Where are AARP discounts accepted? A Comprehensive Guide

With more than 38 million members nationwide, AARP provides a vast network of discounts and programs to help you save money and stay engaged. But for those new to the organization, knowing exactly where are AARP discounts accepted can be a challenge. This guide offers an authoritative breakdown of the most common categories for member benefits.

Quick Summary

AARP discounts are accepted at hundreds of participating businesses across the U.S. in diverse categories, including travel, dining, health, tech, and retail. Members can find deals at national chains like Denny's and Outback Steakhouse, major hotel and car rental companies, and local retailers and restaurants through the AARP Now app.

Key Points

• Extensive Network: AARP discounts are widely accepted across various sectors, including travel, dining, and retail, involving hundreds of national and local partners.

• Popular Categories: Major discount categories include hotel chains (Wyndham, Choice), car rentals (Avis, Budget), national restaurant chains (Denny's, Outback), and health services (Optum Rx, LensCrafters).

• Local and Online Savings: In addition to national deals, members can find local coupons and online offers through the AARP website and the convenient AARP Now app.

• Health and Wellness Benefits: Prescription savings, vision care discounts, and exclusive access to insurance products are key parts of the AARP benefit package.

• Finding Discounts: To maximize savings, members should use the AARP Now app for real-time local deals and regularly check the official AARP Member Benefits page online.

• Age Requirement: Although aimed at those 50+, anyone 18 or older can join AARP and access many of the discounts, with some benefits having specific age limitations.

• Value Proposition: An AARP membership can easily pay for itself through consistent use of its wide array of discounts on everyday purchases and major expenses.

Unlocking Your Savings: An Overview of AARP Discounts

For many, an AARP membership is a gateway to a world of exclusive discounts and benefits designed for individuals aged 50 and over. However, AARP actually offers memberships to anyone 18 or older, providing a wide array of savings opportunities. While the list of partners and specific deals can change, the benefits are broadly categorized into major areas like travel, dining, health, and home.

Travel Discounts: Hotels, Car Rentals, and Cruises

One of the most popular uses of an AARP card is for travel savings. The AARP Travel Center, powered by Expedia, is a hub for members to find deals on flights, hotels, and vacation packages. Beyond the booking site, numerous major travel brands offer direct AARP discounts.

Hotel Chains

Many prominent hotel brands have long-standing partnerships with AARP. These savings typically offer a percentage off the standard room rate, often with additional perks like late checkout at participating locations. Some of the most common hotel families that accept AARP discounts include:

• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts: This includes brands like Days Inn, La Quinta, Super 8, and Wyndham Garden.
• Choice Hotels: AARP members can save at Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Econo Lodge, and Cambria Hotels, among others.
• Best Western Hotels & Resorts: Various brands under the Best Western umbrella offer member discounts.

Car Rentals and Cruises

For getting around on vacation, AARP has you covered with discounts at major rental car agencies.

• Avis and Budget: Members can receive up to 35% off base rates, plus other benefits like free additional drivers. Similar discounts are available for Budget Truck Rental.
• Zipcar: For city-based car sharing, members can get a discount on an annual membership.

On the water, several cruise lines and tour operators partner with AARP, offering onboard credits or reduced fares on select itineraries. Holland America Line, for example, has been a frequent partner with special offers for members.

Dining and Entertainment Deals

An AARP card can make dining out more affordable, whether you're grabbing a casual bite or enjoying a full dining experience. National and local restaurants are part of the network, with discounts typically ranging from 10% to 15% off food and non-alcoholic beverages.

National Restaurant Chains

• Denny's: A well-known partner, offering a 15% discount for members.
• Landry's, Inc. Restaurants: AARP savings are available at dozens of restaurant brands, including Rainforest Cafe, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and McCormick & Schmick's.
• Outback Steakhouse and Carrabba's Italian Grill: Both offer 10% off food and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Fast-Casual and Snack Options: Chains like Auntie Anne's, Jamba, and Cinnabon frequently participate.

Entertainment and Local Coupons

Beyond dining, AARP provides entertainment discounts. Members can find special deals on tickets to events, movie screenings through the Movies for Grownups program, and potentially savings at local theaters like Regal Cinemas. The AARP Now app is particularly useful for finding local coupons for restaurants and shops in your immediate area.

Health and Wellness

Prioritizing health and wellness is a cornerstone of AARP's mission, and members can access a variety of related benefits.

• Prescription Discounts: The AARP Prescription Discounts provided by Optum Rx offers a free card for savings on FDA-approved medications at over 66,000 pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart. Members receive deeper discounts and home delivery options.
• Vision and Hearing: Partnerships with LensCrafters and Target Optical offer savings on eyewear, and a free annual hearing test is available through the National Hearing Test.
• Insurance: AARP partners with top providers like UnitedHealthcare for Medicare plans and The Hartford for auto and home insurance, offering exclusive pricing and benefits to members.

Shopping, Technology, and Financial Services

The discounts extend to everyday spending and financial services, making AARP membership a useful tool for managing household budgets.

• Shopping: Members can get discounts on an annual Walmart+ membership and find various local coupons.
• Technology: Savings are available from providers like Consumer Cellular for wireless services and AT&T for unlimited plans.
• Financial Planning: Members can find resources and discounts related to banking, investments, and fraud prevention. The AARP website offers numerous articles and guides on financial planning for retirement.

How to Find Participating Locations

Finding specific locations where are AARP discounts accepted is straightforward. The most reliable method is to visit the official AARP website and use the Member Benefits page. You can browse offers by category or search for local deals. The AARP Now mobile app, available for iOS and Android, is also an invaluable tool, using location services to alert you to nearby discounts. When in doubt, it never hurts to ask a cashier or host if they honor AARP discounts, as many local businesses participate but may not advertise it heavily.

Comparison of Major Discount Categories

Category	Popular Partners	Typical Discount	Best For
Travel	Expedia, Avis, Budget, Wyndham Hotels, Choice Hotels	Up to 35% on car rentals, 5-15% on hotels	Vacationers and frequent travelers
Dining	Denny's, Outback, Carrabba's, Landry's Inc.	10-15% on food and non-alcoholic drinks	Everyday dining and special occasions
Health	Optum Rx, VSP, LensCrafters, UnitedHealthcare	Savings on prescriptions, eyewear, insurance	Managing health and wellness costs
Technology	Consumer Cellular, AT&T	Discounts on monthly plans, accessories	Lowering communication expenses
Retail	Walmart+, UPS, Michaels	Discounts on memberships and services	General household and project shopping

Conclusion

By leveraging the extensive network of participating businesses, an AARP membership can provide significant savings on a wide range of products and services. From travel and dining to health and technology, the benefits extend far beyond a single demographic. The key to maximizing your membership is staying informed through the official AARP website and app, ensuring you know exactly where to present your card or member number. Being proactive and simply asking about AARP discounts can often uncover valuable savings at both national chains and local establishments.

Visit AARP's Official Website for Member Benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get AARP discounts if I am under 50?

Yes, AARP membership is open to anyone 18 or older. While the organization focuses on issues affecting those 50+, most discounts are available to all members, regardless of age. Some benefits, particularly insurance-related products, may have age-specific eligibility requirements.

Where can I find the most current list of participating AARP businesses?

The most up-to-date list of participating businesses can be found on the official AARP website by navigating to the Member Benefits section. You can also download the AARP Now mobile app, which uses your location to show you nearby discounts in real-time.

Do I need a physical AARP card to get discounts?

While a physical card is a reliable way to show proof of membership, many places will accept a digital version from the AARP Now app. For online discounts, you will typically use a specific code or link provided on the AARP website. Always check with the specific retailer or service provider for their policy.

Are AARP restaurant discounts honored at all locations?

Discounts at national restaurant chains are generally honored at participating locations. However, participation can vary by franchise owner. It is always a good idea to confirm with the specific restaurant location before ordering, either by calling ahead or asking a staff member.

How do I find AARP discounts on hotels or car rentals?

For hotels and car rentals, the best way to find discounts is by booking through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia or directly on the partner's website (e.g., Avis, Budget, Choice Hotels). You will need to provide your AARP membership number during the booking process to receive the special rate.

Is there a way to find discounts on local entertainment near me?

Yes, the AARP Now mobile app has a dedicated 'Local Discounts' feature. By enabling location services, the app will show you discounts at nearby restaurants, entertainment venues, and shops that honor AARP membership.

Do AARP discounts change often?

Some AARP discounts and offers are long-term partnerships, while others may be seasonal or change frequently. It's best to check the official AARP website or app before making a purchase to ensure the discount is still valid and understand any specific terms or conditions.