5 ways to spend Veterans Day as a family

This article is sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union. Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.

Veterans Day is a time to honor and express gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in the United States military. It's a day to recognize their sacrifices, courage, and dedication to our country.

One fantastic way to spend Veterans Day as a family is by visiting a military museum or historical site. Some museums offering free admission to the military and veteran community are The 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York City, Mount Vernon near Washington D.C., The National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, MO, or any Blue Star Museums around the country. These places provide insight into the nation's military history, showcasing artifacts, stories and interactive exhibits. Many museums offer discounts or free admission to veterans and their families on Veterans Day. It's a great opportunity to learn about the sacrifices made by those who have served while also connecting with your own family's military history, if applicable.

Another great way to spend time with the family is enjoying a nice meal together. Restaurants across the United States often extend heartfelt gratitude to veterans on Veterans Day by offering a range of special benefits. These benefits can include complimentary meals, discounted menu items or exclusive Veterans Day menus. Check out these great lists of over 100 free meals and discounts on Veterans Day and 2023 Veterans Day freebies.

Serving others is a beautiful way to honor veterans. Spend Veterans Day as a family by volunteering at a local veterans' home, hospital or organization that supports veterans. You can teach your children about volunteering in your efforts to assist with various activities, organize care packages or simply spend time talking and listening to veterans' stories. Many volunteer opportunities come with discounts or perks for military families, fostering a sense of community and giving back.

If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, consider spending Veterans Day exploring one of America's breathtaking national parks. The National Park Service offers free admission to everyone on Veterans Day as well as special events and ceremonies honoring veterans and their families. You can hike, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of these preserved lands as a family. While you're there, take a moment to reflect on the significance of the day.

All Veterans and their families are eligible for a Navy Federal Credit Union membership, and Veterans Day is a great time to open a new account for everyone—including your kids. Navy Federal offers a wide range of financial products and services, from checking and savings accounts to loans and credit cards. To be eligible for membership, individuals must have a direct connection to the armed forces or the Department of Defense. This includes active-duty or retired military personnel, veterans, and their family members, including spouses, siblings, children, and grandchildren. Once you become a member, you gain access to competitive interest rates, low fees, exceptional customer service, and valuable financial education and resources tailored to the military community. Opening an account at Navy Federal Credit Union is not just about banking; it's about joining a supportive financial institution that understands the distinctive challenges and opportunities faced by military-affiliated individuals and their families.

Whether you choose to visit a museum, attend a parade, volunteer, explore the great outdoors or host a family appreciation event, there are numerous ways to make Veterans Day meaningful and memorable. And, with the availability of military discounts, you can do so while staying budget-friendly. So, this Veterans Day, consider these family-friendly activities as you pay tribute to our nation's heroes.