We all know the dread of trying to find “stuff” for our children, all while knowing that they will love it for 10 minutes, like it for 5, and not realize it was donated weeks later. To avoid this frustration, why not give the gift of an experience this year? You can tailor it to your child and put that money towards time spent together doing something they enjoy. Word to the wise- you will probably end up buying a few things that you know have a short life cycle, and for smaller children, the number of gifts sometimes counts for more than quality, but sprinkle in an experience gift this year and see how it goes! Here are 6 last-minute gift experiences in the Twin Cities.
Top Golf | Woodbury & Brooklyn Center
If you have a teenager, it’s tough to get them to spend time with you, but given the right circumstances, they might just agree. Instead of Nike sweatshirts, shoes, or hats, why not spoil them with a fun afternoon at Top Golf? It is active, keeps them off their phones, and will for sure make some memories or hilarious videos if you are not a golfer. Teens also want to spend time with their parents, but they just don’t want to admit it. Another great place to drag your teen for some fun is iFly indoor skydiving. It makes for great pictures and videos, and will keep everyone laughing. Check websites now for holiday discounts! If you are looking for more variety, hop over to our list of Indoor Action Parks!
Wholistic Skin Spa | Hegge House
It is no secret that stores like Sephora and Ulta are jam-packed with teens and tweens interested in all things skincare and makeup. They are bombarded with expensive brands and tools that may not be healthy for their skin. How about the gift of a “teen facial”? Many estheticians offer this specialty service now, after the skin craze boom among young women. They can learn the proper way to take care of their skin and the products that are made for their skin type, which has the added bonus of relaxing without screens! I highly recommend Rachel Seely at Wholistic Skin Spa, or check with your favorite local spa for recommendations on this service.
Crayola Experience | Mall of America
Do you have a budding artist that you need to buy for? Why not gift them a day at the Crayola Experience at Mall of America? Sure, you could buy them markers, crayons, and paper, but why not treat them to the hands-on experience of drip art, melt and mold a creation, and make a crayon with your name on it? There are endless ways to enjoy the Crayola Experience, with sensory-friendly offerings to ever-changing exhibits, it might be worth the annual pass. Give the gift that gives all year long and will help brighten your day on those dreary January days.
Handmod | Maplewood Mall
Instead of loading up a cart with lots of crafts from a store, you get to make something together, painting, ceramics, or decorating pieces you choose right there in their DIY art space. You don’t need a reservation, the prices are reasonable, and you can take your finished creation home the same day. It’s so much more memorable than just picking up things from a shelf. Making art together gives you laughs, a chance to create something unique, and memories that mean way more than another item that ends up in a drawer.
Nickelodeon Universe | Mall of America
Nickelodeon Universe is another great buy for a gift that encourages family time and fun. Just another fun event you can do when it might be too cold to get outside. You can purchase all-day wristbands and not worry about buying individual tickets. Maybe let them bring a friend or make it a fun screen-free day together. Since Nickelodeon Universe has rides for all ages, this is a great option for families with large age ranges.
Minnesota Zoo | 13000 Zoo Blvd, Apple Valley
Maybe you are shopping for an animal-loving child or budding veterinarian. There are many toys and stuffed animals geared towards these kids, but what about passes to the Minnesota Zoo, or maybe plan a day at Como Zoo? Kids of all ages love a good zoo trip; it gets everyone into the fresh air, and they might even learn a little something!
Minnesota Children’s Museum | 10 7th St W, St Paul
A membership to Minnesota Children’s Museum is the ideal holiday gift for children. It offers boundless opportunities for hands-on exploration, fostering a love for learning, and encouraging creativity! Plus, I think we can all agree that there is no better place to spend a chilly day in the Twin Cities this winter…
