Let’s be real — our kids already have plenty of stuff. This year, why not gift something they’ll actually remember? Experiences are the perfect way to make the holidays extra special, and we’ve got three Erie options that are total winners for different ages and interests. These are all Erie places my family loves, so consider this my personal recommendation list!
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1. expERIEnce Children's Museum: A Community Gem for Families
If you’re looking to gift a family with younger kiddos an amazing experience, the expERIEnce Children’s Museum is a no-brainer. This place is a true Erie treasure, and I can’t tell you how many local families swear by it. It’s hands-on, interactive, and the perfect way to spend those long winter days when we’re all desperate to get out of the house (trust me, we’ve all been there).
Their recent multi-million-dollar renovations have turned the museum into a truly spectacular community asset, and we’re so lucky to have it right in our backyard!
⭐️ Hurry! Limited Time Holiday Deal: From Black Friday to Cyber Monday, snag 5 admission passes for the price of 4—a flexible, no-commitment option that’s perfect for gifting! Get the deal here.
⭐️ Gift Memberships: Available year-round, memberships are a practical gift, offering unlimited play and learning. Digital or physical gift cards make it easy to wrap up this gift for Christmas morning, and they let the recipient choose the membership that works for them. Get a gift card or membership here.
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2. ASCEND Erie: Perfect for Tweens, Teens, and Adventurous Kids
My daughter has been taking climbing classes at ASCEND Erie, and let me just say—she loves it. If you’ve got a tween or teen who needs a fun way to stay active (and maybe burn off some of that endless energy), climbing is where it’s at. It’s exciting, challenging, and a fantastic confidence-builder.
ASCEND Erie offers classes for all skill levels, so whether your kid is scaling walls like a pro or just starting out, there’s a program for them. Plus, the welcoming, supportive vibe here is amazing. Gift cards are available—perfect for that adventurous kid or teen on your list!
📍 Shop the ASCEND Erie online store here.
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3. YMCA of Greater Erie: Fun for the Whole Family
We’re actually joining the YMCA ourselves this December to take advantage of their new “Y Your Way” pricing structure, and I couldn’t be more excited. This updated plan lets you add up to six people, and they don’t even all have to live under the same roof or be related! It’s perfect for today’s modern family.
A Y membership is such a fantastic way to keep everyone active and connected. From swimming pools and fitness classes to youth sports and family programs, there’s truly something for everyone. The flexibility of this new pricing structure makes it an even better fit for families of all shapes and sizes.
A gift membership for the family would be a great surprise on Christmas morning—and it’s the kind of gift that keeps giving all year long!
If you’re looking for a present that encourages togetherness, this is it. Bonus: memberships include access to multiple locations, so you can mix it up depending on what your family feels like doing each week.
📍 Learn more and sign up for a "Y Your Way" membership here.
This holiday season, give a gift that doesn’t clutter your house but fills your days with fun, connection, and memories. Whether it’s hours of imaginative play at the expERIEnce Children’s Museum, an adventure-filled climbing session at ASCEND, or family swim night at the Y, these gifts are sure to make everyone smile.
What experience gifts are you giving this year? Let me know—I’m always looking for new ideas!
