2023 Experiential Holiday Gift Guide for Southern Colorado

As the holiday season goes full swing, the quest for the perfect gift can seem daunting, but we have a few ideas to help you out. Instead of physical items that gather dust and get discarded during spring cleaning, consider the transformative power of experiential gifts. Giving experiences fosters life-long memories and strengthens personal connections to loved ones and the places we visit. From outdoor thrills to delicious meals, these gifts create lasting impressions that defy the fleeting joy of unwrapping. We’ve compiled a list of experiential gift ideas, offering a unique and thoughtful approach to celebrating the spirit of giving this holiday season. Discover the joy of gifting moments that linger in hearts long after the festivities fade away.

Outdoor Experiences

Falconry Lesson

Broadmoor Outfitters 

A falconry lesson offers the rare opportunity to experience the thrill of working with majestic birds of prey. The lesson begins with a flying demonstration and an opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of this sport. You'll interact with various captive-bred, trained birds, including owls, falcons, and hawks. You can hold a trained hawk on your fist after learning the appropriate techniques from Broadmoor Outfitters' professional guide. This lesson is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Zipline Tour

Colorado Adventure Center 

Are you ready for an adventure that will get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping? Look no further than the Colorado Adventure Center, where you can experience one of the state's most thrilling zip line rides. Soar through the air over Clear Creek and the surrounding canyons, taking in breathtaking views at up to 40 mph speeds. With eight consecutive zip lines, including the longest one boasting a quarter mile of flight time, this is an adventure you won't soon forget. Suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to the most seasoned thrill-seekers, as long as you meet the height and weight requirements.

Cruise a Trail on a Fat Bike

Routes Outfitter 

Riding a fat tire bike on a trail is an exhilarating experience, as the oversized, knobby tires effortlessly navigate diverse terrains. The plush ride cushions bumps, providing a smooth and stable journey. With enhanced traction, these bikes conquer sandy stretches and snowy paths, offering a sense of adventure and control that adds a thrilling dimension to the trail-riding experience. Rent a bike and all needed equipment for four hours or a week from Routes Outfitter. 

Indoor Experiences

Looking for an experience that’s not at the mercy of Colorado’s sporadic weather? We’ve got you over with these memorable experiences.

Indoor Rock Climbing

CityROCK

At CityROCK, you'll find a team of friendly staff who believe that climbing is about more than just reaching the top of the wall. They're dedicated to creating a sense of community and helping you improve your skills while having fun and forging lasting connections. Whether you're an experienced climber or a complete newbie, CityROCK welcomes everyone to their vertical playground—ages 2 to 102. So why not discover the thrill of climbing, challenge yourself, and make new friends along the way?

Culinary Adventure

Fuel & Iron Food Hall

The first food hall of its kind in Pueblo, Fuel & Iron Food Hall is a unique collection of independent, chef-driven restaurants passionate about using locally sourced ingredients in their dishes. Their chefs take pride in supporting the local community by partnering with local farmers and suppliers to bring the freshest and highest quality ingredients to your plate. They prioritize using ingredients grown and harvested within our region whenever possible. By doing so, they not only support local farms, ranches, and businesses and reduce their environmental impact but also ensure guests enjoy the most flavorful and authentic dishes possible. Purchase a gift card or take your loved ones to Fuel & Iron Food Hall and experience the delicious taste of locally sourced ingredients!

Book a Staycation 

Kinship Landing

Indulge in a rejuvenating staycation at Kinship Landing, where each guest room is a curated masterpiece, reflecting a blend of luxury and personality. From Scandinavian minimalism to contemporary chic, this retreat offers a bespoke experience. Unwind in style, surrounded by distinctive charm, making every moment of your stay truly exceptional.

Gear Up to Get Out

Need gear for yourself or a loved one for your experiential gift? We have a couple of recommendations for that, too.

MER (Mountain Equipment Recyclers)

Gear up without breaking the bank. Mountain Equipment Recyclers is a retail and consignment outdoor gear store selling new and used high-quality outdoor equipment located in Colorado Springs, CO. Gear includes camping, backpacking, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, cycling, running, climbing, fly fishing, canoes/kayaks, and many other outdoor activities associated with beautiful Colorado. To top it off, 100% of MER’s net profits support charitable causes in the Pikes Peak region.

SCHEELS 

An experience in and of itself, SCHEELS includes attractions such as aquariums, arcade games, and their famous Ferris wheel, but more importantly, they have a vast selection of gear or all kinds of sports to help you get ready for your next adventure. SCHEELS is an employee-owned, privately held business that also gives back to the local community by supporting local nonprofits—including Palmer.

Disclaimer: Many of the businesses included in this post are Palmer Business Members.