Family gift ideas can be difficult to pin down. Especially if you have a family that is spread across many ages. Instead of buying one more video game or board game for your family, consider the following family experience gift ideas. Experience gifts given to the entire family are a great way to encourage bonding, memory making, and cuts back on the clutter and chaos of your home. Here are a few of our favorite ideas.
Why are family experience gift ideas better?
Thinking outside of the box to give your (or another) family an experience gift doesn’t always come naturally. It’s usually much easier to pick up something that’s easy to wrap and fits under the tree. But experience gifts are a great way to bring you together as a family, not just now, but later while you’re enjoying your gift. Let’s talk about a few reasons to love family experience gifts.
Cost— Family experience gifts are typically a lot less expensive than one big piece of electronics or even larger toys. Instead of spending hundreds on a new video game system or other gadget, try giving your family an experience to remember. You’ll save money in the long run and spend more quality time together!
Clutter— Do you have a large family? Clutter and chaos can be the name of the game when it comes to gifts. If you’re buying toys or games, there’s always more stuff to store. And if your children are like most kids, they forget about that new board game in just a few days. Instead of dumping all those toys on your family, consider giving them a family experience instead. You’ll cut back on the clutter and encourage your family to make memories together.
Memory Making— Who doesn’t love making memories when they’re with their family? Instead of buying another board game or toy for your kids, give them an opportunity to connect with each other. Whether you take your family out for a day on the town, or attend a music class together, you’ll create lasting memories for your family and encourage bonding.
Educational experiences— Not all experience gifts have to be about going out on the town or visiting a museum. There are so many wonderful learning opportunities for families that can be just as fun! If you’re feeling especially generous, consider signing your family up for an online class together. Whether it’s cooking lessons or a foreign language course, you and your family will learn something new and create memories along the way.
Family bonding— Nothing beats spending quality time with your family. When you give your loved ones a chance to spend time together, they’ll cherish it for years to come. Whether you’re at home or out on the town, make sure that you take advantage of this opportunity to connect and create memories together. And who knows? You might just create something special in the process.
Life skills and experiences— If you’re looking for something a little more “grown up”, consider giving your loved ones an experience that will help them learn some basic life skills. For example, if your child has always been interested in playing piano, why not sign him up for lessons? Or if you have a teenager who is interested in learning to drive, why not book her a few driving lessons with a professional? These experiences will help your family grow and learn together, while creating lasting memories.
Read also: Life Skills for 8 Year Olds
Eco friendly–when you choose a family experience gift you are cutting down on the amount of stuff that is going to end up in the landfill. Plus, you’re doing your part to help the environment and create a sustainable future for your children.
Brain development— Studies have shown that children who participate in family experiences tend to develop their brain chemistry at a faster rate. They are better able to think critically, problem solve, and make decisions–all skills that will help them succeed later in life.
Emotional well-being— When you give your family a chance to spend time together and create memories, they are less likely to experience emotional problems later in life. In fact, studies have shown that children who participate in family activities tend to be more independent and self-reliant than their peers.
Family Experience Gift Ideas for the Artistic Family
Are you looking for a way to create more art experiences in your family? There are so many amazing opportunities to explore the creative side of your family. Whether you’re a professional artist or a beginner, here are just a few ways to get started:
Subscription box— One of the best ways to inject more artsy experiences into your life is by taking advantage of a subscription box service. These services allow you to receive monthly deliveries (typically including art supplies and a project) that are designed to inspire creativity in your family. Whether you’re looking for a monthly drawing kit, a monthly painting class, or even just some new art supplies, you’ll find plenty of options online to suit your needs.
Classes and workshops— Another great way to get more artsy experiences into your life is by signing up for classes and workshops at your local community center or local university.
Tickets for a play— If you’re looking for a fun and artistic way to spend time with your family, consider buying tickets to see a local play or musical. Seeing a live performance is an excellent way to encourage creativity and imagination in your family, while also spending quality time together.
Museum membership— If you really want to dive into the world of art and get your family more involved in these experiences, consider investing in a membership to your local art museum. This will give you and your family access to exhibits at any time, as well as special discounts on events and classes.
Pottery studio— If you’ve been looking for a fun way to bond with your family, consider signing up for lessons at a local pottery studio. This is a great opportunity to get creative, explore new art techniques, and also spend quality time together. Plus, who knows? You might end up creating something truly special in the process.
Music lessons— If you and your family are looking to get a little more creative, consider signing up for music lessons. There are tons of different options out there, from piano and guitar lessons, to singing and drum classes. No matter what type of art you’re interested in, there is sure to be a class or workshop that will suit your needs.
Tickets for concert— Whether you like classical music, rock and roll, or even a more modern genre like hip-hop, there are countless musical experiences that can help your family tap into their creative side. So why not buy some tickets for your next family outing?
Tickets for art gallery— In addition to a concert, why not think about buying tickets for your next art gallery outing? These special events are perfect for families looking to take in some culture and explore the world of art together.
History Family Experience Gift Ideas
Whether your family is full of history buffs, or you’d just like them to be, there are so many amazing experience gifts that can help you explore your family’s history.
Visit a historical site— If you’re looking to take your family on an adventure through history, why not sign up for a guided tour? These tours allow you to visit historical places and learn more about your family’s history as you go. From ancient ruins to castles, there is sure to be a tour that will suit your needs.
Genealogy workshops— Another great way for families interested in their history to explore it further is by signing up for genealogy workshops. These workshops are typically held by family history specialists and cover topics like researching your ancestors, documenting genealogy stories, and even creating a family tree.
City scavenger hunt–does your family know the history of your hometown? If not, why not help them discover it? Sign up for a city scavenger hunt with your family to explore the hidden secrets of your local area. From historical landmarks to popular tourist attractions, there’s sure to be something new for you and your family to learn about.
Visit to local museum–just like an art museum, local museums are full of history about your town or city. So why not sign up for a guided tour of your local museum? From the history of your neighborhood to important events that happened in your area, you’re sure to be surprised by what you learn during this experience.
Cultural Family Experience gifts
If you’re looking for a way to truly immerse your family in a different culture, why not consider signing up for a cultural experience gift? These gifts are perfect for families looking to get out of their comfort zones and try something new.
Language classes— A great way to start exploring a new culture is through the language itself. Why not sign your family up for some language classes? This will allow you to gain basic knowledge of the language and even start communicating with native speakers.
Cultural site visit— You and your family have the opportunity to visit a culture-rich site in person, which is an exciting opportunity. Look at local surroundings and education, as well as being able to participate in new activities.
Train ride–is a great way to experience a culture. It is also the perfect way for children to gain an appreciation of all the different cultures on offer in their local area.
Local food tour–explore a new culture through its national dishes and delicacies by signing up for a local food tour with your family. Not only will this allow you to immerse yourself in a new culture, but it will also give you an opportunity to sample delicious local dishes and cuisine.
Cooking classes— A great way to immerse yourself in a new culture is by learning how to cook some of its traditional dishes. Signing up for cooking classes with your family is the perfect way to do just that, and you’ll even get an opportunity to taste all the delicious food you create together.
Sporting event tickets— Do you have a favorite team that you always like to watch play? If so, then why not sign up for some tickets and head on down to the game. This is an exciting way for you and your family to experience a new culture by watching local sporting events.
Attend concerts or cultural shows— depending on what type of culture you’re interested in, you and your family could attend a concert or cultural show. Whether it’s music, dance, theater, or any other type of performance art, sign up for a performance to truly immerse yourself in the local culture.
Trip to a new country or culture— If you’re looking for a more in-depth way to experience a new culture, then why not head on over and explore one of the many countries that is open to visitors? Whether it’s with a travel agency or on your own, this is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Outdoor adventure gifts
If you’re looking for a way to immerse your family in the great outdoors, these experience gifts are perfect. Whether it’s an exciting outdoor activity or simply appreciating nature, there’s sure to be something that will appeal to everyone in your family.
Snowshoeing trip–If you’re lucky enough to live in an area with a lot of snow, why not sign up for a snowshoeing adventure with your family? This is the perfect way to experience the great outdoors and all the different seasons.
Indoor skydiving–If you’re afraid of heights or just want to experience the great outdoors from within, then an indoor skydiving adventure is perfect. This is a thrilling way for you and your family to experience the thrill of free falling without leaving the ground.
Zip-lining— If you’re looking for a way to cross things off your bucket list and get your adrenaline going, then why not sign up for a zip-lining adventure! This is the perfect way to experience the great outdoors and all its beauty.
Horseback riding–is a fantastic horse lover’s dream come true. It is also an excellent way of getting back to nature and allowing you and your family to experience what it would be like to live off the land.
Skiing or snowboarding–If you’re looking for a new sport to try, then why not sign up for some skiing or snowboarding lessons?
National park adventure–If you’ve always wanted to see the beauty that nature has to offer, why not sign up for a trip through one of your local national parks? This is the perfect way to appreciate nature and do it with your family. You can also grab a national parks pass, which is a cheaper way to visit multiple parks throughout the year.
Whitewater rafting–If you and your family are up for a thrilling adventure, then why not sign up for some whitewater rafting lessons? This is the perfect way to experience nature’s beauty and adrenaline at the same time.
Hot air balloon ride–If you’re looking to see the beauty of nature from above, then a hot air balloon ride is perfect. This is an excellent way to take in all the beauty that nature has to offer and bond as a family at the same time.
Snorkeling--If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the ocean and all its beauty, then snorkeling is perfect. This allows you and your family to explore the underwater world without having to scuba dive or learn how to swim.
Bike riding–If you’d like something a little less adventurous, then why not sign up for some bike riding lessons? This is an excellent way to get outside, appreciate the beautiful sights, and bond as a family.
Fishing–If you and your family love the great outdoors, then a fishing trip is perfect. This is an excellent way to get some fresh air and bond with your family at the same time.
Golf/mini golf–If you and your family enjoy playing sports, then golf or mini golf is the perfect experience gift. This allows you to get some fresh air, bond with your family, and play a fun sport at the same time.
Fishing trip–If you’re looking to try something new as a family, why not grab a fishing rod and head out to the lake? This is a great way to get some fresh air, bond with your family, and appreciate nature all at the same time.
Canoe or kayak adventure–If you enjoy the water, then why not sign up for a canoe or kayak adventure? This allows you to explore nature from a different perspective and bond as a family at the same time.
Camping–If you and your family would like to try something a little more adventurous, why not sign up for a camping trip? This allows you to see the beauty of nature, bond as a family, and get some fresh air all at once.
Bobsledding–If you’re looking for another adventure, why not sign up for some bobsledding lessons? This is a fun and exciting way to get some adrenaline pumping and bond as a family.
Dog-sledding–If you and your family love animals, then a dog-sledding trip is perfect. This allows you to experience the great outdoors in a unique way and bond with your family at the same time.
Snowmobiling–If you’re looking for a way to experience the icy winter landscapes, then snowmobiling is perfect. This allows you to bond as a family, appreciate nature’s beauty, and get your adrenaline going all at once.
Rock climbing–Are you and your family looking for an exciting physical challenge? If so, then rock climbing is the perfect experience gift.
Spelunking (caving)–If you and your family are looking for something a little more adventurous, then why not sign up for some spelunking lessons?
Luxurious family gift Ideas
Are you ready to pamper your family with the most luxurious family gifts ever? If so, then look no further than these amazing gift ideas.
Cruise–If you and your family love the ocean, then a cruise is the perfect gift. This allows you to bond with your family while soaking up some sun and enjoying all that the ocean has to offer.
Dinner cruise–If you’re looking for a special way to celebrate an occasion with your family, why not treat them to a dinner cruise? This is the perfect way to enjoy good food and great company with loved ones.
Luxury hotel stay–If you’re looking for something truly indulgent, then why not book a luxury hotel stay for your family? This is the perfect way to pamper yourself and your loved ones with deluxe accommodations and top-notch service.
Spa day–Looking for a relaxing way to recharge and bond with your family? Then why not treat yourselves to a spa day? With luxurious massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures, you and your family will feel replenished and rejuvenated.
Gourmet food basket–If you’re looking for a way to pamper your family with delicious treats, then why not treat them to a gourmet food basket? This is the perfect gift for those who love to indulge in high-end cuisine. I love this breakfast one!
- Stonewall Kitchen Blueberry Breakfast Gift (5 Piece)
- Fantastic gift choice for the holidays, housewarming, hostess, sympathy, or birthday
Luxury car rental–Are you ready to treat your family to a luxurious driving experience? If so, then why not rent a luxury car for the day? This is the perfect way to give your loved ones an unforgettable driving experience.
Food tour–Looking for a fun and unique way to explore your city? If so, then why not take your family on a food tour? This is the perfect way to experience all that your city has to offer while bonding with your loved ones at the same time.
Massage session–Are you and your family looking for a way to relax and unwind? If so, then why not book a massage session at a luxury spa? This is the perfect gift for those who love to indulge in high-end treatments.
Private chef–Are you and your family looking for a delicious way to entertain guests or celebrate special occasions? If so, then why not hire a private chef? This is the perfect way to enjoy amazing food and good company with loved ones.
Beach resort visit–Are you and your family looking to relax on the beach? If so, then a beach resort is the perfect gift! This allows you to enjoy all that the ocean has to offer while bonding with your family at the same time.
Organic food delivery–If you’re looking for a healthy way to spoil your family, why not treat them to an organic food delivery service? This is the perfect gift for those love nourishing their bodies with wholesome, fresh food.
Escape room–Looking for a fun way to test your family’s problem-solving skills? If so, then why not sign up for an escape room adventure? This is the perfect gift for those who love a good challenge and treasure group bonding. Don’t feel like packing the whole family up? Try this at-home escape room.
- Exciting cooperation game—everyone in the game is after the same goal: to escape.
- You have to solve 19 mental and physical puzzles before a mad scientist turns you into werewolves—and you have only an hour to do it.
Gym–Are you and your family looking to make fitness a priority? If so, then why not sign up for a gym membership? This is the perfect way to bond with loved ones while getting fit and healthy at the same time.
Animal lovers gifts
Are you and your family looking for ways to bond with animals? If so, then look no further than these amazing lovers gifts. Whether you’re looking for a pet-friendly gift or a fun activity animals, there’s something here for everyone in the family.
Aquarium pass–If you and your family love spending time at the aquarium, then an aquarium pass is a must-have. This allows you to bond with your family while learning more about all of the amazing marine life that exists in our oceans.
Pet supplies–If you and your family are ready to adopt a pet, then why not treat yourselves to some quality pet supplies? This is the perfect way to give them all the things they need to keep their furry friend happy and healthy.
Swim with dolphins–Are you looking for a way to bond with your loved ones while enjoying the company of some adorable marine animals? If so, then why not treat yourselves to a swim with dolphins experience? This is the perfect gift for animal lovers of all ages.
Zoo membership–If your family loves spending time in nature, then why not get them an annual zoo membership? This is the perfect gift for those who love being surrounded by all kinds of animals.
Animal rescue donation–Are you looking to support animal welfare organizations? If so, then why not make a donation to your local animal rescue organization? This is the perfect way to help out furry friends in need and bond with loved ones at the same time.
Wildlife safari–Looking for a fun way to explore the outdoors while getting up close and personal with some of your favorite animals? If so, then why not treat your family to a wildlife safari experience? This is the perfect gift for nature lovers of all ages.
Horseback riding–If you and your family are passionate about horseback riding, then why not treat yourselves to some quality lessons?
Subscription boxes for family
Looking for the perfect gift for your family? Look no further than subscription boxes! These convenient, curated boxes are the perfect way to spoil your loved ones while bonding with them at the same time. Whether you’re looking for a box filled with fun activities or one that contains high-quality treats and toys, there’s something here for everyone in the family.
Some of our favorite subscription boxes for families include the following:
Book subscription box–Are you looking to encourage your kids to spend more time reading? If so, then why not sign up for a monthly book subscription box? This is the perfect gift for families who love reading and treasure knowledge.
Art subscription box–Looking for fun craft activities to keep your little ones entertained? If so, then why not treat them to an art subscription box? This is the perfect gift for kids who love being creative and unbox a new surprise each month.
Toys subscription box–Looking to spoil your little ones with an assortment of quality toys? If so, then why not sign up for a monthly toy subscription box? This is the perfect gift for families who love spoiling their kids in an organized way.
Snack subscription box–Are you looking for a convenient way to keep your little ones fueled up? If so, then why not sign up for a monthly snack subscription box? This is the perfect gift for families who love stocking their pantry with quality snacks.
Exploration box–Are you looking to encourage your kids to explore and learn about the world around them? If so, then why not sign up for an exploration box? This is the perfect gift for families who love learning and exploring new things.
Coding–Do your kids love technology? If so, then why not sign up for a monthly coding subscription box? This is the perfect gift for families who want to encourage their kids to get excited about STEM and have fun while doing it.
Activity box–Looking to keep your kids entertained on rainy days or while traveling? If so, then why not sign up for an activity box? This is the perfect gift for families who want their kids to stay busy and enjoy their time.
The world of subscription boxes is truly endless, so there’s something here for everyone in your family. In addition to the above-mentioned options, you can also explore a number of other fun and convenient subscription boxes
Easy family experience gifts
Not sure what kind of experience gift to give your family? Below you’ll find some of the more traditional family experience gifts.
Amusement park–Get a thrill out of amusement park rides with your loved ones!
Movie night–Looking for a low-key yet enjoyable way to bond with your loved. Snag movie tickets and some popcorn for a movie night with the whole family.
Waterpark–Head to the nearest waterpark for a day of fun in the sun with your loved ones!
Trampoline park–Want to combine the best of a bouncy castle with the thrills of an amusement park? Then head to the nearest trampoline park and have some fun!
Paintball–Looking for a fun and competitive activity that the whole family can enjoy? Why not give paintball a try!
Go kart racing–Want to feel like a kid again? Then head to the nearest kart track and go for a ride!
Dinner out–Sometimes the best way to bond is by simply getting a meal with the whole family.
Scavenger hunt–Looking for an activity that will keep your kids entertained and engaged? Why not try a scavenger hunt! This is a fun, inexpensive way to get to know your loved ones better.
- Quantity: Total 20 cards and 20 envelopes. 1 introduction, 1 instruction, 18 clue cards.
- Fun To Play: Action-packed adventure and laughter for the whole family or teachers and students. Treasure is hidden nearby, It’s your job to find it. Go fill the box as treasure with gifts to help the kids, family or lovers spend an unforgettable holiday. Suitable for 3yo to 99yo.
Bowling night–Looking for a fun and casual way to spend time with your loved ones? Why not go bowling!
Sports day–Do your kids love playing sports? If so, then why not have a family sports day? This can be as simple or elaborate as you like, and will keep the whole family active.
Restaurant gift card–Sometimes the best way to treat your family is with a gift card. This can be used at their favorite restaurant or local food establishment, and allows them to choose how they want to spend their time together.
Axe throwing adventure–Feeling competitive with your loved ones? Why not try axe throwing! This is a fun and exhilarating activity that will get the whole family excited.
Igloo, yurt, or treehouse stay–Looking for a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience? Then why not treat your family to an igloo, yurt, or treehouse stay! These are sure to be a hit with your loved ones.
Martial arts class–Looking to improve your family’s health and combat skills? Then why not sign up for a martial arts class! This is the perfect gift for families who want to learn new skills together.
Robotics class–Do your kids love technology? If so, then why not sign them up for a robotics class! This is the perfect gift for families who want to encourage their kids to explore STEM.
Kids museum–Are you craving a day out with the kids? Why not treat them to a trip to their favorite local museum or kids’ activity center!
Sports camp–Looking for an opportunity to bond with your family while getting in some physical exercise? Then why not sign up for a sports camp! This is the perfect gift for families who want to stay active and try new things.
Cooking class–Want to learn how to make your favorite dishes? Then why not sign up for a cooking class! This is the perfect gift for families who love eating well and bonding over good food.
Family Game Night–Looking for a fun and simple way to spend time with your loved ones? Why not host a family game night! This is an easy, low-key way to have some fun together.
Read: Kids Must Learn Card Games List
Family Night Activity Pack–why not gift your family with pre-planned family night activities for an entire year? Our Family Night Activities Pack allows you to do just that.
How to wrap an experience gift
Wrapping can be the most difficult part of any experience gift. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to make sure that your gift is perfectly wrapped.
- Find something small that goes along with the experience. For example, an ornament, magnet, stuffed animal, picture, or small tool that is used in the experience can be a great addition to your gift.
- Choose a special wrapping paper or themed paper that goes along with the experience. For example, if you are giving an experience like a trampoline park, consider using fun and colorful paper that features bouncy balls, kids playing sports, or bright flowers.
- Make a certificate or card that outlines the experience can be a great way to wrap your gift. This is especially true if you are giving an experience with time constraints, like a trip to an amusement park or weekend getaway.
- If in doubt about the wrapping, consider purchasing a special gift box for your experience gift. These come in many different styles and sizes, and can help to make your gift look more official.
- Make it a scavenger hunt your family has to face the experience. This is a great way to get your family actively involved in the gift, and can be a fun surprise for all involved!
- Create a riddle or puzzle they have to solve to find out where their experience is happening. This can be a fun way to get your family excited about the experience, and will help them focus on the gift itself.
- Write a note or card that describes the experience, and attach it to the gift. This can be a great way to make your gift special and personal.
Overall, there are many different ways to wrap an experience gift. The most important thing is to get creative and have fun with it! But no matter how you choose to wrap your gift, just be sure to spend some time and effort on it to make the gift extra special for your family.
At the end of the day, there are many different ways to wrap an experience gift. Some options include finding something small to go along with it, choosing a special wrapping paper or theme that goes along with the experience, making a certificate or card that outlines the experience and attaching a note or card describing it. Ultimately, the most important thing is to get creative and have fun with it! Whether you choose to wrap your gift in a special box, make it part of a scavenger hunt, or write a note about the experience, just be sure to put some thought and effort into making your gift extra special for your family. Happy gifting!
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