It is officially crunch time for holiday gifts. I have a lot of people in my family who are really hard to shop for because many people we know are looking for less “stuff” and more fun! If you are traveling or still need to get gifts for people, here are some experience-based gifts for the people you love. Most of these ideas can be purchased online when you are in a hurry or just want to avoid all of the traffic of the last minute holiday rush!
These are tailored for Adults but can easily be used for kids! Check out our experience based gift ideas for kids!
- Music Lessons – Many people have a friend or family member who have always wanted to play the guitar, piano, drums, etc. Why not gift them a few lessons to see if their dream really plays out? Most lessons are pretty reasonable in price, especially if you buy in a bundle. Who knows, it may lead to something really special!
- Comedy Show Tickets – Going to an underground comedy show is an easy (and inexpensive) way to enjoy a night out with a lot of laughs. In Reno, the Silver Legacy has Laugh Factory tickets – (Two for One if you are a local!) Check out some upcoming comedy shows and buy ahead. My husband and I went to see Jerry Seinfeld this year at the Events Center and it was the best date night!
- Cooking Class – This is a surprisingly fun event to do solo or as a couple! Check out Nothing To It it Reno for some awesome cooking class options and gift certificates to choose a class that suits you. We chose a class for cooking wild game since my husband loves to hunt.
- Escape Room – These are becoming really popular in our area and are a fun and adventurous way to spend an evening. You will be surprised at how you come up with solutions to some of the mysteries in the room!
- Horseback Riding Lessons – If you know someone who loves animals and the outdoors, horseback riding lessons might be a nice escape to connect with nature.
- Flying Lessons – For the adrenaline junkie in your life… flying lessons are super safe as they are done with an experienced pilot, and are an exciting way to get out of your comfort zone! Most small airports offer lessons. Check out Great Basin Aviation or Advanced Aviation Reno.
- Spa Day – Because who doesn’t love the spa? A spa gift certificate is the perfect gift for those who need a little pampering. This is especially great for someone who might not normally treat themselves to a relaxing day and is super easy to purchase online. Our favorites in Reno are the Spa Toscana at the Peppermill, Spa Atlantis and Dolce Vita Wellness Spa.
- Golf Lessons – Golf may not seem up everyone’s alley, but golf lessons can be a great way to relax and get some exercise in while having fun.
- Pedicure – Who doesn’t love a pedicure? This is a great gift to give someone who loves to get pampered and have a little “me” time. For a really luxurious experience, check out Soak Nail Spa and Lounge.
- Sports tickets – Give the sports fan in your life what they really want – tickets to a game! It is so much fun to go to a live sports game and lots of tickets can be found for great deals. The Reno Aces have great deals and it is a great place to bring the kids and watch some baseball!
- Concert tickets – Does your gift recipient love music? Check out upcoming local concerts and get tickets for them! The earlier you can get tickets, the better price you can get.
- Picasso and Wine – This may have a different name in your area, but most towns have a place that offers a painting class and wine experience! These are actually really fun for both men and women, and a lot of places offer a “date night” special.
- Dinner and date night – This is great for all couples! Think gift card to a nice dinner and movie tickets (or tickets to one of the ideas above!). Do they have kids? To up the ante – Offer to babysit for a few hours at their house while they have a night out!
- Work out Classes – What better way to start the new year? Check out Orange Theory for some fun interactive workouts to start the New Year off right, or get in touch with your inner Yogi at a great local studio like Juice Box Yoga.
- Movie Tickets – These never expire and are always in need! You can get tickets online or grab some at Costco.
Hopefully this will help with some of those last minute gift ideas, or to help find the right gift for the person who has it all! I try to approach it as, “what are some of the fun things that I love to do that I would want others to experience too?”
What are some of your favorite experiences to share with friends and family?
Happy Holidays everyone!
