Give the Gift of Staunton Experiences and Classes 

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(Published 12/15/2022)

Are you trying to find a Christmas gift for someone who has everything? Or someone who complains about having too much stuff? Why not give them an experience or class instead? Experiences can seem more personal and lead to richer, longer-lasting memories. They can help the recipient stretch boundaries, meet new people, and learn new skills. From art classes to sports and more, here are some Staunton experiences worth gifting. 

Art Experiences

Art Classes at Beverley Street Studio School 

Another good way to hone artistic skills is to sign up for an art class at Beverley Street Studio School. Intensive studio class series in drawing from observation, watercolors, and other types of painting are led by instructors who provide personalized instruction for all students. Artists can also participate in one-day workshops on a variety of topics like figure drawing and vitreous enamel. If you’d rather focus more on art theory and history, check out upcoming lectures on Renaissance Venice, Impressionism, and more.

Wisdom, Watercolors, and Wine at Yelping Dog

Earn a wine certificate from BRCC with the spring Wines of the World series. Classes on wines from different regions are held on Monday nights at Yelping dog, and you can join for your favorites or the entire series. Check the Yelping Dog calendar for future artist-led paint and sip nights. Help your giftee channel an inner artist (with the help of delicious wine, of course).

Arts ‘n Drafts at Redbeard

Redbeard Brewing Company offers another chance to get artsy with its monthly Arts ‘n Drafts workshops. Led by local artists, the workshops give step-by-step instructions for completing projects like seasonal paintings and floral creations. You can, of course, enjoy Redbeard’s tasty craft brews while you create your masterpieces.

Burrow and Vine Events

You’ll love browsing the inventory at Burrow and Vine for gifts and for making your own nest more comfortable. This new store offers beautiful plants and accessories to create a peaceful vibe. There’s even a lot for the non-green-thumb crowd, including pillows and throws, barware, candles, and more. Sign up for upcoming yin and vinyasa yoga classes, or a craft class like making your own holiday ornament.

Sunspots Studio

The glass ornaments from Sunspots Studios aren’t just for Christmas trees. In fact, they’re cool enough to earn a permanent spot in your window. Why not send your adventurous friend to the studio at Sunspots for a behind-the-scenes experience? Under the instruction of a master, your friend can feel the heat of molten glass as they color and shape their own work of art. Shopping for a couple? Two-gether Forever is a shared experience that combines breaths.

A Night at the Theater

Give the gift of the theater with tickets to a show at the Blackfriars Playhouse. This recreation of Shakespeare’s theater will delight audiences with two shows this spring: As You Like It and Euridice 2023. You can also make reservations for tours of the playhouse. People taking the tour learn the history of the original theater and the actors who worked there. 

Active Fun

Lessons with the Golf Pro

If you have a budding golfer on your gift list, get them some golf lessons with the pro at Gypsy Hill Golf Course. Lessons can be purchased by the hour, and membership prices for adults and youth are some of the lowest around. This tough, hilly course rewards players with wonderful views of Staunton.

Trips and Classes with Parks and Recreation 

Staunton Parks and Rec puts out a seasonal schedule of classes, activities, and trips. You’ll find cooking classes for kids, trips, caving, archery, chess, pickleball, and more.

Clue-Cracking with Friends

Did you know Crack the Code Escape Room offers gift vouchers? They’re perfect for your friends who love sleuthing, group collaboration, problem-solving, and a great mystery story. Your friend can then schedule a time and pick from five different adventures.

YMCA Classes

The Staunton-Augusta YMCA is a great place to work out and swim. They also have regularly scheduled class sessions of yoga, Zumba, barre, water aerobics, spinning, and more that can all members can attend. If you’re not a member, you can purchase passes for classes. Kids can try their hands at a variety of sports like tennis, swimming, basketball, and boxing. While the price is a little higher for nonmembers, anyone can attend.

Impressive New Skills

The Virginia Institute of Blacksmithing (Waynesboro) offers a rotating schedule of weekend blacksmithing workshops for smiths of all experience levels. Learn to create grill tools, knives, hatchets, hone your welding skills, and bond with others over a shared learning experience.

Annual Pass to the Frontier Culture Museum

There’s something new and exciting everyday at the Frontier Culture Museum. If you want to give something unique to that special someone give them an annual pass to the museum. In addition to unlimited entry into the museum, the Annual Pass also gives passholders 10% off in the Museum store. Passes are also good for all special events at the museum with the exception of Oktoberfest and Lantern Tours!

Winter Wonderland

You can purchase gift certificates for ice skating and skate rentals at Bridgewater’s Generations Park. If your intended gift recipient is more into the slopes, get them a gift card for Massanutten Resort. Not only can they use it for skiing and snowboarding, but it can also apply to lodging, the waterpark, dining, and much more.