Did you know there are tons of discounts and even free resources available just for seniors? Whether you’re looking to stay active, learn a new skill, eat well, or just save a little on everyday purchases, there are many programs out there designed with you in mind.
A Quick Note:
Every organization defines “senior” a little differently—some at 55+, others at 60 or 65+. It never hurts to ask if a discount applies to you!
Here are some great places to explore if you’re close to retirement or retired:
Recreation Centers: More Than Just a Gym
Table of Contents
Your local recreation center is a treasure trove of senior-friendly programs. Funded in part by local taxes and federal programs like the Older Americans Act (OAA), these centers often offer classes and services tailored for older adults.
If you’re in San Diego or Orange County, Age Well is a wonderful program with everything from arts & crafts and dance classes to gardening, cooking, music, and tech help. There’s even a daily lunch program, and in some areas, breakfast boxes are provided for the next day. Some meal programs may have their menus online. Check with your local center for their hours and programs.
For those with limited mobility, some centers offer meal delivery services —reaching areas all the way from San Ysidro to Oceanside. If staying active is on your mind, look for wellness-focused classes like Tai Chi for arthritis and fall prevention, which are tailored specifically to older adults.
Services often include:
- Educational and recreational classes
- Social and cultural events
- Legal aid and referral services
- Health screenings
- Day trips and excursions
Gyms & SilverSneakers: Fitness That Fits You
Many gyms offer senior discounts or specialized memberships. Chuze, Planet Fitness, and 24-Hour Fitness are just a few that may have plans for those 55+.
Prefer to stay fit at home? SilverSneakers is a fantastic program offering free online and in-person fitness classes for seniors, depending on eligibility. From yoga to strength training, it’s all designed with your needs in mind. If you are a UnitedHealthcare Supplement Plan member and an AARP member, you can opt to participate in Renew Active and find workout classes through them.
YMCA: Community + Wellness
The YMCA isn’t just for kids and families—it’s for you, too! Many branches have enhanced fitness classes specifically for older adults, focusing on balance, strength, and flexibility. Membership costs vary, but many YMCAs offer financial assistance and discounts for seniors. What’s more, studies show seniors who participate in programs like these often experience lower health related costs over time. That’s a win-win!
Phone Plans: Staying Connected for Less
Most major carriers offer senior discounts or special plans—you just have to ask! Whether you stick with your current provider or switch to a service like Mint Mobile, you can often keep your current phone and number and still save money.
Retail Perks: Senior Discount Days
Why pay full price when you don’t have to? Check with your favorite stores to see if they offer senior discounts.
Some examples:
- Kohl’s: Senior discount on select days
- Ross: 10% off for 55+ on Tuesdays
- Walgreens: Seniors Day discounts
- AMC Theatres: Discounted tickets for older adults
Restaurants: Eating Out on a Budget
With or without an AARP membership, you can enjoy meals out at a discount:
- Denny’s and IHOP both have senior menus
- El Pollo Loco and others offer discounts for seniors—just ask!
✈ Travel: Explore for Less
Ready to hit the road (or skies)? Many travel companies offer senior discounts on flights, hotels, and car rentals.
For example:
- Marriott offers 15% off for guests 62 and older
- Airlines and rental companies often have special rates—just look for the senior option when booking.
Museums: Local Explorer
Remember, we live in the city that people vacation to—so there are many places to explore locally.
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Offers a senior discount and is free during the month of February (children are also free during this month)
- Balboa Park: Senior Monday Discount
- Birch Aquarium: Senior pass available
- San Diego Botanic Garden: Senior discount
- Dana Wharf Whale Watching: Senior discounts available
Whether you’re staying active, exploring new hobbies, or just looking for ways to stretch your dollar, there’s a world of resources available for seniors. Don’t be shy—take advantage of what’s out there. You’ve earned it!
Sources:
- Age Well San Diego: http://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/activities/agewellservices
- Age Well Orange County: http://agewellseniorservices.org/
- Joan Kroc San Diego Senior Center http://sd.kroccenter.org/kroc-san-diego/seniors/
- San Diego Recreation Centers: http://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/activities/agewellservices Encinitas Senior Center http://www.encinitasca.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation-cultural arts/recreation-programs/senior-citizens/community-senior-center
- San Diego Age Well Spring activities: chrome
- extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/http://www.sandiego.gov/sites/default/files/agewellservicesscroll spring.pdf
- Carmel Valley Recreation Center: http://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/recctr/carmelvalley chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/http://www.sandiego.gov/sites/default/files/carmelvalley.pdf
- San Clemente Recreation Centers: http://www.san-clemente.org/i-am-a-/resident/senior-services
- Silver Sneakers: http://tools.silversneakers.com/
- Chuze Fitness: http://chuzefitness.com/fitness-class/silver-sneakers/
- 24 hour fitness: http://www.24hourfitness.com/membership/active_aging/remove_overview_active-aging.html Renew Active http://www.uhcrenewactive.com/home
- AARP chrome
- extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/http://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/benefits_discounts/document s/aarp-member-benefits-guide.pdf?intcmp=FTR-LINKS-DISC–BENFTS-DOWNLOAD-EWHERE
- YMCA: http://www.ymca.org/what-we-do/healthy-living/fitness/older-adults
- T-mobile http://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/unlimited-55-senior-discount-plans?
- Verizon http://www.verizon.com/plans/55plus/
- AT&T http://www.att.com/plans/unlimited-data-plans/55-plus-senior-discount/
- Mint mobile http://www.mintmobile.com/cell-phone-plan-for-seniors/?
- AMC http://www.amctheatres.com/discounts
- Seniorlist.com http://www.theseniorlist.com/senior-discounts/travel/
- Marriot http://help.marriott.com/s/article/Article-21994
- Senior discounts in 2025 http://www.seniorliving.org/finance/senior-discounts/
- San Diego Health and Human Services http://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/ais/Older Adults/Financial-Legal-Health-Insurance-Services.html
- Sightseeing in San Diego for seniors http://www.sandiego.org/articles/travel-guides/senior-ride-and-tour.aspx