The Gift of Experiences
December 2025
article by Jamie Blotske
T‘is the season for giving! In exchange for the typical tangible item, why not consider something memorable and meaningful? This Christmas season, skip the toy aisle, department stores, and gift cards. Instead, consider the gift that keeps on giving – the gift of experiences!
EXPERIENCES OVER STUFF
Stuff collects dust, experiences create core memories; that is why an experience is a better consideration. Unlike material gifts that may wear out, break, or lose their appeal, experiences write new chapters in our life stories; they become a part of who we are. A cherished memory is something that stays with someone for a lifetime.
An experience can also foster a stronger connection with a friend or family member. When an experience is shared, it forms a bond and brings people closer together in ways that objects rarely can.
For parents of small children, this means less clutter! Most homes with young families are crawling with toys, gadgets, puzzles, Legos, and the list goes on. Gifting an experience is a minimalist approach that offers just as much joy without contributing to the clutter.
So, as Christmas Day nears, and you’re searching for the perfect gift, the one that will truly resonate, ditch the shopping mall and think outside the (gift) box. Choose an experience, because moments are what matter most.
BILLINGS EXPERIENCES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
Need some help in brainstorming gift ideas? Here are some local options to add to your shopping list.
FOR KIDS
Wise Wonders Science & Discovery Museum
– Family Membership. Call 406-702-1280
ZooMontana – Family Membership. Call 406-652-8100
Children’s Art Classes – gift cards available for classes & workshops.
Email Nicole at NicoleH@childrensartclasses.com or call 406-661-2782
Other great options:
Get Air, Lava Island, and The Reef Waterpark
FOR TEENS & YOUNG ADULTS
Steepworld – Student/Youth Membership.
Email info@steepworld.com or call 406-969-2500
Wild Rose Action Center – gift cards available for paintball, splat attack gel battles, laser tag, mini-golf, and an escape room.
Email Play@WildRosePaintball.com or call 406-200-8955
Ox Indoor Axe Throwing – gift cards available.
Email info@oxthrowingsports.com or call 406-702-1299
FOR THE FAMILY
Red Lodge Mountain – lift tickets or season passes. For more info, email info@redlodgemountain.com or call (800)-444-8977
Let’s Glow Putt – gift cards available for mini-golf and arcade games. Call 406-534-1400
The Grand Escape Room – Gift vouchers Available. Email exit@grandescaperoom.com or call 406-860-8243
Oasis Waterpark – season passes available now for the summer! Email Chuck at info@billingsoasis.com or call 406-969-3131
The Flying Pickle – new pickleball courts taking over the old Costco building!
Get a membership for the whole family to enjoy. Email
Originally printed in the December 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine
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