5 spots to keep in mind when you’re making Veterans Day plans

Veterans Day isn't just a day to pause and reflect on the great sacrifices that troops have made in the name of this great country. It's also a day of celebration and a moment for troops and veterans to take in the gratitude of the American people.

So, businesses across the country offer some sort of deal to anyone with a military ID, uniform, or veteran apparel, like a campaign cap. Sure, a free order of chicken wings might not be a fair trade for all that veterans have done for us, but it's greatly appreciated nonetheless.

To help you properly celebrate Tactical Thanksgiving, we've put together a little guide here to make sure you don't miss a spot on your tour of appreciation. Put the following places on your list and get ready for deals — all for the low, low price of just the gas in your car.

This list highlights types of businesses you should check out. For a list of specific spots that have officially announced Veterans Day discounts or freebies ahead of time, look here. Keep in mind, this list isn't comprehensive and discounts may be subject to availability, but it's definitely worth a read.

Make sure to adjust your schedule to account for a free breakfast, lunch, dinner, second breakfast, supper, late-afternoon snack...

Restaurants

Restaurants all over the country offer Veterans Day discounts — and that's amazing. Most places you'll go to will have little ways of making their meals more patriotic, too, like Red, White, and Blue Pancakes at IHOP or a burger adorned with a little American flag toothpick.

While the more well-known, chain restaurants are often able to take the financial hit of offering free meals, they might be extremely crowded — like, 2-hour-wait-times crowded. Meanwhile, the smaller, locally-owned spots may offer something smaller, like a free side, but you'll likely get better service and a more personal "thank you."

If you're not the type to enjoy small talk during a haircut, at least it's better than giving yourself a free haircut.

Barber shops

Getting a really good haircut isn't cheap. And the places that offer a cheap chop typically aren't all that good. For one day of the year, at least for veterans, this decision is made much easier, as even the good places offer their services for extremely low prices — some even offer free cuts.

What's nice about getting a free haircut — in contrast to most other things on this list — is that when you let your barber know that you're a veteran, it actually initiates a conversation. It's much more personal than a quick thanks and a line item on the receipt.

If you're in the Chicago area, I highly encourage you to take a visit to the National Veterans Art Museum. Every exhibit in there is made by our brothers- and sister-in-arms.

(National Veterans Art Museum)

Museums

Plenty of museums are free for veterans year round. Those that aren't, however, typically offer free admission on Veterans Day.

If you look through the pamphlet of most any history museum, you'll likely find that warfare is a central theme. And when you look deeper into most of the paintings in art museums, you'll see that many of the beautiful pieces, adored by critics and enthusiasts alike, were created by veterans.

What better way to honor a fellow veteran's work than by spending the day admiring some of it?

They always put on an amazing show for the troops and veterans at Disneyland on Veterans Day.

(Screengrab via 1st Marine Division Band)

Amusement parks and casinos

Many amusement parks close their gates around Labor Day — but some use Veterans Day as their final celebration of the year. This is perfect for veterans with kids or grandkids as it's a way for the kiddos to enjoy the benefits of their service.

Or, if you're not excited by cartoon mascots dancing around, know that most casinos on Veterans Day offer free cash credits for veterans. If you play your cards right (literally), you can take that free money walk away. Or just play one or two games and walk out with the remainder. Whatever floats your boat.

Nothing says "thank you for your service" better than a free beer or five.

(National Archives)

Your favorite bar

When the day comes to a close, there's no better way to end a day of celebration than with a nice, hard drink. Head down to your local bar and you can probably get a free drink — either from the bartender or other patriotic patrons.

This one isn't ever written down as an official thing, but it's mostly agreed upon that bars will give veterans a free drink or two on Veterans Day.