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North Carolina is a beautiful state and if you’re lucky enough to get stationed there then you won’t struggle to find things to do. From the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sprawling picturesque towns of Asheville, a day trip or weekend getaway is never too far. We’ve not only found some awesome places to plan your getaway too, but these places also offer military discounts year-round or at special times of the year.
Asheboro-North Carolina Zoo
Located in Asheboro the NC Zoo has over 500 exhibits including a Zoofari and an African exhibit. Military receive $2 off admission for up to 6 tickets. Tickets can be purchased at Junction Plaza. Details here.
Asheville-Biltmore Estate
Asheville, North Carolina is home to the beautiful sprawling grounds of the 100,000+ sq ft Biltmore Estate. From shopping, dining, to a winery to horseback riding and relaxation there is no lack of activities here. Step back into the Gilded age when you visit here. Military receive $10 off admission of adult tickets they purchase here.
Charlotte-Carowinds
Looking to take the kids or friends to a theme park? Make your way on over to Charlotte and head to Carowinds theme park with tons of rides, rollercoasters and the opening of their new Carolina Harbor. June 30th-July 8th military personnel including retirees and honorably discharged vets with proper military ID or veterans cards get in for free. And if you’re stationed in North Carolina you may want to splurge for their Gold Pass which allows you unlimited visits to Carowinds and Carolina Harbor in addition to seasonal events like Scarowinds during the Halloween season. Normal prices are (3) payments of $27 per person but the special deal for military allows (3) payments of $19 plus an initial payment of $24. Learn more about that deal here.
Charlotte- Nascar Hall Of Fame
Got a need for speed? Interested in the history of Nascar. Spend a day at the Nascar Hall of Fame, see real race cars and even take behind the scenes tours. Military receive a discounted rate here.
Fayetteville-The Climbing Place
Get your climb with over 20,000+ sq ft of space filled with climbing walls, beams and more. From beginner to advanced everyone can learn to climb at the Climbing Place. On Wednesdays from 10am-10pm military, their dependents and first responders get in for $10 with proper ID. This includes climb time and gear.
Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel and Casino
Just want to do a weekend alone without the kids? Head on up to the Cherokee Mountains to Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel and Casino. Their parent company Caesar’s has launched the Total Rewards SALUTE card. This card is open to AD, Vets and Military Spouses and can be used at Caesar’s properties nationwide. With the card you receive perks like:
- Hotel room discounts – 10 percent year-round
- Complimentary parking at many destinations, including Las Vegas and Atlantic City
- 15 percent discounts at casino gift shops
- Five percent discount on Hawaiian Airlines flights
- A complimentary stay at Atlantis, Paradise Island Resort in the Bahamas
- Tier Status match with Wyndham Rewards
- Turning Reward Credits into free play
- Special member pricing at participating restaurants
- Exclusive pre-sale access for select shows
- Discounts on select Norwegian Cruise Line® vacations
- Members can visit totalrewards.com for more information
Kure Beach-Fort Fisher
My family and I had the pleasure of staying at a condo across from Fort Fisher which is part of Air Force recreational lodging. It’s a beautiful area filled with historic attractions, shops, dining, museums, aquariums and more. The cottages have also just been remodeled. The best part is rates go by rank. 4 bedrooms start at $161 a night for E1-E5 which is great for large military families or friends who want to bunk together—and your budget You can view further rates here.
Wade-Fayetteville RV Resort and Cottages
Own an RV or want to experience camping? If your in or near Fort Bragg then Wade, NC is not far and home of the Fayetteville RV Resort and Cottages. Bring the family or a group of friends for a fun weekend of camping, swimming and cooking out. Other amenities here include complimentary wifi and cable along with putt-putt golf, a new dog park, basketball and even complimentary waffles every Friday. Military receive 10% off when they stay here. Simply let them know you are military when booking in the note box and they will add that discount in manually for you.
Wilmington- USS North Carolina Battle Ship Memorial
Walk the actual decks of the Battleship North Carolina used in World War II. Take a step back into the early periods of the Depression, learn about those who fought on the ship and the daily life of this ship’s crew. Take part events happening monthly and enjoy this interactive experience. AD and Retired Military and their families receive $4 off their admission.
Wilmington- NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Stay at Fort Fisher recreational lodges and then head on over to the NC Aquarium and explore aquatic life along with their butterfly bungalow and their dinosaurs exhibit. Military receive a discount when they purchase tickets onsite.
