10 Experience Gifts for Kids and Teens. Make Memories, Not Clutter.

When the toy box is full and the gadgets are getting too much attention, opt for a gift that makes memories instead. These experiential gifts for kids and teens appeal to a range of interests, from horseback riding to rock climbing to music and art. Opt for a gift card, a membership, or simply a day of family fun and bonding with the ideas in our gift guide. Teens and kids will love them!

LEGOLAND | Goshen NY | @legoland.ny

If you haven’t yet been to this Lego-branded amusement park and on-site resort, Legoland has plenty to do for both the young and the young-at-heart. Families can enjoy a day of fun- from a merry-go-round and race cars for the younger set to a water park and winding roller coasters for teens and even a beer garden for adults — or make it a whole weekend.

KARTRITE RESORT & WATERPARK | Monticello | @kartriteresort

Family Fun is everywhere you turn at Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark. How about a day of carabiners and scaling the walls of Scrapeskyer! Conquer the Carabiners ropes course & zipline for a daring adventure, or try your hand at the Scrapeskyer climbing wall. Closed toe shoes and leggings under skirts must be worn. 45 pound requirement. Visit their website where for more indoor adventures.

BETHEL WOODS CENTER FOR THE ARTS | Bethel NY | @bethelwoodscenter 

If your teen is into music, history, or both, they’ll dig a visit to the Museum at Bethel Woods. This curated collection of artifacts, films, music, and memorabilia from the original Woodstock Festival and the culture and counter-culture of the 1960s gives a memorable glimpse into the past. There are also an array of creative classes and workshops for teens and kids who are into the arts for great gifting ideas.

EMERSON KALEIDOSHOW | Mt Tremper NY | @emersonresort

Did you know the Catskills are home to the world’s largest kaleidoscope? The Emerson Resort is known for its rustic-luxe lodging and collective of gift shops, but families love the converted silo-turned-kaleidoscope. This audio-visual experience stands 60 feet tall and 37.5 feet in diameter; guests view the show from inside the scope. Tickets are only $5 for ages 12 and up; don’t forget souvenirs from the Kaleidoscope.

UPTIQUING PAINT & CERAMIC STUDIO | Pine Bush NY | Facebook

Uptiquing is a walk-in ceramics studio where you can select a pre-made piece of pottery to paint and decorate — a fun way to spend a creative afternoon together. Prices start at $8, including firing and glazing of ceramics ranging from functional home decor to art pieces. Occasional kid’s painting classes take place at the studio, as well.

THE LITTLE GYM | Kingston NY | @tlgkingstonny

Classes at the Little Gym don’t just teach gymnastics and flexibility — they provide kids up to age 12 with lessons about taking healthy risks, trying something new, and having lots of fun along the way. Memberships make a great gift, starting at $99 monthly, including classes and special events.

MID-HUDSON DISCOVERY MUSEUM | Poughkeepsie NY | @mid_hudsondiscoverymuseum

The Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum offers hands-on learning to keep curious young minds (and hands) busy through interactive games, puzzles, and projects. Kids can explore two floors of activities that encourage both STEM learning and imaginative play. Gift a day at the museum, or sign your recipient up for an annual membership, with multiple tiers starting at $120.

BC’s CLIMBING GYM | New Paltz NY | @bc_climbing_gym 

Teens interested in rock climbing can get a taste of what it’s like to scale a rock face at BC Climbing Gym, a bouldering-focused indoor gym in New Paltz. Lessons for beginners are $70; more experienced climbers might enjoy an unlimited 30-day pass at $79. A dedicated Kid’s Zone is also for little ones ages six and up.

FROST VALLEY YMCA | Claryville NY | @frostvalleyymca 

Frost Valley has a fast-filling summer camp in the warmer months, but throughout the rest of the year, this YMCA resort set on 5,500 acres in the Catskills is open for day trips and themed weekends. From hiking trails with waterfall views to guided craft projects to ziplines and other camp-themed fun, Frost Valley offers a staycation gift that feels a million miles away.

ROCKING HORSE RANCH | Highland NY | @rockinghorseranchresort 

Rocking Horse Ranch has given families a taste of the Wild West with its ranch-themed resort for generations. Not only are there horseback riding lessons and opportunities, but the resort also features an indoor waterpark, ice skating and snow tubing in winter, laser tag, and more.

STOCKING STUFFERS & MORE FROM LOCAL INDIE TOY STORES

Whether you’re looking to add a comforting stuffed animal, a set of books to read, or a fun learning game for snow days at home, these locally-owned toy shops have unique and whimsical ideas for kids of all ages.

TINKER TOYS | Woodstock NY | Facebook
Find an array of STEM learning, craft kits, and other giftable toys.

LITTLE PICKLES | Hudson or Red Hook NY | @littlepicklesgeneralstore

Part toy store, part candy shop, and part children’s boutique, you’re bound to find something for any young person’s tastes.

RARE BEAR | Woodstock NY | @therarebearwoodstockny 

Whimsical and educational toys, with a large selection of plush puppets and unique books.

LAND OF OZ | Rhinebeck NY | @landofoztoys

Legos, craft kits, and active-play sets are popular picks at this long-standing Rhinebeck toy store.

HUNCA MUNCA’S | Beacon NY | @hunca_muncas
You’ll find handmade dolls, natural toys, and other hand-picked playthings among Hunca Munca’s selection.

HANDMADE AND MORE | New Paltz NY | @handmade_and_morenp 

Although this gift shop also offers housewares and a second floor of women’s apparel, there’s a variety of musical instruments, natural-material toys, and under-$10 knick-knacks.

Happy Shopping!