Grand Rapids Experience Gifts for Kids That They Will Love
Why are Christmas activities so fun? Maybe it’s because we are getting the gift of time with loved ones.
Experiences give us the gift of memories for years to come and moments to cherish.
Gifting experiences to the kids in your life is another way to give the precious gift of time, especially if it’s something that you do with them.
If you’re looking for the best Grand Rapids experience gifts for kids, you’ve found them. Get our your pencil and paper – the list is loaded with things to do.
Happy Holidays!
25 Grand Rapids Experience Gifts for Kids
These local experience gifts keep in-home clutter to a minimum and lets the gift last much longer, spreading the holiday cheer throughout the year.
Whether you’re mom or dad, the best auntie ever, or a grandpa looking for a fun way to spend time with a grandchild, any one of these ideas will be a hit with that special kid you’re buying for.
Put an experience under the tree this Christmas! Give your child or grandchild the joy of making music, dancing, or taking the stage at the Academy of Music in Grand Rapids or Jenison Academy of Music.
Our Christmas Experience Gift Bag includes one month of music lessons, Musical Theatre, or Fairytale Princess Ballet classes, plus special gifts and holiday surprises chosen just for their program.
Music lesson packages also include the annual membership; Musical Theatre and Dance packages include the performance fee.
Everything comes festively packaged and ready to put under the tree!
$200+ VALUE | JUST $99
Additional sibling gift bags just $89!
Choose Piano, Voice, Guitar, Drums, Strings, Piano Foundations, Musical Theatre, or Fairytale Princess Ballet.
Ages: Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
We have been with the academy for 6+ years because everything they do is first class. The entire staff truly cares about each student and their musical journey. The recitals are well run and feel like a professional performance!
Skip the clutter and wrap up unforgettable memories this year! BattleGR is where families laugh, compete, and reconnect through high-energy fun.
From free roam virtual reality, tactical laser tag and archery tag to axe throwing, throw bowling, and cornhole, every visit turns screen time into play time.
Whether it’s a family outing, birthday adventure, or just a reason to get moving, BattleGR gift cards give the gift of excitement and togetherness.
Unplug, engage, and create memories that will last long after the wrapping paper’s gone.
👉 Learn more at battlegr.com
Ages: Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
We hired Battle GR for an event at our school. The kids and adults LOVED it! The staff was super helpful, friendly and fun!
A John Ball Zoo membership makes it easy to create memories your family will cherish for years to come.
Zoo members enjoy unlimited visits, early access to major events and great discounts throughout the year, making membership a fantastic way to experience more of the Zoo for less.
Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
At Pinball Land you can play unlimited pinball and classic video arcade games for a flat rate.
We have over 20 different pinball machines featuring some from the 70's and 80's as well as new games. We're more than just pinball. We also have all of your favorite arcade games like Pac Man, Galaga, Street Fighter, Dance Dance Revolution and more!
Share the fun of your arcade memories and make new ones at Pinball Land.
Ages: Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
This place is amazing. The pay by the hour idea is genius. The people working the front desk are full of energy and happiness. 10 out of 10. - Miranda DeWitt
They'll save the day on LEGO-themed rides, explore famous Michigan landmarks built entirely out of LEGO bricks, learn top tips from expert builders, meet their favorite LEGO characters, and more!
LEGOLAND Discovery Center is located at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets off I-75 in Auburn Hills, just over 2 hours from Grand Rapids.
Please note: adults must be accompanied by at least one child in order to enter LEGOLAND® Discovery Center.
Ages: Preschoolers, Elementary Kids
Great place to take the kiddos! Had a wonderful time. The staff is very friendly and helpful. -Google Review
Our LEGO®-themed parties are perfect for any age and occasion. We've hosted everything from 50th birthday parties to Hanukkah and end-of-school-year celebrations.
This year, gift a LEGO® experience for the whole family or for your child's celebration. Every event includes activities like building and racing LEGO® cars, competitions, or mosaics, plus LEGO®-themed decorations, a dedicated host to run the fun, and a free minifig for every participant!
We'll provide the space, supplies, set-up, clean-up, and hosting so all you have to do is enjoy the party! To book, visit our website.
Ages: Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
This was an AMAZING party for my son, daughter, & friends! It was so well put together, the kids had a BLAST. Everything was so easy and smooth. We will be recommending - and the kids can't stop talking about it!
Indoor offerings include: Laser Tag, Cruiser Coaster, Indoor Go-Karts, Trampoline Park, Bumper Cars, Frog Hopper, Arcade and Pizza Buffet.
Outdoor offerings (seasonal & weather permitting): Outdoor Go-Karts, Zip Line, Mini-Golf (18-Hole Course), & The 360 ride.
Great venue for birthday parties, corporate outings, company picnics, holiday parties and family fun!
Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
Best place to take your kids and family to enjoy yourself. You’re gonna love it! - JR
For just $242, prepay for 2 months of swim lessons and receive:
- 2 BONUS lessons FREE!
- Waived membership fee
- $10 Snack Shack Pass
- 25% off retail
- Goggles & towel!
PLUS, the first 100 purchasers receive an exclusive Tri-Swim haircare bundle!
Package Value: $388–$421.
NEW MEMBERS ONLY! Additional swim lesson gift bundles are available for every swimmer!
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids
The staff are patient, encouraging, and willing to work with kids at their own pace. They care about more than just teaching swimming, they build relationships with the kids and celebrate their progress along the way.
For just $242, prepay for 2 months of swim lessons and receive:
- 2 BONUS lessons FREE!
- Waived membership fee
- $10 Snack Shack Pass
- 25% off retail
- Goggles & towel!
PLUS, the first 100 purchasers receive an exclusive Tri-Swim haircare bundle!
Package Value: $388–$421.
NEW MEMBERS ONLY! Additional swim lesson gift bundles are available for every swimmer!
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids
The staff are patient, encouraging, and willing to work with kids at their own pace. They care about more than just teaching swimming, they build relationships with the kids and celebrate their progress along the way.
Families can jump, laugh, and make memories while enjoying big savings on gift cards.
For a limited time, buy a $25 gift card and get $5 FREE, buy a $50 gift card and get $10 FREE, or buy a $100 gift card and get $25 FREE!
Use them for open jump sessions, parties, or special events. It's the perfect gift for kids, teens, and families who love to play together.
Spread the joy of jumping and make this season extra bright at Altitude Grand Rapids!
https://grandrapids.altitudetrampolinepark.com/holidaygiftcardsgrkidsemail/en-us/home
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
“Our kids had the best time at Altitude Grand Rapids! The staff was amazing, everything was clean, and we can’t wait to come back for more jumping fun!”
SELF CARE & CHILDCARE, the gift that supports the whole family!
On-site CHILDCARE
Classes: PREnatal, POSTpartum, & Beyond + Babes & Kids
Co-Working w/ Childcare
Rest Lounge
Organic Coffee Cafe
A place for moms can breathe, move, connect, and be cared. Created by a mother for mothers - what do you need today?
Unlimited Memberships w/ daily childcare
6 Class Packs
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids
They really thought of every little detail! There is something for all stages of motherhood. It’s a beautiful experience being surrounded by other women in a similar phase of life. I am so grateful to have found Mind Body Baby.
Explore three floors of history, science, and culture exhibits, take a spin on the 1928 Spillman Carousel, and enjoy a show in the region's premier Planetarium.
With a GRPM membership, the curiosity never ends. Become a member to visit us any time with no admission fee, enjoy discounts, and more. Get out of the house and get ready to discover.
A GRPM membership is also the perfect holiday gift for the people you love. Gift a year of fun and educational experiences with traveling exhibits, special events, and more.
Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
Literally everything. We love the museum. We come at least once a month and love being members. The joy of learning new and exciting things with my children makes my heart so unbelievably happy. - Zoe S.
Give the gift of extraordinary musical moments this holiday season.
The 2026-27 Grand Rapids Symphony season is filled with festive favorites, delightful classics, and magical live-to-film experiences.
Give your loved ones a night they'll remember long after the decorations come down.
Looking for a gift that's sure to delight? A Grand Rapids Symphony Gift Certificate provides the freedom to choose from inspiring concerts throughout the season and is the perfect way to share the joy of live music.
Visit grsymphony.org to explore concerts, find dates and ticket information, and reserve your seats!
Ages: Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
action watching the world’s best drivers tear up the dirt and show off crazy skills and all-out racing in fierce head-to-head battles of speed and skill. See the world’s most popular trucks like
Grave Digger®, El Toro Loco®, Sparkle Smash™ and more only at Monster Jam. Be loud, cheer hard and watch these Monster Jam trucks do the impossible. It’s too fun to miss! Coming to Van Andel Arena March 12 - 14, 2027.
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
The Mud Room offers hands-on fun and meaningful keepsakes for all ages!
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
A spacious indoor showroom featuring a variety of playsets, Springfree trampolines, and plenty of room to run, climb, jump, and let their imaginations soar!
Parents can enjoy a cup of coffee from our self-serve coffee station.
The best gifts aren't always toys. Sometimes they're memories, endless playtime, and a little break for Mom and Dad!
Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids
Annual memberships start at just $45, and every membership purchased from Nov. 28 to Dec. 31 includes a free Copilot Pass that lets you bring a non-member every time you visit.
The Air Zoo Store is the best holiday shop in town, filled with toys, jewelry, apparel, and so much more. Skip Amazon and shop local for gifts that soar!
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
Whether you've been riding for years or have never met a horse, we have the perfect horse for you.
Alongside our 25+ gentle horses, we offer a variety of programming that supports growth, connection, and healing for both horses and humans!
Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
From unforgettable kids' parties and group outings to gifts for every movie lover, there's something for everyone.
Give the gift of movies with Celebration Cinema gift cards, cozy movie blankets, and popcorn favorites.
Make this holiday season extra fun with gifts and experiences they'll love.
Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
If you and your family or friends are looking for the ultimate, most immersive, interactive escape room experience look no further.
Choose from these six Adventure Themes:
Wacky's Chocolate Factory
Escape Jurassic Island
The School of magic and Wizardry
Shipwreck Island
Trapped Mineshaft Escape
Raiders of the Lost Temple
Spread the joy this holiday season by purchasing gift cards and start a new holiday tradition!
Ages: Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
Enjoy thrilling challenges, 16 climbing walls, a fun arcade, and delicious pizza, snacks, and drinks for the whole family.
Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
Kids can climb, slide and explore an underwater-themed indoor playground with ball pits, trampolines and imaginative role-play areas.
Plan a family play date or celebrate a birthday! A fun way to make memories together this holiday season!
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids
Paint your gift and pick it up one week later. We offer shipping as well!
No appointment needed, just stop on in.
Groups of 6 or more are welcome to make a reservation.
Ages: Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary Kids, Tweens, Middle Schoolers, High Schoolers
Top Voted West MI Experience Gift for Kids – 2026
We asked our readers what their favorite experience gifts are in our annual Family Choice awards.
Here’s what you picked:
Winner: Membership to John Ball Zoo
- Membership to John Ball Zoo
- Membership to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
- Membership to Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park
- Membership to Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
- Gift Card to Mermaid Bay Kids Indoor Play
- Gift Certificate to The Mud Room
- Animal Encounter at John Ball Zoo
- Gift Card to We Rock the Spectrum – Grand Rapids
- Swimming Lessons to Goldfish Swim School of Grandville
- Classes at Accidental Art
Clever Ways to Wrap Experience Gifts for Kids
Experience gifts don’t come in traditional packaging, so it’s time to get creative with how you present them. Here are some ideas.
The first thing to do is consider what makes your gift unique and add a themed touch to it. For example,
- Wrap a zoo membership card in a map of the zoo or tie it around the neck of a stuffed animal.
- Wrap concert or other tickets in a giant box to throw them off the scent.
- Gifting lessons? Wrap them up with a new tutu or hockey skates.
Or, don’t wrap it at all! Make an adventure part of the gift by creating a treasure hunt for the gift.



The links under “More Holiday Fun” looks like they’re from 2020. Is there an updated list of those activities somewhere for 2021?
Hi Stephanie! You found the links before we had a chance to update them for 2021 – they should be all set now – please take a look.