20+ giftable experiences for your favorite Richmonders

We love to think our presents will be up on the mantelpiece forever. But let’s face it — some things are destined to add to our closet clutter. Check out our curated list of local giftable experiences so you can sleigh the holidays.

For the foodie

• Give them the insider experience with a meal at one of Richmond’s newest eateries, like Fanboy, Wishbone Food Shop, or Gold Lion Community Cafe.
• Test your talents in the kitchen with a hands-on cooking class at The Kitchen Classroom, Mise En Place, or The Green Kitchen.
• Take a trip of the world’s cuisines on a food-focused tour of Richmond.

For the nature lover

Photo by RICtoday

• Adopt an animal at Maymont in their name. The symbolic adoption helps to provide a healthy diet, veterinary care, enrichment activities, and habitat maintenance at the park.
• Grant them RAL Pal status by making a monthly donation in their name to Richmond Animal League. Pals also get a magnet and bumper sticker, early access to special events, and the opportunity to name one RAL dog or cat each year.
• Let their love bloom with a Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden membership.
• Make a jellyfish terrarium, wire plant art, or a moss wall at one of PlantHouse Richmond’s January workshops.

For the artist

• Gather their film-loving friends for a private movie party at The Byrd Theatre. Pro tip: Reservations include unlimited popcorn for all guests.
• Try something wheel-y new with a one-day class or workshop at Hand / Thrown.
• Explore new exhibits and enjoy other perks with a membership to the VMFA.

For the sports fanatic

Photo by Jessica Stone Hendricks Photography

• Get tickets to cheer on the Richmond Ivy in their second season at City.
• Up the Roos with season tickets to see the Richmond Kickers play at City Stadium.
• Make a date at The Diamond to watch the Flying Squirrels — whether you want to snag a season membership or a more flexible plan.
• Get the pickleball lover in your life an individual or dual membership for unlimited play at Bangers and Dinks.

For the adventurer

• Let them learn the ropes at Peak Experiences by gifting them a monthly or yearly membership.
• Take to the streets on an outdoor tour of the city.
• Become a James River Association James Changer by making a donation and volunteering together to protect our river.

For the drama lover

• “The Father: A Tragic Farce” is the latest from Richmond Shakes, coming in January to the Virginia Repertory Theatre Gym.
• Get dinner in the Arts District or Jackson Ward, then see a show at the November Theatre — “Waitress” is scheduled for this summer.
• Contribute to Richmond Triangle Players’ annual fund and grant them donor benefits including access to sneak peek events and opening night tickets.

For the lifelong student

Photo by RICtoday

• Design a walking tour of local spots on the National Register for Historic Places to go on together.
• Learn more about our history with a membership at The Valentine, Black History Museum, or VMHC.
• Schedule a visit to Historic St. John’s Church and keep an eye out for future reenactments.

We know we left some experiential ideas on the drawing room table. Share with us the experiences you’ve gifted — or would love to receive.