25 Experience Gift Ideas To Give This Year
Brittany Barber
Contributor
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Looking for a present that’ll really stand out? We have some excellent experience gift ideas to recommend. Experiences are an amazing way to celebrate someone without adding more stuff to their life—because sometimes, the best gifts aren’t things, they’re memories. Whether you’re shopping for the thrill-seeker, food lover or creative in your life, we’ve gathered some top-notch options for every kind of occasion.
From cooking classes with world-class chefs to adrenaline-pumping adventures like skydiving or race car driving, experience gifts offer something for everyone. You can even gift a relaxing spa retreat, a private art lesson or a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. Whether it’s an outdoor adventure, a hands-on workshop or a gourmet dining experience, these experience gifts create lasting memories that, sometimes, can go a heck of a lot farther than material items.
At the end of the day, it’s all about giving something meaningful. Whether it’s an item they’ll cherish or an experience they’ll never forget, the best gifts should make life more fun! We’ve included experience gift ideas from sites like Airbnb, Sur La Table, Tinggly and more. These platforms make it a breeze to give something unforgettable, whether they’re celebrating a graduation or a retirement. From adult birthday ideas to wedding or anniversary presents, have a look at the following experience presents that anyone would be thrilled to receive, whatever they may be celebrating. And the best part? Many of these experiences can be enjoyed solo or shared with a loved one, which can make them all the more special!
Pro Tip: Set up an Amazon gift registry for the guest of honor—party guests will love the ease of this!
Cool Experience Gift Ideas
Finding cool experience gift ideas is all about matching the gift to the recipient’s personality and interests. Think about what excites them—are they into adventure, food, creativity or simply relaxing? Whether you're looking to send happy birthday wishes or an activity for the newly weds in your life, consider giving them one of these cool experience presents.
French Cuisine Cooking Class
Here's a fantastic gift for anyone who loves food and enjoys hands-on experiences. In these classes, participants learn classic French techniques, from making flaky croissants to mastering rich sauces or perfecting dishes like coq au vin. Led by expert chefs, the sessions are fun, interactive and perfect for all skill levels. Whether they’re a passionate home cook or simply adore French food, this experience gift will offer a delicious and memorable way to sharpen their culinary skills. Plus, they'll get to enjoy everything they make—what’s better than that?
"Honeymoon Adventure" Experience from Tinggly
The "Honeymoon Adventure" gift box from Tinggly is an exceptional present for newlyweds looking for exciting experiences to kick off their marriage. This gift box offers access to over 7,200 activities across 116 countries, allowing couples to choose an adventure that best suits their interests. Whether it's a thrilling outdoor excursion, a cultural tour or a relaxing spa day, there's something for every couple to enjoy. The gift box has no expiration date, providing flexibility for the recipients to select and book their preferred experience at their convenience.
Guided Tour
Photo: EF Go Ahead Tours
Whether you're looking for a 40th birthday gift or a retirement present, a guided tour from EF Go Ahead Tours is a wonderful way to provide someone with an enriching travel experience. With over 200 guided tours across six continents, they offer a diverse range of itineraries catering to various interests and destinations. To facilitate gifting, Go Ahead Tours provides gift certificates available in any amount, which can be applied toward any tour or excursion option.
Couple's Elemental Astrology Class
The Couple's Elemental Astrology Class is a 75-minute live virtual experience led by astrologer Emily Klintworth, designed to help couples explore their relationship through the lens of astrology. Participants delve into how the four natural elements—fire, earth, air, and water—influence their dynamics, which can help them gain insights into communication and support within their partnership. Each couple will also receive a 12 x 12 Astrological Elements Chart, mailed prior to the class, to use during the session and for future reference.
"Once In A Lifetime" Experience Gift from Tinggly
If you're looking for milestone gift ideas (like a 50th birthday gift or a college graduation present), the "Once In A Lifetime" experience gift from Tinggly is a great pick. It offers recipients access to over 10,000 unique experiences across more than 100 countries. It'll allow individuals (or couples!) to select from a curated collection of extraordinary activities, including hot air balloon rides, helicopter tours and exclusive culinary experiences. The gift has no expiration date, so the recipient will be able to choose and book their preferred adventure at their convenience.
Ethiopian Cooking Class
The Simmered in Spice Ethiopian Cooking class is a 75-minute live virtual experience led by chef and culinary entrepreneur Eleni Woldeyes. Participants will learn to prepare traditional Ethiopian dishes, including Misir Wot (a hearty red lentil stew), Atir Kik (yellow split peas simmered in turmeric) and Tikil Gomen (a fragrant mix of cabbage, garlic, and ginger). The class also features a bonus demonstration on making injera, a tangy gluten-free flatbread made from teff, one of the world's oldest cultivated grains. Each participant will receive an Ethiopian Meal Kit prior to the class, containing two jars of Eleni's handmade simmer sauces, red lentils and yellow split peas.
Sightseeing Tour
A sightseeing tour from Giftory is a great way to explore a city’s culture, history and iconic landmarks. They offer a variety of options, including walking tours, scenic cruises, bus tours and even movie location tours, making it easy to find the perfect fit. Whether the recipient loves architecture, history or discovering new places, these experiences can provide a memorable and immersive way to see the world. Plus, with tours available in multiple locations, it’s a flexible and thoughtful gift for any traveler.
Creative Experience Gifts
Looking for a 60th birthday gift? Or a Wedding present, perhaps? Well, creative experience gifts from Giftory can be great for anyone who loves to make, paint, dance or try something new. From pottery and painting classes to dance lessons and photography workshops, there’s something for every artistic spirit. Whether they want to get messy with clay, master calligraphy or learn to salsa, these experiences are all about having fun and exploring creativity. Plus, with in-person and virtual options, you'll be able to find an activity that fits their style and schedule easily.
"Happy Birthday" Experience Gift from Tinggly
The Happy Birthday Experience Gift Box from Tinggly offers access to over 17,000 experiences across the globe, allowing recipients to choose an adventure that suits their interests. Whether you're looking for a 30th or 70th birthday gift, these experience gifts range from spa days and cooking classes to thrilling activities like helicopter tours. The gift box has no expiration date, so the recipient can redeem it at their convenience!
Exciting Flying Experience
Photo: Giftory
Giftory offers a variety of exhilarating flying experiences that make unforgettable gifts. Options include hot air balloon rides, scenic air tours and even fighter pilot missions, catering to both thrill-seekers and those who might prefer a more serene experience from above. These experiences are available all over the US, allowing you to choose one that best suits the recipient's preferences and proximity. Whether it's soaring over picturesque landscapes or taking control of an aircraft, these wild flying experiences can provide a unique opportunity to see the world from a new perspective.
Circus Experience
If you're helping them plan an event for their celebration, why not add some pizzazz to their party entertainment by including a circus act? The Bash offers a variety of circus performers, including jugglers, clowns and acrobats, allowing them to find the perfect act to entertain their guests. Whether you're planning a big birthday bash, corporate event or engagement party, incorporating circus entertainment can create memorable experiences for attendees of all ages.
Best Experience Gifts for Men
If you're looking for the best experience gifts for men, we've gathered a few ideas that'll provide him with all kinds of adventure and unforgettable moments. Whether he’s into food, travel or adrenaline-fueled fun, have a look through these experience gift ideas.
"Perfect for Him" Gift Experience from Tinggly
The "Perfect for Him" gift box from Tinggly is an excellent choice for the adventurous man in your life. This gift box provides access to thousands of experiences worldwide, allowing him to select an adventure that aligns with his interests—be it adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving or more relaxed pursuits like wine tasting.
Hotel Getaway
A hotel getaway from Giftory is the perfect way to treat him to a well-deserved escape! Whether they’re craving a cozy New England retreat, a luxury NYC stay or a beachside getaway, Giftory offers curated hotel experiences in amazing destinations across the US. With flexible booking and tons of great options, they can choose a gorgeous spot to unwind, recharge or explore a new city in style.
Comedy Show
Whether it’s a big-name comedian or a local stand-up showcase, taking them to see some comedy is sure to bring a smile to their face! It’s a fun way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or just enjoy a spontaneous night out together. You could even opt to hire a comedian to perform at their celebration, if you think that's something they'd be into!
Thrilling Driving Experience
A driving experience from Giftory is an awesome gift for car enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers alike. Whether it's racing a high-performance sports car on a professional track, navigating rugged terrains in an off-road vehicle or enjoying a scenic drive in a luxury car, these experience gift ideas can offer a little something for every automobile enthusiast.
Learn More | Giftory
Coffee Tasting Class
If he loves his coffee, why not treat him to a tasting? The "Trade Secrets Coffee Tasting Class" is a 75-minute live virtual experience led by professional roaster and brewer Julien Langevin. Participants will learn to taste coffee like experts, exploring techniques like side-by-side cupping and understanding the significance of a bean's "terroir." The class includes five rounds of tasting to identify subtle notes of fragrance, body and flavor. They'll receive a taste testing coffee kit prior to the class, which comes with five hand-selected coffees from around the world, sampling cups, tasting forms and a detailed flavor wheel.
Singing Telegram
A singing telegram is a fun and unexpected way to surprise someone on their special day. Whether it’s a goofy costumed character or a classy serenade, it’s guaranteed to bring laughs and smiles. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because, a singing telegram can turn any occasion into an unforgettable moment.
Best Experience Gifts for Women
The best experience gifts for women are all about creating unforgettable moments tailored to her interests. Whatever it is she loves, there’s an experience that will make her feel special! Have a look at the following experience gift ideas for inspiration.
Photoshoot
A photoshoot is a fabulous way to make her feel like a star on her special day! Whether it’s a glamorous studio session, a scenic outdoor shoot or a fun themed photoshoot, it’ll make it all about her. Plus, she’ll get beautiful, professional photos to cherish—and some amazing Instagram-worthy shots to boot.
Korean Mandu Dumplings Class
Shopping for the foodie in your life? The Korean Mandu Dumplings Class is a 90-minute live virtual experience led by Chef Michelle Chiu, where participants will learn to make traditional Korean mandu dumplings from scratch. The class covers marinating, chopping, folding techniques and cooking methods, focusing on a vegetarian filling of tofu, shiitake mushrooms and fresh veggies. They'll also learn how to prep a complementary dipping sauce and gain insights into the cultural significance of mandu, which symbolizes good luck in Korean tradition.
"Perfect for Her" Experience Gift from Tinggly
The "Perfect for Her" gift box from Tinggly is a thoughtful way to celebrate the special woman in your life. This gift box offers access to thousands of experiences across the globe, allowing her to choose an adventure that suits her interests—be it a relaxing spa day, a culinary class, or an exciting outdoor activity.
Spa and Wellness Experience Gift
A spa and wellness experience gift from Giftory is a thoughtful way to offer someone special a chance to relax and rejuvenate. Their curated collection includes spa packages, massage gift cards and facial gift certificates, allowing the recipient to choose services that best suit their preferences.
Party Photo Booth
A party photo booth is the perfect way to add fun and excitement to her celebration! It'll give her and her guests a chance to snap silly, stylish or themed photos with props, backdrops and filters. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding or holiday party, a photo booth is sure to make their event all the more fun.
Scenic Cruise
A scenic cruise is a delightful way to experience picturesque landscapes from the tranquility of the water. Giftory offers a variety of cruise experiences, including sunset sails, harbor tours, whale watching excursions and themed dinner cruises—an option for just about anyone.
Murder Mystery Experience
A murder mystery experience is a thrilling and interactive way to bring some excitement to a night out or a party! Whether it's an immersive dinner theater, a themed escape room or party entertainment troop, these experiences will let her and her guests step into the story, solve clues and uncover the culprit.
An Airbnb Experience
Giving someone an Airbnb Experience as a gift is a great way to surprise them with something unique and memorable. With experiences ranging from guided food tours and hands-on workshops to outdoor adventures and cultural activities, there’s something for every interest. Whether they’d enjoy a pasta-making class, a scenic kayak tour or a behind-the-scenes city exploration, Airbnb can make it easy to book an unforgettable activity. Plus, since many experiences are available worldwide, it’s a flexible gift that works for both travelers and those looking for something special close to home.
Find more gift ideas here on The Bash.