As a Firefighter, Police Officer, or EMT you serve your community by saving lives, protecting property, and more. Here is our list of the top stores and places that show their appreciation to first responders with deals, offers, promo codes, and freebies on entertainment, restaurants, shopping, and more! Some of the places listed offer discounted admission or prices during certain times of the year, while most of them offer a year round discount. So, whether you live in the New York area or are visiting on vacation, here are the top places where you can save money:

Activities

Bronx Zoo- offers a 17% discount to police, fire, and EMS when you verify your identity and purchase your tickets through ID.me.

​

iFLY- supports first responders by giving a 20% discount on select weekday packages when you verify with GovX. Police, fire, and EMS use the verification link during checkout to apply the discount. Terms and conditions apply.

Legoland Discovery Center- at certain times of the year, Legoland Discovery in East Rutherford, NJ offers first responder appreciation days/months where you receive free or discounted admission. Follow us on social media for the latest updates.

One World Trade Center Observatory- NYPD, FDNY and EMS receive 50% off one ticket and 20% off up to four additional tickets. You must present a valid employee ID at Guest Services to redeem.

Paper Mill Playhouse- (Millburn, NJ) first responders may purchase up to 4 tickets at up to 30% off the standard rate. Buy online with promo code: RESPONDER. Visit their site for details and exclusions,

Perelman Performing Arts Center- US law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders are eligible for up to 4 tickets at $30 each. Valid work ID is required at time of pick-up.

State Theatre (New Brunswick, NJ) is proud to offer a $5 off discount to customers who have served as First Responders (active or retired). To Order Your Discounted Tickets visit the theater and show your valid First Responder ID.

Top Golf- with 2 locations in Holtsville, NY and Edison, NJ they offer police, fire, and EMS 10% off game play, 20% discount on select monthly memberships, and 10% discount on event game play and/or room rental when you book an event with a Top Golf Sales Associate. 

Hotels

Best Western- offers low rates to government employees traveling for business or pleasure. First responders working for federal or state agencies can use this rate including LEOs, Corrections, Wildland Firefighters, ​and tax funded hospitals. Book online and present a valid ID at time of check-in. They also offer these current Special Offers.



Heroes Vacation Club offers travel benefits exclusively to first responders including firefighters, police, and EMTs. Save up to 60% off New York area hotels, activities, and more all in one place. Please select “Badge Discounts” as your organization when signing up.

Omni Berkshire Place- give a special government rate to first responders who work for federal, state, county, or local governments. Restrictions apply and must present ID upon check-in.

Red Roof Inn- first responders who work in a government position (state, federal, or municipality) can save 10% on leisure travel. Use VP#606732 when booking to receive your 10% discount!



Westgate NY Grand Central- is proud to offer a 10% discount with promo code: FirstResponder10 off the Best Available Rate to law enforcement, fire fighter, search & rescue and emergency medical service personnel. Use discount code: FirstResponder10.

Restaurants

Bareburger- Their “Serve & Save” program gives 20% off the entire check to first responders (including law enforcement, EMS, fire) — dine-in and takeout.

Bonefish Grill- celebrates first responders (police, fire & EMS) with a 10% off "Heroes Discount" all day everyday when you show a valid ID.

Outback Steakhouse- offers a "Heroes Discount" of 10% off to police, firefighters, and EMTs all day everyday with ID. Discount may vary by location.

​Texas de Brazil- with 2 locations in Yonkers and Long Island, they offer a 10% heroes discount off the regular priced dinner, lunch, or salad area.



Shopping & Fitness

Adidas- is proud to give Police, Firefighters, and EMS a 30% off discount online and in-store, and 15% off at factory outlet stores located throughout the New York area. Visit their site for details.

Crunch Fitness- is dedicated to giving back to our community heroes with exclusive discounts for first responders and military. Their special deal includes $0 enrollment fees and $3 off the standard recurring dues on monthly memberships for new members.



Fitness 19- (Rivervale, NJ) provides a discounted gym membership to active or retired first responders. Sign up on their website and show an ID for proof of service.



More First Responder Discounts by City >

First Responder Discounts by Category >

As a Firefighter, Police Officer, or EMT you serve your community by saving lives, protecting property, and more. We'ed like to say thank you with our list of the top places in San Diego that show their appreciation to first responders with deals, offers, promo codes, and freebies! Some of the places listed offer discounted admission or prices during certain times of the year, while most of them offer a year round discount. So, whether you live in the San Diego area or are visiting on vacation, here are the top places where you can save money: 



Listed Alphabetically

Belmont Park- offers a heroes discount of 20% off ride and play passes for those who serves. Those that can enjoy this special deal include first responders, military, medical personnel, and more.

Best Western- offers low rates to government employees traveling for business or pleasure. First responders working for federal or state agencies can use this rate including LEOs, Corrections, Wildland Firefighters, ​and tax funded hospitals. Book online and present a valid ID at time of check-in. They also offer these current Special Offers.

Black Angus Steakhouse- honors community heroes (police, fire, and EMS) with 15% off you dine-in order when you present a valid work ID.

Harrah's Resort SoCal- shows their appreciation to First Responders by giving you an extra 15% off hotel sale rates. Visit their site for locations and details.



Heroes Vacation Club offers travel benefits exclusively to first responders including firefighters, police, and EMTs. Save up to 60% off San Diego area hotels, activities, and more all in one place. Please select “Badge Discounts” as your organization when signing up.

iFLY- supports first responders by giving a 20% discount on select weekday packages when you verify with GovX. Police, fire, and EMS use the verification link during checkout to apply the discount. Terms and conditions apply.

Living Coast Discovery Center- located in Chula Vista, all First Responders receive 20% off admission! Year-round, every day. Just show the front desk your badge or First Responder ID. All family members of First Responders get 20% off with you in attendance.



Loews Hotel Coronado Bay- offers a first responder discount of up to 15% off room rates, $20 discounted self parking, and waived resort fee. Inquire within for details



Omni Hotels- give a special government rate to first responders who work for federal, state, county, or local governments. Restrictions apply and must present ID upon check-in.



Outback Steakhouse- offers a "Heroes Discount" of 10% off to police, firefighters, and EMTs all day everyday with ID. Discount may vary by location.



Paradise Point Resort- welcomes those who serve. Active police, firefighters, and EMTs can enjoy 20% off room rates plus complimentary parking for one vehicle. See their site for details and restrictions.​

San Diego Zoo- first responders can save 10% off the admission price when you verify your status as a first responder and purchase your tickets through Id.me.

SeaWorld- honors first responders including Police, Fire, EMS at certain times of the year with discounted tickets. Valid ID required at gate. See their site for details. Follow us on social media for the latest updates.



Sesame Place- honors first responders including Police, Fire, EMS at certain times of the year with discounted tickets. Follow us on social media for the latest deals.

San Diego Wave FC-in a partnership with Id.me, firefighters, police officers, and EMS can receive a 20% discount on tickets.

​Texas de Brazil- located in Carslbad, they offer a 10% heroes discount off the regular priced dinner, lunch, or salad area.



More First Responder Discounts by City >

First Responder Discounts by Category >

As a Firefighter, Police Officer, or EMT you serve your community by saving lives, protecting property, and more. Here is our list of the top stores and places that show their appreciation to first responders with deals, offers, promo codes, and freebies on entertainment, restaurants, shopping, and more! Some of the places listed offer discounted admission or prices during certain times of the year, while most of them offer a year round discount. So, whether you live in the Boston area or are visiting on vacation, here are the top places where you can save money:



Listed Alphabetically

Adidas- is proud to give Police, Firefighters, and EMS a 30% off discount online and in-store, and 15% off at the factory outlet store in Sommerville, MA. Visit their site for details.

Boston Ballet- first responders including law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, and more can save $30 per ticket to select performances. Call their box office for details.

Cabelas- (Berlin, MA) honors military, fire, LEOs, and wildlife agents with a 10% discount everyday and 5% on firearms and ammo. Use this exclusive deal online when you verify your identity, or in-store with proof of service.

The Dagny- they are proud to offer a 30% discount to Active Duty Police Officers and Firefighters with promo code HEROES. Proof of valid service ID is required at check-in and there is a 48-hour cancellation policy.

Franklin Park & Stone Zoos- first responders including law enforcement, firefighters, and EMTS are eligible for $35 off your membership. Visit their site for details.

Great Wolf Lodge (Fitchburg, MA) - save up to 40% off with their "Howling Heroes Offer." This exclusive discount is available to fire, emergency medical service personnel, 911 dispatchers, police, and correctional officers.

IHG- Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites, Candlewood Suites, Crowne Plaza and more offer a special rate to federal, state, county, and local government employees on official business. They also offer these current Deals & Discounts.

Legoland Discovery Center Boston- at certain times of the year, Legoland Discovery Centers offers first responder appreciation days/months where you receive free or discounted admission. For 2025, October is First Responder Appreciation month. Police, law enforcement, and EMS receive free admission and up to 6 guests at 30% off. 

Market House- Offers a 15% discount year-round for police, firefighters, and EMTs on full-priced meats and seafood via their online store. Verification via VerifyPass. 

The Merchant- Located just outside Boston in Salem, MA, they Offer 10% off best available rate for active & retired first responders (and military) on leisure stays. This offer is Valid through Jan 1, 2026. To receive discount, must book directly with the hotel. The THANKYOU promo code will auto-populate when you click through this page – simply mention the military and first responder discount when booking by phone.

​

Omni Hotels- at Seaport & Parker House give a special government rate to first responders who work for federal, state, county, or local governments. Restrictions apply and must present ID upon check-in.

Outback Steakhouse- offers a "Heroes Discount" of 10% off to police, firefighters, and EMTs all day everyday with ID. Discount may vary by location.



Skydive Pepperell- (Pepperell, MA) First responders and military can present your current ID and driver's license and get $20 off your tandem skydive

Top Golf- located in Canton, MA, they offer police, fire, and EMS 10% off game play, 20% discount on select monthly memberships, and 10% discount on event game play and/or room rental when you book an event with a Top Golf Sales Associate. 

View Boston Prudential Center- active and retired military, Boston police officers, firefighters, and EMS get $10 off full priced admission and $5 off for up to 4 guests.

More First Responder Discounts by City >

First Responder Discounts by Category >

As a first responder, you serve your community, save lives, and protect property. First responder discounts are a small but meaningful way companies say thank you to the heroes who serve their communities. You probably know about big-name programs like Nike or Verizon, but what about the hidden gems?

​

From travel deals to home improvement perks, there are tons of lesser-known discounts waiting to be discovered — if you know where to look. Here’s how to uncover them:

1. Visit Us at BadgeDiscounts.com & Follow Us on Social Media 

​

The first and most obvious way (lol) to find hidden first responder discounts is to visit our website. We update our website quarterly by adding new discounts and checking all information to make sure it is current. We list over 450 first responder discounts in an easy to use format broken down into 20 different categories. Our site includes:

• local discounts
• national discounts
• discounts offered with organizations' memberships
• and places first responders are eligible for a "government rate"

​

You can also follow us on our social media pages. We are constantly posting new and limited time first responder discounts, updates to our website, and more. You can find us on:

• Facebook: facebook.com/BadgeDiscounts
• X: x.com/badgediscounts
• Pinterest: pinterest.com/badgediscounts
• Instagram: instagram.com/badgediscounts1
• Reddit: reddit.com/r/BadgeDiscounts​

​

2. Verification Platforms 

Most first responder discounts are verified through secure third-party services. These platforms often list exclusive offers not advertised elsewhere:

ID.me

Used by hundreds of major brands.

• Check out the ID.me “First Responder Discounts” page — it includes travel, apparel, and electronics deals you won’t find just by Googling.
• Once verified, you can reuse your ID for other brands instantly.

SheerID

• Some companies partner only with SheerID (like Lowe’s or Columbia Sportswear).
• Visit their exclusive deals directory and filter by “First Responders.”

VerifyPass

Known for smaller, niche brands like Reebok, OtterBox, and tactical gear shops.

• Signing up once gives you ongoing access to rotating offers.

Pro Tip: Create accounts with all three — you’ll uncover more options and get notified about new deals automatically.

3. Check Brand Websites

​

(Look for the Fine Print) Many companies don’t advertise their first responder discounts publicly — they tuck them away in FAQ pages, footer links, or checkout screens.

Try searching Google for:

“site:[brandname].com first responder discount”

You’ll often find hidden pages that don’t appear in main menus.

4. Look Beyond Retail

Explore Service DiscountsIt’s not just clothing or gear. First responders can save on:

• Travel: Delta, Southwest, and Hilton occasionally offer special rates through ID.me.
• Insurance: Companies like GEICO and Liberty Mutual provide exclusive pricing for emergency personnel.
• Phone Plans: Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer up to 25% off monthly bills.
• Fitness: Peloton, 24 Hour Fitness, and Oura Ring all have first responder offers.

Always check for seasonal promotions around National Police Week, Fire Prevention Week, or 9/11 — brands tend to boost offers during these times.

5. Join First Responder Communities and Forums

Online communities are goldmines for hidden discounts.

Check out:

• Facebook Groups: “First Responder Discounts and Freebies” or “Law Enforcement Deals.”
• Reddit: Subreddits like r/Firefighting or r/EMT often share unlisted discount codes.
• Nonprofit Resources: Organizations like ResponderStrong or National Volunteer Fire Council occasionally post brand partnerships.

6. Subscribe to Brand Emails

Some discounts are invite-only or sent through email to verified users.

After verifying your first responder status, join the brand’s newsletter or create an online account — that’s often how they deliver private promo codes.

Example: Under Armour sends extra 10–15% off codes to verified responders before big sales like Black Friday or Memorial Day.

7. Don’t Forget Local Businesses

Your community likely has local companies that offer deals but never promote them online.

• Ask at checkout — “Do you offer a first responder discount?”
• Check local chambers of commerce or union newsletters.
• Restaurants, auto repair shops, and small gyms often give 10–20% off just for asking.

​

Final Thoughts: Finding hidden first responder discounts takes a bit of digging, but the rewards are worth it. Between national programs and local offers, you could save hundreds of dollars a year — all while being recognized for your service. Whether you’re shopping for gear, planning a trip, or upgrading your tech, take a few extra minutes to check for hidden discounts. You’ve earned them.

< Back to Blog

First responder discounts are a great way to show appreciation for those who protect and serve. But before you can unlock most of those savings, you’ll usually need to verify your status. A lot of companies now use 3rd party identity verification sites to make sure the discounts they offer are going to actual first responders. Here’s how the process works and what you’ll need to do.

Who Qualifies as a First Responder? 

​

Before starting verification, make sure you’re eligible. Most companies include the following occupations:

• Law Enforcement — Police officers, sheriffs, state troopers, federal agents
• Firefighters — Career and volunteer firefighters
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) — Paramedics, EMTs, and emergency medical dispatchers
• Healthcare Workers (for some programs) — Nurses, doctors, and hospital staff

Always check each company’s eligibility list — some may include 911 dispatchers or correctional officers too, or be limited to a specific first responder occupation.

​Step 1: Choose a Verification Platform:

Most major brands use third-party verification services to confirm first responder status securely. The 4 most common are:

ID.me Used by brands like Nike, Verizon, and YETI.

• Allows you to verify once and reuse your verified ID for other sites.
• Verification options: upload ID, employment documentation, or pay stub.

SheerID Used by companies like Columbia, Lowe’s, and Costco.

• Verification happens in real-time — you’ll enter your agency, work email, or upload credentials.

GovX Mostly tactical gear, event tickets, and travel discounts

• Sign up for an account and follow their instructions

VerifyPass Used by brands like Reebok, Benchmade, and OtterBox.

• You can create a simple login and verify using documentation or a work email.

Each platform is free, secure, and only takes a few minutes to complete.

Step 2: Gather Your Documentation.

Depending on the platform or company, you might need one or more of these:

• Agency ID card or badge
• Pay stub showing your employer and position
• Professional license (for paramedics, nurses, etc.)
• Employment verification letter

Tip: Block out sensitive information like Social Security numbers or salary details before uploading documents.

Step 3: Complete the Verification Process

1. Go to the brand’s discount page (for example, Nike’s First Responder Discount).
2. Click “Verify with ID.me” (or the equivalent service).
3. Follow the prompts to create an account and upload your documentation.
4. Wait for confirmation — usually instant, but may take up to 24 hours.
5. Once verified, you’ll receive a unique discount code or automatic savings at checkout.

​​

Step 4: Keep Your Verification Current

Most verifications are valid for a set period (often one year). You may need to re-verify occasionally to keep your discounts active.

• Keep your account credentials safe — you can reuse them for other brands.
• Update your employment information if you change departments or roles.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Discounts

Once verified, you can access deals from hundreds of companies Always check the brand’s current terms since offers can change seasonally.

Final Thoughts: Verifying your first responder status online is quick, safe, and opens the door to hundreds of discounts. Whether you’re buying new gear, upgrading your tech, or planning a vacation, these programs are a simple way to save — and to be recognized for the work you do every day.

< Back to Blog

As a Firefighter, Police Officer, or EMT you serve your community by saving lives, protecting property and more. Here is our list of the top stores and places that show their appreciation to first responders with deals, offers, promo codes, and freebies on entertainment, restaurants, shopping, and more! Some of the places listed offer discounted admission or prices during certain times of the year, while most of them offer a year round discount. So, whether you live in the Chicago area or are visiting on vacation, here are the top places where you can save money:

Activities

​

​Great Wolf Lodge (Gurnee, IL) - save up to 40% off with their "Howling Heroes Offer." This exclusive discount is available to fire, emergency medical service personnel, 911 dispatchers, police, and correctional officers.



Goodman Theater- has a long-standing commitment to military and first responders. Qualified individuals are eligible for up to four (4) half-priced mezzanine tickets to all performances in their Owen and Albert Theatre when you use promo code BLUESTAR

iFLY- supports first responders by giving a 20% discount on select weekday packages when you verify with GovX. Police, fire, and EMS use the verification link during checkout to apply the discount. Terms and conditions apply.

Legoland Discovery Center- at certain times of the year, the Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumburg offers first responder appreciation days/months where you receive free or discounted admission. Follow us on social media for the latest updates.

Lincoln Park Zoo- is always free to everyone everyday, but they offer a 50% discount on parking to Chicago Police and Fire Department personnel when you show a badge. Inquire within for details.

Museum of Science & Industry- Chicago police officers and Chicago Firefighters receive FREE admission when you fill out the form online or when you show a valid ID onsite at the ticket office.

Shedd Aquarium- thanks first responders for their service by giving Chicago police and fire department employees free general admission when you provide a work ID.

Six Flags Great America- (Gurnee, IL) offers first responders and military an exclusive discount on admission for the service member and 6 of their family and friends.

TimeLine Theater- extends $25 tickets to qualified first responders, military, and their dependents. To purchase a ticket, use the promotion code BLUESTAR on their website or call the Box Office and let them know you’re interested in the Blue Star discount.

Top Golf- thanks law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS with 10% off on game play and a 20% discount on select monthly memberships. Offered at participating locations only. Visit their locations in Schaumburg and Naperville.

Writers Theatre (Glencoe, IL) Active police officers, firefighters, and their immediate families can obtain $35 tickets for any performance. Use code BLUESTAR online or mention your Blue Star status when reserving tickets by phone.

Hotels

Harrah's - (Joliet, IL) values the courage and sacrifice of US and Canadian First Responders by giving you an extra 15% off hotel sale rates. In addition to promotional sales applied to your reservations, they will deduct another 15% off the lowest available rate of your stay at Caesars locations across the U.S.

Heroes Vacation Club offers travel benefits exclusively to first responders including firefighters, police, and EMTs. Save up to 60% off Chicago area hotels, activities, and more all in one place. Please select “Badge Discounts” as your organization when signing up.

Hotel Saint Clair- thanks those who serve as first responders and military with a 20% discount off the best available rate for stays Sunday-Thursday.

IHG- Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites, Candlewood Suites, Crowne Plaza and more offer a special rate to federal, state, county, and local government employees on official business. They also offer these current Deals & Discounts.



Omni Chicago Hotel- gives a special government rate to first responders who work for federal, state, county, or local governments. Restrictions apply and must present ID upon check-in.

Red Roof Inn- first responders who work in a government position (state, federal, or municipality) can save 10% on leisure travel. Use VP#606732 when booking to receive your 10% discount.

Restaurants

Bonefish Grill- celebrates first responders (police, fire & EMS) with a 10% off "Heroes Discount" all day everyday when you show a valid ID.

Fresh Sushi- offers 20% off your entire bill to honor all Police, Firefighters/Paramedics, Chicago Dispatchers (OEMC), Nurses, and Doctors. On duty, off duty, active or retired just show your ID to your servers to receive this deal.

Naf Naf Grill- is offering first responders and active or retired military personnel a 15% discount on their order. You have to show an ID and order in-store.

Perry's Steakhouse- most locations have an exclusive "First Responder's Menu" which includes 3 courses with 6 choices per course for only $39. This is available to all active and retired first responders for dine-in only before 6pm. Visit their site for more details.



Outback Steakhouse- offers a "Heroes Discount" of 10% off to police, firefighters, and EMTs all day everyday with ID. Discount may vary by location.



Sweet Connection Bakery- Chicago Fire Department and Chicago Police department employees can get 10% off their purchase. Inquire within for details. 

Texas de Brazil- Offers an everyday heroes discount of 10% off their regularly priced dinner, lunch, or salad area. Simply show an ID or badge for this deal.

Shopping & Fitness

Abt Electronics- (Glenview, IL) appreciates first responders and military. You can shop online or in-store for a first responder discount of $50 off on orders $500+ and Free Shipping. Unique code is provided in cart when you shop online.

Adidas- is proud to give Police, Firefighters, and EMS a 30% off discount online and in-store, and 15% off at the factory outlet stores in Rosemont & Aurora. Visit their site for details.

Cabelas- (Hoffman Estates & Hammond, IN) honors military, fire, LEOs, and wildlife agents with a 10% discount everyday and 5% on firearms and ammo. Use this exclusive deal online when you verify your identity, or in-store with proof of service.

Crunch Fitness- is dedicated to giving back to our community heroes with exclusive discounts for first responders and military. Their special deal includes $0 enrollment fees and $3 off the standard recurring dues on monthly memberships for new members.

Fitness Factory- shows their appreciation and support of first responders by offering a discount of 10%. To receive this discount follow the instructions on their site or stop into one of their locations and present a valid ID

Norwood Royal Cigars- gives law enforcement, Fire, and EMS a 10% discount everyday, and 20% off on Wednesdays. Visit their store for this special offer.

​

More First Responder Discounts by City >

First Responder Discounts by Category >