Unwrap Memories: The Best Local Experience Gifts for the Holidays

Want to give a gift they’ll remember for years to come? Looking for something to buy for that “hard to buy for” person? Or perhaps you have someone on your list who would appreciate an experience gift rather than a physical gift?

Look no further than a local experience gift!

hands holding a brown paper wrapped package as part of a gift giving article

Whether it’s a cooking class for a foodie, a Broadway show for a theatre lover, or an adrenaline-pumping activity for a thrill-seeker, we have some experience gift ideas that will make the perfect gift for anyone on your list!

Give the gift of memories this year!

**partner packages are in gray**

Give the unforgettable gift of Broadway magic!

With six incredible shows remaining in First Financial Bank Broadway in Cincinnati’s 24/25 season presented by TriHealth, including timeless classics like Les Misérables and heartwarming tales like Come From Away, there’s something for everyone.

Treat your loved ones to a Tony Award-winning “Best Musical” with Kimberly Akimbo, or take in a powerful performance of Life of Pi, the hilarious & Juliet, or the joyous A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical.

Tickets are the perfect gift for family and friends. Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories together.

Pogo Pass: One Pass. One Price. 365 Days of Fun!

Just in time for the holidays, the POGO PASS is a passport to a world of family fun and adventure in Cincinnati!

Get 50% off a Pogo Pass with our code: 365Cincinnati

What is it? The Pogo Pass is a single pass that grants you access to 16 of the most exciting family-friendly attractions in town. Whether it’s a visit to the Cincinnati Zoo or stepping into a world of interactive learning at the Cincinnati Museum Center, bowling or fowling, the POGO PASS is your family’s ticket to year-round entertainment and education.

Grab your POGO PASS now and start planning your next adventure in Cincinnati!

a banner image for a Barbie gift package

Give the gift of a local experience with this Barbie™ Dream Package!

Barbie™: A Cultural Icon is a new and upcoming exhibition at Cincinnati Museum Center. The exhibition opens April 4, 2025 and presale tickets and holiday gift packages are available now.

Each Barbie Dream Package includes a Premium Exhibition Ticket voucher (with single day anytime entry and re-entry) plus a pair of Barbie-branded sunglasses and a Barbie-branded keychain. Single exhibition presale tickets and vouchers are also available.

Perfect for the Foodie on Your List!

Explore the life of American culinary pioneer at the Julia Child: A Recipe for Life exhibition, coming to Cincinnati Museum Center on February 1, 2025. Themed holiday gift packages are available now!

This gift package includes a ticket for Julia Child: A Recipe for Life exhibition (February 1, 2025 – May 18, 2025) and Museum Admission, plus a copy of Julia Child’s Mastering the Art of French Cooking so you can cook some of the recipes that made Julia a culinary icon and a 10% off coupon at the Cincinnati Museum Center Museum Store.

Julia Child: A Recipe for Life invites you to immerse yourself in the essential ingredients of Julia’s personal journey – from her early days in Paris to her groundbreaking cookbook and TV show. Discover the passion and perseverance that made Julia a culinary icon and be inspired by her legacy – one that continues to influence and inspire generations of food enthusiasts and trailblazers.


photo supplied by ARR

Riverboat Cruises on Sale Now for America’s River Roots

America’s River Roots is a signature event to kick off America’s 250th celebration, scheduled for October 8-12, 2025 on the Cincinnati, Covington and Newport riverfronts.‌

Riverboat tickets are on sale now for themed riverboat cruises, perfect for holiday gifts! Choose from one of nine riverboats, each featuring regional cuisine and music from one of seven of America’s great river cities.

Don’t miss your chance to set sail and enjoy breathtaking views. Go to www.AmericasRiverRoots.com to buy your tickets today!


Gift a cooking class from Tablespoon this holiday season!

Tablespoon Cooking Co’s goal is to teach cooks of all skill levels how to #cookgoodfood and reach their true potential in the kitchen. Not only do they bring years of experience into the classroom, but their playlist is on-point, the bar is well-stocked, and you won’t leave hungry.

Gift cards available and they can be purchased in any denomination from $10-$2000 (never expire). More info here.


macarons on a baking sheet with a hand sprinkling sprinkles over them

Learn the Art and Science of Macarons!

The Macaron Bar offers classes for bakers of all ages and skill levels including Intro to Macarons, Macarons for Kids, Advanced Decorating, and more.

Macaron Bar pastry chefs will demystify and demonstrate the art and science of macaron baking!

Gift Cards are available, starting at $50. More info here.


Dinosaur Hall at Cincinnati Museum Center

Cincinnati Museum Center Membership

Special Offer Available: Get 20% off Cincinnati Museum Center memberships through Jan. 6, 2025!

Membership benefits include free admission to three museums (The Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural History and Science, Cincinnati History Museum), free parking, and more!

Purchase a membership as a gift and you’ll receive a gift code to share with your recipient. More info here.


hippo lanterns at the Cincinnati Zoo's Festival of Lights

Cincinnati Zoo Membership

Cincinnati Zoo memberships are on sale through Dec. 31, 2024!

Membership benefits include free admission, free parking, discounted tickets for extra guests, member only previews, discounts on educational programs, and more.

Purchase a membership as a gift and they’ll email you with a certificate for you to print (or forward via email) and present to the gift recipient. More info here.


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About the Author
Bridgett Raffenberg
My name is Bridgett Raffenberg and I am the creator of 365Cincinnati. I've been uncovering and sharing all of the best things to do in Cincinnati since 2010. I enjoy exploring new spots, discovering local events, and meeting the people who call Cincinnati home!