During the holidays a common conversation between parents is the massive amounts of “stuff” that kids accumulate. There is one solution to this “toy problem” that is absolutely brilliant…giving the gift of an experience!

The joy of an experience can last a lifetime while even the hottest toy often ends up collecting dust in just a few months. Here are some amazing experiences gifts that are perfect for Northeast Ohio families. 

Experience Gift Ideas for Kids

Give the gits of lessons to try something new or continue an activity they already love. Get inspiration from these Kids Classes & Extracurricular Activities.

American Girl Live is coming to Akron on December 30. Deal Alert -> Grab discount Tickets Here

Passes or gift cards to one of the many indoor play centers or ninja obstacle courses are a fun way to get kids moving. Save the passes for the upcoming winter days when it's too cold to play outside.

Do you have a basketball fan in the family? Take them to see the Harlem Globetrotters. They come to Cleveland in December. Deal Alert -> Up to 40% off tickets

Daniel Tiger Neighborhood LIVE show is coming to Cleveland in January. Deal Alert -> Up to 40% off tickets 

Get tickets to Cedar Point. Deal Alert -> Sign up for the FREE Pre-K Pass and get free Admission for Kids age 3-5

Swimming is not only fun, it's a valuable life skill. Deal Alert -> Check out the Holiday Swimming Lesson Packages at Goldfish Swim School

A membership to a local museums or science center is another great option. Many offer reciprocal admission privileges to participating museums across the country. That means you can use your membership to get in free (or with a discount) to another museum when you are traveling. 

If your child is an animal lover, a day pass or membership to an area zoo, aquarium or animal reserve is a great option. 

Tickets to ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad would be a great gift for a train lover. 

Take your children to a musical or theater production geared toward children or acting classes and watch their imaginations soar. 

Older children would definitely love a pass to play laser tag. 

Creative Ways to Wrap Experience Gifts

To add to the fun, find creative ways to wrap the experience gift so it is fun to open.

For example, make opening the gift an adventure by drawing a map and sending your child on a treasure hunt for their gift. Frame tickets or gift certificates and then reuse the frame to display a picture of the experience after you've done it. Or put the gift inside a balloon for an exciting reveal!   

The Gift of an Experience will last a Lifetime

Whatever experience you choose to give, you'll be glad you replaced some of the holiday “stuff” with an outing that will create a lasting memory.

You may also be interested in:

Holiday Fun Guide – Detail on all the fun things to do across Northeast Ohio this holiday season.