Gifts That Keep on Giving: Experience Ideas for Kids Who Don’t Need More Stuff
It’s the holiday season, and the toys are already stacked to the ceiling. Your house looks like a scene from Toy Story 27: The Decluttering Crisis. If the thought of adding another talking robot, glitter kit, or 1,000-piece puzzle to your life makes you break into a cold sweat, fear not. This year, skip the toy aisle and give the gift of experiences that last all year long.
Here’s a roundup of local gems for season passes, day passes, and unforgettable activities—perfect for parents of kids who already have “everything.”
1. Nashville Zoo
Give the gift of giraffes, red pandas, and kangaroos! A membership to the Nashville Zoo means unlimited visits to see the animals, ride the carousel, and explore the jungle gym. Bonus: You can burn some kid energy while you sip coffee and daydream about being an actual zookeeper.
Visit Nashville Zoo
2. Nashville Shores & Adventure Tree Park
For kids who love splashing, sliding, and zip-lining, a season pass to Nashville Shores is a summer dream come true. When they’re ready for a land adventure, the treetop courses at Adventure Tree Park are just steps away.
Visit Nashville Shores
Visit Adventure Tree Park
3. Adventure Science Center
Turn your little one's endless “why” questions into hands-on fun at the Adventure Science Center. From space exhibits to science experiments, this membership is perfect for sparking curiosity. Plus, parents might learn a thing or two about black holes—besides the one in your wallet.
Visit Adventure Science Center
4. All Air Extreme Trampoline Park
Think of this as an investment in fun and early bedtime. With trampolines, dodgeball, and foam pits, All Air Extreme guarantees nonstop action (and the glorious exhaustion that follows).
Visit All Air Extreme
5. Movie Passes
Give your kid a ticket to the magical world of movies! Regal Cinemas and AMC both offer subscription plans for unlimited or discounted tickets. Popcorn not included—but always necessary.
Visit Regal Cinemas
Visit AMC Theatres
6. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Got a mini Picasso or a kid who loves to explore? A membership to Cheekwood offers access to seasonal events, art exhibits, and acres of gardens to roam. (Tip: The Holiday LIGHTS event is worth every penny!)
Visit Cheekwood
7. Fiddlers Grove Historic Village
Step back in time with a visit to this historic village, where your little history buff can explore old-school blacksmith shops, schoolhouses, and more. It’s like time-travel, minus the DeLorean.
Visit Fiddlers Grove
8. We Rock the Spectrum – Kids Gym
Perfect for kids of all abilities, this sensory gym offers hours of inclusive, active fun. Think swings, trampolines, and safe climbing spaces, all in a judgment-free zone.
Visit We Rock the Spectrum
9. Cedar Creek Sports Center
Mini-golf, batting cages, and go-karts, oh my! Cedar Creek Sports Center is a one-stop-shop for active family fun that kids (and parents) will love.
Visit Cedar Creek Sports Center
10. Lost Worlds Dinotopia
Take your dino-lover to Madison's Lost Worlds Dinotopia for an immersive dinosaur-themed adventure. With Spider Tower, Super Slides, and Godzilla games, it’s a roaring good time.
Visit Lost Worlds Dinotopia
11. Tennessee Kids Company
From gymnastics classes to parents' night out events, Tennessee Kids Company has something for every energetic kid. Bonus: You get a couple of free hours to shop or nap.
Visit Tennessee Kids Company
12. Hendersonville Circus World
Give your little acrobat the chance to swing, balance, and tumble like a circus pro. Hendersonville Circus World offers classes and open gym sessions that are sure to wow your future trapeze artist.
Visit Hendersonville Circus World
13. Belle Meade Adventure Backpack
History meets adventure! The Belle Meade Plantation offers kids a chance to explore with an activity-packed backpack filled with scavenger hunts, games, and puzzles. It’s education disguised as fun.
Visit Belle Meade Historic Site
This holiday season, say goodbye to clutter and hello to unforgettable memories. Your kids will love the adventures, and you’ll love the extra closet space. Now go forth and gift like a pro—you’ve got this!
Looking for a gift for the mom next door, your favorite mom at your kids school, or your sister who just became a mom?
This holiday season, give the gift of Macaroni Kid to a family you love! With its one-stop guide to local articles and events, Macaroni Kid makes it easy to discover ways to create lasting memories, spark joy, and make the most of time together while the kids are still at home. Encourage families to explore their community, enjoy magical moments, and cherish the adventure of childhood! https://hendersonvilletn.macaronikid.com/subscribe
