Make this summer count with the best experience gifts for dads!
Looking for ways to upgrade your usual Father’s Day or summer plans? Instead of wrapping up another tangible present, give your dad something he’ll truly remember: quality time with you. Without a doubt, the best experience gifts aren’t things, but memories. They’re moments that turn into stories, and stories that turn into traditions. If you’re searching for unique and meaningful experiences to deepen your bond with your dad, this roundup is just for you.
We’ve handpicked ten father-son / daughter adventures across Canada, each offering something hands-on, heart-pumping, or just plain fun. These are all about sharing new experiences, laughing (maybe a little yelling if you’re rafting), and creating memories that last way longer than any store-bought present.
#1 1000 Islands Helicopter and Craft Brewery Tour
Why settle for one adventure when you can have two? Soar over the breathtaking 1000 Islands in a private helicopter, then head down to a local brewery for a guided tasting session. It’s the perfect blend of adrenaline and chill vibes, and a great excuse to swap stories over some craft pints.
📍Lift Off On The 1000 Islands Helicopter and Craft Brewery Tour
#2 Archery Lesson – Guelph or Caledon
Channel your inner Robin Hood or Hawkeye with a private archery session. This isn’t your typical father-son activity, which makes it even more memorable. A trained instructor walks you through the basics before you both start hitting bullseyes. It’s a quiet, focused activity that builds patience, precision, and healthy competition.
🎯Sharpen Your Aim With An Archery Lesson in Guelph
#3 Banff Horseback Ride and Cowboy BBQ Cookout
Saddle up and ride like real cowboys through the scenic trails of Banff. Midway through your ride, you’ll stop for a good old-fashioned cookout with steaks grilled over an open fire. Few things bond people like sharing a trail ride and a perfectly cooked Cowboy style meal in the wild Canadian Rockies.
🥩Trot Into The Banff Horseback Ride and Cowboy BBQ Cookout
#4 Blacksmith Class – Forge Your Own Knife, Throwing Axe, or War Hammer
Forge memories and a custom weapon in this hands-on blacksmithing workshop. You and your dad get to choose between crafting a knife, a throwing axe, or even a warhammer. The result? A practical keepsake you actually made together, along with plenty of hot metal and proud photos.
🔥Swing Into a Blacksmith Class
#5 Exotic Car – Supercar Tour
Got a dad who still talks about his dream car? Surprise him with a chance to drive a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or McLaren on scenic backroads. This isn’t a look-but-don’t-touch situation — this is full-throttle driving, no speed limits (well, not many), and lots of father-son grins. Definitely one of the best experience gifts for dad and son / daughter duos who love cars!
🚗Take The Wheel on The Exotic Car – Supercar Tour
#6 White Water Rafting – Kananaskis or Ottawa
White water rafting is one of those shared experiences that sticks. Whether you’re splashing through the Rockies or floating along Ottawa’s waterways, it’s about teamwork, timing, and a bit of yelling “Paddle!” at each other. The rapids are thrilling but manageable, making it great for beginners.
💦Ride The Rapids in Kananaskis River White Water Rafting
💦Or Float The Capital With Ottawa City Rafting
#7 Kelowna E-Bike Gold Panning Adventure
Combine nature, adventure, and a hint of treasure hunting. This guided e-bike tour takes you through Kelowna’s forest trails to a creek where you’ll pan for real gold. It’s active but not exhausting, and the gold flecks you might find? Bragging rights for life.
🟡Strike Fun On The Kelowna E-Bike Gold Panning Adventure
#8 Kayaking & Hiking Tours – Halifax, Toronto, or Vancouver
Whether you’re on the East Coast, West Coast, or somewhere in between, there’s a paddle-and-hike tour waiting for you. In Halifax, explore hidden coastal spots. In Toronto, glide around the islands. And in Vancouver, sip local coffee between paddle strokes. These tours are great for dad and son / daughter duos who love a slower pace and beautiful views.
🌊Explore Nature With The Halifax Kayak and Hike Tour
🏝️Check Out The Toronto Islands SUP and Kayak Eco-Tour
☕Try The Vancouver Kayak & Coffee Tour
#9 Whistler Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience
If your dad’s a fan of fine spirits, this is the experience to share. Tour one of Whistler’s best small-batch distilleries and sample craft vodka, gin, and whiskey. It’s informative, laid-back, and one of the best experience gifts that offer a way to catch up over a tasting flight.
🍸Sip Into The Whistler Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience
#10 Formation Flight Experience – Barrie
Feel the thrill of flying in close formation with a seasoned pilot. You and your dad will each take a spot in tandem planes and soar through the sky, side by side. It’s safe, totally exhilarating, and something most people only dream of doing.
🛫Fly High With The Formation Flight Experience in Barrie
Make This Summer Count
The best experience gifts aren’t found in stores, they’re lived. These father-son / daughter adventures are perfect for anyone looking to spend more time together doing something new, fun, and worth talking about for years. Every option on this list delivers more than just fun – it offers a real connection.
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Explore more unforgettable experience gifts for dads and sons / daughters at Breakaway Experiences. Don’t wait because your next great memory is just a click away!
