This is my third year running the silent auction at our elementary school in Orange County, California. Last year I received over $20,000 in donations. I had no idea what I was doing when I started this project from scratch. I hope these ideas are helpful.
Swim lessons, tennis lessons, martial arts, gymnastics, art classes, golf lessons, piano lessons, music classes, tutors (Kumon) and acting classes usually donate a free month of classes, $100+. I usually receive several summer camps. This year is a little difficult.
This year I have received thousands of dollars of gift certificates from yoga, pilates and spin classes. Also try trampoline, rock climbing, laser tag, bowling, and golf courses. Movie tickets are tough. Last year an LA Fitness opened near us and they donated several memberships. UCI donated a week of summer camp this year and basketball tickets last year.
In my experience restaurants are lots of work with minimal success. I search for new restaurants in my area. These are the places that donate gift cards. They need the advertising. I've never had much luck with the frozen yogurt and ice cream chain stores. Try the local places that only have one store. I usually get a gift certificate for free dozen cupcakes from all those bakery places, Casey's Cupcakes, Sprinkles, Nothing Bundt Cakes. I have a difficult time with grocery stores.
I am fortunate to be near Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, Magic Mountain, Universal Studios, Sea World, San Diego Zoo, Pretend City, local zoos, aquariums, childrens museums and other great places. This year our local OC Fair donated passes too.
We have a couple attorneys who donate gift certificates for estate planning. We also have luck with orthodontists and pediatric dentists.
Good luck!
It was a nice run while it lasted. We have had to get creative with donation requests this year but have had a lot of luck. 