If you know me, you know I’m all about experiences over things—gifts that create memories and moments you’ll actually remember. Here’s my lineup of my top experience-based gifts in and around Denver for all of your loved ones with unique interests. Some of these I’ve done myself, others are on my wishlist, but I hope you find something here to spark joy for everyone on your list!

For the Traveler

Give the gift of smooth travel through DIA! I can personally attest that CLEAR Membership speeds up airport security and lets you cut to the front of the line. As someone without TSA Precheck, this has been a gamechanger.

For the ultimate Colorado road trip, a VanCraft campervan rental gift card is an idea. You can pick up your rental ride in Denver and hit the road to camp and sightsee in a comfortable Mercedes sprinter van. Highly recommend! And for those outdoorsy explorers, an Annual National Park Pass is a no brainer for a 2025 full of adventure.

For the Foodie

I’ve heard great things about Workbench Dining and this private chef-curated meal is on my list to try in 2025. Word on the street says you don’t even find out the location of your meal until the day of. For a similar intimate dining experience, gift a coveted seat at the 12-person Ukiyo Omakase chef’s table. For a little more hands-on fun, a Sugar Bloom Cookie Decorating Class lets you combine creativity with your sweet tooth.

For the Drink Lover

For the friend who loves to imbibe in craft cocktails, Denver has some top-notch experiences. A Stranahan’s Distillery Tour gives an insider’s look at Colorado’s famous whiskey (and it’s affordable at $20!) Cocktail fans will love a Spirit Hounds Cocktail Class where I learned top tricks and cocktail musts that I can’t unsee now when I’m out at bars. 👀 And for wine lovers, I’ve heard you can be Winemaker for a Day at Bigsby’s Folly and blend your own bottle to take home.

For the Romantic

Set the mood with gifts for the hopeless romantic. A Black & Blossomed monthly floral subscription means fresh blooms every month to keep the love blooming. The Oakwell Beer Spa date night package is a fun twist on “couples relaxation” with beer on tap. For a super cozy and unique date, book a Petals & Pages private bookstore date where you can reserve the store all to yourself, play your own music, drink wine, and browse their book and flower selection in peace.

For the Musician

Fellow music lovers, here are some ideas! You can’t go wrong with Colorado Symphony tickets – I highly recommend their movie concerts. Or, if you’re feeling musically adventurous, try SoFar Sounds Secret Concert Ticket for an intimate concert in a unique location with secret performers. And if your gift-ee has always wanted to pick up an instrument, Denver School of Rock Adult Lessons are a fun way to channel your inner Jack Black and rock out.

For the Athlete

Keep the athlete in your life moving with a Volo Pass for access to unlimited social sports leagues. Tickets to Nuggets, Avs, or Broncos games are always a hit for sports fans. And for fitness junkies, a ClassPass membership offers access to boutique fitness studios all over the city.

Bonus: If you’re seeing this in November, snag an individual Denver Parks & Recreation membership for 40% off.

For the Creative

For the artist or creative thinker, these are gifts that inspire. A Denver Art Museum Membership gives access to incredible exhibits and member-exclusive events all year long. Denver Tool Library Classes are perfect for anyone who loves DIY projects. And for movie buffs, a Denver Film membership opens up a world of cinema and discounts for movies buffs all year.

For the Fashionista

Spoil the style-savvy person on your list with a custom hat from The Cow Lot, where they can get a cowboy hat custom designed and fitted. For vintage fashion lovers, try gifting a LOV’D custom denim appointment in Boulder to find that perfect pair of jeans. And this is something unique I want to try: an ear curation experience with Nina Wynn that gets you a custom recommendation on ear piercings and earring choices for your dream ear design.

For the Animal Lover

If they’re all about animals (love it!), Denver’s got options! A Denver Cat Co membership is perfect for cat lovers who want some quality cuddle time year round. For wildlife fans, a Denver Zoo membership means year-round visits to their favorite animals. And for a memorable wildlife encounter, I’ve heard the Colorado Wolf Center Full Moon Tour is a one-of-a-kind experience.

For the Hard Worker

Give the gift of time back to your busiest and most tired friends. Denver Dog Joggers make sure their pup gets exercise even on packed days. I’m dying for a deep clean of my home so this gift would be amazing: a Clean Queen home deep clean. And for a little treat-yourself moment, Copper & Sphynx makeup lessons are perfect for learning new skills and feeling fabulous.

I hope this guide gives you some fresh ideas for gifting memorable experiences this year! There’s nothing quite like giving the people we love moments they’ll remember, and Denver is full of amazing options to make that happen. Happy holidays, happy shopping—and don’t forget to shop small and support local!

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