Ultimate List of 40+ Experience Gifts for Kids They’ll Absolutely Love
Imagine giving a gift that doesn’t gather dust, doesn’t break, and doesn’t get forgotten in the back of a closet. What if the presents you gave your kids created memories they would cherish for a lifetime? That’s the beauty of experience gifts. Instead of adding to the pile of toys, these gifts give your kids something far more valuable—joy, growth, and connection.
Experiences have a unique way of enriching children’s lives. They help develop skills, expand perspectives, and foster deep bonds with family and friends. From learning a new instrument to exploring a zoo or dancing at a concert, experience gifts bring the world to life for your kids in ways no gadget ever could.
This list will inspire you to think beyond “stuff” this holiday season and discover experiences that your children will talk about for years to come.
Table of Contents
Music and Performing Arts Experiences
1. Music Lessons
Whether it’s piano, guitar, violin, or singing, music lessons are a wonderful way to help your child express themselves creatively. Studies show that learning music improves cognitive abilities, patience, and emotional well-being. Plus, imagine the smile on their face when they play their first song for you!
“I still remember the day my niece played ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’ on her violin—it wasn’t perfect, but her pride lit up the entire room.”
2. Singing Classes
Does your child belt out tunes in the shower or hum during car rides? Singing lessons can help them refine their voice, build confidence, and even improve their breathing and posture.
3. Acting Workshops
Perfect for the little drama kings and queens! Acting classes teach kids to express themselves, work as a team, and build self-esteem. Plus, they’re a fantastic way for shy kids to come out of their shells.
4. Circus or Acrobatic Classes
If your child dreams of flying through the air or mastering balance, a circus or acrobatic class is just the ticket. Think juggling, aerial silks, or even tightrope walking—it’s thrilling and a great workout.
5. A Musical Instrument
From a ukulele to a keyboard, gifting a musical instrument is like handing over a ticket to a lifetime of creativity. Pair it with lessons or YouTube tutorials to get them started.
Entertainment and Events
6. Tickets to the Opera, Ballet, or Musical Theater
Introduce your kids to the magic of live performances. From the dramatic stories of the opera to the elegance of ballet or the catchy tunes of a Broadway show, these experiences inspire awe and cultural appreciation.
“The first time my daughter saw ‘The Nutcracker,’ she came home twirling for hours. It sparked her love for dance, and now she’s in ballet class every week.”
7. Live Concert Tickets
Seeing their favorite artist or band perform live is an unforgettable experience for older kids. For younger ones, look for family-friendly concerts or local orchestra performances.
8. Sporting Event Tickets
Take them to see their favorite team or player in action. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or even ice skating, the energy of a live game is unmatched.
9. Amusement Park Tickets
From roller coasters to water slides, amusement parks are the ultimate day of fun. Pair it with an overnight stay if you want to make it extra special.
10. Movie Theater Tickets
It might seem simple, but a trip to the movies—complete with popcorn and soda—can feel like a big adventure, especially for younger kids.
Educational Passes and Subscriptions
11. Zoo Memberships
A yearly pass to the local zoo turns every visit into a chance to learn about wildlife and conservation. Plus, who doesn’t love saying hello to the lions and penguins?
12. Science Museum Memberships
Interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, and IMAX films make science museums an exciting and educational outing for kids of all ages.
13. Children’s Museum Annual Pass
Children’s museums are designed for play-based learning, with activities that spark curiosity and creativity. A year-long membership means unlimited visits to explore and discover.
14. Subscriptions to Educational Apps
For story-loving little ones, a Vooks subscription (animated books) can inspire a love of reading. Older kids can dive into STEM with Brilliant.org, which offers interactive courses in math, science, and problem-solving.
15. STEM Workshops or Coding Classes
Prepare them for the future with skills in coding, robotics, or engineering. They might just create the next groundbreaking app or invent a gadget we all can’t live without!
Adventure and Activity Passes
16. Waterpark Visits
A day of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers is pure joy for kids. Many parks also offer annual passes for regular visits.
17. Yearly Pool Passes
Encourage active play and water safety by gifting a membership to your local pool. It’s a great way for kids to stay cool and have fun all summer.
18. Trampoline Park Membership
Let them bounce to their heart’s content with a pass to a trampoline park. It’s a hit for birthday parties and rainy days alike.
19. Parkour Classes
For kids with energy to burn, parkour classes are a fun and challenging way to learn agility and confidence.
“My nephew took a single parkour class and now spends every weekend jumping over park benches at the park. He says it’s the most fun he’s ever had.”
20. Rock Climbing Gym Membership
Build strength, problem-solving skills, and courage with rock climbing sessions. Many gyms offer lessons for beginners and special walls for kids.
21. Gym Membership for Families
Look for gyms with kid-friendly classes or open gym time. It’s a great way to stay active together as a family.
Share the Gift of Experiences
Instead of filling toy bins and shelves, why not give a gift that fills hearts and minds? Share this list with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and anyone who wants to give your kids something unforgettable this year.
“Let’s make this holiday season about memories that last a lifetime, not just stuff that gets tossed away.”
Free or Low-Cost Experiences to Create Cherished Memories with Your Kids
The Best Gift is Your Time
When it comes to kids, what they often crave most isn’t the latest gadget or the trendiest toy—it’s time spent with the people they love. Shared laughter, meaningful conversations, and the simplest of moments can create memories that outshine even the most expensive gifts.
You don’t need a big budget to make your child’s day magical. Whether it’s a backyard adventure or a kitchen experiment gone hilariously wrong, these small but meaningful activities are the ones that linger in their hearts long after the wrapping paper is gone.
Here are some ideas for free or affordable experiences that will strengthen your bond and leave a lasting impact.
Outdoor Adventures
1. Backyard Picnics
Who says you need a fancy location for a picnic? Spread a blanket in your backyard or the nearest park, pack some sandwiches and fruit, and enjoy a meal under the open sky. Add a little flair by letting your kids help prepare the food—it makes the experience extra special. The kids will love the change of scenery, and you might just find yourself relaxing more than you expected.
“One afternoon, we decided on a whim to have lunch outside. My son called it ‘the best picnic ever’—and we were just a few steps from our own kitchen!”
2. Bike Riding
Dust off those bicycles and take a family ride around the neighborhood or on a local trail. It’s a fantastic way to get some exercise, enjoy nature, and have fun together.
3. Hikes in the Woods
Explore nearby trails or nature reserves. Turn it into a mini-adventure by spotting wildlife, collecting interesting rocks, or even creating a scavenger hunt. Bonus points if you bring a thermos of hot chocolate for a mid-hike treat.
4. Den Building
Unleash your inner child and help the kids build a den or fort in the woods (or even in your living room with blankets and chairs). It’s a great way to encourage creativity and teamwork.
5. Jumping Waves
If you’re near a beach or lake, spend a day jumping waves, building sandcastles, and collecting shells. The sound of laughter mixed with crashing waves is pure magic.
6. Sledding in Winter
When the snow falls, grab a sled (or a sturdy piece of cardboard) and head to the nearest hill. The thrill of zooming down and the joy of trudging back up for another go is timeless.
At-Home Fun
7. Singing Together
Have a family karaoke night or sing along to your favorite songs. Don’t worry about being pitch-perfect—it’s all about the joy of making music together.
“We turned a rainy day into a concert, complete with hairbrush microphones and dance routines. The kids still ask for encores!”
8. Dance Parties
Crank up the music and let loose! Dancing is a fantastic way to burn energy and lift spirits. Plus, it’s hilarious to see Dad attempt the latest dance moves.
9. Water Balloon or Water Gun Fights
Perfect for hot days, a friendly water battle in the backyard can lead to hours of giggles and fun. It’s a guaranteed hit for kids of all ages.
10. Playing Outside
Sometimes the simplest activities—like a game of tag, hide-and-seek, or catch—are the most enjoyable. Being active outdoors is great for physical health and mood.
11. Board Games
Dig out family classics like Monopoly, Uno, or Jenga. Add snacks and turn it into a cozy game night. It’s a wonderful way to spend an evening, encouraging strategic thinking and friendly competition.
12. Crafts with Recycled Materials
Gather up old newspapers, cardboard boxes, and other recyclable items to create art projects. Make masks, build robots, or craft decorative items for the house. Turn old boxes, paper towel rolls, and jars into works of art. The only limit is your imagination!
“We once made a robot out of cereal boxes and foil. It fell apart after a day, but my son proudly named it ‘RoboCarl’ and showed it off to everyone.”
Learning and Growing Together
13. Baking and Decorating Cookies
Get messy in the kitchen by baking cookies or cupcakes. Let the kids mix ingredients, cut out shapes, and go wild with the decorations.
“Our gingerbread men looked more like gingerbread blobs, but they tasted delicious, and the kids were so proud of their creations!”
14. Simple Science Experiments
Spark their curiosity with easy and safe experiments. Create a baking soda and vinegar volcano, make homemade slime, or explore the wonders of static electricity with balloons. These activities are both fun and educational.
15. Learning New Life Skills
Teach them how to sew a button, plant seeds in a garden, or even basic car maintenance like checking the oil. These are valuable skills they’ll carry into adulthood.
16. Starting a Family Hobby
Whether it’s painting, bird watching, or assembling puzzles, find a hobby everyone enjoys. It becomes a special family tradition and something to look forward to.
Relaxing Moments
17. Laying in the Grass Watching Clouds
Sometimes, all you need is a patch of grass and a little imagination. Watch clouds drift by and guess what shapes they form—dragons, castles, or maybe a slice of pizza.
18. Breakfast While Watching the Sunrise
Wake up early (just this once!) and share a simple breakfast as you watch the world wake up. It’s a serene experience that can lead to meaningful conversations.
19. Reading Books Together from a Library Trip
Visit your local library and let each child pick out books that interest them. Then, set aside time each day to read together. It’s a fantastic way to nurture a love of reading and learning.
20. Trip to the Library
Make a trip to the library an event. Let your kids pick out books and read them together. Beyond books, many libraries offer free events like storytime, craft sessions, and educational workshops. It’s an underused resource that can provide hours of entertainment and learning.
Little Moments, Big Memories
- Den Building Delight: “We once spent an afternoon building a fort out of blankets and pillows. It became a ‘castle’ where we hosted a royal tea party. The kids talked about it for weeks!”
- Family Hike Highlights: “Our family hike turned into a mini-adventure when we spotted a deer. The excitement in the kids’ eyes was priceless, and they couldn’t wait to tell their friends.”
- Cooking Chaos: “Attempting to bake bread together was messy and the kitchen looked like a flour bomb exploded, but we laughed the entire time and the bread (somehow) turned out great!”
Memories Outlast Material Gifts
The most precious gift you can give your child isn’t wrapped in paper or tied with a bow—it’s your presence. It’s in the shared laughs, the quiet moments, and the new adventures you embark on together.
These free or affordable experiences prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re baking cookies, chasing waves, or simply laying in the grass looking at clouds, it’s the connection and love that make these moments truly priceless.
So next time you’re pondering what to give your child, remember that your time and attention are the most precious gifts of all. Those are the moments they’ll carry with them into adulthood, the stories they’ll tell their own kids someday.
What experiences have you shared with your kids? I’d love to hear your stories! Drop a comment below and let’s inspire each other.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of discovering meaningful experiences to share with our children. If you found this list helpful, please share it with friends, grandparents, and anyone looking to give something truly special to the little ones in their lives. Let’s spread the joy of unforgettable moments over more “stuff” this holiday season!
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