You’re there for the community in its most chaotic moments, but when it’s time to unwind with your own family, finding affordable fun shouldn’t feel like a second job. Fortunately, many of the biggest names in entertainment—from theme parks to aquariums to movie theaters—are stepping up to say thanks with exclusive discounts for first responders.
Whether you’re planning a big theme park vacation or just looking for a weekend activity close to home, this guide has your back. Let’s dive into the best family-friendly entertainment deals available for the everyday heroes who deserve them most.
🎢 Theme Parks That Salute First Responders
Walt Disney World & Disneyland
While Disney doesn’t have a year-round public first responder discount, they often offer special rates during select times of the year. These are typically available through ID.me, GovX, or specialized ticket resellers like TicketsatWork. It’s always worth calling their guest services or checking military/first responder platforms for limited-time offers.
Pro Tip: If you’re affiliated with the military or are married to someone who is, the Armed Forces Salute program might be available to you.
Universal Studios (Orlando & Hollywood)
Universal Parks frequently offer discounted tickets for first responders through GovX or ID.me, especially around appreciation months. Offers may include multi-day passes and exclusive hotel deals at Universal resorts.
SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Aquatica
Owned by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, these attractions are some of the most generous in the industry.
- SeaWorld Orlando, San Antonio, and San Diego
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Williamsburg
- Aquatica Water Parks
First responders can often get free admission or 50% off tickets through the “Waves of Honor” program. These offers typically include free entry for the responder and deeply discounted tickets for family members.
LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND Florida, California, and New York frequently offer deeply discounted or free admission for first responders during promotional periods—especially in September, which is often First Responder Appreciation Month. Check their website or verify through ID.me.
🎳 Indoor Fun: Bowling, Arcades & Trampoline Parks
Main Event
Known for bowling, laser tag, and arcade games, Main Event offers 10–20% off activities and food for first responders with valid ID. Offers may vary by location.
Dave & Buster’s
Participating locations offer discounts on Power Cards and food for police, firefighters, and EMS workers. Ask at the front desk or check your location’s Facebook page—some share unadvertised local deals!
Sky Zone & Urban Air
Most trampoline parks—including Sky Zone and Urban Air—offer first responder discounts on open jump and birthday party packages. The discount usually ranges from 10–20%. Always ask at check-in or call ahead!
🎟️ Movie Theater Discounts
AMC Theatres
AMC does not have a corporate-wide first responder policy, but many individual locations offer $1–$2 off per ticket when you show ID. Some may also offer concessions discounts.
Regal Cinemas
Select Regal locations offer 10% off ticket prices to first responders. You may need to show your badge or ID at the box office.
Cinemark
Cinemark occasionally participates in local appreciation weeks and may offer discounted tickets or combo meals. Check with your nearest theater, especially around national holidays.
🐬 Zoos, Aquariums & Museums That Give Back
San Diego Zoo & Safari Park
During select weeks of the year, first responders receive free admission—especially in October and November. These dates often coincide with San Diego’s First Responder Appreciation Month.
Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta)
The Georgia Aquarium regularly offers discounted or free tickets for first responders. Their “Military Mondays” sometimes include public safety workers too—check in advance!
Shedd Aquarium (Chicago)
First responders in Illinois get free general admission with valid ID. Additional guests often receive discounted entry as well.
Children’s Museums Across the U.S.
From the Boston Children’s Museum to the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, many children’s museums offer 10–20% off admission or free entry days for first responders. Always check the “Plan Your Visit” page on their websites.
🎠 Seasonal Attractions & Fairs
Six Flags Theme Parks
Participating Six Flags parks frequently offer first responder days with free admission or deep discounts. Some even extend deals to family members. These promotions vary by location and often pop up around 9/11 or National Police Week.
Local Fairs and County Events
Many state and county fairs across the U.S. have First Responder Day where admission is free or discounted. Keep an eye on your local fair schedule or check event websites for appreciation day announcements.
🧾 Where to Find and Redeem These Discounts
If you want to avoid the guessing game, start with these helpful resources:
- ID.me – A trusted hub for first responder discount verification. Many attraction partners use it.
- GovX – Offers member-only prices for theme parks, attractions, and even sports tickets.
- TicketsatWork – Offers heavily discounted attraction and entertainment tickets. Sign up using your department email or access code.
- Check social media – Many local businesses post one-off discounts for first responders on Facebook and Instagram.
- Call directly – Don’t be shy about asking! Even if a deal isn’t advertised, many businesses are happy to honor your service with a discount on the spot.
💡 Extra Tips for Family-Friendly Fun on a Budget
- Travel in the off-season – You’ll score lower ticket prices and smaller crowds.
- Bundle tickets – Many discount sites offer combination packages (like zoo + aquarium).
- Use your rewards – Combine first responder discounts with credit card or loyalty points for deeper savings.
- Bring your ID everywhere – Many deals are only available in person, so having your badge or department ID handy is key.
- Sign up for newsletters – Theme parks and museums often email out appreciation events and deals.
❤️ Final Thoughts: Take the Time, Make the Memories
As a first responder, your schedule is packed with stress, split shifts, and nonstop calls. But your family moments matter too. These discounts are more than just a nice perk—they’re an open invitation to spend quality time with the people you love, doing the things that bring you joy.
So go ahead—plan that day out, book those tickets, and let someone else do the heavy lifting for a change. Whether it’s a high-speed roller coaster or a lazy afternoon feeding giraffes, you’ve earned every moment of it.
And the best part? You don’t have to pay full price to make those memories.
