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

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

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

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.

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. Some locations even offer special behind the scenes tours and animal encounters to make it even more memorable. Deal Alert -> Save on admission to the Cleveland Aquarium

There is something magical about seeing the world while rolling down the track on a train ride. Train lovers of all ages would love tickets for these popular train rides in Ohio. All Aboard!

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.  Deal Alert -> Discount Tickets to Laser Quest

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.