Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer. It’s the perfect time to honor those who served while enjoying time with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for patriotic events, outdoor adventures, or staycation ideas, we’ve rounded up the best things to do for Memorial Day.
The Heard Museum, home to the first American Indian Veterans National Memorial in the nation, is extending free admission to Veterans and active-duty military personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces (including National Guard and Reserve) and their families, between May 24-26. The museum will host a ceremony at 10 a.m. with live music, family activities, and Veteran artists demonstrating and sharing their artworks.
Honor heroes with sushi and cocktails at RA or at a lively Hibachi experience with Benihana. Both establishments are will offer 20 percent off all food from May 23-26 for Veterans, active-duty military, reserves, first responders, and Gold Star families. Guests must show proof of a military or veteran ID.
Celebrate service with steaks, seafood, and sushi at Kona Grill. The restaurant is honoring America’s heroes with a Memorial Day tribute of 20 percent off food all weekend long for veterans, active-duty military, reserves, first responders, and Gold Star families for dine-in only with proof of military or veteran ID.
A family-inspired pizzeria known for its authentic Neapolitan and Sicilian-style pies in North Scottsdale, Patricia’s Pizza honors those who have served through a Memorial Day discount. Military service members and veterans will receive 20 percent off their order.
The Italian Daughter is extending gratitude to the brave men and women who have served our country by giving all military service members and veterans 20 percent off their meals.
In gratitude for their service, Casa Amigos is offering one complimentary drink or beer to all active-duty military, veterans, and first responders with valid ID, plus 25 percent off the tab on May 24 and 25.
With themed drink specials and a “Glizzy Party” on May 24, The Hot Chickis is going all out this Memorial Day Weekend. Attendees can expect staff in hot dog costumes, score free hot dogs at midnight, and sip on playful cocktails like the “Get Loopy” shot and the “Watermelon Smash” all weekend.
Grill at the Mill is returning this Memorial Day Weekend, bringing a weekend full of grill-inspired food, live music, lawn games, and all-day Olive Oil 101 tours to Queen Creek. Admission is free and the event runs Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday and Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sandfish Sushi, Twin Peaks, and Diego Pops
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey and Diego Pops will offer a 20 percent discount for active military and Veterans on May 26. Twin Peaks is celebrating with a 10 percent discount on Veterans’ purchases.
Hash Kitchen guests can toast to the holiday with “Freedom on the Rocks,” a themed red, white and blue cocktail available for $14 throughout the weekend.
Live entertainment from pioneering rock band Little Feat at The Showroom and poolside daybed and cabana rentals are just two things being offered at Gila River Resorts. Guests can make the most of the weekend with the start of Gila River’s Summer Staycation Special, which is valid from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Stay two nights, get 20 percent off; stay three nights, get 30 percent off; stay four nights, get 40 percent off.
This Hilton Hotel is the perfect place to kick off pool season. Cleopatra’s Pool Party during Memorial Day weekend will be extra festive, with DJ Jen Jones mixing beats all day long on Saturday and DJ LeCocq on Sunday to keep partygoers entertained. Splash in royal fashion from 12 to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday with signature cocktails, exciting activations, and VIP cabanas.
Arizona Science Center, a beacon of STEM exploration in the heart of downtown Phoenix, features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and exciting science programs. Normally, they aren’t open on Monday – but they’re switching it up for Memorial Day, and guests can check out the exhibits from 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Book a stay this Memorial Day at one of the luxurious Coast to Cactus properties across the Valley while taking advantage of the summer savings deal. Arizonans can use code C2C15 at checkout to save 15 percent off already discounted rates in Arizona if booked before July 31.
Guests can start the weekend shopping a curated selection of artisans and makers at The Wigwam Collective or participating in Family Game Night at Wigwam Bar on Friday. They can also enjoy a dress-up Character Breakfast at Red Allen’s and the Splash Bash at Tower Pool on Saturday, and explore Wildlife World Zoo at The Wigwam on Sunday.
Grimaldi’s is giving back to those who have served at each of their six locations. Beyond just Memorial Day, military service members and veterans receive a 15 percent discount every day with proof of military ID.
