This guide is all about helping families in Columbia, TN and Spring Hill find meaningful gifts for kids, including both local experience gifts and high quality physical gifts from nearby shops.
Every year, the holiday gift question seems to start earlier and earlier. What should we get for Christmas? Parents ask it. Grandparents ask it. And often the honest answer is that the house already feels full. Kids have so many things, and adding more at Christmas can feel unnecessary. That is why experience gifts stand out. They give families time together, memorable activities, and something to look forward to long after Christmas morning.
And when physical gifts are part of the plan, choosing items you can trust for their quality, materials, and purpose feels far better than simply adding another toy to the pile. Thoughtful choices, whether experiences or meaningful items, matter during a season that already brings so much “stuff.”
Local options for both experience gifts and physical gifts play an important role in supporting small businesses. Shop owners pour their time, resources, and energy into creating something valuable for this community. Their products and services are intentional, family centered, and chosen with care. Without them, Columbia and Spring Hill would not be the same. And while it is easy and convenient to click and ship from big retailers, choosing gifts from nearby shops helps keep our community strong.
This guide will continue to grow as more local businesses share their details. Several are still getting back to me, and new gift options will be added as they come in. If you know of a place that should be included, I would be grateful to hear about it. Updates will continue throughout the season so this guide reflects as much of our community as possible.
Together, these ideas offer thoughtful gifts, lasting experiences, and opportunities to support the people who call this area home.
Jump to:
- Experience gifts for kids
- Local shops offering children’s gifts
- Final thoughts and community support
Experience Gifts for Kids
These local businesses offer experience gifts that create memories long after Christmas morning. Many of them provide multiple options and price tiers, making it easy to find something that fits your budget. Several also allow you to purchase a membership or package now and start it later, so the gift begins when the family is ready. From art studios and play spaces to creative classes and memberships, these options give families meaningful experiences without adding more clutter to the house.
aMuse’um Children’s Museum Gift Cards
Location: 123 West 7th Street, Columbia, TN
Description: Gift cards to aMuse’um can be purchased in any amount and make a wonderful experience gift for families with young children. Families can use gift cards toward daily admission or apply them toward a yearly membership. Memberships include unlimited free admission, discounts on general admission for accompanying guests, discounted admission to select museum events, and reciprocal benefits on select levels that offer reduced admission to more than 200 participating children’s museums nationwide.
Cost:
- Two of Us Membership: $100 per year
- Family Membership: $125 per year
- Family Plus Membership: $150 per year
- Grandparent Membership: $175 per year
About: aMuse’um is a hands-on children’s museum designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and imaginative play for kids up to age 8. The museum focuses on offering big opportunities for learning within a small-town, welcoming environment that encourages kids to think, learn, and create.
Website: https://www.amuseumcolumbia.com/
Note: aMuse’um is also included in the section below for curated physical gifts available in their museum shop.
Discovery Gymnastics Gift Certificates
Location: 1943 Union Place, Columbia, TN 38401
Description: Discovery Gymnastics offers giftable experiences including Parents Night Out events, Open Play sessions, and the option to apply gift certificates toward memberships or classes. The gym serves children from 18 months through the teen years with a wide range of programs that include preschool and recreational gymnastics, ninja classes, tumbling, competitive team options, and summer day camps.
Cost: Pricing varies by program
About: Discovery Gymnastics was created to share a love for gymnastics and fitness with children and teens. The gym provides a safe, fun, and encouraging place for kids to discover new skills and grow with confidence. Their instructors are known for being warm, knowledgeable, and committed to helping each child develop at their own pace while building a lifelong love of movement.
Website: https://www.discoverygym.com/portal/gift-certificates
First Notes Music Gift Options
Location: Two convenient locations to choose from
• Columbia Dance Academy, 1412 Trotwood Ave Ste 17, Columbia, TN 38401
• Elevate Dance Studio, 3525 Kedron Rd Ste 7, Spring Hill, TN
Description: First Notes Music offers developmentally appropriate music and movement classes for ages 0 to 5, including Mixed Ages classes for children 0 to 5 and Babies Only classes for infants 0 to 8 months. Each 45 minute class blends singing, rhythm play, movement, and simple instruments in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Families receive an illustrated songbook, digital music access through the Music Together app, and materials that support music making at home. Winter session classes begin in January and feature the Sticks Song Collection.
Cost: Gift cards can be used toward class tuition, which varies by program
About: First Notes Music is the only program of its kind in the Columbia, Spring Hill, and Thompson’s Station areas, offering research supported early childhood music education that nurtures connection, confidence, and developmental growth. Classes create a welcoming, playful environment where families can explore music together through singing, movement, and hands on musical play.
Website: http://firstnotesmusic.com
Kids Fun City Gift Cards and Memberships
Location: 1301 S James Campbell Blvd Suite 3, Columbia, TN 38401
Description: Kids Fun City is an indoor children’s playground offering a safe, clean, and engaging space for kids to climb, explore, and play. Gift cards can be purchased in amounts from $50 to $300 and may be used for day passes or applied toward a membership. The facility features multi-level play structures, interactive games, and sensory activities, making it a fun option for open play, special events, or birthday celebrations.
Cost: Gift cards and memberships available
- Gift cards: $50 to $300
- Membership: $300 and includes discounted visits, credits that never expire, free entry for infants attending with siblings, and walk-in access
About: Kids Fun City provides a bright, welcoming, and safety-focused environment that encourages movement, imaginative play, and sensory exploration. Children can enjoy active play while parents have peace of mind in a clean, well-maintained space.
Website: https://www.kidsfuncitycolumbia.com/
Love Rae Grace Boutique Experience Gift Options
Location: 5075 Main St D2, Spring Hill, TN 37174
Description: Gift cards can be used for several hands-on experiences that kids can personalize. These options are creative, memorable, and make a fun outing-based gift for kids who enjoy designing their own style.
- Hair tinsel is typically best for ages 3 and up and is safe, gentle, and non damaging. Kids can wash, brush, curl, and style their hair normally.
- Charm Bar jewelry making is recommended for ages 3 and up with parent help and lets kids design necklaces, bracelets, earrings, keychains, Bible charms, and more.
- Denim Patch Bar is usually great for ages 5 and up, though younger kids can participate with parent help. Kids can bring a jacket or purchase one in the shop and customize it with patches.
Cost: Varies by service
About: Love Rae Grace is a Spring Hill boutique centered around interactive, confidence building fashion experiences. The shop offers curated clothing and jewelry, kid friendly gift items like affirmation cards, busy idea cards, lunchbox notes, and small accessories, as well as a party room for children’s birthdays and creative celebrations. They also host the weekly Mom and Me Club on Tuesdays for moms and their preschool age and younger kids with snacks, coffee, parachute play, sensory toys, coloring, and space to connect.
Website: http://loveraegrace.com
Maddy’s Playhouse Gift Options
Location: 2001 Campbell Station Parkway, Suite C12, Spring Hill, TN
Description: Families can gift a standalone Month Membership that includes unlimited play with no auto renew and no contract. The membership begins when the recipient visits for the first time. Maddy’s Playhouse also offers one time Open Play Passes that allow children to play as long as they like during a single visit.
Cost:
- One Month Membership for 1 child: $65.85 including tax
- One Month Membership for 2 children: $131.70 including tax
- One Month Family Membership for 3 or more children: $175.60 including tax
- One Time Open Play Pass: $16.46 per child including tax
About: Maddy’s Playhouse is a local space designed for babies, toddlers, children, and the grownups who love them. It offers a safe and clean environment with a dedicated toddler area, giving families a nearby place to play, connect, and grow without long drives or disrupted nap schedules. The play structure encourages movement and creativity and is suitable for children from newborn through age 10.
Website: https://www.maddysplayhouse.com
Marigold Bread Co Gift Options
Location: Columbia, TN
Description: Marigold Bread Co offers hands-on baking classes that kids and parents can enjoy together. The upcoming Mom and Me Baking Classes are generally geared toward ages 3 and up and include 1.5 hours of baking, decorating, and tasting. Families make sourdough chocolate chip cookies and sourdough sugar cookies using dye free icing and sprinkles, and each participant takes home a half dozen cookies created in class. These sessions offer a sweet and memorable experience for kids who love to help in the kitchen.
Cost: Gift cards can be used toward baking classes and workshops, with pricing varying by class
About: Marigold Bread Co is owned by China, a local baker who prepares organic sourdough baked goods including breads, cinnamon rolls, cookies, and muffins. She also offers beginner sourdough workshops for adults that include take home dough, a mixing bowl, spatula, bread lame, sourdough starter, and access to her beginner’s guide. Everything is made with care and high quality ingredients, creating a warm and welcoming experience for both children and adults.
Website: https://www.hotplate.com/marigoldbreadco
Par4 Virtual Golf Gift Cards
Location: 421 W 7th Street, Columbia, TN 38401
Description: Gift cards to Par4 Virtual Golf make a fun, flexible experience gift for families, especially during the holidays when seasonal gift card sales are available. Gift cards can be used toward hourly play in either of Par4’s two self-service bays, featuring ProTee VX launch monitors and GS Pro software with more than 400 courses, themed games like Candy Land and dinosaur adventures, putt putt challenges, and kid-friendly practice modes. The space is suited for kids ages 2 and up, though younger children will need adult assistance. Each bay accommodates up to six players at one flat rate, making it an easy choice for families. Gift cards can also be used toward memberships that offer 24/7 access and booking discounts or applied toward private facility rentals for birthday parties and special events.
Cost:
- Off-Peak Hours (8am to 4pm): $30 per hour for up to 6 players
- Peak Hours (4pm to midnight): $40 per hour for up to 6 players
About: Par4 Virtual Golf is a family-friendly entertainment space that blends virtual golf, creative themed games, multiplayer challenges, and flexible play options in a weatherproof environment. With memberships, private rentals, and hourly bookings, it offers a unique play experience for both kids and adults.
Website: https://www.par4virtualgolf.com/
TN Art Yard Gift Options
Location: 5337 Main Street, Spring Hill, TN 37174
Description: Families can give the gift of hands-on creativity with a TN Art Yard gift card or play pass. Gift cards are available in any denomination and can be used toward classes, camps, and art play sessions. Play passes offer a discounted set of art play visits and are ideal for families who enjoy returning throughout the season. Parent and child art classes begin at 18 months. Art Play sessions are designed for ages 2 and up and are parent assisted, child led, and offered as drop in options so families can participate without committing to a full class series.
Cost: Gift cards are available in any amount. Play pass pricing varies based on the number of sessions included.
About: TN Art Yard is a process-focused art studio where children learn through hands-on exploration. Each class is student led and centered on creativity, experimentation, and open-ended learning. Kids can explore sensory stations, a play dough table, a makers space, a painting room, and a variety of ever-changing materials curated to spark imagination and creative thinking. The studio is designed to be a place where children can make messes, try new ideas, and connect with one another in a positive, uplifting environment.
Website: https://www.tnartyard.com
Villages Clubhouse Holiday Gift Packages
Location: 1127 S High St, Columbia TN 38401
Description: Give the gift of play with a Villages gift package. Each holiday package includes unlimited open play and full access to the toy library for the length of the package. Families can purchase a gift card in the amount that matches the package they want to give. The recipient can redeem it whenever they choose and start their membership on any future date that works best for them. Customized gift graphics are available for anyone who wants a more personal presentation when gifting.
Cost: Multiple package options are available to suit different budgets, including:
- 1 Month Package: $50
- 2 Month Package: $100
- 3 Month Package: $150
- 5 Pack Play Pass also available
About: Villages Clubhouse is home to Villages Child Development, Firefly Garden Club and Blue Gene Books. It is a warm, welcoming, and inclusive space for young children and their families to play, learn, and connect. Villages offers in-home therapy services from birth to age 5, while the Clubhouse offers open play sessions, baby play, developmental playgroups, a toy library, seasonal workshops/events & support groups.
Website: https://www.villageschilddevelopment.com/gift-card
Shining Light Gymnastics Open Play & Open Ninja Passes
Location: 4008 Parkfield Loop N, Spring Hill, TN 37174
Description: Shining Light Gymnastics offers Open Play and Open Ninja passes for children ages 6 and under. These passes can be purchased online and may work as a gift option for families who enjoy active indoor play, though it is not fully clear whether they are designed to be gifted. Open Play and Open Ninja sessions give young children a safe space to climb, jump, and explore through movement based play. Single visit passes, multi-visit bundles, and unlimited monthly or yearly access are available.
Cost:
- Single Day Pass: $10
- 5-Pass Pack: $40
- 10-Pass Pack: $70
- Family 10-Pass Pack: $80
- Monthly Unlimited: $40 per month
- Yearly Unlimited: $480
If you plan to use passes as a gift, consider contacting Shining Light Gymnastics directly to confirm how their online pass system works for gifting.
About: Shining Light Gymnastics provides a welcoming and encouraging environment where young children can build coordination, confidence, and strength through active play. Their Open Play and Open Ninja options offer safe, structured opportunities for movement and exploration.
Website: https://www.shininglightgym.com
Local Shops Offering Kids Gifts
These local shops offer high quality physical gifts for kids, including books, toys, clothing, creative kits, and meaningful items chosen with care. Shopping locally gives families the chance to receive personalized help from business owners who know their products and truly care about the families they serve. These stores are run by people who live in our community, understand what local families need, and intentionally choose items that reflect those values. Supporting them keeps our community strong and helps preserve the character that makes Columbia and Spring Hill such special places to raise children.
aMuse’um Children’s Museum Toy Shop
Location: Available in-store at aMuse’um Children’s Museum (123 West 7th Street, Columbia, TN)
What You’ll Find: The aMuse’um toy shop offers a curated selection of high quality gifts for babies, toddlers, and young children. Families will find magnetic games, puzzles, puppets, imaginative play sets, and beautifully made toys that support creativity, storytelling, and hands-on learning. Featured brands include Crocodile Creek, The Puppet Company, and Hape, with options across a wide range of ages and budgets.
About: aMuse’um Children’s Museum is dedicated to helping kids think, learn, and create through hands-on play. Their toy shop reflects this mission with educational toys and activities chosen for their quality, creativity, and developmental value.
Website: https://www.amuseumcolumbia.com
Baxter’s Mercantile of Columbia
Location: 808 South Garden Street, Columbia, TN 38401
What You’ll Find: Baxter’s Mercantile is a kid friendly gift shop located just off the downtown square. Families will find a wide variety of children’s toys and gifts including old world and vintage toys, 3D printed creatures and animals, crochet toys, blankets, and critters, children’s clothing and hair bows, children’s jewelry, candy, and even magic supplies for aspiring magicians. The shop also carries Christmas ornaments, figurines, décor, and plenty of seasonal surprises. Kids are encouraged to explore, and the store offers free gift wrapping along with shopping assistance for children picking out gifts for family and friends.
About: Baxter’s Mercantile is a locally loved shop known for its warm, whimsical atmosphere and its commitment to supporting local makers. The store features Rocky’s Ice Cream Candy and Soda Shop, serving ice cream made in Chapel Hill by Nash Family Creamery. With its mix of nostalgic toys, handmade items, candy, and holiday charm, Baxter’s Mercantile is a one stop shop for Christmas gifts for both kids and adults.
Website: https://www.baxtersmercantileofcolumbia.com/
Blue Gene Bookshop
Location: Available online and locally at Villages Clubhouse
What You’ll Find: Blue Gene Bookshop offers a unique collection of children’s books for ages 0 to 10, including board books, picture books, early readers, and thoughtfully illustrated stories. Each title is intentionally selected for quality, creativity, and meaningful storytelling. Custom recommendations are always welcome for families looking for a special read or a book chosen specifically for a child’s interests.
About: Blue Gene Bookshop is named after the owner’s beloved grandmother, Gene, and is rooted in a deep love of children’s literature. Every book is chosen with care and purpose, focusing on stories that spark imagination, connection, and joy. The shop offers a warm, personal approach to helping families discover books they will treasure for years to come.
Website: https://bluegenebooks.com
Bumblebee Bins
Location: Available online and locally at Villages Clubhouse
What You’ll Find: Bumblebee Bins creates themed sensory playdough bins and jars designed for kids 18 months and older. Each set features homemade, non toxic playdough paired with thoughtfully chosen loose parts that encourage imaginative, calming, and open ended play. Bins make great gifts for toddlers and preschoolers, while jars are perfect stocking stuffers. Subscription options are also available and make an excellent recurring gift that keeps playtime fresh throughout the year. Custom requests are welcome.
About: Bumblebee Bins is a local small business built around the idea of offering families “the gift of peace through creative play.” Each bin and jar is created with intention, focusing on hands-on exploration, creativity, and sensory learning.
Website: https://bumblebeebins.com
Duck River Books
Location: 12 Public Square, Columbia, TN 38401
What You’ll Find: Duck River Books is a locally owned bookstore offering a curated selection of new and used books for all ages. Families will find a dedicated children’s section toward the back of the shop with titles ranging from Little Golden Books to chapter books for older kids and teens. Seasonal books are displayed at the front of the store and highlighted again within the children’s area, making it easy to browse festive picks during the holidays. Their online shop offers additional browsing options and makes it simple to order gifts or check availability.
About: Duck River Books opened in 2012 after the owners were inspired during a visit to the Library of Congress. They relocated to Columbia with the goal of building a neighborhood bookshop rooted in community and connection. The store’s name honors the Duck River, an important ecological landmark in Maury County, and reflects their belief that bookstores nourish a community much like a river sustains the land around it. Today, Duck River Books continues to serve as a welcoming spot for book lovers of all ages.
Website: https://shop.duckriverbooks.com/
Lily Jane
Location: 40 Public Square, Columbia, TN 38401\
What You’ll Find: Lily Jane is a children’s boutique in downtown Columbia offering thoughtfully curated gifts, clothing, toys, books, and accessories for babies through young kids. Families will find high quality apparel, storybooks, puzzles, plush toys, and baby essentials, with many items available for online purchase and local shipping. The shop also welcomes special orders for those looking for something specific.
About: Lily Jane was originally founded in 2008 and named in honor of the founding owner’s grandmother. Today it continues to carry forward that legacy by offering meaningful, well chosen gifts that celebrate childhood and support families in the community. The boutique’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and curated selection make it a favorite stop for baby gifts, birthday surprises, and seasonal items.
Website: https://www.lilyjanecolumbia.com/
Needle & Grain
Location: 802 S Main St, Columbia, TN 38401
What You’ll Find: Needle & Grain offers a thoughtfully curated selection of children’s books, puzzles, wooden toys, Cuddle and Kind dolls, Maileg toys, kids’ accessories, and Quincy Mae apparel. The shop also features a refill station with home cleaning products and hosts bi-weekly storytimes for families. Items can be purchased online or in-store, with local pickup available. The team is always happy to special order items or bring in new product lines based on customer interest.
About: Needle & Grain is a handmade home goods business rooted in family tradition and purposeful living. What began as a small effort to preserve quilting and woodcraft has grown into a mercantile focused on meaningful, long-lasting goods for families. Their philosophy centers on intentional choices that support your home, health, wellbeing, and finances. Every item in the shop is selected with care and purpose, reflecting a commitment to serving the community with products they use and love themselves.
Website: https://needleandgrain.com
Sew Chique Embroidery
Location: Available online with local pickup in Columbia, TN (website, Instagram, and Facebook ordering)
What You’ll Find: Sew Chique Embroidery offers personalized embroidered gifts for babies and kids, including holiday shirts, spirit wear, birthday outfits, name tees, and other custom clothing and accessories. Each item is made with high quality materials and stitched with care, creating meaningful gifts for Christmas, birthdays, and special occasions. Custom orders are welcome.
About: Sew Chique Embroidery is a small, faith-rooted business based in Columbia that specializes in thoughtful, personalized pieces designed to help families celebrate memories and milestones. Every order is created with intention, offering families unique, custom embroidered items their children will treasure.
Website: https://www.sewchiqueembroidery.com
Why Supporting Local Matters
Choosing gifts for kids does not have to feel overwhelming. Whether you prefer experience gifts that create memories or high quality items from local shops, Columbia and Spring Hill offer plenty of options that families can trust. Supporting these businesses keeps our community strong and gives children gifts that feel meaningful long after the holidays.
And as more brick and mortar shops have closed in recent years, it feels more important than ever to support the places that remain. These local businesses are part of what makes this community feel like home, and every purchase helps keep them here for the families who love them. No matter which direction you choose, these local ideas make Christmas shopping easier, more intentional, and rooted right here where we live.
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