Are you tired of feeling like you’re missing out on the full value of your AARP membership? Many members only scratch the surface of their available discounts, leaving hundreds of dollars in savings untapped each year.
From secret restaurant deals to hidden travel perks, we’ve uncovered 15 lesser-known AARP benefits that could transform your spending habits. Beyond the well-known insurance discounts lies a world of exclusive savings at places you already shop.
Let us guide you through these overlooked gems that’ll help you maximize your membership and keep more money in your pocket starting today.
1. PAPA JOHN’S ONLINE ORDERING DISCOUNT
Papa John’s partnership with AARP provides members with an exceptional 20% discount on their online food orders, making it one of the most generous restaurant savings programs available.
This substantial discount applies to all menu items, from classic pizzas to sides and desserts, though delivery fees are excluded. The discount is easily accessible through their website or mobile app, making it convenient for members to enjoy their favorite pizzas at a significantly reduced price.
This offer particularly stands out as most restaurant loyalty programs typically offer only 10-15% discounts, making this 20% reduction especially valuable for regular pizza enthusiasts.
- Always create an online account to track your orders and save favorite items
- Consider ordering during off-peak hours for faster delivery
- Combine with seasonal promotions when available for additional savings
- Save your payment information securely for faster checkout
2. DENNY’S DINING DISCOUNT
Denny’s offers AARP members a valuable 15% discount on their entire menu, including their famous breakfast selections and classic diner favorites, with a maximum discount of $10 per visit.
This discount surpasses the standard 10% senior discount offered by most restaurants, making it particularly attractive for regular diners.
The flexibility of using this discount for both dine-in and pickup orders provides convenient options for members to enjoy their favorite meals. The discount applies to the entire menu, allowing members to save on everything from their signature Grand Slam breakfasts to dinner entrees.
- Visit during off-peak hours to avoid wait times
- Check special holiday menus for additional promotions
- Consider joining Denny’s rewards program for extra benefits
- Keep your AARP card readily available to ensure discount application
3. HILTON HOTELS PREMIUM BENEFITS
Hilton’s partnership with AARP extends beyond the standard 10% discount on room rates, offering members an enhanced hotel experience with valuable perks. The late checkout benefit until 2 p.m.
provides extra flexibility for travel plans, while the automatic Hilton Honors Silver Status elevation opens doors to exclusive benefits like bonus points on stays and special member rates.
These premium benefits make Hilton stays more rewarding and comfortable, especially for frequent travelers who can maximize the value of their Silver Status perks throughout the year.
- Book directly through Hilton’s website to ensure benefits application
- Join Hilton Honors program before booking to stack benefits
- Request late checkout at check-in to ensure availability
- Consider booking during off-peak seasons for better rates
4. BEST WESTERN REWARDS ENHANCEMENT
Best Western’s AARP member benefit provides a 10% bonus on rewards points earned during stays, creating additional value for frequent travelers. This enhancement to the standard rewards program helps members accumulate points faster toward free nights and other valuable redemptions.
The bonus points structure is particularly beneficial for those who regularly stay at Best Western properties, as it accelerates their progress toward reward stays and elite status levels.
The program’s straightforward earning structure makes it easy to track and maximize point accumulation.
- Book directly through Best Western’s website
- Join Best Western Rewards before your first stay
- Look for seasonal promotions to stack with AARP benefits
- Consider longer stays to maximize points earning
5. VALVOLINE AUTO MAINTENANCE SAVINGS
Valvoline offers AARP members a significant 15% discount on oil changes, representing a substantial saving on essential vehicle maintenance.
This discount is particularly valuable as it applies to all types of oil changes, including synthetic options, which typically command higher prices.
The savings become even more meaningful considering the recommended frequency of oil changes for vehicle maintenance. This discount isn’t widely publicized outside of AARP membership materials, making it a hidden gem for cost-conscious car owners.
- Schedule appointments in advance to ensure availability
- Keep track of maintenance schedules for timely service
- Ask about additional services that might be discounted
- Consider synthetic oil options for longer-lasting protection
6. AARP TRAVEL CENTER HOTEL SAVINGS
The AARP Travel Center, powered by Expedia, offers members exclusive 10% discounts on hotel bookings, with a particular focus on lesser-known but quality hotel chains like Cambria and Everhome Suites.
This platform combines the convenience of Expedia’s booking system with AARP-specific discounts, providing members access to a wide range of accommodations at reduced rates.
The savings extend across various property types, from budget-friendly options to upscale hotels, making it a versatile tool for travel planning.
- Compare rates across multiple dates for best deals
- Read recent reviews before booking
- Look for package deals combining flights and hotels
- Book during off-peak seasons for maximum savings
7. LOCAL DINING DISCOUNTS
AARP’s restaurant portal provides members access to significant discounts of up to 25% at local restaurants, often exceeding the savings available at national chains.
These local establishment partnerships create unique dining opportunities while offering substantial savings.
The portal makes it easy to discover new local eateries and access exclusive deals that aren’t available through other discount programs. This benefit particularly shines in helping members support local businesses while enjoying meaningful savings.
- Check the portal regularly for new restaurant additions
- Read user reviews before trying new establishments
- Save favorite restaurants for quick reference
- Consider dining during off-peak hours for better service
8. HOUSEHOLD MEMBERSHIP SHARING
AARP’s free secondary household membership benefit allows members to share their benefits with a spouse or partner without any additional cost.
This often-overlooked feature effectively doubles the value of membership by extending all discounts and benefits to another household member.
The secondary membership includes full access to all AARP benefits, from dining discounts to travel savings, making it an excellent value for couples who can maximize their combined savings through coordinated benefit use.
- Set up both accounts immediately after joining
- Keep both membership cards accessible
- Track combined savings to maximize benefit usage
- Share login credentials for online discounts
9. COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT FUNDING
AARP’s Community Challenge Grants program offers funding opportunities of up to $25,000 for local improvement projects, focusing on areas like walkability and disaster preparedness.
This unique non-discount benefit demonstrates AARP’s commitment to community development and provides members with opportunities to make meaningful changes in their neighborhoods.
The grant program supports various initiatives that enhance quality of life for all ages, making it a valuable resource for community-minded members.
- Start planning applications well before deadlines
- Gather community support for proposed projects
- Document current conditions thoroughly
- Research successful past projects for guidance
10. PRESCRIPTION BENEFIT ADVOCACY
AARP’s advocacy efforts, including support for legislation like the PBM Transparency Act, work to reduce prescription drug costs for members indirectly.
This behind-the-scenes benefit demonstrates AARP’s commitment to long-term healthcare cost reduction through policy change.
The organization’s advocacy work has contributed to significant reforms in pharmaceutical pricing and transparency, creating lasting positive impacts on medication accessibility and affordability for seniors.
- Stay informed about current advocacy initiatives
- Participate in AARP advocacy events
- Share personal stories to support advocacy efforts
- Keep track of prescription price changes
11. GROCERY DELIVERY SAVINGS
AARP members can access exclusive e-commerce discounts on meal delivery services, including 25% off Silver Cuisine and a $50 discount on Daily Harvest orders.
These savings make healthy meal options more accessible and affordable, particularly beneficial for members who prefer the convenience of home delivery.
The discounts focus on online ordering rather than in-store purchases, reflecting modern shopping preferences and providing valuable savings on convenient meal solutions.
- Compare different meal service options
- Plan orders to meet minimum free delivery thresholds
- Check for additional seasonal promotions
- Consider dietary restrictions when selecting services
12. MOBILE PHONE SERVICE BENEFITS
AARP members enjoy waived activation fees with carriers like Consumer Cellular and AT&T, along with discounts on monthly plans.
This benefit simplifies the process of switching carriers or upgrading services while providing ongoing savings on communication expenses.
The combination of waived fees and plan discounts creates substantial long-term savings for members, particularly those who frequently upgrade their devices or modify their service plans.
- Compare plans across participating carriers
- Calculate long-term savings including plan discounts
- Keep documentation of waived fees
- Review plan usage regularly to optimize costs
13. PUBLIX SENIOR DISCOUNT
Select Publix locations offer AARP members aged 60 and above a 5% discount on their purchases every Wednesday.
While this benefit is location-specific, it represents a rare opportunity for regular savings on grocery purchases.
The mid-week timing of this discount encourages shopping during less crowded periods, making it convenient for members to take advantage of the savings while enjoying a more relaxed shopping experience.
- Verify participating locations before shopping
- Plan weekly shopping around Wednesday discounts
- Keep AARP card readily available
- Combine with store sales for maximum savings
14. TANGER OUTLETS SHOPPING BENEFIT
AARP members receive a complimentary coupon book at Tanger Outlets, providing access to exclusive savings not available to the general public.
This benefit enhances the already discounted outlet shopping experience with additional savings opportunities.
The coupon book typically includes a variety of store-specific discounts and special offers, making it a valuable tool for members planning significant shopping trips.
- Review coupon book before shopping
- Plan shopping route based on desired stores
- Compare outlet prices with regular retail
- Check expiration dates on coupons
15. REWARDS PROGRAM BENEFITS
AARP’s rewards program allows members to earn points through various activities, including quizzes and exercise tracking, which can be redeemed for gift cards at popular retailers like Amazon.
This interactive benefit program encourages engagement while providing tangible rewards. The variety of earning opportunities makes it easy for members to accumulate points through everyday activities and learning experiences.
- Participate in daily point-earning activities
- Track exercise regularly for bonus points
- Complete available quizzes promptly
- Monitor point expiration dates
Tips for Maximizing These Discounts
- Verify Locally: Many discounts (e.g., Publix, local restaurants) vary by location—always confirm before visiting.
- Combine Benefits: Pair hotel discounts with rental car savings (up to 30% at Avis/Budget) for full travel savings.
- Leverage Digital Tools: Use the AARP restaurant portal or Travel Center for real-time deals.
Final Thoughts
AARP’s value extends far beyond common hotel/restaurant discounts. From funding community projects to niche oil change deals, these 15 under-the-radar perks can save hundreds annually.
Prioritize checking eligibility, explore local partnerships, and share your membership to amplify savings.
