16 Experience Gifts For Kids (Instead of More Stuff)

Looking for the perfect gift for kids who already have too many toys? Swap plastic clutter for unforgettable memories! This list of 16 experience gifts for kids will give them joy that lasts far longer than any toy. From movie nights to amusement parks, these ideas are perfect for birthdays, Christmas, or just because.

Tip: Share this list with grandparents and family members looking for meaningful gift ideas.

16 Experience Gifts For Kids

1. Amusement Park Tickets

Skip the toy aisle and give the thrill of roller coasters, funnel cakes, and water rides. Our kids get tickets from Grandma every year, and they talk about it for months. It’s the kind of gift they’ll never forget.

2. Movie tickets

A bucket of popcorn, candy, and the big screen — it’s magic. Give kids movie gift cards and plan a special outing. Want to make it easy? Buy movie gift certificates right on Amazon.

3. Sporting event tickets

Whether it’s baseball, basketball, soccer, or WWE, kids love cheering in the stands. Pick a game, grab the foam fingers, and make it a family night they’ll always remember.

4. Pottery painting

Let them get messy in the best way. Painting pottery lets kids be creative and take home a keepsake they made themselves. It’s relaxing, screen-free fun, and great for all ages.

5. Spa day

My little girl adores heading to the salon for a haircut and big “princess curls,” as she calls them. Go out for a day for a mani, pedi, facial or hair styling. Such special memories.

6. New family friend (dog, cat, lizard, hamster)

I know you’ve got to be in a certain mindset as a family to do this, but our new family puppy has been so good for our kids and all the memories of growing up next to a puppy are priceless. We are definitely a family that believes in having pets around. My kids have learned so many lessons I think a pet is uniquely qualified to teach.

7. Dress up clothes

My little ones are growing up together with fond memories of dressing up together and putting on hilarious shows. There is nothing more special in their childhood than them giggling in their bedroom together, picking out different things to wear and what song to sing next.

8. Music lessons

Let your kids explore their creative side with piano lessons, guitar lessons or any other fun instrument they want to learn.

9. Mini Golf

You can’t go wrong with an evening at the local mini golf course. It’s inexpensive, and without a doubt you’ll laugh all the way through.

10. Pool passes

We love spending summers at the pool! Not just during summer, but during the winter too at the local YMCA indoor pool. Add in a new swim suit or toy specific for the water to go along with it.

11. Zoo or Aquarium Membership

A one-time gift that lasts all year. A membership to your local zoo or aquarium means unlimited visits, spontaneous weekend adventures, and plenty of learning disguised as fun.

12. SkyZone Passes

Any jumping place is a blast for kids and a great way to exercise, too! I love this activity in the winter since we tend to spend more time inside, this is a good way to exert some energy.

13. Vacation

Big family vacations are my most favorite childhood memories. Tracking across country in our van and stopping at random souvenir shops are the stuff that sticks with us forever. But the small vacations are just as good! Find some places within a couple hours and find all they have to offer. (If you want to help your family out, grab a Southwest Airlines gift certificate or one for Hotels.com they can save!)

14. Rent a boat for a day

Spending a day or two out on the water (weather permitting, of course) will fill the kids with so much joy and memories.

15. Go On a Train Ride

You may be able to find local railroads in your area, or take a look for the latest deals on Amtrak. Traveling from one city to the other for a day trip is one of the really fun experience gifts for kids. When my kids were small, they thought riding on a train was just about the coolest thing ever.

16. Items for a new family hobby

Get supplies for something the whole family can do together all the time! Maybe binoculars for bird watching, bikes for bike riding, or a compass for geo-caching? The opportunities are endless!

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