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It’s getting closer to Christmas, and maybe you still have some hard-to-buy for people on your list. For both last-minute gifts as well or if you want to give something really unique, I recommend some kind of experience gift. I find these to be the best investment not just for adults but also for kids—the memories will last for years. Here are 25 ideas for experience gifts you can give this year!
Southern Savers 2025 Gift Guides | 25 Ideas for Experience Gifts
Wine tastings or brewery tours
Search near your recipient’s hometown, or look in locations where you know they’ll be traveling in the coming year.
Chocolate, cheese, or coffee tasting experiences
If your recipient doesn’t drink alcohol, there are lots of other options for tasting experiences!
Cooking or baking classes
These might be done at local restaurants or as part of community events.
Dinner at a unique or themed restaurant
Buy them a gift certificate at a local fine dining restaurant or dinner theater. Or if you know they’re often on the road and have to eat fast food, gift them a Chick-fil-a gift card!
Hot air balloon rides
Sometimes these are seasonal, but many areas around the country have opportunities to pretend you’re Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz.
Skydiving experience
Is your recipient an adrenaline junkie? What about finding a skydiving experience within driving distance that they can try!
Zip-lining or adventure park passes
A pair of tickets or even an annual pass to an amusement park will provide memories that will outweigh any tangible gift.
Guided hikes or nature tours
If they live near nature centers or conservatories, there might be options for guided hikes with nature experts.
Horseback riding lessons
This is a great idea for a kid who loves horses!
National Park passes
America the Beautiful annual passes can be purchased for $80/person and get the passholder into any national park. For those 62 and older, the passes are only $20/year!
Concert, theater, or comedy show tickets
If you know there is an upcoming concert nearby they might enjoy, buy tickets to that! Or see if a local theater or music venue has annual passes so they can enjoy multiple shows.
Movie theater passes
Many places offer passes or subscriptions of some kind, including AMC, Regal Cinemas, and Fandango.
Museum memberships
Most annual museum memberships are fairly reasonable in price.
Escape room gift card
If your recipient likes solving puzzles, gift them an escape room experience that they can enjoy with friends.
Pottery classes
Facebook can be a great resource to look for these kinds of classes.
Trampoline park passes
This could be a gift for both the kids and the parents, who can sit and chill while their kids jump to their hearts’ content.
Private tours of local attractions
Facebook is also one of the best places to look for tours of local attractions.
Massages
I don’t know any adult who would turn down a massage. Check reviews on Yelp or Google, or ask someone else you know in the area for recommendations.
Fitness classes
Maybe they’re trying to exercise more, and you can gift them with a few months of a class to keep them accountable!
Sauna sessions
Just google “sauna sessions” and the town they live in to see your options!
Dance or music lessons
Maybe you’re looking for a gift for a child–ask how much lessons are, if they’re already taking them, and cover a month of them.
Photography or creative writing workshops
Local colleges and universities often offer classes like these, which could be great for any adult looking to start a new hobby.
Language classes
You may be able to find a group class or a private tutor.
Masterclass
Masterclass offers classes in almost anything, and your recipient can learn from the comfort of their own home.
Painting classes
Gift a subscription to a painting class for your recipient and their spouse–it could make for a fun date night.
Do you have any other ideas for experience gifts? Let us know in the comments!
