When it comes to presents for my daughters, I’m all about gift experiences instead of toys!

Gift experiences are unique opportunities for kids to learn a new skill or spend quality time with loved ones. Honestly, my girls have too many toys and I’d love for them to value memories more than material things. Not to mention, they always have way more fun going on adventures than they ever do sitting in their playroom.

Keep reading for 29 kids’ gift experiences that you can find in most cities. If you’ve already done all of your holiday shopping this year, don’t fret. You can save these ideas for birthdays or other special occasions!

Classes or Camps

Depending on your budget, you can purchase a gift certificate for a single class, camp, or a whole session. A lot of children’s facilities offer discounts during the holidays specifically for this reason. A quick Google search will show you what’s in your area.

1. Gymnastics
2. Dance
3. Music
4. Martial Arts
5. Horseback Riding
6. Cooking
7. Painting
8. Science
9. Sports

Tickets

This is so fun if the kids you’re gifting have favorite teams, artists, or performers! Check out TicketMaster or your local arenas and see what’s coming up on their schedule.

1. Movies
2. Sports Event
3. Music Concert
4. Show (like Disney on Ice or the circus)

Memberships and Passes

Most children’s attractions will let you purchase either individual passes or an annual membership. See what makes the most sense for the family you’re gifting.

1. Zoo
2. Children’s Museum
3. Aquarium
4. Trampoline/Bounce Park

Subscriptions

There are subscription boxes for practically every age and hobby these days! Whether you make a one time purchase or place an order for a long term subscription, they’re really fun ways for kids to explore special interests.

1. KiwiCo
2. Kid Wonder Box
3. Highlights Magazine

Outings

These are all sweet ways to have a fun day together!

1. Bowling
2. Build-a-Bear
3. Arcade
4. Miniature Golf
5. Special Lunch
6. Mani/Pedi
7. Mini Road Trip
8. Train Ride
9. Amusement Park

And if you want to see the child open something tangible, you can always find a fun way to “wrap” your gift experience. If you purchased a dance class, maybe include a new leotard with the studio’s brochure. Or if you got movie tickets, the kids can open a box with the gift card and some popcorn. Just find something small that represents the gift.

What other gift experiences would you add to this list?

For more holiday ideas, see how we host an eco-friendly party and get excited for Christmas by making this countdown chain!

Talk to you soon!