Sometimes, ordinary gifts just won’t do for those who seem to have everything. When typical presents like themed socks and candles scented like evergreens fall short during the holiday season, consider granting them an extraordinary experience that can only be found in the vibrant streets of New York City. Bestowing an experience is undeniably more intimate and gratifying, tailored to the specific interests of your cherished ones. Perhaps you could arrange a remarkable tour granting exclusive access to renowned New York attractions for your history enthusiast father, or secure tickets to the captivating Fotografiska museum for your art-loving best friend. Even better, why not partake in the adventure together and share the profound experience? And if the urge to wrap a tangible gift becomes irresistible, there’s always the option to acquire a few delightful stocking fillers.
SUGGESTED: Top Christmas activities to experience in New York City.
15 best experience gifts in NYC
1. A ride in a bespoke motorcycle sidecar
Cruising through the urban landscape on a motorcycle sidecar evokes images straight out of a classic gangster flick or the iconic ’60s Batman show. However, now you have the chance to treat your special someone to an unforgettable adventure in one of these retro marvels. Enter Dapper Tours, a local tour company that offers guided expeditions of Gotham city aboard a charming, old-fashioned sidecar. But here’s the twist – the vehicle of choice is a vintage Ural motorcycle with a captivating backstory rooted in Russian reverse-engineering during the 1940s. It simply doesn’t get any more stylish and intriguing than this!
2. A beer tasting at Talea Beer Co.
Experience the magic of Talea Beer Co., An exceptional brewery and taproom in NYC, proudly owned and operated by women. Embrace the holiday spirit with an array of extraordinary beer tastings. Delight your beer aficionado with a captivating beer and cheese tasting, indulge in the perfect blend of yoga and beermosa, or embark on an enchanting tour accompanied by a delightful beer tasting. Choose from an assortment of enticing options, all starting from just $30.
3. A trippy art experience at ARTECHOUSE
Immerse yourself in the heart of ARTECHOUSE’s latest festive art extravaganza, known as “Spectacular Factory: The Holiday Multiverse.” Prepare to be enchanted as you enter a whimsical realm of holiday villages, where a candy cane carousel awaits your twirl, a myriad of nutcrackers beckon for your attention, colossal jingle bells swing in the air, and a train gracefully weaves through magnificent holiday wreaths. This is not your ordinary seasonal gathering; it’s a sensational celebration that amplifies the holiday spirit to extraordinary heights. Secure your tickets now to embark on this extraordinary experience.
4. Tickets to the new City Winery
Be captivated by the magnificent expanse of City Winery’s 32,000-square-foot haven nestled at Pier 57 within the enchanting embrace of Hudson River Park. Immerse yourself in the picturesque waterfront vistas and indulge in the opulent wine selection, boasting an extraordinary array of over 1,200 distinct bottles hailing from an impressive 20 nations. Delve into the winter schedule and discover the luminaries set to grace the stage with their mesmerizing performances.
5. Cooking classes
Do you have a friend or acquaintance who’s facing the challenge of preparing mouthwatering dishes while confined at home this year? Assist them in elevating their cooking prowess by enrolling them in one of The Institute of Culinary Education’s exceptional classes. They can embark on an introductory Knife Skills course to master the art of mincing, julienning, and chopping with utmost precision. Alternatively, they can explore their passion for dumplings through an immersive virtual dumpling-making experience.
Beginning at $25 per individual.
7. New York Helicopter Tour: City Lights Skyline Experience
Experience the unparalleled spectacle of the city that never sleeps like never before, even for those who have called New York home their entire lives. Embark on a thrilling adventure as you take to the skies in a helicopter under the cover of darkness, reveling in a mesmerizing half-hour journey above the radiant cityscape. Witness the resplendent beauty of iconic structures such as the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and the Chrysler Building, along with a multitude of other revered landmarks, as they illuminate the night with their dazzling magnificence. The awe-inspiring helicopter ride culminates with a captivating loop around the majestic Statue of Liberty, a final moment that instills a profound sense of pride in the heart of every New Yorker.
Starting at $274 per individual.
8. Edge Observation Deck and Climb
If you have no fear of heights, why not take them to the Western Hemisphere’s most elevated outdoor observation deck? The Edge extends 65 feet into the sky, towering 1,100 feet above ground level, thus claiming the title of NYC’s loftiest public balcony. Not only does this deck provide breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s skyline, but it also offers a thrilling vantage point below. For those seeking an even greater adrenaline rush, Edge presents an opportunity to scale the building’s side and lean over (safely secured by harnesses, of course). After this daring adventure, unwind and celebrate your audacity at Peak, a remarkable bar and restaurant located on the 101st floor.
9. Holiday Cocoa Cruise
Experience the joy of sailing through the city in absolute style with Classic Harbor Line’s delightful holiday cruises. These magnificent motor yachts are adorned with festive decorations and twinkling lights, creating a magical ambiance. As an added treat, each guest will be treated to a complimentary beverage of their choice. You can embark on an exciting adventure by choosing from a range of new and captivating cruises such as the enchanting Cocoa and Carols holiday cruise (priced at $86-$96 per adult) or indulge in the luxurious Holiday Brunch Cruise (available for $124-$142 per adult). If you prefer a touch of nostalgia, opt for one of our classic offerings including the iconic NYC Lights and Cocoa Cruise (priced at $86-$96 per adult for a 1.5-hour experience), the mesmerizing Sunset & Holiday Cocoa Cruise (also priced at $86-$96 per adult for a 1.5-hour journey), or immerse yourself in the soothing melodies of the Holiday Live Jazz Cruise (available for $96-$124 per adult for a 1.5-hour voyage).
It also offers dazzling New Year’s Eve cruises in case you would like to surprise them with a fancy night out!
10. Digital Photography: An Introduction
If you happen to be acquainted with an individual who has recently acquired a DSLR camera, consider gifting them a series of captivating photography lessons to enhance their proficiency with this newfound gadget. Begin with the enthralling three-hour initiation at the Art of Intuitive Photography, where a highly skilled instructor will delve into the fundamentals, encompassing exposure, white balance, and depth of field, while also assisting the participants in comprehending the intricate array of buttons and modes.
$150 per individual.
11. Trapeze Lessons
Experience the exhilaration of soaring through the skies with the incredible ability to fly! Immerse yourself in the magical world of a flying trapeze lesson, where for a delightful hour and a half, an expert instructor will guide a small group of ten individuals on the art of gripping the bar with their legs, gracefully releasing their arms, and effortlessly gliding across the vast expanse towards a skilled catcher. Seize this golden opportunity to fulfill your childhood fantasies of joining the enchanting circus realm!
From $65.
12. Salt Cave Sessions at Montauk Salt Cave
We all have that one friend who appears to thrive on caffeine and an abundance of restless energy. And then there’s that friend who firmly believes in the mystical properties of crystals, salt lamps, and the act of burning sage. Why not gift either (or both!) Of them the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate with a luxurious 45-minute session inside the enchanting Montauk Salt Cave nestled in the vibrant East Village? The mesmerizing pink Himalayan salt that adorns the cave is said to possess remarkable anti-inflammatory properties, known to aid in the healing of respiratory ailments and alleviate anxiety. Regardless of the scientific validity of this treatment, it presents a perfect excuse to detach oneself from the world and indulge in pure relaxation, allowing the mind to wander and the eyes to gently close for a blissful duration of nearly an hour.
Commencing from $20.
13. New York Beer and Brewery Tour
Any beer enthusiast would eagerly seize the opportunity to indulge in the flavors of beer crafted by three distinguished breweries in the bustling city of New York. Pamper the beer connoisseur in your circle with an exquisite afternoon expedition that takes them across three boroughs in a spirited quest to discover the finest craft beer the city has to offer. This delightful journey will encompass visits to renowned establishments such as McSorley’s Old Ale House, The Brooklyn Brewery, Transmitter Brewing, and That Witch Ales You Brewery. The tickets for this 5-hour escapade cover all libations, delectable bites, and convenient transportation.
$125 per individual.
14. One-on-One Makeup Class
Know someone with a passion for makeup artistry? Surprise her with an exclusive, mentor-guided workshop to elevate her talent. Led by the seasoned industry veteran, Shara Strand, this session is designed to unlock all the secrets of the trade – from fundamental contouring techniques to the art of perfecting a stunning strobing look. Moreover, your closest friend will have the opportunity to acquire any of the premium brushes, kits, and skincare products showcased during this enriching one-hour experience.
From $20.
15. New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise
Capture the finest (and utterly enchanting) positions in the metropolis for you and your beloved on the eve of New Year. Throughout this extraordinary five-hour voyage, revel in an unlimited selection of beverages, indulge in delectable hors d’oeuvres and a sumptuous dinner served in buffet style, all while dancing away the remaining moments of the year. On the deck of New York Harbor, as the stroke of midnight approaches, the unparalleled spectacle of fireworks illuminating the shimmering skyline will leave an indelible memory for countless years ahead.
