As a veteran of the United States military, you may be wondering if you can purchase discounted theme park tickets at your local base. Many active duty service members and veterans look to buy tickets to places like Disneyland, Universal Studios, and Six Flags at a lower price through their base’s MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation) office.
The good news is that most military bases do offer specially priced theme park tickets that can save you and your family money on admission. However, the specific details, including which parks are available and how much of a discount is offered, can vary by location.
What Military Bases Typically Offer
Most military bases provide at least some type of discount on popular theme parks through their MWR Ticket Office or Information, Tickets and Registration (ITR) Office. Here are some of the most common theme park ticket deals bases offer:
- Disneyland/Disney World – Discounted multi-day Park Hopper passes, typically $20-$60 off gate prices.
- Universal Studios – Single day and multi-day tickets at 10-25% off regular gate prices.
- Six Flags – Discounted single day tickets, usually $5-$10 cheaper than gate price.
- SeaWorld/Busch Gardens – $3-$15 off single day tickets.
- Legoland – Up to 25% off gate prices on hopper tickets.
- Local/regional parks – Varying discounts, usually 10-30% off.
These are the most common deals, but exact prices and participation can change. There are sometimes blackout dates where discounts are not offered, so it’s best to check ahead of time with your base.
Buying Process
To purchase discounted theme park tickets on base, you generally have to go in person to the Ticket Office or ITR on your installation. Here are the basic steps:
- Visit the Ticket Office/ITR during operating hours (typically Monday-Friday 9am-5pm).
- Ask what theme park tickets are available and the current prices.
- Select the specific park(s) and date(s) you want tickets for.
- Provide military ID card for all family members needing tickets.
- Pay for tickets with cash, check, or credit card.
- Receive hardcopy tickets or voucher to redeem at park gate.
It’s always wise to call ahead and verify they have the theme park tickets you want in stock before visiting. Inventory can run out during peak seasons.
Eligibility Requirements
Military discounts on theme park tickets are available to:
- Active duty service members
- Reservists and National Guard members
- Military retirees
- Disabled veterans with valid ID
- Dependents of all the above with military ID
Veterans who are no longer affiliated with the military are not typically eligible for discounts on base. However, many parks do offer special military veteran prices at the gate.
Some important notes on eligibility:
- Only authorized ticket buyers can purchase tickets. Often limited to service member, spouse, or dependent with military ID.
- All family members needing tickets must be present to show valid ID.
- Tickets are non-transferable and for personal use only.
Verify the specific requirements with your base before planning your trip and buying tickets.
Other Discounted Ticket Options
Aside from buying on base, there are a few other ways veterans and military families can get discounted theme park tickets:
- Direct From Park – Many parks offer special military discounts at the gate or online. Usually 10-40% off.
- Hotel Packages – Booking a hotel+tickets package through designated hotels near parks can unlock deeper discounts.
- Time of Year – Visiting during off-peak seasons when parks offer general public discounts.
- Authorized Resellers – Using third-party ticket vendors that legally offer military discounts.
Do research to find the best current deals available through these methods to maximize your theme park savings.
Overseas Military Bases
U.S. military bases located overseas in places like Germany, Japan, and Italy also typically have discounted theme park ticket programs.
These overseas programs partner with popular local and European theme parks such as:
- Europa Park (Germany)
- Efteling (Netherlands)
- PortAventura Park (Spain)
- Alton Towers (England)
- Liseberg (Sweden)
Availability for U.S. domestic parks like Disney and Universal is limited when buying from overseas bases. But deals on incredible European parks make it worth visiting the MWR office before your trip.
Conclusion
Getting discounted theme park tickets through your military base is a great way to save money and have fun. While deals vary between locations, most bases offer exclusive savings on popular theme parks for eligible service members, veterans, and dependents.
A trip to the Ticket Office or ITR is typically required to purchase base tickets in person. Do your research ahead of time to know what deals are available at your base.
With some planning and flexibility, you can take advantage of the military discounts available both stateside and overseas. Enjoy the perk of affordable theme park access for your family’s next vacation.