When it comes to giving gifts to children, it’s easy to default to toys, gadgets, or clothes. But the most unforgettable presents often aren’t wrapped in boxes — they’re the memories and experiences that last a lifetime. Experience gifts are rising in popularity, and for good reason: they foster creativity, build confidence, create bonding moments, and offer joy that extends far beyond the day they’re given. At The Kids Point, we believe that these kinds of gifts are some of the most powerful tools for child development and family connection. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top experience gifts for kids that guarantee laughter, learning, and lasting memories.
Cooking Classes for Budding Chefs
From frosting cupcakes to making homemade pasta, cooking classes give kids hands-on lessons in creativity, measurement, patience, and nutrition. Whether it’s a local cooking school or a national brand like Sur La Table, these classes help children develop essential life skills while having fun with food. They’re ideal for picky eaters, too — children are more likely to try something they’ve made themselves!
Tip: Pair the class with a child-sized apron or recipe book to make the gift extra special.
Zoo or Aquarium Memberships
Annual memberships to local zoos or aquariums provide year-round fun and learning. These destinations help children connect with animals, appreciate wildlife conservation, and enjoy educational exhibits tailored to various age groups. Plus, they’re a great outing for the entire family!
Bonus: Many memberships include perks like behind-the-scenes tours, feeding experiences, or early entry.
Science Museum or Children’s Museum Passes
Interactive museums are playgrounds for curious minds. They encourage kids to explore, discover, and engage in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) concepts in a hands-on environment. A gift like this keeps giving with every visit — and it can help reduce screen time, too.
Recommended for: Kids ages 3–12 who love building, experimenting, and exploring new ideas.
Amusement Park or Water Park Tickets
For the thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, amusement or water park tickets offer a rush of excitement and memory-making magic. These destinations combine rides, games, food, and outdoor fun — all in one exciting package.
Make it even better: Surprise your child with a countdown calendar to build anticipation for the big day!
Horseback Riding Lessons
Many kids dream of riding horses, and horseback riding lessons are a dream come true for animal lovers. This gift builds confidence, empathy, and physical coordination. Many stables offer beginner packages where kids can learn grooming, basic riding, and horse safety.
Perfect for: Nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, or kids who want a break from city life.
Art Classes and Creative Workshops
For artistic souls, giving the gift of expression is priceless. Art classes in painting, pottery, sculpture, or even digital design allow kids to explore their imaginations and create beautiful works they can be proud of. Local studios and community centers often run single-day or multi-week workshops.
Add-on idea: Include a starter art kit with paintbrushes, sketchbooks, or clay.
Indoor Rock Climbing or Gymnastics Passes
Kids with high energy levels thrive in environments where they can move, stretch, and climb. Indoor climbing gyms and gymnastics centers are excellent for building strength, coordination, and confidence. Many facilities offer classes tailored to young beginners with fun challenges and obstacle courses.
Tip: Look for trial classes or short-term packages before committing to a full membership.
Animal Encounters and Safari Parks
Want to make a child feel like they’ve stepped into a real-life nature documentary? Give them the gift of an up-close animal encounter. Many safari parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and zoos offer special behind-the-scenes experiences like feeding giraffes, meeting penguins, or walking with alpacas.
Note: Always check age restrictions, as some encounters may be for older kids only.
Music Lessons or Instrument Starter Packages
If your child is constantly humming or drumming on tables, music lessons might be the perfect outlet. Whether it’s piano, guitar, violin, or drums, learning music encourages discipline, patience, and creativity. It also boosts memory and math skills.
Gift it with: A beginner’s instrument or music-themed accessories to spark excitement.
Nature Camps or Outdoor Expeditions
Week-long day camps or weekend retreats focused on outdoor adventure are a breath of fresh air — literally! These camps often include hiking, survival skills, campfire storytelling, kayaking, and wildlife tracking. They’re a fantastic way to help kids build independence and love for the environment.
Great for: Ages 6+ who are ready for supervised exploration.
Movie Theater Subscription or VIP Experience
Cinematic magic is always a winner! A gift card or membership to a local movie theater allows kids to enjoy new films throughout the year. Some theaters even offer “junior” VIP experiences with special seating, themed snacks, or behind-the-scenes access.
Make it shine: Wrap the ticket in a popcorn bucket with candy and 3D glasses.
Virtual Experiences for Kids at Home
Not every experience gift requires going out. Virtual classes in coding, art, dance, or storytelling are convenient, budget-friendly options that bring the fun directly to your living room. Choose platforms with engaging instructors and interactive materials to keep kids involved.
Ideal for: Busy families or kids with limited local options.
Subscription Boxes with Experience Themes
Monthly boxes like KiwiCo, Little Passports, or Raddish Kids turn learning into an adventure. These curated kits offer themed activities — from science experiments and world culture crafts to cooking challenges. Every box is a surprise and encourages hands-on fun and learning.
What kids love: Opening something exciting every month feels like a gift that never ends.
Tickets to a Live Show or Kid-Friendly Concert
Introduce your child to the joy of live performance with tickets to a puppet show, kid-friendly concert, or children’s theater. Seeing their favorite characters or musicians come to life on stage is a magical experience that can spark an early love for the arts.
Before you book: Check venues for age-appropriate shows and seating options.
Farm Visits and Agricultural Tours
Farm visits let children reconnect with the natural world. They can pet animals, pick fruits, churn butter, and learn where food comes from. This type of gift is especially valuable for kids growing up in urban settings.
Seasonal tip: Autumn farm visits often include corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and hayrides — a full day of fun!
Trampoline Park Day Passes
Trampoline parks offer boundless fun — literally! Kids get to bounce, flip, and burn off energy in a safe, padded environment. Many parks include dodgeball zones, foam pits, climbing walls, and even toddler areas for little jumpers.
Bonus: They often host birthday parties, so your gift could double as a celebration.
Ice Skating or Roller Skating Lessons
Gliding on ice or rolling around the rink is a great combination of exercise and joy. Skating lessons help build balance, confidence, and resilience (falling down and getting back up is part of the fun). Skating centers often rent skates, making this a low-commitment, high-reward gift.
Winter idea: Pair the lesson with mittens and a cozy hat.
DIY Craft Days at Local Studios
From paint-your-own pottery shops to jewelry-making bars, creative kids love the chance to craft their own souvenirs. These activities give children both an experience and something to take home. Local studios often host family days or themed events.
Don’t forget: Snap a photo of their final masterpiece to frame along with it!
Hot Air Balloon or Helicopter Rides (for Older Kids)
For a milestone birthday or unforgettable gift, consider a family hot air balloon ride or helicopter tour. These one-of-a-kind experiences leave kids wide-eyed and amazed at the world below. Safety is always a priority, so be sure to book with licensed operators and check age requirements.
Memorable touch: Create a scrapbook page with photos from the adventure.
Customized Experience Gift Certificate
If you’re not sure what the child enjoys most, create a personalized “Experience Gift Certificate” they can redeem with you. It could be a “Day with Dad at the Arcade,” a “Mom and Me Zoo Trip,” or a “Cousins’ Pizza Night and Pajama Party.”
Why it works: Kids love having something to look forward to — especially when it includes quality time with loved ones.
When you gift an experience, you’re not just giving something fun — you’re helping build stories, spark passions, and strengthen bonds. Experience gifts teach children that the best things in life often aren’t “things” at all. Whether it’s a cooking class, a trip to the zoo, or a DIY adventure at home, these moments shape who they become and how they see the world.
At The Kids Point, we celebrate every opportunity to enrich a child’s life through creativity, learning, and laughter. So the next time you’re looking for the perfect gift, consider giving the one that can’t be wrapped — an experience that lives in their heart forever.