These experiences make perfect gifts and create lifelong memories

Buying for someone who has everything? We’ve rounded up some ultra-local, unforgettable experiences that go outside the (literal) box. 

Give the gift of outdoor adventure with a gift card to Country Pirate Rentals. The outfitter specializes in  kayaking, tubing, canoeing and paddle board adventures that explore the postcard-perfect waterways in Bedford County. 

Indulge in next-level self care with Aesthetics by Kell. Working with a physician, the spa offers Botox, filler and microneedling, along with chemical peels and IV hydration and vitamin cocktails. In addition to aesthetics services, the spa will carry high-end skincare from independent brands and women-owned companies along with a custom skincare created in house. 

Buying for an outdoor enthusiast? Journeyman Hammocks, created in Blair County, offer three-season, warmth and comfort for outdoor sleep. This company just won Ben Franklin’s People’s Choice award for their innovative design — see it for yourself here!

Buy an international dining experience at Lifestyle NextDoor, located in downtown Bedford. The menu boasts a variety of healthy, sustainable fare including grain bowls, creative salads, toasts and homemade pastas. NextDoor also offers a full service La Colombe café and cold pressed juice bar. This is the place to gather and connect. The vibe is unique and tangible which must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

Start out the New Year with new fitness goals at Johnstown’s Natural Fit, an all-female gym that offers small, class-based instruction aimed at personal wellness. The gym is a supportive environment to help everyone feel comfortable while reaching all of their health and fitness goals, whether just starting out, or ready to push to the next level.

Food trucks combine adventure with innovative food, and we’re here for it. Head out to Huntingdon County and try Australian goodies at The Tuckerbox (ask Joanne about her airport meetup that led her from the Land Down Under to Central Pennsylvania!). Check out the sweets and drinks offerings at Chow Korral and track down cult favorite Rebelz Mobile Cuisine, which can be spotted just about anywhere from Beaver Stadium to Juniata College to 814 Cidery. Wherever you’ll find them is sure to be a fun outing with inventive, delicious food. 

Find more gifts in the Alleghenies here!

Shop local for everyone on your list! Alleghenies makers and small businesses offer unique gifts and experiences that you won’t find in big box stores. Here is a county-by-county guide to get you started.

Huntingdon offers all-local, customizable gift boxes this season. Buying for someone in Huntingdon County? Giving a local, personalized and thought-filled gift just got easier.

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.