As the holiday season fills our hearts with cheer (and our homes with clutter that somehow triples overnight), I’m thrilled to share my 12 Days of Memories campaign—because let’s be honest, the last thing any of us need is another pile of toys that will be played with for exactly 3.7 minutes before being abandoned to the void under the couch.
We’ve all been there: You spend hours (and a small fortune) finding the “perfect” gift, only to watch it get tossed aside while the kids play with the box. So, this year, I’m leaning into gifts that don’t require batteries, assembly, or three hours of deciphering incomprehensible instructions.
Experience gifts are the real MVPs of the holiday season. They don’t just keep your house from looking like an episode of Toy Hoarders—they create memories that actually last. Whether it’s a day of laughter at the trampoline park, exploring science exhibits, or feeding goats at the farm, these gifts bring joy that extends way beyond the holidays. Plus, they usually come with an added bonus for parents: worn-out kids who sleep like logs.
So, in the spirit of saving space, sanity, and maybe even the planet, I’ve rounded up 12 Days of Memories—a collection of my favorite local family experiences in the Harrisburg & West Shore area. Each one is handpicked for its ability to create laughs, learning, and connection (without a single assembly-required sticker sheet in sight).
Here’s a recap of our top picks, why we love them, and what makes them the perfect clutter-free gift this holiday season! 🎄🎁
First thing's first:
Who doesn't love a good disclaimer?
This article contains sponsored content, but let me break it down for you: no one paid me directly for this particular roundup. These are my absolute favorite experiences in our region, and all opinions are 100% my own (because let’s be honest, I can’t be bought—unless it’s for coffee and maybe a really good cupcake).
Now, full disclosure: I do have material relationships with many of these venues. What does that mean? Well, in some cases, they’ve paid for advertising elsewhere on my site. In others, they’ve given me free tickets in exchange for an honest review (spoiler: I’m still honest, even with free tickets). And in a few cases, I’ve become personal friends with the owners over the years because, frankly, their offerings are so good I couldn’t stay away.
So while there’s a bit of sponsorship in the mix, this list is pure heart—and the recommendations are as real as my love for a day of family fun (and a moment to sit down while the kids play).
🎄 #1: Paulus Farm Market
Gift Recommendation: A family membership to the Paulus FarmPark.
Why We Love It: If you’ve ever spent 30 minutes trying to convince your kid that the produce aisle isn’t a petting zoo, Paulus Farm Market is your happy place. Here, animals are the main attraction, and you don’t have to bribe anyone with snacks to engage with them. Goats, chickens, cows—they’re all waiting to meet your kids, and the best part? You don’t have to clean up after them.
For over a decade, Paulus has been a core part of our family’s seasonal adventures. From feeding goats with tiny, wobbly toddler hands to racing through the play areas, my kids have practically grown up here. The FarmPark offers something magical: a place where kids can run, explore, and pretend they’re farmers, veterinarians, or even adventurers tackling mud puddles. And let’s be honest—muddy kids are happy kids (and happy kids equal happy parents).
Seasonal events like pumpkin picking, hayrides, and sunflower strolls keep it fresh and fun year-round. But my absolute favorite part? The naps. A trip to Paulus is the kind of wholesome exhaustion that makes bedtime a breeze, and that’s worth its weight in gold.
🎄 #2: Get Air Harrisburg
Gift Recommendation: A family membership to Get Air.
Why We Love It: Get Air is like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory for kids with energy to burn—except instead of chocolate rivers, you get foam pits and trampolines (and nobody gets stuck in a pipe). Whether it’s the high-flying dodgeball games or the obstacle course that makes them feel like mini ninjas, every corner is designed to exhaust them in the best way possible.
My youngest loves Toddler Time, where he can bounce and play without fear of being squished by an enthusiastic preteen. My middle child thrives during Sensory-Friendly Hours, where the lights are lower, the noise is softer, and the staff makes sure everyone feels welcome. And let’s not forget my tween, who has declared Get Air “not lame” (high praise from someone whose default setting is eye roll).
And me? I’m the mom who loves the sightlines. From a comfy bench, I can sip my coffee while keeping an eagle eye on my herd. It’s like parenting on autopilot. Pro tip: hit it on a weekday afternoon to avoid the birthday party chaos and guarantee your spot in the Zen Mom Zone.
🎄 #3: Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts
Gift Recommendation: A membership with the ASTC Passport Program.
Why We Love It: Whitaker Center is the only place where my kids can go from building robots to watching a giant-screen movie about space without skipping a beat. It’s like a magical factory for curiosity. My oldest developed his love for science here, while my middle child has used the hands-on exhibits to hone his evil scientist skills. And my toddler? She just likes the shiny buttons and colorful lights.
What really sets Whitaker apart is the ASTC Passport Program. With a membership, you gain free or discounted access to hundreds of museums worldwide, including local gems like the Franklin Institute and the Maryland Science Center. It’s the Swiss Army knife of family memberships—versatile, valuable, and a lifesaver when the kids are climbing the walls on a Saturday morning.
Pro tip: Plan your visits strategically. Let the kids burn energy in the UPMC Science Center first, then settle them down with a giant-screen film. You’ll leave feeling like a parenting genius.
🎄 #4: Jubilee Cake Studio’s Mini Mansions
Gift Recommendation: A Mini Mansion Punch Card for 10 visits.
Why We Love It: Jubilee is where my kids’ imaginations go to run wild. It’s part play village, part dreamscape, and all fun. Picture this: my toddler playing house in a miniature rainbow mansion while my five-year-old is busy grilling invisible burgers in the retro diner. Meanwhile, my seven-year-old has commandeered the pirate ship, and my 10-year-old is—wait for it—smiling.
Each playhouse is like a scene out of a storybook, designed to spark creativity and let kids pretend they’re whoever they want to be. And the best part? I get to sit back and enjoy a few blissful moments of quiet while they immerse themselves in their imaginary worlds.
Pro tip: Pair this gift with one of their cake-decorating workshops for a double-dose of creative fun. You’ll leave with happy kids and a sugar rush you’ll just have to ride out.
🎄 #5: My Gym Mechanicsburg
Gift Recommendation: A New Member Trial Week or a Parents’ Night Out Pass.
Why We Love It: My Gym has been a parenting game-changer for my family. It’s where my kids have gone from wobbly walkers to fearless ninjas, and where I’ve gone from overwhelmed mom to one who can sit through dinner without interruption (thanks, Parents’ Night Out).
Each class is an adventure, from practicing balance on the beams to swinging through obstacle courses. The instructors are practically superheroes, managing to coax confidence out of even the shyest kids. And the birthday parties? Let’s just say my kids are still talking about the Space Flight zip line.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the chance to drop your kids off for a camp or evening event. It’s like hitting the parenting jackpot—happy kids and a much-needed break for you.
🎄 #6: Lake Tobias Wildlife Park
Gift Recommendation: Season Passes for unlimited visits.
Why We Love It: Lake Tobias is not just a zoo; it’s a safari adventure, petting zoo, and hands-on animal experience all rolled into one. It’s where my kids can go from feeding giraffes to pretending they’re explorers in a wild jungle, all without leaving Central PA.
This place is an interactive dream for kids. Instead of just peeking at animals from behind a fence, they’re actively engaged—feeding goats, petting kangaroos, and learning about reptiles during live shows. My youngest proudly declared herself the “goat whisperer” during one visit, while my seven-year-old plotted how to smuggle a baby alpaca into our minivan.
And let’s not forget the safari tour. It’s a must-do! Riding through the fields surrounded by bison, deer, and ostriches feels like stepping into a National Geographic documentary. Pro tip: Splurge on the add-on giraffe feeding experience. Watching those long necks reach down for treats is magical, and it gives you serious “cool parent” points.
Lake Tobias isn’t just a zoo—it’s an adventure that keeps kids entertained, moving, and learning. Plus, there are playgrounds and physical reset zones, which make it especially great for kids who thrive on movement and engagement.
🎄 #7: Climbnasium
Gift Recommendation: Climbing Passes or Beginner Lessons.
Why We Love It: Climbnasium is where my kids channel their inner mountain goats. It’s an indoor rock climbing gym that caters to everyone—from total newbies to seasoned climbers. The bouldering area is a family favorite since it doesn’t require equipment or experience. My kids can just climb, jump down, and start again.
For those ready to take it up a notch, the belaying area adds a layer of adventure that’s safe and thrilling. Watching my 10-year-old conquer a wall after a few tries was like seeing him scale Everest (in his mind, it probably was). The staff is amazing at teaching beginners the ropes (literally), and the equipment rentals mean you can try this hobby without a big investment.
Pro tip: Climbnasium is perfect for birthday parties or small group outings. It’s active, fun, and a fantastic way to build confidence. Just be ready for your kids to start asking when they can go back—mine haven’t stopped since their first visit.
🎄 #8: Urban Air Harrisburg
Gift Recommendation: A family membership or gift card.
Why We Love It: Urban Air Harrisburg isn’t just an adventure park—it’s the adventure park. With attractions like indoor zip-lining, aerial obstacle courses, and rock climbing walls, this place takes family fun to new heights (literally). My kids love it so much, we used to make annual pilgrimages to their Pittsburgh location before the Harrisburg one opened. Needless to say, we’re thrilled to have it in our backyard now.
Every family member finds their niche here: my toddler adores the Tubes Playground, my five-year-old practically lives on the Sky Rider, and my seven-year-old could drive go-karts for hours. Even my “too cool for fun” tween gets into the Warrior Course and climbing walls.
Pro tips: Weekdays are golden for avoiding crowds, and their School-Day Play packages on select Fridays are perfect for homeschoolers or anyone looking for a quieter experience. And don’t forget the grip socks—you’ll need them to jump, zip, and climb like a pro.
🎄 #9: Refreshing Mountain Retreat
Gift Recommendation: A Zipline Experience or Adventure Package.
Why We Love It: Refreshing Mountain Retreat is like the Swiss Army knife of family fun—there’s truly something for everyone. Whether it’s zip-lining through the trees, conquering the aerial obstacle course, or getting up close with animals like birds of prey and reptiles, this place is packed with adventure.
My kids can’t get enough of the pedal cars and farm animal enclosures, while I’m tempted every time to book a block of cabins for a full-blown family retreat. Hiking trails, playgrounds, and archery round out the offerings, making it an all-in-one destination for reconnecting with nature and each other.
Pro tip: Pack a lunch or enjoy their affordable buffet-style dining. Either way, the day will be full to the brim with activities.
🎄 #10: Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Baltimore
Gift Recommendation: Admission Passes or a Membership.
Why We Love It: Port Discovery is a children’s museum that goes above and beyond, and it’s closer than you might think. My kids adore the water room—prepare to get soaked and bring swimsuits or a change of clothes. Hitting the water room last feels like the natural end to a perfect day.
While my younger kids immerse themselves in the imaginative play areas, my tween still finds plenty to love, from interactive STEM exhibits to challenging obstacle courses. I often let him bring a friend to keep him engaged, and it works like a charm.
Pro tip: Pack a lunch! They have vending machines but no full cafe. And don’t forget to check CertifiKID for coupon codes before buying tickets.
🎄 #11: The State Museum of Pennsylvania
Gift Recommendation: A Family Membership with ASTC Passport perks.
Why We Love It: The State Museum of Pennsylvania is a hidden gem in Harrisburg. From fossils to exhibits on Pennsylvania history, it’s educational and engaging for all ages. My kids especially love the Planetarium, where stargazing indoors becomes an unforgettable experience.
The best part? The membership includes ASTC Passport access, which gets you free or discounted admission to hundreds of museums worldwide. A single visit to the Franklin Institute or Maryland Science Center can pay for the membership itself.
And don’t miss the Countdown to Noon on New Year’s Eve. It’s been a family tradition for us, and the joy on my kids’ faces as they ring in the “new year” is priceless.
🎄 #12: Carlisle Sports Emporium
Gift Recommendation: Gift Cards for games and attractions.
Why We Love It: Carlisle Sports Emporium is a whirlwind of fun that offers something for every kind of kid (and adult!). From go-karts to mini-golf to an epic arcade, it’s the ultimate place for friendly family competition.
My oldest loves the laser tag, my middle kids race each other on the go-karts, and my toddler is all about the kiddie rides. And me? I get a little too competitive on the skee-ball machines, but hey, everyone has their thing.
Pro tip: Look for their family packages to save a little cash and make the most of your visit. It’s the perfect way to end the 12 Days of Memories on a high note—literally, if you’re winning at laser tag.
 Looking for more experience ideas? Check out the comprehensive guide! |
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Disclaimer: While the ideas and the bulk of the brilliance are all mine, I confess that I enlisted the help of ChatGPT for minor edits and revisions. Why? Because AI is the friendliest grammarian I know—no red pen, no judgment, just pure, unadulterated love for a well-placed comma. So if you find any rogue semicolons or unnaturally perfect phrasing, you can thank my digital editor for that.
