These adventurous experiences push the limit!
Forget predictable presents like candles and gift cards. By the time wrapping paper clean-up is over, those things are already forgotten and gathering dust. Many of the best gifts aren’t things that come in boxes; they’re memories that last a lifetime, filled with stories worth retelling for years to come. This holiday season, skip the shopping mall chaos and the shipping deadlines, and give someone something they’ll never forget. Adventure experiences offer the chance to step outside one’s comfort zone, all while discovering a potential new hobby or thrill. Whether it’s soaring through indoor wind tunnels or hitting top speeds in luxury sports cars, here are three experiences that will transform your gift-giving game.
FOR THE ADRENALINE JUNKIE
Let loose and let iFLY deliver the authentic heart-pounding excitement of jumping from a plane but in a controlled, safe environment. The exhilarating indoor skydiving activity uses cutting-edge, vertical wind tunnel technology that creates a smooth, powerful column of air capable of suspending you in flight. The result is the pure intensity of floating weightlessly while mastering aerial maneuvers under expert instruction. Each 60-second flight provides the same thrill as a 45-second airplane free fall, but with multiple opportunities to improve and extend the adventure through various package options. The complete 90-minute session includes professional training, all necessary gear, hands-on instructor guidance and a personalized certificate, making it a comprehensive journey that beginners can safely enjoy while still satisfying the craving for extreme thrills. Plus there’s no need to worry about weather conditions; this flight is wheels-up on your timeline. A two-flight voucher starts at $113.
iflyworld.com/atlanta
@iflyus
FOR THE CAR SNOB
The Porsche Driving Experience lets automotive enthusiasts command world-class sports cars on professionally designed racing circuits. The premium program with luxury vehicles features two distinct tracks: a 1.6-mile South Track with modular configurations, and a 1.3-mile West Track handling circuit inspired by famous international driving roads. Open to drivers 21 and older with valid licenses, participants get to experience the spine-tingling roar of turbocharged engines and feel the precision of German engineering. The standard, 90-minute session begins with personalized coaching where instructors assess your objectives and introduce you to your chosen Porsche vehicle before getting behind the wheel on the track. Have a young adult driver? Consider giving them the Porsche Young Driver’s Experience that picks up where basic driver’s ed leaves off, moving into advanced road mastery through a four-hour program that teaches real-world hazard navigation and split-second decision-making on professional tracks. Rain or shine, this high-octane adventure delivers automotive thrills no showroom visit could match. A 90-minute session begins at $500, while a top-of-the-line, four-hour track experience is $3,350.
porschedriving.com/atlanta
@pecatl
FOR THE THRILL SEEKER
Children 7 and older (and adults too!) can suit up and step into a marine life habitat during the Shark & Ray Interaction at the Georgia Aquarium. The 75-minute hands-on adventure combines education with excitement as participants touch and feed the animals. You’ll learn about shark biology and their vital role in ocean ecosystems through exclusive behind-the-tank access that reveals secrets most visitors never see. This tactile experience transforms fear into fascination, making it perfect for aspiring marine biologists, adventure enthusiasts or anyone ready to conquer their bucket list. With all equipment provided—including wetsuits, towels and facilities—and a souvenir photograph to commemorate the encounter, recipients gain a deeper understanding of these predators. Whether overcoming shark phobias or fueling existing ocean passions, participants leave as newly minted advocates for these incredible animals and armed with stories that will captivate friends and family for years to come. Tickets are available online and start at $105.99.
georgiaaquarium.org
@georgiaaquarium
