Discover these exceptional experience gifts that will make this holiday season truly unforgettable.
Finding the best experience gifts for Dad can be a real head-scratcher. After all, most dads already have enough socks, tools, and mugs to last a lifetime. So how do you find something that truly surprises him? The answer: give him an experience instead of another thing.
Experience gifts go beyond wrapping paper and ribbons. They offer memories, laughter, and moments that last long after Christmas morning. Whether your dad loves adventure, craftsmanship, or a good beer tasting, these unique Canadian experiences will make this year’s gift stand out under the tree.
Why Finding the Perfect Christmas Gift for Dad is Tricky
Every year, thousands of Canadians search for “Christmas gifts for Dad,” only to end up settling for another tie or gadget. A 2023 survey found that 38% of people said their dad is the hardest person to shop for. That’s because dads rarely say what they want. They often buy what they need themselves.
So instead of trying to find that one item he might not have, consider gifting him something that fits his personality, interests, or curiosity. Experiences give you a chance to show that you see him, not just as Dad, but as a person who still loves to learn, explore, and have fun.
Why Experience Gifts Work for Every Type of Dad
Some people assume experience gifts are only for thrill-seekers or outdoorsy types. But that’s far from the truth. These gifts are great for every dad — from the foodie to the history buff, from the quiet thinker to the high-energy adventurer.
An experience can match his pace and personality. He can relax at a spa, fly a plane, or craft his own knife. The beauty of these gifts is their flexibility: there’s no one-size-fits-all, and that’s exactly what makes them so special.
10 Best Experience Gifts for Dad This Christmas
These ten experiences will help you find something truly memorable for your dad this Christmas:
#1 Blacksmith Class, Ottawa – Forge Your Own Knife, Axe, or War Hammer
Give Dad the chance to feel like a true craftsman. In this Ottawa-based workshop, he’ll work alongside an expert blacksmith to heat, hammer, and shape his own metal creation, be it a knife, throwing axe, or even a war hammer.
Best for: The hands-on dad who loves working with tools or learning traditional skills.
🔥 Unique gift alert: He’ll go home with a one-of-a-kind creation he made himself!
👉🏻 Gift this experience here.
#2 Collingwood and Blue Mountain’s Wine, Cider & Beer Tour
If your dad enjoys a good drink and great company, this Collingwood adventure is a must. He’ll explore Ontario’s craft beverage scene, visiting local wineries, cideries, and breweries with tastings at each stop.
Best for: The foodie or social dad who enjoys discovering new local flavours.
🍷 Pro tip: This is a perfect father-daughter or father-son bonding day out.
👉🏻 Book the tasting tour here.
#3 Boeing Flight Simulator Experience (Toronto or Calgary)
If your dad has ever dreamed of being in the pilot’s seat, this is his chance. The Boeing Flight Simulator Experience lets him fly a realistic replica of a commercial jet, complete with full motion and cockpit controls.
Best for: The aviation enthusiast or dad who’s fascinated by how things work.
✈️ Insider fact: The simulator uses real flight data, so it feels just like the real thing.
👉🏻 Try it in Toronto or Calgary.
#4 Eat Like A Canadian Food Tour, Victoria
For the dad who believes good food equals good mood, this guided walking tour in Victoria celebrates Canadian cuisine. From local seafood to maple-inspired treats, he’ll taste iconic dishes while learning about the region’s culinary history.
Best for: The proud Canadian dad who enjoys food with a story.
🍁 Fun detail: This tour highlights authentic Canadian comfort food, not just fine dining.
👉🏻 Explore the tour here.
#5 Exotic Car and Supercar Driving Experience
If your dad’s eyes light up at the sound of an engine, this one’s a winner. He can take the wheel of a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or McLaren at famous Canadian tracks like Bowmanville’s Canadian Tire Motorsports Park or Grand Bend Motorplex.
Best for: The car-loving dad who’s always dreamed of driving something fast and powerful.
🏁 Heads up: Professional instructors are on hand to guide him for a safe and thrilling ride.
👉🏻 Book at Bowmanville or Grand Bend.
#6 Introductory Flying Lesson
For the dad who loves a challenge, a flying lesson is the ultimate thrill. With a certified flight instructor, he’ll actually take control of the plane and experience what it feels like to pilot from takeoff to landing.
Best for: The adventurous dad who’s always wanted to soar above the clouds.
🌤️ Bonus: Lessons are available in four locations:
👉🏻 Barrie
👉🏻 Squamish
#7 Gentleman’s Ultimate Spa Experience – Yorkville, Toronto
Even the busiest dads deserve some pampering. This spa experience in Toronto’s Yorkville district offers massages, facials, and grooming treatments designed specifically for men.
Best for: The hardworking dad who could use a break from his daily routine.
💆♂️ Little secret: It’s relaxation and a total reset for mind and body.
👉🏻 Gift the spa experience here.
#8 Kelowna E-Bike Gold Panning Adventure
This unique outdoor activity combines e-biking through scenic trails with the thrill of gold panning. Dad will pedal through Kelowna’s beautiful landscapes and try his luck searching for real gold flakes in the riverbeds.
Best for: The outdoorsy dad who enjoys nature and a little adventure.
🚴 Fun to know: He keeps any gold he finds!
👉🏻 Plan this adventure here.
#9 Edmonton NASCAR Race Car Driving Experience
If your dad’s idea of fun involves speed, noise, and precision, this NASCAR experience in Edmonton will make his heart race. He’ll suit up, get briefed by pros, and drive a real NASCAR race car around the track.
Best for: The adrenaline junkie or lifelong motorsport fan.
🏎️ Good to note: No racing license needed, just nerves of steel and a love for speed.
👉🏻 Book his NASCAR experience here.
#10 Ottawa Biplane Ride
Take your dad back in time with this scenic biplane flight over Ottawa. Dad can enjoy sweeping views of Parliament Hill, the Ottawa River, and the city’s landmarks from an open-cockpit vintage aircraft.
Best for: The nostalgic dad who appreciates history and sightseeing.
🌇 Tip: Bring a camera because the view is nothing short of spectacular.
👉🏻 Book his biplane adventure here.
Final Thoughts: Make this Christmas One He’ll Never Forget
Choosing the best experience gifts for Dad isn’t about spending the most money; it’s about finding something that fits who he is. Each of these experiences gives him the chance to try something new, learn a skill, or simply enjoy life in a fresh way.
This Christmas, skip the wrapping paper and give your dad a story he’ll love to tell. Memories last far longer than any store-bought gift, and with these options, there’s an adventure waiting for every kind of dad.
