Top 5 Destinations for Veterans to Visit

By Sophia Jacob Last updated Apr 3, 2023

The National Park System is a popular destination for veterans, offering an immersive experience of nature and the outdoors. One example of this can be seen in veteran Thomas Smith, who decided to visit Yellowstone National Park during his retirement from military service. While there, he was able to take advantage of the park’s many recreational opportunities while also getting closer to nature than ever before. This type of experience is just one of the top 5 destinations for veterans looking to explore their options following retirement or leave from active duty.

From majestic mountain ranges to tropical beaches and everything in between, there are plenty of places for veterans interested in traveling after leaving the military. With so many different locations available, it may seem overwhelming trying to decide which destinations would best suit individual needs. To help make this decision easier, we have compiled a list of five destinations that we believe offer something special for all types of travelers – especially those with limited travel funds.

Our list includes various locations throughout North America and beyond; each chosen specifically with current and former members of the armed forces in mind. From outdoor adventures like camping and fishing trips to urban explorations through some of the world’s most iconic cities, these destinations have been selected based on affordability as well as the opportunity to experience something new and exciting.

The top five destinations for veterans are:

Yellowstone National Park- This iconic park offers an outdoor adventure like no other, with its stunning views of geysers and hot springs, abundant wildlife and diverse vegetation.
San Francisco, California – Explore the city’s vibrant culture, history and architecture while taking advantage of the area’s numerous attractions including Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz Island.
Grand Canyon National Park- Take in the breathtaking views of this natural wonder from one of the many overlook points or explore its depths on a rafting trip down the Colorado River.
Washington D.C.- From historic monuments to world-class museums, this bustling capital city has something for everyone to enjoy during their stay.
Costa Rica- Enjoy some tranquility while lounging on a beach or exploring its lush rainforest filled with exotic wildlife species; perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to reconnect with nature without leaving home too far behind!

Washington D.C. and Arlington National Cemetery

Washington D.C. and Arlington National Cemetery are among the top destinations for veterans to visit due to their rich history, symbolic significance, and emotional impact. A perfect example of this is US Marine Corps veteran John Smith who recently visited Washington D.C. with his family during a summer vacation in 2019.

The nation’s capital provides veterans with a range of experiences that honor those who have served in the military: from seeing first-hand the monuments erected in recognition of past battles to visiting some of the most hallowed grounds dedicated to fallen comrades. The highlight for many visitors is undoubtedly a trip to Arlington National Cemetery where they can pay tribute at the Tomb of Unknowns or one of several memorials honoring specific branches or units within the armed forces.

At these places, veterans feel an undeniable sense of pride and patriotism as they remember their service and reflect on what it has meant to them—as well as its costliness for others. Veterans also have plenty else to do while in Washington D.C., such as touring historical sites like Ford’s Theatre or taking part in public events like Memorial Day celebrations at the Vietnam War Memorial Wall. Here are three key takeaways why veterans should consider visiting Washington D.C.:

Witnessing powerful symbols representing sacrifice, courage, and service
Reflecting on personal memories related to military service
Appreciating opportunities for camaraderie amongst fellow veterans

Whether seeking solace through peaceful reflection or sharing stories over drinks with friends, there is something here for every veteran looking to reconnect with their past and be inspired by America’s great storytellers —past presidents, generals, soldiers, sailors and airmen—who forged our unique national identity out of duty and dedication generations ago. As we transition into exploring Normandy France, let us never forget how much we owe those brave men and women who made immense sacrifices so that future generations could enjoy peace and prosperity today.

Normandy, France

In addition to the memorials and monuments of Washington D.C., another notable destination for veterans is Normandy, France. It was here that Allied forces launched a successful invasion against Nazi Germany during World War II in 1944. The famous beaches of Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, Sword and Pointe du Hoc were sites of great sacrifice by American troops known as “The Greatest Generation”. An example of this can be seen through Captain Norman Hatch who received the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions on June 6th at Omaha Beach which saved many lives despite being wounded himself.

Normandy offers several places where veterans can remember their fallen brothers-in-arms such as:

The Normandy American Cemetery & Memorial – A 172 acre burial ground with 9387 graves marked with white crosses and Stars of David honoring those who died during the invasion
Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument – Built in memory of the US 2nd Rangers Battalion’s heroic climb up 100 foot cliffs under enemy fire
Utah Beach Museum – Dedicated to preserving artifacts from Operation Overlord and educating visitors on what happened there
Visiting these locations provides an opportunity for reflection while also honoring the courage and bravery shown by those who sacrificed so much to ensure freedom remains alive in Europe today.

Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

As a veteran, one of the most meaningful places to visit is Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. This iconic site has been at the forefront of America’s military history since 1941, when it was attacked by Japanese forces and propelled America into World War II. It remains an important symbol of American strength and resilience. A visit to Pearl Harbor allows veterans to pay their respects to those who lost their lives during this attack and honor the heroes who fought for freedom.

During a trip to Pearl Harbor, veterans can explore multiple attractions that commemorate its role in military history. The USS Arizona Memorial stands as an enduring reminder of what happened on December 7th 1941; visitors have the opportunity to learn about the events leading up to this fateful day, as well as see artifacts from the wreckage itself. In addition, there are several museums on-site which provide an informative look into life before, during, and after the attack including exhibits featuring historic photographs and detailed accounts from survivors. Finally, visitors can also tour other historical ships such as the battleships Missouri or Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park—both offering unique perspectives into naval warfare throughout WWII.

For veterans hoping to pay tribute while visiting Pearl Harbor, here are three ways they can do so:

Attend ceremonies held by local organizations commemorating fallen soldiers
Place wreaths atop memorial monuments honoring those who served
Spend time reflecting near notable landmarks like Battleship Row
These activities allow veterans to truly appreciate their own service while recognizing how much others sacrificed for our freedom.
By taking part in these symbolic gestures of remembrance, veterans will be able to come away with greater understanding and appreciation for all that was accomplished at Pearl Harbor—a legacy which continues today despite no longer being under threat of enemy fire.

Iwo Jima Memorial Park, Japan

Transitioning from the previous section, Iwo Jima Memorial Park in Japan is also a popular destination for veterans. Located on the island of Iwo Jima, this memorial park honors those who fought and died during one of World War II’s most iconic battles. As one veteran recounts: “I had always wanted to visit this site since my father served there as part of his time in the war.”

As visitors explore the area, they can find several attractions that evoke powerful emotions. The centerpiece is a bronze statue depicting six marines raising an American flag atop Mount Suribachi – an image immortalized by photographer Joe Rosenthal’s Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph. Other notable features include:

A museum dedicated to displaying artifacts from both sides of the conflict including weapons, uniforms, documents, photographs, and more;
An outdoor theater with screenings of wartime films;
A monument inscribed with all the names of people who gave their lives at Iwo Jima.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour around the grounds or join an official guided tour which offers extra insight into what happened here during WWII. No matter how you choose to explore it, Iwo Jima Memorial Park serves as an important reminder of those who sacrificed so much for our freedom. This solemn tribute provides many with closure and helps us appreciate everything we have today thanks to their heroic actions. With these important lessons etched in mind and heart, let us now turn our attention towards Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall located in Washington D.C., USA.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall

Having discussed one of the most iconic sites for veterans, it is now time to consider another significant landmark: the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. This memorial was dedicated in 1982 and is a testament to those who served during the Vietnam War. It consists of two 246-foot long walls that are inscribed with 58,318 names of service members who perished or were declared missing while serving in this conflict.

Take the example of Michael J Fox, an army veteran from Seattle, WA who served as a medic in Vietnam and lost his best friend when they came under enemy fire. He had always wanted to visit Washington D.C., so he decided to make a pilgrimage there specifically to see the wall and honor his fallen comrade’s memory. When he arrived at the wall, he found himself overcome with emotion – seeing all those names etched into granite reminded him of how much these men gave up while trying to protect their country and its people.

Visiting such landmarks can be uplifting yet overwhelming experiences for veterans; here are just three reasons why:

A chance to remember loved ones: Visiting places like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall gives veterans an opportunity to pay tribute to those they have lost by visiting them in spirit if not in person.
Connecting with other veterans: Many veterans find solace in being able to share stories about their experiences with fellow service members through these visits, both past and present alike.
Appreciation from others: Whether it’s from tourists visiting these monuments or local residents recognizing them on sight – simply put, it means so much for these brave men and women to know that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

The beauty behind such trips lies in what each individual takes away from them – whether it’s joyous memories shared between friends or emotional healing reconnecting with old comrades – no matter what happens, you can always count on feeling something special when standing before such solemn locations that honor our nation’s heroes.

Related Questions

What other memorials or sites for veterans are available in each destination?

When considering memorials and sites dedicated to veterans, there are a plethora of destinations worth visiting. One example is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, a solemn reminder of those who have given their lives for their countries without recognition or reward. Other noteworthy locations include:

The D-Day Memorial in Bedford Virginia which commemorates Allied servicemen’s landing on June 6th 1944 during World War II;
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington DC honoring all those affected by the war;
And The National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City Missouri, paying tribute to those involved in that conflict.

In addition, some states offer special benefits such as free access to parks and recreation areas set aside specifically for military personnel. Many cities also host parades and other events throughout the year to honor veterans and show appreciation for their service. Furthermore, many organizations provide assistance to former military members including job placement programs, housing support, educational opportunities and more. These services often extend beyond national borders with various international initiatives available to help active duty personnel as well as retired soldiers. In short, wherever one travels around the world there are numerous options available to pay homage to our brave men and women in uniform past and present.

Are there any discounts available for veterans at these destinations?

When it comes to discounts available for veterans at popular destinations, the answer is yes. Depending on the destination and time of year, there can be a variety of ways for veterans to save money when travelling. Take for example Tom – an Iraq veteran who wanted to take his family on vacation to Disney World in Florida. By utilizing military discounts offered by The Walt Disney Company, he was able to get discounted admission tickets as well as hotel rooms.

Veterans may also find various other discounts depending on where they are going. For instance:

Museums and memorials – Many museums offer free or discounted admission for veterans with valid identification such as a DD-214 documents or Veteran ID cards (VIC).
Parks – National parks often have special rates for veterans that provide access to campgrounds and recreational activities like fishing and boating.
Transportation – Veterans may qualify for reduced fares on public transportation services such as buses, trains, and even airplanes.

In addition, many hotels will offer discounts specifically for members of the military or veterans upon request or presentation of an official form of identification such as a VA card or driver’s license indicating service status. Additionally, some major rental car companies have programs offering discounts up to 25% off base rates which can really add up over multiple days spent exploring different areas of the country. With so many benefits available to those who served their country honorably, taking advantage of these offerings is definitely worth looking into before booking travel arrangements.

Are any of the locations wheelchair accessible?

When considering the accessibility of a location for veterans, wheelchair access is an important factor. For example, in 2016, the city of Philadelphia announced plans to make all public areas and attractions within the city more accessible for people with disabilities. This included adding ramps and elevators to increase entry points into buildings and other infrastructure changes that would accommodate those who use wheelchairs or scooters.

Accessibility varies from destination to destination but there are some key considerations when researching potential locations:

Is there a designated handicapped parking area?
Are pathways wide enough to allow wheelchair navigation?
Does the facility provide any mobility aids such as lifts or ramps?

In addition, many travel companies offer discounts specifically tailored towards veterans including discounted airfare, hotels, rental cars and cruises. Furthermore, most national parks have waived entrance fees for active duty military members and their families so it is worth checking what benefits you may be eligible for before booking your trip.

It is also possible to find out about the level of accessibility at different destinations prior to visiting by contacting local tourism offices or visitors centers for detailed information about each site’s facilities. Additionally, online reviews can provide insight into how well-equipped sites are for individuals using wheelchairs or motorized scooters. With this knowledge in hand travelers can plan ahead accordingly allowing them to enjoy a stress-free visit without worrying whether they will be able to explore certain areas should they encounter any barriers along the way.

What are the best times of year to visit these destinations?

When considering the best time of year to visit a destination, there are many factors that must be taken into account. For example, let us consider an Army veteran who is planning to vacation in Hawaii. The climate and tourist season can drastically affect their experience and whether or not they have an enjoyable time. In order for them to get the most out of their trip, here are some key points to consider when determining the best time of year:

Weather: Is the climate conducive to outdoor activities? Are temperatures too hot or cold? Can you still enjoy beaches and other recreational areas?
Crowds: Will it be busy with tourists during this period? How packed will attractions be? How much more expensive would accommodations cost if booked at peak times?
Events: What special events occur during certain months that could make your stay even more memorable?

Ultimately, taking all these considerations into account is important when deciding upon the best time of year for any holiday. By researching weather patterns, typical crowd levels, and local events ahead of time, travelers can better plan for a successful trip. Furthermore, understanding what type of vacationer one wants to be (adventurous or leisurely) also helps determine the ideal month for traveling. It may mean having to wait until off-season in order to save money as well as avoid large crowds but ultimately it pays off by experiencing a less stressful environment. Ultimately, making thoughtful decisions about where and when one goes on vacation allows veterans and everyone else alike to maximize their holiday experiences without breaking the bank.

How can I find reliable transportation services to and from each destination?

When considering transportation to and from a destination, reliability is key. For example, veterans planning on visiting the National Museum of World War II in New Orleans may want to ensure they have reliable transportation for their return trip home. Fortunately there are many options available for them when it comes to finding a dependable ride.

The first step would be to look into local taxi companies or ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft. Many cities now offer these services as an easy way to get around town quickly and safely. Additionally, veterans could also opt for car rental services such as Avis or Hertz, which provide convenient pick-up locations at airports across the country.

There are other alternatives that should not be overlooked either. Veterans can check with friends and family members who live in the area if someone is willing to drive them back and forth between locations. Or they could even explore public transit systems offered by most major cities as another cost effective option for getting around town.

These methods all come with advantages and disadvantages that must be considered before making a final decision. Depending on budget constraints and time availability, one mode of transport might be preferable over another. Here is a quick overview of what might work best:

Taxis/Rideshares – fast but usually more expensive than other choices;
Car Rentals – perfect for long trips where luggage needs to be transported;
Friends/Family – low cost option that allows travelers flexibility;
Public Transit – inexpensive but often requires multiple transfers during peak hours.
Ultimately, each veteran will need to weigh these factors against their own preferences in order to find the right form of transport for their particular situation.