Summer Birthdays are the Best! | The Ultimate Guide to Colorado Experiences

Why Summer Birthdays Are the Best: The Ultimate Guide to Colorado Experiences

Summer birthdays in Colorado offer a level of excitement that winter simply can’t match. While winter birthdays might be limited to indoor venues, summer allows for legendary pool parties and diverse outdoor adventures that make for unforgettable memories. Most kids prefer experiences over more plastic toys, and Go Explore Gift Cards provides the perfect solution by letting them choose their own adventure.

The Perks of a Summer Birthday

Having a birthday in the summer means the world is your playground. You aren’t just stuck inside; you can dive into a swimming pool or explore the natural beauty of the Front Range. Experience-based gifts are the way to go because they focus on making lasting memories rather than just adding to the toy box.

Top Outdoor Summer Experiences in Colorado

When the sun is out, these outdoor options are perfect for redeeming your Go Explore Gift Card:
 
  • Swimming at Hot Sulphur Springs Resort: Enjoy a refreshing birthday dip at this historic resort.
  • Zipline Tours & Ropes Courses: For the thrill-seekers, head to Captain Zipline in Salida for an adrenaline-pumping birthday high above the ground.
  • Mural Tours with StreetWise Arts: Take a creative walk through Boulder to see vibrant local art and murals.
  • Astronomy Tours: Spend a summer evening under the stars with a guided tour in Boulder.
  • Observing Wildlife at The Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park:  Visit up close with mountain lions, bears, elk and more in Pagosa Springs.

Amazing Indoor Experiences for Any Weather

Sometimes you need a break from the summer heat (or a quick backup plan for a Colorado afternoon storm). These indoor venues are always a hit:
 

Why Choose Go Explore Gift Cards?

Started by teachers with their own kids, Go Explore Gift Cards supports over 49 small businesses across Colorado. These cards are easy to send last-minute and allow kids to choose an experience that truly matches their interests—from escape rooms and trapeze classes to museums and theater shows.
 
So what are you waiting for?  Get out there and Go Explore!
 
 
 

Experiences as Gifts for Grads

Celebrate Their Hard Work: The Ultimate End-of-School Reward
The final school bell is about to ring!
While the days of kids proudly running home waving a physical paper report card are mostly gone, their hard work certainly isn’t.
Today, celebrating academic success looks a little different. Parents often find themselves digging through online portals and apps just to see the results of a year’s worth of effort. But just because the “big reveal” has gone digital doesn’t mean the reward should be any less exciting.
If you’re looking for the perfect school graduation gift or a way to say “congratulations on a great year,” it’s time to think outside the box.
Why Choice is the Best Reward
After a year of following schedules, finishing homework, and prepping for tests, kids crave a little bit of freedom. Giving a Go Explore Gift Card is more than just a present—it’s an invitation for them to lead the way.
By letting your child choose their own end-of-school activity, you’re giving them:
    • Autonomy: They get to pick what actually sounds fun to them.
    • Anticipation: The excitement starts the moment they begin browsing options.
    • Memories: Experiences like bowling, art classes, or adventure parks outlast any plastic toy.

Turn “Grades” into “Great Times”
Whether they aced their finals or simply showed incredible growth and resilience, they deserve a win. A GoExplore Gift Card allows them to trade their screen time for real-world fun. From local attractions to creative workshops, the power of choice makes the reward feel earned.
Exclusive Graduation Offer! 🎓
To help you kick off the summer celebrations, we have a special treat for the Class of 2026 (and every grade in between!).
Take $10 OFF any purchase of $30 or more!
    • Code: 2026GRADS
    • Expires: May 31, 2026

Shop Go Explore Gift Cards Now!
Don’t let their hard work go unnoticed just because it’s tucked away in a digital portal.
Grab a gift card today, use the discount, and let them pick the adventure that celebrates their success!
Don’t forget to check out our socials for giveaways for your grads: @GoExploreGiftCards
You might just be the lucky winner!

The “Antidote to Toy Clutter”: Why Experiences Win Every Time

Frustrated Mom & Messy Toys

It’s not too hard to notice the never-ending cycle of cleaning up messes made by your child.  Toys are great and have their place – but sometimes it’s overwhelming.  The antidote for toy clutter?  Experiences for the win – every time.

Instead of gifting kids more “stuff” – give them the opportunity to make memories.  We are partnered with kids play spaces from Parker to Loveland and many towns in between.  Spending a day at SweetPlay in Broomfield will be sure to put smiles on your kids faces.  For parents with kids that have sensory needs, we are partnered with spots like We Rock the Spectrum in Broomfield and also The Third Place in Parker.  For those seeking a latte while your kids tinker, build, create, and explore – there’s The Junkyard Social in Boulder.  Sand play in the winter?  Check out The Sand Place in Aurora.  There are so many of these spaces to check out we are sure your kids are going to find one they love.

Parents can take a load off and let kids do their thing.  Gifts don’t have to add to the stress.  Go Explore Gift Cards was created to gift experiences and to help make memories.  Searching for the “right gift” shouldn’t give you anxiety.  It should bring you joy in knowing that experiences gifts are the way to go!

Top 15 Experience Gifts Under $20

Experience Gifts in Colorado

Here are the top 15 Experience Gifts you can give kids in 2026 under $20.

Click the links to check out each experience:
  1. Open Gym – Altitude Movement – CO Springs
  2. 30 Minutes of Axe Throwing – Axe Me Out – Longmont
  3. Archery Class – Empty Quiver – Broomfield
  4. Climbing + Shoe Rental – Loveland Climbing Collective – Loveland
  5. Carousel Rides + Souvenirs – Carousel of Happiness – Nederland
  6. Selfie Scavenger Hunt – Selfie Museum – Denver
  7. 1 Hour of Open Play – Ultimate Ninjas Academy – Loveland
  8. Martial Arts Class – Dojo Source – Arvada
  9. Swimming – Hot Sulphur Springs Resort – Hot Sulphur Springs
  10. Theater Show Tickets – Reel Kids – Boulder
  11. Mural Tours – StreetWise Arts – Boulder
  12. Tour – Olympic & Paralympic Training Center – CO Springs
  13. Youth Open Play – The Picklr – Thornton
  14. Open Play – The Junkyard Social – Boulder
  15. Kids Admission – FourMile Historic Park – Denver

With all of these choices there is something for kids of all ages in all places.  We hope you make the time to check one out near you!

2026 – The Year of the Experience!

Boy with gift card experiences

It’s time to set some goals for the new year:

We know some of you parents of kids in Colorado are probably thinking: eat better, exercise more, organize things, declutter.  The list goes on and on and as parents we have to make the time and be strategic to make gains in these areas.  But it can be done!  And it can be so rewarding!  The kids are watching – and your example sets them up for success in their own goals and dreams.  Keep it up!

As for us @GoExploreGiftCards – we ask ourselves these questions:

Can we provide over 50 partnerships this year?

Can we reach new cities and towns that we haven’t yet explored?

Can we form new partnerships within the groups we want to find exposure with? (families up and down the Front Range)

Can we form new alliances with connections in the industry for charities, PTOs, fundraisers, or programs geared towards kids?

Only time will tell.  But if we set our sights high and aim for our goals then the possibilities are endless.

 

We can’t wait to share with you what we have in store for 2026!

Black Friday Sale on Experiences in Colorado

Be sure to use our code BF2025 for any and all purchases of $20 or more starting 11/15 and ending on 11/29.  You don’t want to miss out on some great savings! (up to 50%) 

These make great stocking stuffers, gifts from the grandparents for Christmas, birthdays, and for saying “Thanks” for chores, a great parent/teacher conference, or whatever small celebrations come up in their lives.  

Gift them the power to choose a fun day out for themselves, and maybe treat a friend as well.  When they take ownership over their choices, it becomes even more memorable.

We’re in the business of gifting memories, gifting experiences, and choices in your communities.  Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!

New Experiences in 2025!

Exciting New Experiences Added to Our Lineup!

At Go Explore Gift Cards, we’re always looking for fresh ways to inspire, engage, and delight our community. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce an exciting array of new experiences that promise adventure, creativity, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, explore new passions, or simply have fun, there’s something for everyone!

What’s New?

 

1. Ninja, Parkour, and Movement

Step into a world leaping, balance, coordination, and strength training.  We have 3 locations now that offer similar classes for kids of all ages.  In Colorado Springs you can visit Altitude Movement where they have an open gym for all ages to come and interact with their equipment and see what you’re made of.  Heading north to Longmont, you can find Warrior Playground.  They have a similar setup and have open gym visits and classes on offer.  Next up, we have Ultimate Ninjas Academy in Loveland that has classes for kids 9 months to 9 years as well as an open gym session to explore.  Great options up and down the Front Range!

2. Martial Arts

If you’re ready to try your hand at martial arts, look no further than the Dojo Source in Arvada or Longmont Wado-Kai in Longmont, CO.  Both of these dojos offer beginner classes and other options for kids to check out their sensei and see what martial arts can do for kids.  Not only does it increase confidence in kids but the physical benefits are unparalleled.

4. Photography

Ever feel like you just want to use your creative eye to capture something unique, fun, and shows off your sense of style?  Well pile some friends in and head to the Denver Selfie Museum for a unique approach to photography.  They have multiple themed rooms set up along with phone holders and professional lighting to help you capture those memorable moments.  They also have a Selfie Scavenger Hunt and an Escape Room on offer as well.  If you’re looking for a completely unique day out in downtown Denver, be sure to check them out! 

4. Airsoft

Maybe you’ve tried paintball before.  It can hurt right?  Paintball is still popular in its on right, but there’s a new game on the horizon and that’s airsoft.  Older kids will have fun with their friends putting on tactical gear and engaging each other in their airsoft arenas to play different games and challenge kids in all sorts of ways.  A fun and unique experience, GoAirheads in Erie, CO has got your entrance fee covered as well as rental gear through their different offers.

5. Did someone say – Pickleball?

America’s fastest growing sport is popular for a reason.  It’s fun, fast-paced, and anyone can access it.  The Picklr in Thornton, CO has a 1 hour Junior Academy class on offer to get kids into the sport.  No equipment needed.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Unique & Engaging: Our new experiences are designed to inspire and entertain.
  • Expert Guidance: Learn from professionals in a hands-on, interactive setting.
  • Great for Groups: Perfect for friends, families, and team-building events.
  • Memorable Moments: Create lasting memories with exciting and immersive activities.

Join the Fun!

Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating challenge, a creative escape, or a fun night out, our new lineup has something just for you. Visit our link to “Redeem your Gift Card” today to learn more.  https://goexploregiftcards.com/product-category/experiences/

Stay tuned for even more incredible experiences coming your way!

#ExperienceMore #NewAdventures #UnforgettableMoments

Why Do People Hold On to Gift Cards?

We’ve been making friends with the robots recently.  What I mean by that is we’ve been noticing a trend in social media and all over the internet really, where people are using services like ChatGPT more and more often to ask it questions and get immediate responses.  Some of them need an edit, of course.  But some are down-right captivating.

So we asked ChatGPT, “Why do so many people tend to hold on to gift cards rather than use them?”

But first, the backstory:  Recently I wanted to order some things from REI.  An axe, a saw, and some other supplies to throw in my summer firewood bin for car camping.  I remembered that I had a printout of a gift card we got from our wedding registry – in 2010!  This printout saying we had $100 that someone had given us to spend at REI was sitting in a drawer in my desk somewhere.  Now over the years I have been to REI countless times.  I’ve purchased many things.  But I’ve also received other gift cards from there from students and people showing appreciation in the plastic form.  I’ve used those off and on (disclaimer: I may still have 1 or 2 with money on them in my wallet as I type this).  And every year I try to spend all of my gift cards over the holiday break as a way of treating myself.  But the question still begs an answer: why do we hold on to them, potentially losing that money in the process?

This is the response we got:

There are several reasons why people tend to hold onto gift cards rather than use them right away:

  1. Indecision: They can’t decide what to buy, especially if the card is for a store with a wide range of options. They might wait for the “perfect” item.
  2. Saving for a Big Purchase: Some people hold onto gift cards to combine them with other funds for a larger purchase or a sale.
  3. Forgetfulness: Many people simply forget they have the gift card, especially if it’s not digital or easily accessible.
  4. Emotional Attachment: If the gift card was a meaningful gift, people might hesitate to use it because spending it feels like “using up” the gift.
  5. Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Physical cards can get misplaced, or digital ones might get buried in email inboxes.
  6. Lack of Need: If the gift card is for a store or service they don’t frequent, they might struggle to find something they truly want.
  7. Paralysis by Choice: Too many options can lead to decision fatigue, making them put off using the card altogether.
  8. Waiting for a Better Deal: People might hold onto gift cards, expecting future discounts, sales, or new product releases.
  9. Expiration Confusion: Some might mistakenly think they have plenty of time to use the card, even if it has an expiration date.
  10. Re-Gifting Potential: Sometimes people hold onto gift cards intending to re-gift them to someone else.

They left off by saying:  It’s a good idea to use gift cards sooner rather than later to avoid losing them or forgetting about them!

We agree with a lot of those sentiments.  Some more than others.

There are over 150 Go Explore Gift Cards out there in the Front Range of Colorado just waiting to be used.  Don’t lose that card.  There’s money on there!  Someone has given you the gift of an experience.  They want you to go and explore your own interests.  Don’t wait around. Pick an experience and make some memories.  Go Explore!

Don't lost your gift cards!

Contests, Interviews, and Holiday Happenings

It’s been a busy holiday season, to say the least.  

As a school teacher by day, you get wrapped up in kids and their excitement for the holidays.  Our own 2 middle schoolers at home are busy cementing their Christmas lists and adding on to them as well.  On the weekends we’re out promoting the gift card platform to families in the Front Range of Colorado so that they know they have options this holiday season.

We made a connection with the Buzzy B near Colorado Springs area, but really they just find great deals for Colorado residents.  They are hosting a $50 gift card giveaway at : https://kingsumo.com/g/1gg9j61/50-go-explore-gift-card-yay-shopping

Be sure to check out their Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on deals and happenings in Colorado.

One of our favorite websites, Mile High on the Cheap, your answer for all things deals and events and just great news and information for kids and families in Colorado, posted an awesome article about the business here:

https://www.milehighonthecheap.com/go-explore-gift-card-deal-sale/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHL105leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHWni44KidMRJkonyfIK4ZG6dSspagwVTIkbl8_eUYekqT1OYVvWDtHqQ5Q_aem_1KvUiHwV1WsOCN_8bLH4yQ

Dave Taylor, a Boulder resident, and trusted guy to turn to for electronic news and fatherhood advice (check out his website www.GoFatherhood.com) did a great post to his socials for us.  Thanks Dave!

Umbrella Local Heroes did an article about the business.  It was great working with Lola Beth on this one.

We sent out our fall newsletter to people who signed up.

Kids Out and About – Denver sent out a newsletter to their subscribers with a featured article about us.

Also, Macaroni Kid, your go to website for all things kids and families, posted an article for the South Denver locations, highlighting our business and giveaways.  And the Longmont/Frederick website had us sponsor their holiday guide.

It’s just been such a busy holiday, to say the least.  But it’s been an exciting time of the year!

We hope you and your family get the most out of your experiences during this magical time of the year.  When all else fails, grab the dog, get outside, bring some snacks, and find your place in the sunshine.  That’s how magical memories happen.

family day out in the snow

December Offer: Free $10 Gift Cards with a purchase of $50 or more!

This holiday season, we want families in Colorado to be aware that there’s a new platform for gift giving in town.  What better way to promote our gift cards than with free stuff, right?  So this December, if you purchase a physical or digital card of any value from $50 on up, you will automatically be sent a free $10 gift card.  Shipping is free, by the way!

Our gift cards make a great stocking stuffer for kids of all ages.  Don’t forget those teenagers as well that can be hard to shop for.  They enjoy escape rooms, axe throwing, and art classes as much as the rest of us!

Experiences make memories.  Let’s make some memories this holiday season with the gift of choice in experiences.

And when that kid comes down the block and offers to shovel your walkway – hand him or her that $10 gift card you got and tell them, “Thank you! and Happy Holidays!” and help spread the word that supporting local businesses is in the spirit of the season.

Gift Card Boulder Flatirons