If you're stumped on what to get someone for Christmas, then these Ontario experiences might solve your holiday shopping woes. There are so many incredible adventures to treat someone to around the province, and the best part is, you don't need to go to the mall to find them.
From spa days to cute alpacas walk, these gift ideas are all under $100, and you don't even have to wrap them.
Here are eight amazing experiences in Ontario that make for perfect Christmas presents.
A day at the spa
Price: $50 + per gift card
Address: 3210 3 Line N., Shanty Bay, ON
Why You Need To Go: Vettä Nordic Spa is an ideal experience for anyone needing some rejuvenation. The Finnish-inspired facility has a cold plunge pool, wood-burning sauna, and more for the ultimate day of relaxation.
The venue also offers massages to help guests unwind further. There are two eateries on site where visitors can dig into Finnish and Nordic cuisine and sip boozy drinks.
The gift cards range from $50 to $600, so you can choose the right fit for your budget. The cards can be used towards everything from massages to online bookings, restaurants and the boutique.
A secret road trip
Price: $74
Address: Across Ontario
Why You Need To Go: If the person you're shopping for loves adventure, then a gift card from Guess Where Trips might be a good option.
The gift card allows the receiver to chose a one-day adventure that will lead them to hidden gems. There is an online card and by-mail card available, and the total cost of the trip is covered by purchasing one of these.
There are tons of unique trips to embark on, depending on where you live in the province. The Toronto Area has adventures like Vistas & Caves, The Waterfall Route, The Small Town Charm Trail, Historic Haunts, The Fairy Tale Trail and more.
A boozy adventure
Price: $45 per person
Why You Need To Go: If the person you're shopping for loves photo-ops and pink, then the Trius Tour is a good gift option. The experience, which can be booked online, takes you through Insta-worthy rooms and is complete with rosé samples.
The event has been called the "the most Instagrammable winery tour on the planet" so if your recipient is always snapping selfies and striking a pose, and loves to sip bubbly, this is a go-to gift.
A cruise over a shipwreck
Price: $25 +
Address: 7425 Hwy. 6, Tobermory, ON
Why You Need To Go: Tobermory is home to the "shipwreck capital of Canada," and you can float over one of these sunken ruins with Blue Heron Cruises.
If you're shopping for an adventurer, this unique experience might be the gift you've been looking for. The area is full of natural wonders and the small beach town of Tobermory is a charming place to spend the day once the cruise is finished.
There are gift cards available online that range from $50 to $300.
See a show
Price: Prices vary
Address: 55 Queen St., Stratford, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Stratford Festival is known for its theatre productions, and if the person you're shopping for loves a good performance, then a trip here might be the ideal gift.
You can purchase tickets for upcoming performances starting December 11, or buy a gift card with the amount of your choice.
Sip high tea
Price: $55 per person
Address: 6 Picton St., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Why You Need To Go: Pinkies up! You can treat that special someone to an afternoon of pampering with high tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel.
The traditional high tea comes with finger sandwiches, pastries, and more, and can be booked online.
If the person you have in mind loves to unleash their inner royalty, this experience will make them smile on Christmas morning.
Visit a castle
Price: $40 per adult
Address: 1 Austin Terr., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Speaking of royalty, your loved one will be feeling like a prince or princess with a day spent at a castle.
Casa Loma is filled with historic charm and beauty, and you can book a trip online. The experience costs $40 per person.
You could even treat them to a meal at the lavish BlueBlood Steakhouse to complete the adventure.
An adventure with alpacas
Price: $69 per adult
Address: 1166 5th Line, Port Hope, ON
Why You Need To Go: It doesn't get much cuter than an outing with alpacas, and you can give someone just that.
Haute Goat offers an "Alpaca Knuffle Shuffle" where you can take a hike with these fluffy critters. This experience is ideal for animal lovers and promises a day filled with cuteness.
The experience can be booked online. Gift cards are also available.
Whether you're shopping for an adventure seeker or theatre lover, these experiences make for incredible holiday surprises.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
This article has been updated since it was originally published on December 10, 2022.
