I've noticed many parents looking for out-of-the-box gift ideas for their children. I think our generation is craving more experiences and less stuff.
Here are some ideas to help you find the perfect Vero Beach experience gifts for your kids. I've included my family's personal favorite places to visit in and around Indian River County.
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS |
Annual memberships provide you with fun family experiences and memories that will last you a lifetime! They are also a great way to save money, as they usually pay for themselves after a couple of visits. I would encourage you to visit the suggested places at least once before purchasing an annual membership, just to make sure it's a good fit for your family. Here are our picks in and around Indian River County.
Vero Beach Museum of Art
A family membership to VMBA is $75. Along with free admission to the Museum, membership also includes other benefits such as a discount on Summer Art Camp tuition and a free guest with each visit. Learn more about membership.
McKee Botanical Gardens
McKee's family membership is $100 and includes admission to the garden and Children's Garden, children's activities throughout the year, and admission to events such as their annual Festival of Lights. Learn more about membership.
Brevard Zoo
We got lots of use out of our Zoo membership and loved it. With the exhibits, splash pad, playground, and annual events, our kids did not get tired of going. A family membership runs about $170, depending on which level you choose. Learn more about membership.
Urban Air Port St. Lucie
There's a ton to do at Urban Air for a wide variety of ages. Besides jumping, there are go-karts, laser tag, a challenge course, a playground, rock climbing, and more. Learn about their membership options.
Orlando Science Center
I've been to a few children's museums, and I was impressed by how much there was to do here. The big bonus: it's all indoors! It's worth noting that if you have a Bank of America card, the cardholder receives free admission here each first weekend of the month. Family membership costs $189. Find out more about membership.
OTHER EXPERIENCES |
Sporting Event
We have college sports, NFL stadiums, a minor league baseball team (St. Lucie Mets), and more all within driving distance from us!
Concert or Live Performance
Not only do we have a fantastic theatre right here in Vero (Riverside Theatre), but we are also within driving distance of multiple theatres and venues. A Blippi Tour is coming to The King Center in Melbourne (and other Florida cities) in March, Laurie Berkner will be in Orlando in March, and Shrek the Musical will be at the Kravis Center in West Palm in April.
Charter a Boat or Rent Paddleboards/Kayaks
Enjoy a day on the water fishing, swimming, exploring, or relaxing. There are many local companies that provide charters, boat tours, rentals, and more.
Lessons
There are so many lessons offered in Indian River County, for babies through teens: swimming, music, cooking, art, karate, dance, gymnastics, and more! For ideas, check out our Extracurricular Activities Guide.
Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes give your kids something to look forward to each month (who doesn't love mail?) and provide an at-home experience for them. We can personally vouch for the Kiwi Crate by KiwiCo, as my son has received a subscription for the past year and loved it. It's been a fun bonding activity for us. Other popular subscription boxes are Little Passports (craft and learning boxes), Pipsticks (stickers), Lovevery (Montessori-style toys), and We Craft Box (crafts).
I hope this guide inspired you to gift an experience to children in your life! Let me know if you have any ideas that I missed, or if you use one of these ideas and love it!
