Parents + NYC + fun = ???

November 2, 2005 4:44 AM

I am looking for suggestions for a gift for my parents in NYC. Something for them to do together like a class or short course (1-5 classes range). Something a little offbeat is fine (although they are in their 60s so not too offbeat...) preferably in Manhattan. I have been thinking cooking but am open for most ideas.

We sent them to a wine course at Peter Kump last year and they loved it.
I do not want to give them opera, theatre or concert tickets since they get the ones that they want to see for themselves. Probably no museum things either since they can get themselves into more events than I could hope to..
I would prefer something that is not several nights in a row - once a week/month would be better.
And this is in the less than $400 range.

posted by GrumpyMonkey to society & culture (9 comments total)

How about Sherry-Lehmann/Kevin Zraly Master Wine Classes (gift certficates for a selection of individual classes) along with the book, "Windows on the World Complete Wine Course"?

Also, consider gift certificates for programs/classes at The New School.
posted by ericb at 7:33 AM on November 2, 2005

Correction: not the Master Wine Classes, but the introductory/intermediate classes.
posted by ericb at 7:39 AM on November 2, 2005

There's also culinary and wine events at the James Beard House/Foundation and related food/wine courses [PDF] at NYU.
posted by ericb at 7:42 AM on November 2, 2005

The Met museum offers some interesting art classes for adults. The Art Students League offers 3-evening and 5-evening classes in drawing, painting, clay, printmaking, sculpture.

I second the New School for cooking classes -- I've taken one myself and it was very good. Culinary Explorers also offers cooking classes.
posted by xo at 8:00 AM on November 2, 2005

How about a class at Murray's Cheese to go with the wine classes?
posted by falconred at 8:16 AM on November 2, 2005

Signature Days gift certificates. They're gift certificates for a bunch of different experiences. New York City is one of the available locations.
posted by INTPLibrarian at 8:47 AM on November 2, 2005

Last year I took a one-day glass bead making class out here in Oregon. It was the best present I ever bought for myself, I had a blast. FYI, at least in this class is was mostly women, and mostly older, and everyone had a great time.
posted by pwb503 at 9:38 AM on November 2, 2005

How about sailing lessons in the hudson river and around manhattan ?

Heres the link: http://www.sailmanhattan.com/
posted by postergeist at 9:52 AM on November 2, 2005

Argentine tango classes at Triangulo Studio in the Far West Village, on the cusp of the Meatpacking District.
posted by enrevanche at 10:14 AM on November 2, 2005