Dear Kara:
I’m trying to create a list of senior-friendly places in and around the Columbus area for my 81-year old mother and her friends. I’m specifically looking for restaurants and stores that offer senior discounts or special services to make life easier for older adults. Do you have such a list or do you know where I can find one?
Any help would be appreciated!
Sarah
Hi Sarah:
What a great idea! I didn’t have a list already created, but the staff here at Whetstone Gardens gave me ideas to share with you. I think we came up with quite a few to get you started.
Here are the senior-friendly locations we are aware of in Columbus:
- Kroger Stores offers a senior discount on Wednesdays.
- Walgreen’s hosts Senior Days for rewards members who are also AARP members. These are typically on the first Tuesday of the month.
- Many area restaurants offer discounts for seniors. They range from 10% at Culver’s, Chili’s, Bob Evans, and iHop to 20% at The Elephant Bar. Other restaurants have designated certain days of the week as senior discount days. I would recommend calling your mother’s favorites to see what they offer!
- The City of Columbus Department of Parks and Recreation hosts Walk with a Doc, a neighborhood walking program in four convenient locations around the city. Refreshments and incentives are provided to walkers.
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers a variety of programs. They include weekly Farmer’s Market, craft classes and guided tours. Seniors also receive a discount on admission to the botanical garden.
- Central Ohio Seniors Centers all offer a variety of programs, meals and entertainment for older adults. Check with the center nearest you for more details.
- Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks are also home to a variety of senior-friendly activities. Depending upon the time of year, you can walk on one of the nature trails, enjoy a round of golf, have a picnic, go sledding and more.
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is another senior-friendly destination. They offer adults over the 60 a discount on admission with a valid driver’s license or picture ID.
- Columbus Historical Society can be another great outing for seniors. They host a variety of programs and events. There is no charge for admission.
- Columbus Metropolitan Library also offers seniors a variety of enrichment opportunities. From eBooks to music and movies, it can be a great resource for young and old alike.
I think that is everything our staff came up with Sarah! I hope your mother and her friends find it to be helpful.
Kara Riley
