the Author:  Lauren is an Outer Banks local, mom, trained historian, and travel enthusiast. When she isn’t writing for the Seaside Vacations Travel Blog, Lauren can usually be found with her nose in a book or cuddling with her cats. 

Veterans Day Weekend Getaways

Veterans Day, celebrated on November 11th each year, is a time to honor and show gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. It’s a day when people from all walks of life come together to pay their respects and thank veterans for their sacrifices. This year, Friday the 10 th is observed as a holiday and you can enjoy Veterans Day weekend getaways to pay your respects.

While there are countless ways to commemorate Veterans Day, visiting cities with rich military history can provide a unique and meaningful experience. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 cities to visit on Veterans Day and how you can save money on your weekend break by using OneStopParking to solve all your airport parking headaches.

Table of Contents

1. Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, is a natural choice for anyone looking to pay their respects on Veterans Day. The city is not only the political hub of the United States but also a place of significant historical importance, especially when it comes to honoring veterans.

Fly into Raegan Airport in Washington, D.C. to visit the plethora of historic sites, memorials, and museums dedicated to the armed forces. The city’s connection to the military is evident everywhere you turn.

Top Attractions:

• National World War II Memorial: This magnificent monument honors the 16 million people who served in the American armed forces during World War II, including the more than 400,000 who gave their lives.
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial: The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a powerful tribute to those who served in the Vietnam War. The wall features the names of over 58,000 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.
• Arlington National Cemetery: Located just across the Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for many veterans and notable figures. The Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a must-see event.

2. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas , has a rich military history and offers an array of Veterans Day activities. The city’s vibrant celebrations make it a fantastic destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the spirit of the day. San Antonio hosts a massive Veterans Day parade and various events to commemorate the occasion, creating an atmosphere of unity and gratitude.

• The Alamo: The Alamo is perhaps one of the most iconic historical sites in the United States. It serves as a memorial to the Alamo defenders and pays tribute to their courage during the Texas Revolution.
• Fort Sam Houston: This historic military post houses the U.S. Army North and has played a significant role in the nation’s military history.
• Veterans Memorial Plaza: Located in front of the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, this memorial plaza honors San Antonio’s veterans from all branches of the military.

3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia , known for its role in the American Revolution, is an excellent destination for those interested in history and honoring veterans. The city’s rich history and numerous historical sites create a unique environment for Veterans Day.

• National Constitution Center: The National Constitution Center is an interactive museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution. It’s an educational and engaging experience that fosters a deep appreciation for the nation’s founding document.
• Independence Hall: This historic building is where the United States Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and adopted. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in American history.
• Liberty Bell: The Liberty Bell is an enduring symbol of American freedom and independence. It’s displayed in the Liberty Bell Center, which provides visitors with information about the bell’s history and significance.

4. San Diego, California

San Diego , California, boasts a strong military presence and is an excellent option when considering Veterans Day weekend getaways. The city is renowned for its military heritage and is home to several significant military sites and attractions.

• USS Midway Museum: The USS Midway is a retired aircraft carrier that is now a museum, offering visitors a chance to explore the deck and learn about the life of sailors on board.
• Cabrillo National Monument: This site commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on the West Coast of the United States. It offers breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline and the Pacific Ocean.
• Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial: This hilltop memorial provides a spectacular panoramic view of the San Diego area and honors veterans from the Revolutionary War to the present day.

5. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is a town steeped in Civil War history, making it a fitting choice for Veterans Day. The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the American Civil War, and the town continues to pay homage to the soldiers who fought there.

• Gettysburg National Military Park: The heart of the town, this park preserves the site of the Battle of Gettysburg and features countless monuments and markers that commemorate the events of 1863.
• Gettysburg National Cemetery: This cemetery is the final resting place for over 3,500 Union soldiers who died at Gettysburg. It’s a place of solemn remembrance.
• Gettysburg National Museum and Visitor Center: This museum provides an in-depth look at the Battle of Gettysburg through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Paying your respects on Veterans Day is a meaningful way to honor those who have served in the military. These five cities offer rich historical experiences and plenty of opportunities to commemorate the day.

To make your Veterans Day weekend getaways even more enjoyable, consider using OneStopParking’s service to find affordable parking near airports if you are flying to your destination. By saving money on parking, you can allocate your resources to fully immerse yourself in the history and culture of these remarkable cities while showing your appreciation for our veterans.

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow

Feb 11, 2020 • 5 min read

Moscow enjoyed the status of capital for most of Russia’s history, except for a relatively brief period (about two hundred years), when the Tsar and the government relocated to St Petersburg . But the Bolsheviks moved the capital back to Moscow in 1918, and today it’s an extremely diverse city. It can easily take a couple of weeks to see all of its sights, but if you've only got a weekend to explore, here's how to have two perfect days in Moscow.

Start your weekend in Moscow by acquainting yourself with top-notch Russian cuisine at Grand Cafe Dr Zhivago . Located on the first floor of the historical hotel National and overlooking the Kremlin, it’s definitely one of the best breakfast spots in the city. Try millet porridge with crawfish, pearl barley porridge with oxtail or traditional cottage cheese with raisins and candied fruit.

Set aside at least half a day for Russian capital’s major attractions: the Red Square and the Kremlin . To reach the Kremlin, cross the street from Dr Zhivago and walk through the Alexander Garden to the main entrance at the Kutafya Tower . Check out all the cathedrals, including Archangel cathedral with all the tsars’ tombs and Uspensky cathedral with medieval icons. Pause to look at the famous Tsar Bell and climb Ivan the Great Bell Tower to enjoy some great views.

Exit and walk to the Red Square through the Alexander Garden, where, if lucky, you can see the change of guard. If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the food court at Okhotny Ryad shopping complex to pick up a snack.

The Red square is dominated by four buildings of equal historical importance: the Kremlin's most famous Spasskaya (Saviour) Tower , with a clock and fourteen bells that chime national anthem four times a day (6am, noon, 6pm, midnight), St Basil's Cathedral , Moscow's best-known symbol with its multi-colored domes, Lenin’s Mausoleum , the resting place of the leader of the 1917 October revolution, and GUM , Moscow's oldest department store, topped with a glass roof, designed by one of Russia's most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov. 

A guide to shopping in Moscow

Right behind the St Basil’s it is the relatively new Zaryadye Park , designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, famous for its work on the High Line in New York City. Zaryadye showcases flora from all the climate zones of Russia, which is the largest country in the world. The floating bridge at the edge of the park is one of the biggest selfie magnets in Moscow, providing spectacular views of the river and the city skyline as the background. 

Another Zaryadye attraction is a glass pavilion that hosts restaurant Voskhod  (Sunrise) – a perfect spot for your lunch or early dinner. Voskhod focuses on dishes from all fifteen former Soviet Union republics and its inside looks like a Soviet-made spaceship with great views of the Moscow river. Try Azeri home-made pasta or trout from Lake Sevan in Armenia.

After all that walking and exploring you need some quality downtime and what better way to spend it than relaxing for a couple of hours at the famous Sanduny  traditional Russian hot bath. Make sure to get a massage with birch sticks!

You might still have time to go to Winzavod Center – a creative cluster with galleries housed at a former wine factory. Galleries like XL , pop/off/art and Ovcharenko always have something on, most likely a cutting-edge Russian contemporary art exhibition. Finish the evening hanging out at one of the best Moscow bars – try socialites’ paradise Noor Electro , co-joined with one of Moscow’s avant-garde theatres or Powerhouse Moscow , located in a 19th-century mansion, which is famous for live indie and jazz band performances. Both serve great food, too. 

Power up for a busy day ahead at one of Moscow’s trendiest coffee/breakfast spots,   Nude . Located in the upscale, well-heeled neighborhood of Patriarch’s Ponds, Nude offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, including scrambled eggs, toast, porridge and banana bread. Book ahead as it might be busy on a weekend morning.

After checking out the Patriarch's Ponds, which features prominently in Mikhail Bulgakov’s perennial novel The Master and Margarita , devote the rest of the morning and early afternoon to exploring Moscow’s best museums. Depending on your tastes, pick one of the following: Tretyakov Gallery for traditional Russian art, from medieval icons to the early 20th century;  New Tretyakov for 20th century and contemporary art as well as great temporary exhibitions;  Pushkin Museum for one of the greatest collections of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in the world; and the Garage Museum for some eye-opening modern-art exhibitions. 

Whichever museum or gallery you choose, be sure to go to LavkaLavka for lunch, certainly one of the best places to try new Russian cuisine, which is a contemporary reading of centuries-old recipes. It’s one of the few places to try polugar , which is, allegedly, what Russians called vodka in the 19th century. 

When you talk about Russian culture, literary giants usually pop into mind: the likes of Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky and Anton Chekhov. There are plenty of literary museums in Moscow, but if you had to pick one, visit Tolstoy Estate Museum , located just opposite the headquarters of Yandex, the Russian equivalent of Google. Every little detail has been restored just the way it looked when Tolstoy lived here in the 1880s–90s. 

Leave some time for exploring the Moscow Metro : every station is an architectural masterpiece in its own right. Our favorites include Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya and Kievskaya. Later, unwind at one of dozens of Moscow’s craft beer places . Try  Jawsspot , named after one of the leading breweries in Russia, Jaws from the Urals region, which also serves decent pizza and salads.  

You might also like:

Why food markets in Moscow are having a moment    Russia for first-timers: dos and don’ts    Russia's best drinks and where to try them   

Explore related stories

Sustainable Travel

Jul 18, 2023 • 5 min read

How one writer followed the Silk Road from Khiva to Bukhara to Samarkand in Uzbekistan – all by train.

Jul 3, 2023 • 3 min read

Dec 29, 2021 • 7 min read

Oct 24, 2021 • 4 min read

Sep 24, 2021 • 6 min read

Sep 20, 2021 • 5 min read

Mar 16, 2021 • 9 min read

Mar 1, 2021 • 9 min read

Oct 12, 2020 • 6 min read

Jun 18, 2020 • 5 min read

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips From Moscow

Is the hustle and bustle of Moscow starting to wear you down? No worries. There are multiple great day trips from Moscow that will let you see a different side of Russia that you won’t find in the metropolitan area. Each day trip I’ve listed below can easily be done by train from Moscow, and there are trains every day of the week.

The area surrounding Moscow is rich in cultural attractions and natural beauty. By traveling only a short distance, one feels far away from the crowds, and lines of the sprawling Russian capital. Since Russia is undoubtedly an expansive country it may take from half an hour to two hours to reach some of the landmarks on this list (by train or car) from the Moscow city center.

You can escape to the picturesque Russian countryside, visit war memorials, battlefields, admire onion-domed churches, and get insight into the local way of life. Easy day trips from Moscow include the incomparable white-stone Trinity Cathedral in Sergiyev Posad, the spectacular Cathedral of the Assumption in Dmitrov, and the Russian military aircraft in Monino. For those who love rural tranquility, Suzdal and Vladimir are a must-see. History buffs will appreciate the Patriotic War of 1812 reenactment that took place in Borodino on the first weekend of September.

Without further ado, here are 15 best day trips from Moscow that are well worth your attention.

The Best Day Trips from Moscow

There’s a reason Moscow is one of Europe’s most enigmatic destinations. It’s got culture, class, food, history, and more, but even better, is that it is the country’s main transport hub with so many attractions within a day trip from Moscow. While you can definitely spend days or even weeks in Moscow, it can, of course, be done in just one week. What can you do in Moscow in seven days ? Well, you can do a lot if you know how to plan a trip to a place you know so little about.

If you’re ready to get out of the city a bit and soak up the culture, fresh air, and enchanting architecture, I’ve rounded up my favorite day trips outside of Moscow. I often get asked: What are the best cities to visit in Russia? And these are places that I’ve been and loved.

My Favorite Easy Day Trips from Moscow:

Dmitrov Kolomna Zvenigorod Sergiyev Posad Yaroslavl Arkhangelskoye Estate Vladimir Suzdal Korolev Borodino Patriot Park in Kubinka Melikhovo Gorki Leninskie Kaluga Monino

1. Day Trip to Dmitrov from Moscow

Dmitrov may not be as popular as other cities in Russia, but the fact that the city was founded only 7 years earlier than Moscow makes for a great day trip. This small city some 90 kilometers from Moscow is particularly beautiful in the summer. As you walk the streets you can see sparkling fountains, charming centuries-old buildings, yachts and boats transiting through the canal and, of course, the Museum-Reserve Dmitrov Kremlin.

The Kremlin (castle) is the city’s main draw. The 10m high and about 1km long earthen rampart remained behind the wooden wall and gives an idea of how the castle looked like 400 years ago. The oldest surviving building on the Kremlin grounds is the 16th-century Assumption Cathedral with a unique five-tier iconostasis.

Not far from the Kremlin there is a compact 15th-century Borisoglebsky convent. Its main building – the 16th-century Cathedral of Sts. Boris and Gleb is open to the visitors only for services of worship. In the 1930s in the convent housed a labor camp, which contained the builders of the Canal named after Moscow.

Getting There: Dmitrov sits an easy hour and sixteen minutes by train from Savyelovskiy Rail Terminal. This cheap day trip from Moscow is a great chance to soak up the historic charm to be found in Moscow Oblast.

2. Day Trip to Kolomna from Moscow

Situated to the south-east of Moscow, Kolomna is a beautiful port city on the Oka River. This is one of the oldest Russian cities in the region. So you can discover the old history in museums and monasteries. Interestingly, the city was a site for important weapon factories under the Soviet Union. Although it was opened up in 1994 Kolomna is not as popular as other day-trip destinations in the region.

Nevertheless, it is a great place to visit with friends and family where you can explore the 15th-century Kremlin made of red brick, try incredibly sweet traditional pastila (marshmallow), and visit some of the cute little churches and 19th-century mansions.

Getting There: Take the express train (commuter line train) from the Kazansky rail terminal to Golutvin station. The trip lasts one hour and forty minutes.

3. Day Trip to Zvenigorod from Moscow

This one is usually a given due to its proximity to and ease of transport from Moscow. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Moscow by train. You can easily hop on the train from the city and land right in the town of Zvenigorod where you can visit the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and sample the sparkly and refreshing kvass, a Russian specialty beverage that’s enjoyed in the summer months.

Zvenigorod is an adorable little town just under an hour away from the Moscow city and is an amazing place to visit as it will give a relaxing break from the hectic life of Moscow. Check this day trip if you don’t feel like planning.

If you have a sweet tooth, spend some time in the quirky Museum of Russian Desserts, where you can indulge in uniquely delicious treats and explore the intersection of food and culture.

Then you may want to pay the Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture, and Art a visit. The museum’s exposition is located on the territory of the Savvino-Storozhevsky monastery, or rather, in the 17th-century Tsaritsyny chambers, built for the wife of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Stroll through the museum halls to view the permanent exhibitions, which offer insights into various aspects of Russian history. The intricate museum’s building is adorned with a decorative porch, complex patterned elements, and looks very impressive in general.

4. Day Trip to Sergiyev Posad from Moscow

If you’re looking for cheap day trips from Moscow, Sergiyev Posad is a good choice at just a few dollar train ride away. Known as a major center of pilgrimage and home to one of the largest Russian Orthodox Monastery which has been here for hundreds of years, Sergiyev Posad is a fun day trip from Moscow and can be combined with Abramtsevo Museum Estate. As the only town in Moscow Region which is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities, Sergiyev Posad is an incredible destination for a day trip from Moscow that packs UNESCO-protected Trinity Sergius Lavra, great museums, and gorgeous architecture into one day.

Make sure you see the six-pillared Assumption Cathedral that was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in mid-16th-century and go inside to marvel at the impressive iconostasis that features Simon Ushakov’s masterpiece, the icon of Last Supper. Enjoy a delicious lamb steak with wheat kasha, Ukha fish soup, or hand-made dumplings as you learn a lot about religious and cultural history.

Getting There: Known for its small-town charm and welcoming feel, you can get to Sergiyev Posad by train, by bus, or by car. Trains depart from Yaroslavsky Rail Terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus at the ‘VDNKh’ metro station. A bus trip to Sergiyev Posad takes two hours on average but can be reached in 90 minutes depending on traffic. If you go by car expect to spend about an hour and a half attempting to traverse the congested Yaroslavskoye highway.

5. Day Trip to Yaroslavl from Moscow

Going from Moscow to Yaroslavl may seem like a really long day trip, but honestly, if you take the comfortable train, it only takes about four hours to reach the city, so making a Yaroslavl day trip is totally doable. Although I do recommend much more than one day in Yaroslavl, especially if it’s your first time.

Cultural tourists visiting Yaroslavl should start their exploration by strolling the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spacious 100-hectare area enclosed by Sobinova and Republican streets is home to most popular attractions – the 17th-century Church of Elijah the Prophet that survived almost exactly in its original form, and in contrast to it, the white stone Assumption Cathedral, restored in the 2000s.

If you walk a bit further passing the Holy Trinity sculpture and city’s foundation stone, you will find yourself at Strelka, a park on the cape, which offers panoramic views of the spot at the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. On the way back, there is a pleasant walk along the picturesque Volga embankment to the Governor’s Garden with shadowy alleys and an open-air Sculpture museum.

Getting There: Yaroslavl is about 280 km (173 miles) northeast of Moscow, so the best way to get there is to take a morning train from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal. A tour is also a great way to see the Yaroslavl without having to worry about driving or searching for trains. You can book a tour here.

6. Day Trip to Arkhangelskoye Estate from Moscow

Situated on the outskirts of Moscow and dates back to the late 18th-century, Arkhangelskoye Estate was the domain of the nobility for over a century until the Russian Revolution swept people who owned the estate out of the country. The estate was turned into a museum, which it remains today.

The Arkhangelskoye Estate Museum holds the largest rare-book collection. The exhibition also includes old manuscripts, historical documents, photos from the past, a vast collection of sculpture, paintings, engravings, and exceptional examples of decorative art. These art objects once belonged to Prince Nikolai Yusupov, the former owner of the estate.

Arkhangelskoye Estate is often referred to as the Russian version of Versailles because of the intricately manicured garden and beautiful 18th-century park. Famous Russian writers and poets such as Pushkin, Herzen, Mayakovsky loved to spend their free time here making long excursions in the surrounding area. Arkhangelskoye is a perfect place to appreciate the terraces decorated by delightful statues, exquisite vases, and busts.

Visitors can take tours, which introduce them to vibrant examples of Russian art and culture.

Getting There: To reach the estate it’s best to take a bus or a privately-owned minibus that departs from Tushinskaya metro station.

7. Day Trip to Vladimir from Moscow

Situated only two hours east of Moscow, Vladimir is absolutely one of the best places to visit near Moscow for a day trip. This splendid city dates back to the 12th century and has a very rich history. If magnificent Orthodox cathedrals and traditional white-stone architecture entice you, then this place is perfect for a day trip with your significant other.

First things first, you need to see the Golden Gate, which indicates the entrance into the old town. This 12th-century medieval masterpiece of military architecture is associated not only with Vladimir but with the Golden Ring tourist route itself. At the top of the gate, where once was the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, there is the Museum of Weapons. Great looking arrowheads and spear points date back to the Grand Principality of Vladimir, while the exhibition in an impressively majestic setting features a number of Batu-Khan related artifacts.

There’s a variety of attractions to put on your must-see list: the Old Believers Trinity Church right behind it, the Cathedral of St Demetrius, and Dormition (Uspensky) Cathedral. If you plan on shopping for souvenirs like birch-bark masterpieces of Kunov’s masters, drawings, carving, embossing, figures of people and animals, stop by the Lacquer Miniature, the Museum of Crystal, and the Gingerbread Museum. Many of the local attractions were added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

Getting There: The best way to visit this area is to catch an early train from Moscow and book a full-day tour of Vladimir in advance. This one includes the town of Suzdal as well.

8. Day Trip to Suzdal from Moscow

This gem of a little medieval town perched on a hill just a 30-minute ride from Vladimir is one of those places I’ve visited and could move there permanently and be happy! It’s a charming little piece of history that also has a Kremlin and visiting it feels like stepping back in time. if you’re a culture enthusiast you’ll be glad to know there are numerous churches, five monasteries, including Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in Suzdal. Check them out if you want to get a real taste of the country!

pend some time shopping at the Torgovaya ploshchad (Market Square), where you can buy baskets made of birch bark, ceramic handmade plates, honey or souvenirs and, of course, grab some afternoon tea!

Getting There: Trains leave regularly from Moscow’s Kurskiy Rail Terminal to Vladimir where you can hop on a bus to Suzdal. You can also take a bus from Moscow. In this case, it might take longer and you’ll probably encounter infamous traffic jams. If you go by express train the trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. There are slower trains of course, but I’d recommend going with the fast one and save a lot of time!

9. Day Trip to Korolev from Moscow

Located some 30 kilometers northeast of Moscow, Korolev has become arguably the most important space research center with skilled workers from across the Soviet Union who came here to expand the space program.

It became a leading institute dedicated to aerospace research in the country. Today, that tendency can still be clearly seen on the streets and in the buildings. When the Soviet Union collapsed, the city retained its status as the headquarters of Russia’s space surveillance network and now it hosts the Russian Mission Control Center, an analogue of the American Mission Control Center at NASA’s Space Center in Houston.

If you want to learn more about Mission Control Center and the former Russian Mir space station, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide who can clearly tell the history of this place.

If you’re not into space exploration there is also a Memorial Apartment Museum of Marina Tsvetaeva in Bolshevo. With a picturesque park next to the museum, it’s a great place for walking in the fresh air. The highlight of the park is memorial stones with quotes from Tsvetaeva’s poems.

Getting There: I’d recommend going by train. Catch one at Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal that departs every 30 minutes to reach Bolshevo station.

10. Day Trip to Borodino from Moscow

The historic Battle of Borodino on September 7, 1812, took place just outside the small village of Borodino, about 140 km west of Moscow, and about 15 km from the nearest town of Mozhaysk. Although the French won the Battle of Borodino and went to capture Moscow, it was one of the bloodiest battles of the pre-twentieth-century that is also predetermined Napoleon’s defeat.

While it was a battlefield back then, not much remains today. It’s mostly a green and grassy field now with a few monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to 19th and 20th century, and fortification facilities scattered throughout the area. The largest of these is the 27-meter high obelisk located right at the heart of the former battlefield.

Every year the military and patriotic festival and theatrical performance take place in Borodino. Early September is considered to be the best for visiting. But if you just want to feel the spirit of the battle, it’s better to go at any other time of the year.

Getting there: Hop on a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, disembark in Mozhaysk, and then take a bus to the museum. The whole travel time is about 2 hours.

11. Day Trip to Patriot Park in Kubinka from Moscow

Once a Red Army tank training ground, now it’s a military Disneyland with history, structure, guns, and armored vehicles! The tank museum originally housed one of the world’s largest and rarest collections of tanks. In 2016 they combined the training grounds with the newly-created Patriot Park. Since then, some of the notable and rare items have been moved to the Patriot Park site, so you may want to combine both sites into one tour (only about 20 minutes apart).

The exhibition grounds include some very rare specimens that are must-see for any military enthusiasts out there. The staff is friendly, helpful and kind, while the museum has a small shop. As this site is part of an operating military base, they may ask you to show your passport, or provide them with a photocopy of the front pages. There are vending machines for snacks and drinks, and there are bathroom facilities. There’s plenty to see, so I recommend setting aside an entire day!

Getting there: Situated halfway between Borodino and Moscow, the best way to reach Patriot Park in Kubinka is by car. Alternatively, if you don’t want to rent one, consider car-sharing apps like Gett or UBER. The price of ride-sharing services is cheap enough to make them a viable proposition for choosing them.

12. Day Trip to Melikhovo from Moscow

Located some 80 km from Moscow, Melikhovo is one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov. This renowned Russian writer and playwright acquired Melikhovo in 1892. He lived there with his parents and close relatives for 7 years before moving to the Crimea in 1899. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “The Man in the Case” and “The Seagull”.

The estate faded into oblivion right after the Revolution but in 1939 Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew established a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1941.

Today museum’s exhibition reveals the legacy of a celebrated writer and shows his path not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. The collection also features some of the best-known paintings by famous artists like Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends. When it comes to fun and educational day trips from Moscow, Melikhovo is a nice place for learning more about Chekov’s life and work.

Getting There: You can reach Melikhovo by train from Kurskiy rail Terminal. Disembark in the town of Chekhov and hop on a minibus that will get to the estate. Alternatively, hop on a bus that departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station.

13. Day Trip to Gorki Leninskie from Moscow

Once the realm of Russian nobles, Gorki Leninskie was turned into Lenin’s museum some 25 years after his death. The estate sits some 30-minute bus ride from the Domodedovskaya metro station and houses Soviet-era memorabilia and Lenin’s memorial flat recently transferred from the Kremlin, as well as his vintage Rolls-Royce.

Most people only associate this place with the name of the first communist leader. In fact, the name of the estate was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 16th-century. Throughout its history, the estate was owned by a number of prominent figures. It’s in fact one of the best museums that holds the country’s finest collection 19th-century furnishings and a unique collection of domestic items owned by nobles. Plus, ancient Vyatichi native tribe or East Slavs who inhabited a part of the Oka basin’s burial mounds and a few notable sculptures are hidden behind the avenues of lime trees in the park.

Getting There: You could, of course, hop on a bus from Domodedovskaya metro station. But it would be much easier just to use UBER or Gett. The estate isn’t that far from the Moscow Circle Road but going there by bus may involve some navigating.

14. Day Trip to Kaluga from Moscow

If you’re looking for an educational day trip from Moscow, look no farther than Kaluga! This beautiful city could really entertain you for more than just a day, but to get a taste of science, be sure to visit the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics. Or in other words, the Space Museum.

Visitors to the museum will learn more about the history of space exploration. In fact, this is one of the largest Space Museums in Russia, which opened its doors in Kaluga in 1967. Here you can see a prototype of the iconic MIR space station and a duplicate of the Voskhod rocket. The very same rocket that took the first man to space. There’s also a planetarium, which from the outside resembles a spaceship.

Kaluga is a totally walkable city. Make sure to spend some time strolling Teatralnaya street with the authentic 19th-century pavement that now marks the Kilometer Zero. Then walk across the 18th-century Kamenniy Most (the Stone Bridge) that somewhat resembles a Roman aqueduct. If you’re an architecture buff marvel at the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian.

It is assumed that the church was erected by one of the followers of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in 1794. The church resembles the Smolny Convent in St. Petersburg. With five church towers directed upward and six tiers of oblong windows give the exterior a sense of lightness and airiness.

Getting There: Trains from Kiyevsky Rail Terminal to Kaluga leave every 90 minutes. The trip takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

15. Day Trip to Monino from Moscow

Are you looking for great family & kid-friendly day trips from Moscow? If so, consider visiting the Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino. This unique military open-air museum is home to over 180 Russian aircraft and 100 aircraft engines and the perfect place to go when your crowd is looking for a break from hectic city life. Check this tour if you don’t feel like planning.

This site was formerly an operational airbase from 1932 till 1956 and many of the Russian aviation Design bureaus have made a contribution to the operation and maintenance of the museum. Along with aircraft from the Second World War, there are the TU-95 Bear four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and the TU-144 Charger a Soviet supersonic passenger airliner (which resembled the Concorde). The museum also has exhibits related to military aviation history such as the uniform of captured U2 pilot Gary Powers.

Getting There: This museum is located at Monino Town, about 30 km from Moscow. It is open on all days from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Mondays and Tuesdays. To get there take a train departing from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal and disembark at Monino station. Alternatively, hop on a bus from Schelkovskaya or Partizanskaya metro station.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Moscow

I hope this post has helped you discover some amazing day trips from Moscow. From imposing cathedrals, mighty fortresses and monasteries, there are a lot of incredible places to visit the Russian capital, and the best part is that getting there is always ways to get around on the cheap.

New here? Join hundreds of others and subscribe to the MindTheTravel blog via email.

Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you click on it and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect the way you shop, and it’s a great way to support MindTheTravel blog.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

Great article for visitors in Moscow , thanks for sharing

Marie Hernandez

I hadn’t considered traveling to Moscow until NOW! Fantastic post and ideas for visitors! Thanks!

Graham Marsden

Nice to see so many options outside of Moscow, but I have to say I wish this list had a recommendation for a hike or a beautiful natural areas or national parks. Maybe the next list!

I have to admit that I knew nothing about the area surrounding Moscow. This is definitely an inspiring list of places to go.

When I read this article about Moscow. I wanted to pack my bags and get there sooner. thank you for the great write up.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.