Memories over clutter! Parents around the country are having a hard time letting Santa deliver more toys this year, and opting instead for the gift of experience. If you’re a parent, grandparent, godparent, auntie, or FUNcle–this list is for you. We have some great recommendations for those in the Valley of the Sun. Here’s the best experience gifts for kids in the greater Phoenix, Arizona area and a beloved children’s book to deliver it with:
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For the Preschool Crowd
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
If you haven’t taken your tot to see the trains at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, now is the time of year to do it! Enjoy the beautiful weather and holiday lights along the route. We suggest skipping the annual membership and just pay for a couple rides here and there throughout the year. A wonderful experience for the train lover! Pair with Chugga-Chugga-Choo-Choo book.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix
If you live in Central Phoenix, or feel like making the drive downtown, the Children’s Museum is a wonderful spot to have a membership. Kids get to move and play in a variety of settings. Now through Nov 26, 2018 save 25% off of a new membership using the coupon code: Play2Learn. Pack a lunch for your kiddo in one of these PlanetBox Stainless Steel Lunchbox. Deliver with The Wonderful Things You Will Be book.
Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo is the best outdoor destination for adults and kids alike. Get in your steps as you travel around the property with your kiddo. The Family membership can pay for itself in as little as two visits–so it is well worth it to claim the deal now, just in time for Zoo Lights! Pro tip: opt for the Flexible Guest vs a second named member, as this gives you the option to bring a friend or nanny. If you want to gift the membership to a family, why not deliver it in the best zoo board book of all time? Dear Zoo.
For the School Aged Kids
The Symphony + Harry Potter
Give your child tickets to see and hear the Phoenix Symphony’s Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fireâ„¢ in Concert. This special event upcoming in April 2019, will feature the Phoenix Symphony playing the score during the movie! An unforgettable experience. Notes: PG-13 and approx. 3 hour run time. Pair with the complete box set of the Harry Potter series. Or one of the beautiful new illustrated editions.
OdySea Aquarium + Visual Encyclopedia
Haven’t made it out to the new aquarium in the middle of the desert? You’ve got to give the gift of experiencing Scottsdale’s OdySea Aquarium. If you know a young adventurer, give the gift of a SEAtrek–an underwater diving experience. Kids age 9-14 must be accompanied by a paying adult, but 15-17 year olds can go at it by themselves. Pair with Ocean: A Visual Encyclopedia book.
Live Theatre Performances
Take your teen to see one of the many live theatre performances upcoming in the Phoenix area. Check out Elf: The Musical at PHX Theatre, A Christmas Story the Play at Desert Stages Theatre, or A Christmas Carole at Theater Works in Peoria. Stop at a nearby bookstore before or after to extend your time together and let your child pick out a new book they’re interested in!
Sporting Event
Take your sports fan to see a professional NBA game this winter. Give the Gift of a PHX Suns Kids Club Membership–with two options at different price points you’ll get two tickets to a game and some goodies to go along with it like a backpack and hat. Pair with The Book of Basketball by Bill Simmons.
We hope this list is helpful to you and that we saved you some space on your shelves this holiday season! Subscribe to our feed for more great travel and adventure ideas like these.
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