Experience Gifts That’ll Help You Create Core Memories with Friends

We’re all guilty of saving restaurants we’ll never go to, so if they’ve sent you a reel or TikTok about a spot they’ve been wanting to try, make a note and scan TripAdvisor to snag a reservation. And if they haven’t, here are some recs: New York’s Boucherie serves French classics with absinthe-driven cocktails, LA’s Gracias Madre has made waves for their vegan Mexican dishes, and Chicago’s Alinea is a multi-course, three Michelin-star menu they’ll remember forever. (Prices vary, Trip Advisor)

Each month focuses on a different craft, from wood burning to engraving. You'll be able to create items together you'll both be able to use, like wine carriers and resin coasters. We suggest theming the night, maybe ordering some pizza and grabbing a bottle of wine while you're at it. You'll get to enjoy some quality time, while also flexing some creative muscles. In each box are the tools and materials necessary to complete the project, plus instructions. No last-minute trips to Michaels. ($32+/per box, Cratejoy)

Bowlero puts your local bowling alley to shame (no offense to your local bowling alley). It's a combination of nightlife, dining, and good, old-fashioned bowling, complete with award-winning food, cocktails, arcade games, and an immersive, Instagram-worthy setting. It's a refreshing alternative to your usual night out, and with 350 locations across the country, there's a good chance you can find one near you. PS: They're running a series of discounts through December 1, so now's the time to book. (Prices vary, Bowlero)

Native New Yorkers will tell you this: they’ve been to the Statue of Liberty maybe once in a middle school field trip. Consider this a reminder that it’s always a good idea to be a tourist in your own city, and finding a tour suited to your friend’s interest is a foolproof way to make them smile. Viator is an excellent curator of bookable things to do, with tours that’ll have them seeing all of NYC in a day, walking around the Warner Brothers studio lot, or seeing all things Twilight in Forks, Washington right outside of Seattle. (Prices vary, Viator) 

Sur La Table offers in-person classes at their New York location, as well as virtual and interactive cooking classes online. Your friend will follow along with expert chefs and make dishes like fresh pappardelle with bolognese and steak au poivre, or pastry staples like croissants and bread. Sur La Table’s calendar rotates on a monthly basis, so you have several dates and courses to choose from. ($29+, Sur La Table) 

Uncommon Goods offers virtual classes that help cultivate hobbies. The options are endless — think watercoloring 101, how to read tarot, flower arranging workshops, and all the mixology courses they could ask for. There’s a ton of cooking-centric options too, ranging from decorative focaccia to a step-by-step course on homemade pesto ravioli. They can even learn how to make a map? Like we said: endless.

Have they been looping the same artist on Spotify for a minimum of three months now? Then there’s no greater gift than seeing said artist live. Prominent artists going on tour this year: Oasis, Billie Eillish, and Weezer to name a few. Ticketmaster is an excellent way to source live theater performances, too, if Broadway numbers are more their speed. (Prices vary, Ticketmaster)

Sofar Sounds hosts intimate concerts at unexpected locations throughout major cities like San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. Attendees receive the exact location about 36 hours before the show, adding to the mystery and excitement of the overall event. Best part? It’s BYOB. Bring a bottle of wine (or shake up some cocktails) and enjoy the music. (Prices vary, Sofar Sounds)

Whether they’re Formula 1 fans or know every fact about every baseball player that has ever played on their favorite team (no exaggeration), sports tickets are always an excellent idea. Check out Stubhub to find events taking place near you, with precise breakdowns around pricing and seats that make it easy to search within your budget. Take this Yankees vs. Red Sox game, for example — the fandom alone is worth the price of admission. (Prices vary, Stubhub)