I know finding people presents can be difficult enough as it is, but if you want to really make someones birthday a really great day, its a really good idea to also gift them an experience, so here are a few ideas of how to do just that!
Animal Shelter
Have a talk with your local Animal Shelter to see if they allow groups to come and help in the facility. Many Animal Shelters will let groups walk, feed and groom the animals. They will also give tours and teach you a thing or two. This is especially great for anyone that loves animals but can’t have a pet or the pet they’d really like for whatever reason, like I love dogs but since we already have two cats I wouldn’t like to introduce one into my home.;o/
Arts and Crafts
If you’re the creative type, there are many arts and crafts places (check arts and crafts stores) that will set up everything you need for a craft project (like making jewellery, etc.) They’ll clean everything up too so you and your friends can focus on getting your hands stuck in without having to think about the clean up that comes afterwards.
Theatres
Many studios and theaters will host birthday parties where you can watch a (private) show and then meet the performers afterward. They may even teach you some moves which is even more fun if none of you can actually dance!
Baseball Game
Many Major and Minor League Baseball teams have special packages for birthday parties if you’re over in the US. I haven’t heard of any in the UK but they may well be lurking out there somewhere! Create great memories enjoying the birthday in the ballpark or even the dugout. Check your local team for prices and packages.
Batting Cage
This is fun for men and women but like the previous idea, more difficult to find outside of the US. Hit a few rounds of balls each and cheer on the other guests. Then take the party back home or to a park and play a real game of baseball!
Fruit Picking
Take your guests out to pick peaches, apples, blueberries, pumpkins or strawberries. There are lots of pick-it-yourself farms all over the country to choose from. You can take home what you pick, and if you’re feeling creative, you could make a pie with what you have or even experiment with some jam!
Spa Day
Why not treat yourself and your guests to a wonderful spa day. You can get these in packages, so they work great for birthdays and its a real treat for everyone involved.
Hotels
Pick a large hotel and be treated like royalty. Have your birthday dinner in the hotels ravishing restaurants and then party on down in their open spaces. Why not hire a DJ or a musician to play live music? There are many hotels like Dorsett Hotels Sheperds Bush, where you can get the true celeb experience.
Fishing
It’s not about catching the fish; it’s about the experience! You can borrow or buy inexpensive rods so that everyone can fish at the same time. Find a nice lake, pond or nearby pier and have a fun day out. You could even have a bbq too depending on the weather.
Go Karts
Go Karts are super fun and create an active day out. If you have the need for speed, then this is for you. Especially if you are the competitive type. Most places have a room that you can rent out after your sporty day, so you can have something to eat, or have a little drink. I know that my brother would adore this, he’s an engineer and has done a lot of work on his own car so it’d be really fun to let him loose without watching him worry about his car!
Horseback Riding
This is another great idea if you are a lover of animals. Have a peaceful day out in the sun, riding horses and spending time with your friends and family. You could even stop halfway and have a picnic in a field full of flowers.
-Dana