By Dan WardIn this story:
Skip the traditional wrapped present route this 2026 holiday season and opt for something truly memorable – experience gifts that create lasting joy! Whether it's giving an experience as a gift or choosing a hands-on adventure to do together, these meaningful moments far outshine anything you can box and bow. If you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas for everyone on your list or searching for a birthday gift idea for that one finicky friend or relative, experience gifts guarantee fun, creativity, and a chance to learn new skills. As enjoyable as it can be to hunt down the perfect present year after year, the pressure can get real. Make it easy and exciting for both you and your giftee by treating them to an inspiring, hands-on workshop with an experience gift card!
You don’t have to stick to the same-old routine anymore – cancel that trip to the mall and close those endless online shopping tabs. With experience gifts, all you have to do is browse our wide range of arts, crafts, and cooking classes across the US, from NYC to San Francisco, to find something inspiring to treat your loved ones to.
More and more people are choosing to give experiences rather than material things. Whether it’s a beginner’s painting class to spark a passion or a terrarium-building workshop to kickstart a new hobby, here’s why giving an experience as a gift should be at the top of your list.
4 reasons to give an experience as a gift:
1. They’re thoughtful – and easy
Say you need a unique 30th birthday gift for an avid home cook. There are some obvious choices: a new piece of kitchen equipment, a fancy cookbook, or a “Kiss the Cook” apron. Chances are this person already has them all (well, maybe not the apron). Why not break from the ordinary and give them something truly rewarding – a culinary workshop like a Pasta and Sauce Making Class in NYC’s Upper West Side? From making homemade pasta to mastering sushi rolls, there are endless options for giving an experience as a gift that’ll inspire their senses and expand their skills.
You’ll show how much they mean to you by offering them something that helps them level up at what they love – a gift that keeps on giving. Plus, these experiences have never been easier to find! Whether your recipient lives in LA, San Jose, or Chicago, you can easily find expert-led workshops that fit their interests.
2. They double as special memories
This one may sound cliché, but it’s true: even the most expensive gift eventually fades into the background. When you choose to give experiences, you’re not adding clutter – you’re creating moments that last. Whether it’s the start of a new hobby or a one-time adventure, giving an experience as a gift means your loved one walks away with memories and new skills, not just stuff.
And what’s better than making memories? Making them together! Experience gifts aren’t just for solo adventures. Instead of another dinner out or the usual celebration, try something different – like a Wine and Paint Class in San Francisco – for a fun and creative birthday experience for adults. Bring the group together for a night of creative fun – or plan a cooking workshop in Seattle or SF for something a bit different. You’ll each leave with something tangible (your art or a new recipe) and a shared story that lasts.
3. They’re a sustainable alternative
While unwrapping gifts is always exciting, many items lose their charm quickly. Too often, they’re stashed away, forgotten, or tossed out during a spring clean. That’s what makes experience gifts such a refreshing choice – they generate no waste! Perfect for anyone living a mindful lifestyle, they make thoughtful, sustainable presents that don’t add clutter or harm the planet.
There are plenty of eco-friendly experiences to choose from. Learn how to make a succulent terrarium to bring nature indoors, take a natural candle making class in NYC that’ll banish store-bought candles forever, or attend an upcycling class to transform old items into something new! So next time you need a unique gift for mom, skip the perfume aisle and book her a perfumery workshop instead – less waste, more joy!
4. Experiences are great for your wellbeing
If you need one more reason to make giving an experience as a gift your go-to, here it is: science says it’s good for you! Unlike the quick dopamine hit of unwrapping another gadget, participating in a hands-on activity engages the brain and uplifts the mood. From a beginner’s Bearbrick painting class in San Jose to a French tart baking class in Chicago, these experiences help people recharge both creatively and mentally.
Creative hobbies also reduce burnout and stress, making them great for colleagues, friends, or family who deserve a reset. Want to surprise your team after a big win? Organize a pottery or pizza-making class in Chicago for an energizing group activity that brings everyone together in a relaxed, collaborative space.
Different types of creative experiences to gift
Feeling inspired? The beauty of giving an experience as a gift is that there’s truly something for everyone. Explore arts and crafts classes, culinary workshops, or DIY activities designed to bring out your loved one’s creative side. Whether they’d love learning how to bake donuts, mix cocktails, or design floral arrangements, you’ll find experiences to fit every personality and interest – from foodies to DIY fanatics.
If you’re shopping for someone you don’t know well, an experience gift card offers flexibility. Available in various amounts, they let the recipient choose from creative workshops across the US, including top cities like NYC, LA, and Seattle.
How to choose the right experience
When deciding how to gift experiences, think about your recipient’s lifestyle and interests. Do they love trying new foods, exploring the outdoors, or getting crafty? Choose something that aligns with what makes them light up. Foodies might enjoy a cooking or mixology experience, like the Cocktail and Mocktail Workshop in Seattle, while those with a creative streak may prefer a pottery or painting class, such as this Bay Area Hand-Built Pottery Workshop.
Location matters too. For instance, if they’re on the West Coast, options in San Francisco or San Jose offer plenty of local flair. If they’re on the East Coast, you’ll find incredible experiences throughout NYC and beyond.
How to give someone an experience gift
Once you’ve chosen the perfect experience, giving an experience as a gift couldn’t be simpler. You can book a specific class for them or opt for a flexible e-gift card they can redeem anytime. E-gift cards are great for last-minute shoppers – send one straight to their inbox within minutes and let them choose their own adventure.
You’ll not only save time but also give them something they’ll truly appreciate – a chance to learn, create, and make memories. Whether it’s a cooking class, craft workshop, or outdoor adventure, you’ll be gifting something far more meaningful than another item on a shelf.
Experience gift ideas
Need inspiration? Browse our growing collection of classes and workshops – from pottery to photography. You’ll find creative, hands-on experiences in cities like Seattle, San Francisco, and NYC.
Not sure what to pick? A digital experience gift card is a foolproof option that delivers instantly, ensuring you never miss a birthday, anniversary, or holiday.
For even more ideas on how to gift experiences, check out the Stories section of our site for trending guides, creative inspiration, and insider tips on the best experience gifts this year!
