Check out these memorable ways to surprise someone this Christmas in Toronto.
Experience gifts continue to grow in popularity across Canada as more people choose moments over material items during the holiday season. Many Canadians say they appreciate gifts that help them try something new or explore the country in a more meaningful way. A recent BMO survey found that more than 61 percent of Canadians planned to spend their gift budget on experiences instead of physical items, showing a steady shift toward memory-making presents.
For anyone shopping in Toronto, the city offers a long list of activities that feel exciting, personal, and thoughtful. If someone in your life prefers stories over stuff, experience gifts are an easy way to surprise them with something they never expected. Toronto’s tourism scene is strong, and this creates the perfect setting for unique adventures that fit every type of personality.
Toronto’s Tourism Momentum
Toronto has seen a strong rebound in tourism, with the city welcoming 9 million visitors in 2024, according to Destination Toronto. Visitor spending reached roughly 6.4 billion dollars, a clear sign that travelers see the city as a major hub for food, arts, culture, and adventure.
This momentum also benefits locals who want variety in their holiday gifting. A strong tourism scene means more year-round tours, updated attractions, and expanded activities that feel fresh and worth exploring. Many residents often say they still find things they have never tried, even if they have lived in Toronto for years.
Why Toronto Experiences Make Great Holiday Gifts
People enjoy gifts that feel purposeful. Toronto experiences allow you to give something that builds anticipation and leads to stories someone can share long after the holiday decorations come down.
These experience gifts work well because:
They feel personal. You can match an activity to someone’s hobbies, taste, or curiosity.
They reduce clutter. Many Canadians prefer simple living and appreciate presents that do not take up space.
They create shared moments. Experiences encourage connection through food, culture, or adventure.
They support local tourism. Each booking helps the workers, guides, artists, and instructors who keep Toronto’s visitor economy strong.
If you are searching for a holiday gift that feels thoughtful without overcomplicating your shopping list, the ideas below offer something for every type of person in your life.
12 Must Try Toronto Experiences for the Holidays
Here is a curated list of activities that make ideal experience gifts for Christmas. Each one is unique and designed to help your recipient enjoy Toronto in a new way.
#1 Art Gallery of Ontario Guided Tour
The Art Gallery of Ontario provides a richer visit when you explore it with a knowledgeable guide. Recipients get insight into Canadian works, global masterpieces, and rotating exhibitions that many people miss when walking on their own. This guided experience helps them appreciate the stories behind each piece and enjoy the museum at a relaxed pace.
Best for: Art lovers, creative thinkers, and anyone who appreciates cultural days out.
👉 Give this curated art experience here.
#2 Boeing 777 Flight Simulator Experience in Toronto
This high tech flight simulator puts participants inside a detailed cockpit modeled after a real Boeing 777. They learn how pilots manage takeoffs, landings, and the full flying process. Instructors guide them through each stage so it feels accessible even for complete beginners.
For aviation fans, this activity feels unforgettable and surprisingly realistic.
Best for: Plane enthusiasts, future pilots, and anyone who enjoys technical challenges.
👉 Send someone soaring with this flight simulator.
#3 Downtown Toronto Must Do Food Tour
Toronto’s food scene stays lively all year, and this tour brings people straight into the best spots downtown. Participants try a mix of global and local dishes while learning interesting food stories connected to the city’s neighbourhoods. It offers an easy way to explore while enjoying generous portions from multiple stops.
Best for: Food lovers, city explorers, and people who enjoy tasting something new.
👉 Gift a flavorful Toronto food adventure.
#4 Exotic Car and Supercar Driving Experience at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park
Anyone who enjoys cars will appreciate the thrill of handling a supercar on an actual track. This driving experience allows participants to choose from elite vehicles and drive laps with guidance from professional instructors. It feels exciting, safe, and completely different from driving on regular roads.
Best for: Car fans, adrenaline seekers, and people who always talk about their dream car.
👉 Give someone the keys to this unforgettable track experience.
#5 Learn to Fly – Barrie to Toronto Route
This one-person flying lesson takes place with a certified instructor who guides participants through basic controls and safety steps. The highlight is seeing the Barrie to Toronto area from above. The peaceful aerial view makes the experience feel memorable and empowering. Participants even handle parts of the flight under supervision, which adds to the excitement.
Best for: Adventure lovers and people who enjoy hands-on learning.
👉 Gift a seat in the cockpit with this flying lesson: https://breakawayexperiences.com/learn-to-fly-barrie-to-toronto-route
#6 Formation Flight Experience, Barrie ON
This unique experience involves two planes flying side by side with synchronized movements. This means you and your bestie can share the experience at the same time, but from different planes. Participants see how coordination works between pilots and enjoy stunning views from the air. It is a rare style of flying that feels bold yet approachable with a professional crew guiding the process.
Best for: Thrill-seeking besties who are aviation fans and duos who enjoy uncommon activities.
👉 Give a high-flying formation experience.
#7 Learn to Play Polo
Few people can say they have played polo, which makes this an exciting gift choice. Participants learn the basics of riding, ball handling, and strategy from experienced instructors. It is beginner-friendly and offers a fun introduction to a sport often seen as refined yet energetic.
Best for: Sport lovers, curious learners, and people who enjoy hands-on experiences.
👉 Gift a hands-on intro to the world of polo.
#8 The Canuck Culinary Crawl
This Canadian-themed tasting tour mixes local flavours with interesting stories about national dishes and food traditions. Expect comfort favourites, regional specialties, and fun trivia that highlight Canada’s diverse food scene. It is casual, social, and full of personality.
Best for: Proud Canadians, food enthusiasts, and people who enjoy cultural storytelling.
👉 Share a tasty taste of Canada with this tour.
#9 Toronto Clue Solving Adventures
This outdoor clue-solving game turns Toronto into a playful puzzle. Teams follow clues, complete tasks, and uncover interesting spots across the city. It works well for groups, couples, or families who enjoy a mix of mystery, exploration, and teamwork.
Best for: Puzzle lovers, competitive personalities, and creative thinkers.
👉 Gift a creative clue-solving challenge.
#10 Toronto Islands SUP and Kayak Eco Tour
This guided eco tour offers a peaceful paddle through the Toronto Islands. Participants learn about the local ecosystem, enjoy calm waters, and take in beautiful skyline views. Both SUP and kayak options are beginner-friendly, making the experience suitable for a wide range of skill levels.
Best for: Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and people who enjoy active adventures.
👉 Surprise someone with a relaxing Toronto Islands adventure.
#11 Urban Rappelling
Urban rappelling offers an exciting chance to descend safely down a vertical structure with the support of trained professionals. It is a mix of strength, courage, and technique, and many participants feel proud of stepping into something bold. This type of experience appeals to anyone who enjoys reaching new milestones.
Best for: Adventurers, confident climbers, and people seeking memorable physical challenges.
👉 Gift a thrilling urban rappelling experience.
#12 Toronto Distillery District Segway Tour
The Distillery District is known for its cobblestone paths, historic buildings, and seasonal charm. A guided Segway tour makes exploring easier while offering fun facts about the area’s past. The smooth ride and the neighbourhood’s unique atmosphere create a simple yet memorable experience for holiday gifting.
Best for: History fans, playful personalities, and people who appreciate creative neighbourhoods.
👉 Give a smooth ride through the Distillery District.
Final Thoughts
Experience gifts offer something meaningful for anyone celebrating Christmas in Toronto. They create stories, encourage connection, and give your recipient the chance to enjoy something new. Toronto’s wide range of activities makes it simple to find an experience that matches someone’s personality, whether they love food, adventure, culture, or outdoor exploration.
If you are ready to give a holiday present that stands out, Toronto’s top experiences are ready to make your gift unforgettable.
