Where can students save money in Milwaukee?

By Lauren Keene, OnMilwaukee Intern Published Sep 03, 2017 at 11:01 AM

Even though Milwaukee is rarely thought of as a college town, the 414 is home to more than a few places to receive a higher education. Public universities, private colleges and technical schools are nestled in every corner of the Milwaukee area, fostering a huge student population that's often strapped for cash.

Sadly, the sun has set on summer 2017, meaning Milwaukee’s students are getting back to the daily college grind. Having a student I.D. in hand can do a lot more than serve as a way to remember one's student I.D. number during exams. The price of college these days is ridiculously expensive, but that little plastic card can soften the blow just a bit.

Food, clothes and entertainment are only a few of the things that Milwaukee students can save on if they have their I.D. in hand. Both local businesses and national chains throughout the city offer students a chance to save a few bucks here and there. With looming debt to look forward to after graduation, these discounts can definitely come in handy while students are still working toward their degree.

Food

Cousins Subs – Cousins gives students a 10 percent discount with a valid I.D.

Qdoba – The fast-casual Mexican chain has $5 burrito meals for students.

Stone Creek Coffee – The Shorewood location has a 10 percent off discount for UWM students in need of a caffeine boost.

Movies

Landmark Theaters - Both the Oriental and Downer Theater give students a financial break to accompany their indie movies. Admission is $8.50 per ticket with a valid student I.D.

Marcus Theaters – Marcus Theaters has $6 tickets on Thursdays for students, which include a free 46 ounce popcorn. On Tuesdays, tickets for everyone are only $5 (unfortunately, that does not include a free popcorn).

UWM Union Cinema - For UWM students, all screenings at the Union Cinema are free. For non-students, admission is a mere $5.

Museums

Discovery World – Discovery World tickets are $14 with a valid student I.D.

Harley Davidson Museum – Tickets for the Harley Davidson Museum are only $12 with a valid student I.D.

Milwaukee Art Museum – Student admission to Milwaukee’s most iconic museum is $15 for students with a valid I.D. For MIAD students, museum membership is included with tuition.

Milwaukee Public Museum – Students can interact with butterflies and visit the streets of Old Milwaukee for only $14 with their I.D.

Music

Apple Music – iPhone wielding students can receive a 50 percent off discount on Apple's streaming service, making unlimited tunes $4.99 a month.

The Rave/Eagles Ballroom – Students can save $5 on concert tickets if they're bought before the day of show.

Spotify Premium – The popular streaming service is only $4.99 per month if students register with their .edu email.

News

The New York Times – Students can save big on a New York Times Digital subscription. Unlimited online access is only $1 per week.

The Washington Post – The Washington Post generously gives students free unlimited online access if they register with their .edu email. Learn how to sign up here.

Retail

American Council of the Blind – This tucked away thrift store in West Allis gives students 25 percent off their whole purchase if they flash their I.D. at the checkout.

FedEx – Students can save up to 30 percent on shipping services if they have their I.D. on hand.

Forever 21 – The famously affordable fast-fashion retailer is the perfect spot to stock up on going out attire. Students receive a 10 percent discount when they shop online.

Goodwill – Student Discount Day is every Saturday at Milwaukee area Goodwill stores. Students who are Club Goodwill members can get 10 percent off their total purchase.

Levi’s – Students can save 15 percent on the legendary denim brand online and in-store.

Topshop – Forever 21's glamorous older cousin also offers a student discount. Students can receive 10 percent on their online purchase with a .edu email address.

U.S.A. Family Thrift - The eclectic Hales Corners thrift store gives students 25 percent off Monday through Thursday. Hey, there's a reason that so many college students frequently pop tags.

Sports

Milwaukee Bucks - The Bucks have a Student Rush program, offering college students a chance to purchase tickets for $10 or less when available.

Milwaukee Brewers - Every Friday home game, students can receive $10 Terrace Reserved tickets and $15 Lodge Bleachers tickets. Students can also enjoy a special $3 concessions menu, including hot dogs, nachos, and beer through the end of the first inning. Sorry, Chicago fans - this discount is not valid on Cubs games.

Tech

Adobe – Adobe offers student discounts on many of their most popular programs, including Photoshop and Illustrator.

Amazon Prime – One of the most popular student discounts ever, Amazon Prime is free for students for the first six months with a .edu email address. After that, Prime is 50 percent off.

Theater

Milwaukee Repertory Theater – Students can save big bucks at the Milwaukee Rep. Tickets for theater goers under age 25 are a mere $20, including orchestra seats.

Skylight Music Theater – Regular priced tickets are $10 off when students show their valid I.D. at time of purchase.