We all know how stressful holiday gift shopping can get. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be! Gardner, Spring Hill, Paola, Lawrence, Ottawa, and nearby areas are full of amazing local spots that make it easy (and fun!) to find the perfect gifts — and you’ll be supporting our community at the same time.
Whether you’re hunting for an experience your kids will never forget, a unique treasure from a local artist, or a gift card that says, “I thought of you,” this guide has you covered.
🎁 For the Kids (and Kids at Heart)
MY Play Café – Gardner
Kansas City’s first play café combines imaginative indoor play, arts and crafts, and a cozy café for parents. Perfect for families looking for fun and memorable experiences.
Gift ideas: Play passes, memberships, and event tickets (holiday parties, crafts, character meet-and-greets).
Up & Away Indoor Play – Lawrence
A spacious indoor play area for climbing, jumping, and imaginative fun.
Gift ideas: Play passes and memberships for energetic kids.
Prime Martial Arts – Lawrence
A fun and active gift! Classes or private lessons for all ages, perfect for kids, teens, or adults interested in martial arts.
🏙️ Experience Gifts for All Ages
VR Lawrence – Lawrence
Immersive VR games and adventures for all ages — a unique way to create lasting memories.
Breakout Lawrence – Lawrence
Interactive escape rooms for families, friends, or coworkers. A thrilling and memorable adventure.
Blade & Timber Axe Throwing – Lawrence
Fun for families, friends, or coworkers — experience gift for adventurous spirits.
Sycamore Ridge Golf Course – Spring Hill
Gift the gift of a day on the green! Perfect for golf lovers looking to practice, play a round, or enjoy a lesson.
KC Watersports – Paola
Give the gift of unforgettable summer fun with KC Watersports! From wakeboarding and Aqua Park adventures to private rentals and lakeside relaxation, their holiday gift cards let recipients plan their perfect day on the water. Flexible, fun, and with no expiration, these gift cards can be used for wakeboarding, Aqua Park passes, summer camps, and more — making them an ideal gift for families, friends, or anyone who loves the outdoors. Instant delivery by email or print adds a personal touch!
Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory & Sanctuary – Louisburg
Cedar Cove is a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to caring for big cats like tigers, lions, and leopards. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, learn about conservation, and support the rescue and rehabilitation of these majestic animals. It’s an educational and memorable experience for all ages.
Gift ideas: Gift cards for tours or adoption sponsorships, perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone who loves a unique, educational outing.
🛍️ Locally-Owned Shops
The Village Shop KC – Edgerton
Unique, handcrafted items from home decor to apparel — perfect for thoughtful gifts.
Nestings Home Decor & Gifts Co. – Lawrence
Candles, ornaments, specialty cocoa, and cozy textiles.
Ruff House Paperie – Lawrence
Custom stationery, hand-lettered cards, and prints — a personal and creative gift.
Stitched by Maggie – Baldwin City
Monogrammed sweaters, tote bags, and embroidered keepsakes.
Charmed by Poppy Seed Co. – Ottawa
Custom charm bracelets to celebrate special moments — meaningful holiday gifts.
Eleanor Rose by Ashley – Gardner
Cozy sweatshirts with timeless designs for kids and adults.
Fire Lake Soapery – Paola
Handcrafted bath and body products with natural ingredients.
Holiday perk: Custom Christmas tin gift sets.
KB & Co. – Lawrence
Home decor, jewelry, and curated gift items.
Bennett's Boytique – Gardner
All-boys clothing boutique, newborn through 5T.
OllieAnne Co. – Ottawa
Custom beaded bracelets for teachers, moms, sisters, coworkers, and more.
The Pink Suitcase – Ottawa
Seasonal apparel, cozy winter items, and festive holiday gifts.
Baldwin Wax + Wick – Baldwin City
Baldwin Wax + Wick is a small-batch candle company with locations in Baldwin City and Lawrence, KS. Each candle is hand-poured with high-quality soy wax and infused with natural fragrances to create warm, inviting aromas for any space. Perfect for cozying up your home during the holidays!
Gift ideas: Hand-poured candles in seasonal scents, gift sets, and candle-making kits. These make thoughtful, fragrant gifts for friends, family, or coworkers.
Kingdom Kids Company – Paola
Handmade clothing glorifying God, supporting local and global missions.
Gift ideas: One-of-a-kind faith-based clothing for children.
💆♀️ Self-Care & Wellness
Skin Glow KC – Gardner
Advanced facials, head spa treatments, and brow/waxing services.
Gift ideas: Gift cards or curated treatment packages for a pampering holiday.
True Barre Lawrence – Lawrence
Barre and Pilates memberships or class packs — stress-relieving and wellness-focused gifts.
Bold & Beautiful with Becky – Ottawa
Press-on nails, clean beauty products, and makeup.
Holiday perk: 20% off “Dashes” press-on nails and educational popup parties.
Serenity: The Brand – Louisburg
Boutique clothing, permanent jewelry, and custom charm experiences.
Holiday perk: 12 Days of Christmas sale, Dec 12–24.
The Honey Comb Hair Studio – Spring Hill
Haircuts, color, highlights, scalp massages, and hair tinsel for holiday sparkle.
Holiday perk: 15% off when you refer a friend.
Jazzercise Gardner Studio – Gardner
High-energy fitness classes combining cardio, strength, Pilates, hip hop, yoga, and kickboxing.
Holiday perk: 2 weeks for $59, 2 months for $99 (Dec 26–Jan 31).
🍽️ Food & Drink Gifts
Uplift Baldwin – Baldwin City
Coffee gift cards, specialty beans, and retail mugs for caffeine lovers.
Homestead Kitchen & Bakery – Baldwin City
Gift cards for breakfast, brunch, or dinner — perfect cozy holiday meals.
Revive Paola – Paola
Smoothies, juices, and nutrient-packed beverages for a healthy holiday treat.
Squishingtons Candy Store – Lawrence
A sweet spot for all things candy, fudge, and nostalgic treats. Great for kids, coworkers, or anyone with a sweet tooth!
In The Works Sourdough – Spring Hill
Artisan sourdough breads and kits — thoughtful gifts for foodies.
Pop's Sweet Shop – Spring Hill
Classic and seasonal sweets — gift cards or treats for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Alexis Johnson Photography – Spring Hill
Gift cards for family portraits, first birthdays, or professional branding sessions — memories that last a lifetime.
Main St. Scoops and Sweets – Eudora
Ice cream, baked goods, and treats — gift cards for a sweet experience.
Maggie's Popcorn & Nuts – Ottawa
Gourmet popcorn and nuts — great for holiday snacking or gifts.
🎫 Gift Cards for Local Shops & Restaurants
Not sure what to get? A gift card is always a hit! Here are some local favorites:
- Hair Like A Queen – Gardner
- Orchid Brow Studio – Gardner
- The Forge Speakeasy & The Bellows – Gardner
- Groundhouse Coffee & Bakery – Gardner
- Adorned on Gold – Paola
- Rose Aesthetics – Paola
- Weaver’s Department Store – Louisburg
- Serendipity Farm & Vine – Louisburg
- Louisburg Cider Mill – Louisburg
- Au Marché – Lawrence
- The Bean – Spring Hill
- Blue Jacket Winery – Eudora
Gift cards can be paired with a personal note for a meaningful, stress-free gift for friends, family, or coworkers.
Supporting local businesses makes a huge impact in our community. Whether it’s a handcrafted gift, an unforgettable experience, or a relaxing pampering session, your holiday shopping can be both joyful and meaningful. Happy holidays from Macaroni KID Gardner-Spring Hill-Paola!
