Veterans Day is a time to recognize and thank those who have served our country. In 2024, Veterans Day falls on Monday, November 11, and many businesses across Northeast Ohio are offering special deals, discounts, and even free meals to honor our veterans and active-duty military members. If you’re a veteran in Vermilion or one of the surrounding cities, this is your time to take advantage of these generous offerings!
As always, please note that these events and offers are subject to change. Be sure to confirm the details before heading out to make sure everything is still available.
Free Activities and Events for Veterans
Veterans can enjoy a variety of free activities this Veterans Day. Here are some highlights:
- Akron Zoo: On November 11, veterans can get in for free between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Additionally, immediate family members can enjoy a 50% discount on admission.
- Cleveland Aquarium: Active-duty military members, veterans, and first responders can visit the Cleveland Aquarium for free from November 8 to November 11. It’s a great opportunity to spend some time with family and see the incredible marine life.
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: Veterans and active military members can enjoy free entry on Sunday, November 10. Discounted tickets are available for family members to join in the fun too.
- Liberty Aviation Museum: From November 9 to November 11, veterans, active-duty military, and their families can enjoy free admission to the Liberty Aviation Museum. It’s a great spot for history lovers!
- Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR): Veterans can visit the Delaware or Spring Valley class A shooting ranges on November 10 for free shooting practice and specialized instruction. It’s a fantastic way to spend the day outdoors.
Free Food and Drinks for Veterans
Many local restaurants and businesses are also offering complimentary meals or drinks to veterans as a token of appreciation for their service. Here’s a list of some of the best spots:
- Applebee’s: Veterans and active-duty military members can enjoy a free special meal (dine-in only) on Veterans Day, November 11.
- Bob Evan’s: Veterans and military members can enjoy a free meal from a special menu on November 11.
- Caribou Coffee: Veterans and their spouses can get a free small cold press coffee on November 11.
- Chili’s: Veterans can grab a free meal on November 11 at Chili’s.
- Duck Donuts: All veterans and active military members can get a free medium hot coffee or cold brew at Duck Donuts on Veterans Day.
- Golden Corral: From 4 p.m. to close, Golden Corral will host a Military Appreciation Night with a free meal for veterans and active-duty military.
- Great Clips: Veterans can get a free haircut on Veterans Day at participating Great Clips locations in Northeast Ohio.
- Logan’s Roadhouse: Veterans and active-duty military members can enjoy a free meal at Logan’s Roadhouse on November 11 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Panera Bread: Veterans and active military members can grab a free bagel and coffee on November 11.
- Pilot Gas Stations: Veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a free meal at participating Pilot, Flying J, and One9 gas stations on Veterans Day.
- Red Robin: Veterans and military members can enjoy a free Red’s Big Tavern Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries all day on Veterans Day.
- Sheetz: Veterans can stop by Sheetz for a free meal and even get a free car wash on Veterans Day.
Check Before You Go
While these offerings are a great way to celebrate and honor our veterans, please remember that the details of these events and offers can change. Be sure to check with the businesses beforehand to confirm the availability and timing of these deals.
A Big Thank You to Our Veterans
Veterans Day is not just about the discounts and freebies; it’s about taking a moment to reflect on the sacrifices and dedication of those who have served in the military. Whether you’re spending the day with family, enjoying free meals, or visiting a local museum, we encourage all veterans to enjoy these special offerings and take pride in their service to our country.
Vermilion and the surrounding communities have much to offer in honoring our veterans, and we hope this list helps make your Veterans Day a little brighter. To all the men and women who have served — thank you for your service. We appreciate you today and every day.