After retirement, or even before, living on a budget can be difficult. But there are plenty of senior discounts in Michigan that can help – including perks from various chains with locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor.
Whether you’re looking to have a little fun with the grandkids or get a bargain on clothing, this list has a variety of options.
Many of these businesses have age restrictions, and it’s always best to check ahead with your nearest location to make sure they have the discount.
Also, discounts can sometimes vary based on the store, even if it’s part of the same chain. Be sure to call ahead to see if the location near you is participating.
In addition, some of the discounts are also only on certain days or at certain times – so check that information, too.
Finally, keep in mind that some spots – specifically some grocery stores – have done away with senior discounts in favor of offering broader discounts to those who sign up for savings programs. Those are not included in our list, but it’s always worth checking with your favorite shopping destinations to see how you can save.
Bottom line: Always do your homework when it comes to helping your aging parents save money.
Read to discover some solid senior discounts in Michigan, especially here in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor.
Note: Some spots may enforce COVID-19 safety protocols. Be sure to check before you head out.
Arby’s
- Discount: 10% off or drink discount
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit/Ann Arbor
This fast food chain, famed for its slow-roasted meat sandwiches, offers senior discounts that may vary by location.
Applebee’s
- Discount: 10% to 15% off
- Qualifications: Ages 60-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
This casual dining restaurant is known for their American dishes like burgers, wings, appetizers and cocktails.
A&W Restaurants
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
The “all-American food” chain offers a senior discount at some locations. Call ahead and stop in for a burger and a root beer float.
Banana Republic
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 50-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Check the Banana Republic website for other discounts as well, such as student or teacher breaks.
Big Boy
- Discount: Varies by location
- Qualifications: Ages 60-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Some Big Boy locations offer a discount, though there is not a company-wide policy. Check ahead at your local eatery to find out.
Bonefish Grill
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: AARP members
- Locations: Novi, Troy
This casual-dining seafood spot’s discount is available on food and non-alcoholic beverages. They do not offer the discount on carry-out or catering. Must have a valid AARP card.
Boston Market
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 65-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Boston Market also offers discounts through their VIP club. Sign up on their website.
Burger King
- Discount: 10% off and other discounts on drinks and coffee
- Qualifications: Ages 60-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Ask and see if there is a senior discount on Burger King’s freshly brewed coffee. Also see the website for more savings.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: AARP members
- Locations: Canton, Novi, Southgate, Sterling Heights, Troy
Be sure to show a valid AARP membership card to receive this discount.
Chili’s
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Join the My Chili’s Rewards program for more savings and offers from the Tex-Mex-style cuisine chain.
Dairy Queen
- Discount: 10% off or free small drink at some locations
- Qualifications: Varies by location
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Some locations of the soft-serve ice cream icon offer bargains. Most are open year-round, but call ahead to be sure during colder months.
Denny’s
- Discount: 15% off
- Qualifications: AARP members
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Show your valid AARP membership card to receive the discount at this American-fare sit-down chain.
Dressbarn
- Discount: 10% off on Tuesdays or Wednesdays
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Call ahead to see if your local Dressbarn is among those offering senior discounts in Michigan. Its website also has additional bargains.
Dunkin Donuts
- Discount: Free donut with purchase of an XL coffee
- Qualifications: AARP Member
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Check out Dunkin Donuts website for more offers and check ahead to see if this is offered at your location.
Einstein’s Bros. Bagels
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 60-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Join the Shmear Society to receive more discounts and deals.
Golden Corral
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: 15220 Hall Road, Clinton Township
This family-friendly buffet chain also offers an early-bird discount for ages 60 and up.
Goodwill
- Discount: 10% off on Tuesdays
- Qualifications: Ages 60-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Tuesdays are Senior Savings days at Goodwill. Receive 10% off all donated merchandise. Checkout “Color of the Week” for up to 50% off that color. The items featured at half-off are indicated by the color of the ticket.
Hardee’s
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Check with your local Hardee’s to see what sort of discount they offer for seniors.
IHOP
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Get your pancake fix off the senior menu with a 10% discount.
Joann Fabric and Crafts Stores
- Discount: 20% off select days
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Keep your eyes peeled for the next Senior Discount Day at this popular crafting supply store chain.
KFC
- Discount: 5-10% off or a free small drink with any meal depending on the location
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Some KFC locations deliver through Grubhub, too. Check ahead and see if yours does to enjoy its signature fried chicken delivered to your door.
Kohl’s
- Discount: 15% off on Wednesdays
- Qualifications: 60-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
The popular retail department store offers bargains once a week. Time your purchases, though, because this offer can’t be combined with Kohl’s Cash. Also, you have to use the discount in stores and not online.
McDonald’s
- Discount: Vary by locations
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Many McDonald’s locations offer some form of senior discount on coffee and other beverages.
Michaels
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Do your crafting at a discount with this offer. This choice among senior discounts in Michigan comes with a bonus: It also includes sale items.
Motown Thrift
- Discount: 25% off entire purchase, Monday-Friday
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Location: 8050 N. Middlebelt Road, Westland
Score great bargains on gently used clothing and household items on weekdays while supporting U.S. veterans.
Outback Steakhouse
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: AARP members
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Show a valid AARP membership card and get 10% off of your bill at Outback.
Rainforest Cafe
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: AARP members
- Locations: 4310 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills
Present a valid AARP membership card to redeem this reward at this themed restaurant chain.
Salvation Army
- Discount: Varies by location
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Salvation Army senior discounts can be up to 50%. Check ahead and swing by to grab extra deals on many resale goods.
Subway
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 60-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Subway’s fresh ingredients are great for any meal. Get rewards through its app.
Taco Bell
- Discount: 5% off and drink discounts
- Qualifications: Ages 65-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Different locations may offer different things, such as the 10% discount or a free drink — so check ahead as see what your local spot has in store.
Tim Hortons
- Discount: 10%
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus
- Locations: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Get your breakfast on the go at a discount.
Walgreens
- Discount: Up to 20% off select days
- Qualifications: Ages 55-plus and AARP members
- Location: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Get a Balance Rewards Card to enjoy discounts on Seniors Days at this popular drugstore chain.
White Castle
- Discount: 10% off
- Qualifications: Ages 62-plus
- Location: Various locations in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Check your nearest outpost for this slider chain and see if they’re among those offering senior discounts in Michigan.
Know of some great senior discounts in Michigan we missed? Let us know in the comments and we’ll add them to the list.
This post was originally published in 2019 and is updated regularly.
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