Create unforgettable memories with the perfect gift this year

Get the gift that keeps on giving! Every year, everyone will talk about this gift, think about it, and be genuinely grateful. What gift am I talking about? The gift of ‘experiences.’ No one remembers their gift from Cousin Louie or Aunt Kim last year. The kids sure as heck rarely ever mention the gifts they receive. However, everyone remembers the trips they went on, the memorable food they ate, and the people who were with them. Instead of looking at the latest gadgets this year, look into getting a gift that will create unforgettable memories.

Cruise

While a cruise may need extra planning time, no one will forget it. All expenses paid, room service, and all the ice cream you can possibly eat! A cruise is hands down the best vacation experience you could give someone. You actually feel like you are on vacation when housekeepers clean your room twice a day and bring you unlimited coffee and cheesecake. If you want to get someone a cruise this year but don’t know if you can afford it, try asking about payment plans or book a cruise that is six to nine months out.

When my husband and I took our kids on a cruise to celebrate two family birthdays and our 10th anniversary, we booked a cruise five months in advance. We made payments for the next five months and had the cruise paid off before it was time to go! This was an experience the kids will never forget.

Food Tour

A food tour might be the perfect gift if you know someone who loves food. You can find local food tours or fly across the world for extravagant food experiences. Whichever you choose, it will be unforgettable! The culinary and cultural worlds collide as you learn about the neighborhoods and the history of how the food came to be in that area. Experience some of the most authentic food from remote regions, or eat the best tacos you’ll ever have in your life.

Waterpark Passes

If you know anyone with kids, waterpark passes are an excellent idea for a memorable gift. Six Flags, Schlitterbahn, Great Wolf Lodge, or Roaring Springs are great places for a day or weekend pass. Whether you are traveling to the waterpark or it is local, the memories made with family and friends are priceless.  

Disney

Where dreams come true, Disneyland or Disneyworld is a beautiful gift to give for lasting memories. While kids younger than five have a hard time remembering things, parents will still have so much fun creating memories at these vast amusement parks.

When we surprised our family with a week-long Disney trip, we started planning it months in advance. We got a huge family-style AIRBNB, booked cars, bought flights, and all the kids had an amazing time! Even though we went eight years ago, my kids still talk about how fun California was.

Weekend Getaway

Whether a couple or a family getaway, a weekend road trip to the beach or mountains will never disappoint. Creating opportunities for bonding and quality time is memorable and foundational for families and couples. Give the gift of time with loved ones and rest by sending someone away for a weekend.

Staycations

Staycations are a great option for people who are short on time or can’t drive long distances. There are always local spots that you can stay at for a weekend. Grab dinner and drinks at a local restaurant, and maybe find a place with a hot tub for relaxing. Like with weekend getaways, the gift of time with loved ones and rest is priceless for many people these days.

Camping or Hunting Trips

Plan a guy’s camping trip for the man in your life! Men who love camping and hunting will be so excited if their loved ones give them the gift of a planned trip. If you look up guides online, some have spots you can book through them, but you can always book spots in National Forests and State Parks!

Amusement Park Passes

If you know someone who is not prone to barfing if they spin around for too long, maybe think about Amusement Park Passes! Roller coasters are a wild time, and these passes would be perfect for teens and young adults. If you are a parent trying to give the gift of memorable experiences, this might be the perfect thing for your kids, depending on their ages.

Season Passes

While you can always get day or weekend passes to Amusement Parks or Theme Parks out of town, you could also consider getting season passes for those with these parks locally. This would allow people to go anytime they want for the entire season.

We love getting season passes to amusement parks because it fills our time in the summer!

Memberships

Trampoline parks, jump places, zoos, and gymnasiums usually always have a membership option. If you want to give a gift that keeps on giving, membership gifts are typically year-round. Look in your area and see if there are science museums, discovery centers, rec centers, and children’s museums with memberships. Many museums can take days to go through and offer themed crafts or events throughout the year for a different experience each time you go.  

No matter which experiences you choose, anyone will be grateful for the opportunity to make memories with their kids, loved ones, and friends. Making memories through experiences lasts a lifetime. Whether it is a week at the beach or a staycation and picnic in the park, the time spent together will be cherished forever. These experiences become stories to share and reminisce about for years to come.