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Short answer: The best gifts for the whole family get everyone together: a portable projector for movie nights, a game like Ticket to Ride or Codenames, a Skylight Calendar for busy schedules, a Ninja CREAMi, a LEGO set to build together or a fire pit for the backyard.
A family gift should work for every age in the house and get people off their own screens. Movie nights, game nights and backyard time are all great themes. Here are our picks, sorted by type. For more gifts around $300, see our 35 great gifts around $300.
How we chose: This is a researched shopping guide, not a hands-on product test. Every pick comes from products we researched for our full Masters of Gifts gift guides, and prices shown are the ones we last checked. Prices change, so check the retailer before you buy. Our editorial standards explain how we research every list.
Movie and game nights
Gifts that bring everyone to the couch.
Nebula Capsule 3 portable projector
For the movie lover in a small apartment who'd rather project a big screen on the wall than buy a TV.
Amazon price: $399.99 (checked October 27, 2026)
Ticket to Ride board game (2025 refresh)
For a family strategy game that's easy to learn. Players build train routes across North America.
Amazon price: $39.99 (checked October 27, 2026)
Codenames board game, 2nd edition
A team word-guessing game for game nights.
Amazon price: $24.97 (checked October 27, 2026)
At home together
Gifts for the whole household.
Skylight Calendar 15-inch
A wall calendar that everyone in the family can add appointments and plans to from their phones.
Amazon price: $299.00 (checked October 27, 2026)
Ninja CREAMi XL Deluxe Gen 2 ice cream maker
For the dessert lover who'd have fun turning frozen bases into ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and milkshakes.
Amazon price: $249.99 (checked October 27, 2026)
LEGO Ideas Home Alone McCallisters' House
For the holiday-movie fan who'd love a detailed build of the famous house, booby traps included.
Amazon price: $299.99 (checked October 27, 2026)
Outside together
Fun for the backyard or park.
Solo Stove Yukon 2.0 fire pit with stand
For the family that gathers around the fire. This extra-large fire pit is designed to cut down on smoke.
Amazon price: $494.99 (checked October 27, 2026)
Spikeball 3-ball set
For backyard, beach, and park games with friends. It packs into a bag and sets up in a minute.
Amazon price: $74.99 (checked October 27, 2026)
Wise Owl Outfitters camping hammock
For backyard naps and camping trips. It includes tree straps and packs into a small bag.
Amazon price: $29.91 (checked October 27, 2026)
Skip this
A few family gifts tend to miss.
- Games that are too complex. Pick games every age can play.
- Gifts that only one person uses. A family gift should work for everyone.
- Big items without asking. Check that they have space for large items like fire pits.
Family gift FAQ
What is a good gift for a whole family?
A projector for movie nights, a board game, a Skylight Calendar, a fire pit or a LEGO set to build together.
What is a good family gift under $50?
Board games like Codenames and Ticket to Ride are great family gifts under $50.
What do you get a family with young kids?
Games for all ages, a projector for movie night, or a treat maker like the Ninja CREAMi.
