42 Experience Gifts for Kids That Are Way Better Than Another Toy
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There’s nothing like seeing the smile on your kid’s face as they tear open their gifts on their birthday or Christmas morning…or the frown on yours as you tidy up the mess and realize that they’ve already broken/lost/gotten bored of their gift before noon. This year, why not give the gift of incredible memories instead with an experience gift? These are non-material gifts that provide a fun and memorable experience. Here, a list of our favorite experience gifts for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens and featuring everything from concert tickets and RV road trips to at-home virtual voice lessons and crafting subscription boxes. Read on and you’re sure to find a gift that makes a lasting impression (without adding clutter to your living space).
The Best Experience Gifts for Kids at a Glance
What Is an Experience Gift?
An experience gift is, as it sounds, an activity-oriented gift that promises a memorable experience for the recipient…as opposed to, you know, material goods that simply add to the clutter. Experience gifts can be hands-on activities that speak to kids’ individual interests, scrapbook-worthy trips or tickets to a cool local event that can be enjoyed with the company of friends or family. Either way, the idea is to provide stimulation, engagement and fun without adding more stuff to the never-ending pile of junk already in their room.
How I Chose the Best Experience Gifts for Kids
When choosing the best experience gifts for kids, I crowd-sourced the wants of a wide age range of kids, got recommendations from parents and scoured the internet for gifts with glowing reviews, while prioritizing vendors I know our readers love and taking budgets, both big and small, into account.
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1. Magic 101: Show and Lesson
Kids ages 13 and up will be dazzled by this one-hour experience with elite magician Ming Da, where they'll see tons of elaborate magic tricks and be even more delighted when they learn how to wow their own friends with those very same tricks. What's more, you can add on a set of playing cards—so your kid can practice during the performance—for just $15.
2. The Adventure Challenge Kids Edition
This innovative activity book is packed with engaging and adventurous (but safe) challenges that will keep kids entertained with minimal supervision and supplies required. Best of all, the interactive scratch-off design keeps the surprises coming well after the gift has been unwrapped, and the activities are all repeatable, so your kid will enjoy hour upon hour of screen-free fun.
$40; $25 at The adventure challenge
3. YesChef Subscription
Junior cooks stand to gain quite a lot from YesChef—a subscription service that grants access to a huge number of cooking lessons led by the world’s best culinary experts including Jamie Oliver, Nancy Silverton and Asma Khan. That said, it’s worth noting that YesChef is not intended specifically for kids, so this one is best gifted to an older teen.
from $30; $15 PER Month at yeschef
4. Masterclass Membership
Masterclass is all the rage right now—and although there’s no specific filter when it comes to finding classes for kids, there’s plenty of content that will appeal to tweens and teens. (Skateboarding lessons with Tony Hawk, anyone?) There are also classes in photography, cooking, writing, acting and more.
FROM $10 PER MONTH at masterclass
5. Airbnb Stay
If you’re looking to avoid the further accumulation of toys without disappointing your kid this holiday season, how about a gift the whole family can enjoy? Decide whether you want to go near or far, and then follow the link for a thoughtfully curated list of vacation rentals around the country and beyond. (How cool is this boat house in Springfield, Tennessee?) Once you find the location that suits your family, you can start planning your kid’s dream itinerary—though it’s worth noting that the change of scenery alone promises a memorable experience.
6. Gift Card to See a Play or Theater Event
Young actors of all age ranges are sure to be dazzled by a live stage performance delivered by a cast of pros. That said, you might not know which particular play they find most appealing, so your best bet is a gift card that allows them the freedom to browse the programs of local playhouses and score some tickets that are truly exciting.
7. Ink & Imagination: Create a Custom Comic Book
If you've got an artist in the family within the age range of 8 to 12, gift them on this 60-minute unique experience of creating their very own professional comic book with an expert instructor. Not only will they get a beautiful print book of artwork they'll be extremely proud of, but the event will also provide a great family bonding experience.
8. Season Pass to a Museum
Jose Luis Pelazez Inc/Getty Images
Speaking of art, why not give the kid in your life a season pass to a favorite museum, so they can visit and soak up some culture whenever the mood strikes? The interactive experiences are ones that everyone can learn from, and some museums even have restaurants included in the facility or nearby so that way you can grab lunch afterwards. A full day of fun!
9. Kiwico Koala Crate
Hands-on activities, pretend play props, and crafting materials are among the goods young kids will receive from this monthly STEAM subscription. It’s an invitation to play in a box. Previous activities have included learning all about rainbows (with a stained glass craft and rainbow tote bag dyeing project) and taking a trip to the farm (think: making a beaded vegetable garden and playing a matching game with a friend, plus creating four adorable animal finger puppets to live inside your barn).
10. Limo and Dinner Night
Zero Creatives/Getty Images
Give your kid the star treatment for the night by renting a limo to take her and a few friends to a favorite restaurant or to the movies (ahem, perhaps a round of Shrek 2 for its 20th anniversary anyone?). Needless to say, the novelty factor is high, so the Insta-worthy experience is sure to be a memorable one.
11. Concert Tickets
For a teenager who’s always tuned into Spotify, there’s no better gift than being able to check out a live performance of their favorite band with their BFF. (Psst: Olivia Rodrigo’s GUTS World Tour is currently making its way cross country.) Your teen will definitely thank you for the experience (even if that thank you comes years later).
12. Paint Your Pet: Portrait Class & Kit
A portrait of a pet is a thoughtful present for any child who has a special bond with a furry friend, but the gift of having a pro help them paint their own is even more precious. During the 120-minute virtual class, led by experienced art instructor, Anne Stunkard, your kid will get the opportunity to create a really cool portrait of their pet using basic painting techniques. Plus, there's also an option of adding a full watercolor paint kit to the class for $30 more.
13. Little Passports World Edition
This subscription box from Little Passports takes grade school kids on an action-packed, simulated globe-trotting adventure, complete with souvenirs and plenty of hands-on activities like building your own 3D puzzle of the Rialto Bridge and making your very own sea turtles out of play sand. Designed for kids ages 6 to 10, the experience is sure to satisfy their wanderlust, while teaching them a thing or two, to boot.
14. Book a Camper Van or RV
Flights are expensive and family road trips in a sedan can be, well, less than magical. Why not rent a camper van or RV instead and let your kid map out the route (within reason of course)? The end result is sure to be an adventure they’ll rave to their friends about when summer break is over.
15. Trampoline Park Passes
A vast expanse of bouncy surfaces, things to swing on and crash into without injury…Yep, trampoline parks, like SkyZone, are like a kid's dream come true, especially for those under ten with energy to burn. Pro Tip: Buy passes for your child and a couple friends, so they can make wild memories while you sit back and watch.
16. Ice Skating Passes
Meredith Wynn Photography/Getty Images
If your kid got into ice skating this winter, who says the fun has to end once the temps warm up? See if there's an indoor arena near you so your kid's skills stay sharp (and they burn off some pent-up energy) in the off-season, or plan ahead and pick up passes you can enjoy when cozy season returns.
17. Little Passports Science Expeditions
From aerodynamics to forensics, this STEM subscription box covers a new area of scientific inquiry every month with fascinating experiments that guarantee hands-on fun. What's more, the very first subscription box comes with additional activities such as a forensic science experiment kit, a fingerprint analysis card and more fun games that will also put their critical thinking skills to good use.
18. Baketivity
Activities, lessons, step-by-step recipes, cook-along instructional videos and all the necessary dry ingredients are included in this monthly baking subscription box for kids. The subscription also includes extras like monthly live, virtual baking lessons and homeschool activities so kids can really hone their culinary skills. Let’s just say, the end result is pretty sweet.
FROM $35 PER MONTH at baketivity
19. Check out a Novelty Museum
Cindy Ord/Staff/Museum of Ice Cream
If your kid isn’t quite sophisticated enough to appreciate fine art and historical artifacts don’t hold his attention either, you might consider trying a different kind of museum entirely. Children’s museums, in general, are designed specifically to address this reality—but there are some other, particularly novel options. If you live in NYC, a visit to the Museum of Ice Cream promises unlimited frozen treats, a sprinkle pit the size of a swimming pool and a giant tube slide that delivers a serious thrill. Another fine choice for folks outside of the Big Apple is the Museum of Illusions—a privately-held museum that serves up mind-bending fun at all of its 24 locations across the country.
20. Annie’s Kit Clubs Young Woodworkers Club
Annie's Kit Clubs
Sign up for this woodworking craft subscription and every month your kid will receive everything needed—including high quality, kid-sized tools, and easy-to-follow instructions to complete a construction project that will inspire pride. Of note: The recommended age range is for kids 8+, which is something to keep an mind if you're considering purchasing. Otherwise, this monthly subscription will keep your kid active and busy.
21. Virtual Voice Lessons
The Skillshare music offerings are comprehensive, and kids who are passionate about music will definitely benefit from the numerous voice lessons available to kids of any skill level. It’s also an excellent way to encourage their interest and help them hone their talent without investing in an expensive instrument before having assessed their commitment. (Just saying.)
22. Fashion Illustration and Design Course
This flexible eight-week virtual course is sure to inspire creativity and feed the imagination of any tween or teen with an eye for design and a love of fashion. Taught by an award-winning fashion and costume designer, your kid will get a step-by-step guide to how to draw their very own fashion designs and create original figures.
23. Smartest Artists 12-Week Course
Artists between the ages of 4 and 9 will learn a wide range of new techniques from this 12-week session of thoughtful art lessons, in which every major academic subject (science, history, math and literature!) is incorporated into the creative process. (Bonus: There's even the possibility of a sibling discount.)
24. Level 1 Creative Photography Class
If Instagram isn’t already a major part of your 7-to-12 year old's life, it will be soon enough. That said, help them up their photography game with this flexible four-week course that covers all the beginner's photography basics of composition and lighting, while also encouraging creativity. Who knows—they may end up developing a genuine interest in photography and want to progress with the skill.
25. Green Kid Crafts Steam Box
Give your kid a well-rounded STEAM experience with this Green Kids box, which boasts four to six separate activities that spark the imagination, encourage exploration and provide hours of hands-on, screen-free fun. From science experiments to art and engineering projects, this one checks all the boxes, and chances are you’ll both be grateful to have it around on a rainy day.
from $34 PER BOX a month at cratejoy
26. Amusement Park Trip
Andresr/Getty Images
Gift your young thrill-seeker tickets to a theme park of their choice (I've had amazing experiences at Disney World)—the adrenaline rush of the roller coaster rides and visiting the nifty gift shops won’t last forever, but the memories surely will.
27. Little Ninjas: Martial Arts Inspired Movement and Play Class
A badass mama with a black belt in mixed martial arts and a background in fitness instruction teaches this flexible four-week class for littles ages 3 to 7. In it, your child will learn all the basics when it comes martial arts and karate movements through games and activities. If you’ve got a kid who’s bouncing off the walls, this gift will pay dividends for both parties.
28. Camping or Glamping Trip
Whether you’re seeking an RV park surrounded by natural beauty, a traditional campsite with easy access to hiking trails or a camp-style resort complete with a water park, there are tons of affordable options that ensure an amazing weekend in the Great Outdoors—and if that’s up your kid’s alley, this experience gift idea is kind of a no-brainer.
29. Phone In Astrology Reading
If you’ve got a budding astrologer at home, they’ll love having their astrological chart analyzed by the American College of Vedic Astrologers. In the 30- or 60-minute reading, their strengths, weaknesses and dynamics of their romantic, personal and professional relationships will be addressed (which means mom or dad’s name is likely to come up!). Note: Participants must be at least 18 years old, so this is an experience gift that’s only available for the oldest kids.
from $95 at virgin experience gifts
30. Kiwico Maker Crate
Kiwico offers craft-based subscription boxes for kids of all ages, and its Maker line is specifically focused on teens 14 and up. From punch-needle pillows to terrazzo clay organizers, they'll create Pinterest-worthy decorative objects that look so impressive, you’ll want to sign yourself up for a session as well.
31. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Edelmar/Getty Images
Book a hot air balloon ride and your height-loving kid will be on cloud nine—literally and figuratively. Not only that, but when they come back down to planet earth, they’ll be raving about the unforgettable experience for quite some time to anybody who will listen.
32. Bowling Passes
Lisegagne/Getty Images
Bowling is quite a blast for all but the youngest kids and an excellent opportunity for teens and tweens to socialize with friends. Give the gift of an all-expenses paid trip (or several) at the local bowling alley, and your kid will have Friday night plans worth looking forward to every single weekend (and become an elite bowler too).
33. Salon Treatment Gift Card
Treat the young diva in your life to a day at the salon for a blow-out, eyebrow shaping, what have you. Then, follow it up with a special dinner out with their closet friends. There will be lots of gratitude (and likely a whole lot of selfies).
34. Movie Theater Gift Card
Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images
The young film buff under your roof will be pleased as punch to see what the local cinema has to offer without having to dip too much into their allowance money. With summer on the horizon, there will surely be multiple theaters participating in special movie afternoons/evenings for kids. That said, make sure to keep an eye on what's happening at your local theaters.
35. My Garden Box
Kids of all ages can reap the rewards of some time spent in the garden (i.e., a hands-on activity that connects them to nature). This gardening subscription box features indoor and outdoor plants, along with the supplies and step-by-step instructions needed to ensure success for new plant parents.
FROM $60 PER MONTH at cratejoy
36. Snail Mail Weekly Subscription Box
Here, a painfully adorable gift idea for the little one in your life. This subscription box promises younger kids (think: ages three to eight) personalized letters every week from a pen pal, Sunny the Mail Snail. The content of each note is imaginative and educational, and the correspondence even includes interactive activities like puzzles and codes to crack. That said, we think the highlight of this experience is simply the joy and excitement that comes from getting a special piece of mail.
37. Tickets to a Sporting Event
Sports fans of all ages will be wild about seeing their favorite athletes show off their stuff in real time. You can also choose to compliment the gift with a piece of sports memorabilia from their team, and don’t skimp on the snacks when you’re at the big game.
38. Roblox Studio - Intro to Game Building Course
What kid doesn't love Roblox? After completing this four-week flexible Roblox course, your enthusiastic gamers will have learned the skills to build a whole new world, translating their creativity into a playable game of their own making. Included within this package are four weeks of pre-recorded lessons, along with helpful teacher feedback. It's only a matter of time before your kid turns into a Roblox pro!
39. Beginner Sewing Camp
Up-and-coming fashion designers can learn the basics of how to turn their visions into wearable art with this beginner-friendly, five-week sewing class in which they will complete a total of five different sewing projects (one for each week). Designed for kids aged 7 to 12, students can go at their own pace, as they'll have access to the full course for a year after you buy it.
40. Fender Play Guitar Lessons
Aspiring musicians of all ages can learn to play guitar on their own schedule with a Fender Play subscription—an innovative teaching app that relies on engaging, bite-sized lessons to produce big results. The platform provides thousands of songs from popular artists, and is easy to learn and follow through in-depth instructional tutorials that teach you to play step-by-step.
41. Donation to a Gap Year Fund
Getty Images
Your high schooler wants to take a gap year after graduation and see the world. Well, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Just kidding—you aren’t invited. Instead, lend them a hand with a monetary contribution that supports their travel plans and ensures they start freshman year of college with some amazing bucket list experiences under their belt.
42. Book a Farm Stay
Catherine Falls Commercial/Getty Images
You can always check out options for kid-friendly farm stays near you and reserve a weekend spot. This unique gift idea guarantees a truly memorable experience—complete with hands-on tasks, face-time with animals and all the farm fresh food they can eat—in a beautiful rural setting.
What to Consider When Selecting an Experience Gift for Kids
Do Kids Appreciate Experience Gifts?
That’s an unequivocal yes! In fact, the question you really should be asking is how much your kids actually appreciate the tangible gifts they have been given beyond the thrill of ripping off the wrapping paper. For the most part, kids rapidly lose interest in new toys and the more stuff they accumulate the less it means to them; the same cannot be said about a memorable experience.
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