Do you ever find it hard to shop for gifts? It can be especially difficult if that person has everything they need or want. For myself, I love getting a gift that gives me an experience rather than receive a mediocre material object that I have to shove in a drawer.
Although it’s the thought that counts, I can’t tell you how many oddball gifts I’ve received over the years that ended up in the circular file of hell or at a donation center.
But when I’m given a gift like a dinner invitation, a basket of food to share, or a weekend getaway, I couldn’t be more thrilled. These types of gifts can be shared with someone you love or they can be enjoyed alone especially for someone who needs a change of pace.
The wonderful thing about experience gifts is that they don’t have to be limited to holidays or someone’s birthday. You can give them to someone any time. Invite your best friend to join you for high tea or give her gift certificate to have a soothing massage alone, go camping with your kids, enjoy a romantic holiday with your spouse, or set up a tour with friends with a local guide. The options are endless, and the memories will last a lifetime.
Other experience gifts to consider giving
Explore nature
With a National Parks Pass, you can take family, friends, or loved ones on amazing adventures within the National Parks System. Hike, camp, or take a train ride to view the most spectacular outdoor lakes, mountains, and scenery. Horseback ride, boat, or simply sit and take in the magnificence of the natural world. And don’t forget that seniors can purchase a lifetime pass.
Take someone you know on an urban green adventure
As a city dweller, I love visiting my botanical gardens like the Huntington Library or Descanso Gardens near where I live. Gardens, zoos, parks, and aquariums can be found in most major cities and offer memberships to ardent nature lovers. They make wonderful gifts and will give your recipient hours of amazing experiences.
Cultural attractions
Buy a special someone tickets to their favorite museum, a gallery show, a concert, the theatre, or a movie palace.
Sporting events
Know someone who loves baseball, football, basketball, or even horse racing? Buy them tickets to watch upcoming games and events.
Give someone the gift of learning something new
What could be better than learning a new skill? Invite a friend or family member to enjoy a fun dance class, photo tour, cooking class, or tennis lesson. And don’t forget online classes like Masterclass.
Organize unique family gatherings
You could spend hours buying so-so Christmas gifts for your entire family or take them to their favorite theme park. Or maybe you know a relative who lives far away and hasn’t been able to visit because they can’t afford it. Imagine their excitement if you buy them a plane ticket!
Organize a family cruise or something as simple as a themed family picnic. An experience gift doesn’t have to be expensive to be memorable.
What gift of experience would you love to give or receive? Please leave a comment below.
These are great ideas. Experiences make wonderful gifts because they also give the gift of memories.
Thanks, Janeane. They are my favorite!