Are you looking for the best Fathers Day gift experiences for the Dad who doesn’t want anything? Or perhaps you know he wants something special, but just no ordinary gift will do.
We recommend investing your money in experiences, not products, although we included a couple of unique items that caught our eye and inspire adventure! Experiences for Father’s Day allow you to spend time together and create something that Dad will always value the most: memories.
We’ve broken down this article into sections to help you find the perfect Father’s Day gift experiences for your dad (or the fatherly figure you’re celebrating in your life).
24 Unique Father’s Day Gift Experiences – 2024 Guide
You’ll see that this article is centered around the best Father’s Day gift experiences to have in Vancouver, our hometown city. However, you can use this article for inspiration and seek out local adventures in your city if you’re reading from another destination.
Father’s Day Gifts for an Adventurous Father
Are you wondering what is the best Father’s Day gift for an adventurous father in 2024? Here are our top picks that adventuresome dad!
1. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver’s most popular tourist attractions and if your Dad likes the outdoors there’s no better place to wander among the trees. Whether it’s your dad’s first visit, or you haven’t been in a while, planning a trip to Capilano Suspension Bridge is a great Father’s Day activity. The suspension bridge spans 450 feet across and 230 feet above the Capilano River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. You can also take part in guided walks through the nearby woods, learn about the area’s Indigenous history, and explore (my favourite) the tree-top trails. With so much to see and do, a trip to the Capilano Suspension Bridge is sure to be a memorable experience for any nature-loving Dad.
Location: North Vancouver
Annual Passes: Adults $62.95, Seniors (65+) – $57.95, Student (17+ with ID) – $49.95, Youth (13-16) – $39.95, Child (6-12) – $24.95 (same price as admission so worth it to get annual passes for everyone!)
Website: www.capbridge.com
Best time to visit: Open year round.
E-Cards Available: No.
Get your Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Admission Tickets here!
2. Parks Canada Pass & Planned Visit
Is your Dad a lover of the outdoors, and/or passionate about Canadian History? Why not get him a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, an annual pass will allow him to explore the parks for a full calendar year! Locally near Vancouver, there are great sites including the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, the Fort Langley National Historic Site and the Britannia Shipyards. Get a pass and plan a day trip in celebration of Father’s Day.
Location: Across Canada
Annual Passes: Adult $75.25, Seniors (65+) – $65.50, Family (Up to 7 people in vehicle) – $151.25
Website: www.parks.canada.ca
Best time to visit: Open year round.
E-Cards Available: You can purchase the pass online.
3. Urban Scavenger Hunt
Does your Dad love Indiana Jones and solving mysteries? ScavengerHunt.com offers self-guided tours of Vancouver (and 3000+ other cities around the world) via an app on your phone. You download the app, purchase tickets for each member of your family or group, and off you go on a challenging adventure any day from 7 am to 11 pm. Each person has a specific role to play and is texted photo challenges and activities to do with the rest of the group. Challenges can only be solved by finding the clues at a given location.
Location: Around the world
Passes: Adult (Per game) – $17.95, Couple (annual unlimited pass) – $95.88, Family (annual unlimited pass – Up to 6 people) – $109.58
Website: www.scavengerhunt.com
Best time to visit: Open year round.
E-Cards Available: You can purchase the pass online.
4. E-Bike Tour
Has your Dad tried the newest trend… E-biking? My husband was skeptical but after our first ride, he was officially hooked! Doing an e-bike tour around Vancouver is the perfect way to explore this beautiful city and try something new. Electric bikes are easy to ride, helping reduce physical limitations and they give you the opportunity to see Vancouver without being stuck in a car. If you want a tour, the Vancouver Epic Electric Bike Tour takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the city, and it’s a great way to get out and make some memories with Dad and is one of the best Father’s Day gifts experiences in Vancouver.
Location: This bike tour highlights the best of Vancouver including Stanley Park, English Bay, False Creek, Chinatown and Gastown.
Cost: Tours start at $90
Website: www.cyclevancouver.com
Best time to visit: March to September
E-Cards Available: Yes.
Gift (if you must): New reusable water bottle
Book your Epic Electric Bike Tour of Vancouver here!
5. Kayak Or SUP Rentals And Lessons
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding are fun ways to exercise while spending time on the water. Rentals and lessons are available at many popular locations from Deep Cove to White Rock. If the dad in your life is just starting out, lessons can get him started on the right foot (or paddle, I mean).
Location: Kayak rentals and lessons are available around the city, my personal preference is Deep Cove Kayak. With the protected bay and the remote feeling once you’re out of the marina, it’s my favourite place to paddle. They offer a triple pack which gives you 3 kayaking rentals from one of their three North Van locations, which is such a great value!
Cost: Triple pack is $99 (Other options available.)
Website: www.deepcovekayak.com
Best time to visit: March to September
E-Cards Available: Yes.
6. Horseback Riding Adventure
Horses are magnificent creatures. Trail rides are a great introduction to horseback riding under the watchful eye of an expert. Or take it one step further with lessons. Beyond riding skills, instructors often teach proper before and after riding care of the horses. Several stables in Langley and Maple Ridge offer a variety of riding services.
Location: Various locations around the Fraser Valley, I’ve selected Glen Valley Stables as my recommendation.
Cost: Prices vary but experiences start at $90 per person for a group ride.
Website: www.glenvalleystables.com
Best time to visit: Open year round.
E-Cards Available: Yes.
7. Aerial Adventure, For The Thrill Seeking Dad
Most kids love to climb. And dads are grown-up kids (in my opinion)! So why not give the gift of some time above the ground? There are several up-in-the-air themed adventure parks throughout the lower mainland. Wildplay in Maple Ridge and the new Mountain Ropes Adventure at Grouse Mountain offer a number of aerial adventures including ropes courses, zip lines, and even a 40-foot leap of faith (not for the faint of heart). Most obstacles are geared for adults and older kids (8+), but some parks offer easier challenges for younger children, like the Kids Tree Canopy Adventure at Grouse Mountain. This year, why not send the father in your family on a high-flying adventure? If your Dad loves the outdoors but isn’t ready to swing in the trees try their fun Axe throwing!
Location: Maple Ridge
Cost: $44- 54 per person, based on the course
Website: www.wildplay.com
Best time to visit: Booking ahead allows you to secure a spot that works for your schedule.
E-Cards Available: Yes.
Gift (if you must): Fun basket of snacks he could take with him to refuel after the adventure.
8. Sea To Sky Gondola
If you’re looking for a unique and memorable Father’s Day experience gift, why not give the gift of a Sea to Sky Gondola experience in Squamish? Located just a short drive from Vancouver, the Sea to Sky Gondola offers stunning views of Howe Sound and the Coastal Mountains. The gondola is a great way to experience beautiful hiking trails, stunning views, and wonderful local food. Or head up there for one of their seasonal events, with special activities for you to take part in. Whether your loved ones are nature lovers, adventure seekers, or simply looking for a relaxing way to spend a day, the Sea to Sky Gondola is sure to please you.
Location: Squamish
Cost: Varies depending on weekday or weekend
Website: www.seatoskygondola.com
Best time to visit: Open Year Round (check website for seasonal hours).
E-Cards Available: Yes, via their website.
Gift (if you must): Click here to purchase a hiking essentials kit!
Purchase your Sea to Sky Gondola tickets here!
9. Go ATVing in Whistler
Send your Dad off on a guided ATV tour and he’ll come back covered in dust and smiling ear to ear! The Adventure Group Whistler offers guests a true off-road experience through BC’s backcountry. Check out our family experience there, complete with amazing vista views and even a black bear sighting! Don’t just send Dad on this adventure, see if he’ll invite you to come along too!
Location: Whistler
Cost: $409.99 for four people.
Website: www.tagwhistler.com
Best time to visit: April to October
E-Cards Available: Yes.
Book your Whistler ATV Off Roading Tour here!
10. Hollywood North – Film & TV Tour
Does your Dad love movies and TV? Book him a trip to Vancouver’s most extensive Film and TV Tour showing you some of the city’s popular film and TV locations. I love that tours are hosted by local actors who can teach Dad all about the industry and what makes Hollywood North “Tick.” During your tour, you’ll get to see clips and pictures from the movies and tv shows that were filmed where you are standing and learn educational behind-the-scenes insights into how the shots were created. This is an excellent three-hour tour, perfect for movie buffs and those looking to learn more about the local sights and sounds of the industry.
Location: Downtown Vancouver
Cost: $55
Website: www.storyboardexperiences.ca
Best time to visit: Anytime, this is open year-round.
Gift (if you must): Movie or a book about a movie that was filmed here, or your recipients’ favourite movie / behind-the-scenes book.
Book your Hollywood North Tour here!
11. Outdoor Essentials Kit
Does your Dad like hiking and being outdoors? When he goes on adventures does he have the 10 essential items every good outdoorsman should have for outdoor explorations? This includes a map and compass, a light, a small bottle of sunscreen, a small first aid kit, a mini fire kit (waterproof matches/lighter) a whistle, a knife, snacks, a water bottle, a heat blanket, and a form of shelter (small tarp or large plastic bag). Put these items together in a kit that will ensure he’s safer on the trails!
Luxury Father’s Day Gifts
What is a good surprise for Father’s Day?
Do you have a couple of siblings that could chip in for a gift? Perhaps it’s a big Father’s Day for Grandpa and you want to impress. Here are a few luxury experiences for Father’s Day in Vancouver that are sure to leave the recipient in shock and make for a great surprise.
12. Helicopter Tour
Imagine the look on Dad’s face when you present him with a gift card for a helicopter tour! SKY Helicopters offers guests a variety of experiences ranging from river tours to mountain-top sunset experiences. The only requirement, bring your camera to capture the incredible views!
Location: Tour takes off from the Maple Ridge airport
Cost: Tours start at $125
Website: www.skyhelicopters.ca
Best time to visit: Year round is great. I prefer sunny days!
E-Cards Available: Yes.
13. Go Whale Watching
There truly is no experience like seeing Whales in their natural habitat. Your Dad will love seeing the whales swim, jump, play, and maybe even breach or spy hop! Whether you book a local tour company in Vancouver or make a weekend out of it and head over to Vancouver Island, a whale-watching experience is unlike anything else! Don’t forget your camera!
Location: Downtown Vancouver
Cost: various, depends on tour
Website: www.princeofwhales.com
Best time to visit: Year Round
E-Cards Available: Yes
Book your Vancouver Whale Watching Adventure here!
14. Introduction To Photography Classes
Photography is a widely popular hobby, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a great way to capture memories, whether you are taking photos of a special event or simply documenting your everyday life. And with digital photography, it’s easy to share your photos with friends and family. If you know someone interested in photography, giving them the gift of an introduction to photography is a great way to help them get started. I took several of Dennis’s courses and can’t rave enough about the quality of instruction or the commitment to student success.
Location: Online – Instructor is based out of Langley
Cost: $379 per person
Website: www.doubleexposure.ca
Best time to visit: Fall or Winter
E-Cards Available: No, but you can book online.
Gift (if you must): Gift card to a camera store!
15. Drive The Iconic Sea To Sky Highway
Is your Dad an adrenaline junkie who’d love to drive a dream car? Imagine giving Dad the keys to a luxury car and letting him loose on the Sea to Sky highway to cruise up to Whistler on Father’s Day! This experience is actually available through a local company called Scenic Rush!
Location: Tour starts in Vancouver and takes you up the Sea to Sky Highway
Cost: Tours start at $895 (So perhaps this is a group gift for Dad or Grandpa?)
Website: www.scenicrush.com
Best time to visit: March to September (In my opinion, this is when the Sea to Sky sparkles and is generally free from snow)
E-Cards Available: Yes.
For the Urban Adventure Seeker (aka. indoor Dad)
Does your Dad prefer hanging out INSIDE? Here are some fun indoor activities that will still get the adrenaline pumping!
16. Fast Track Indoor Karting
Fast Track Indoor Karting is the perfect gift for a Dad who loves fast cars and exciting races. Located in the Township of Langley, Fast Track offers a wide range of racing experiences, from beginner to expert. And with state-of-the-art go-carts and safety equipment, Fast Track is the perfect place to experience the thrill of racing. Plus, with gift certificates available, it’s easy to give the gift of fast-paced fun.
Location: Langley, BC
Cost: Varies depending on the number of races and the age of drivers. Check out their weekly specials.
Website: www.fasttrackkarting.ca
Best time to visit: Booking ahead allows you to secure a spot that works for your schedule.
E-Cards Available: Yes – via their website.
Gift (if you must): Click here to purchase fun race car socks!
17. Flyover Canada
Do you have a Dad who loves flying? Flyover Canada in Vancouver is a great place for family-friendly fun. The 4D attraction provides an immersive experience, with state-of-the-art technology that simulates flights across Canada and around the world. From the Rocky Mountains to the northern lights, guests will see some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.
Location: Downtown Vancouver
Cost: Prices vary day to day and are more expensive at the door so buy online for discounts. Look for packages and promos throughout the year for specific deals to be had.
Website: www.flyovercanada.com
Best time to visit: Open year round.
E-Cards Available: Yes.
Gift (if you must): Click here to purchase a model airplane building kit. Or consider giving some money so they can buy a souvenir from the experience as they have a great store with local items.
Book your Flyover tickets here!
18. BC’s Sports Hall Of Fame – BC Place Tour
A visit to BC Place is a great Father’s Day Gift. Not only does it provide a summary of the city’s history, but it also gives a glimpse into the future. The tour covers the stadium’s early days as an Expo 86 venue, as well as its more recent transformation into a world-class sporting and entertainment facility. Dad’s will also learn about the stadium’s architectural features and engineering innovations, and get an up-close look at some of the behind-the-scenes places like the locker rooms. With its unique blend of past and present, BC Place offers something for everyone, making it the perfect gift for any occasion.
Location: Vancouver
Cost: Adult $20, Senior $16, Youth $12 (memberships are also available)
Website: www.bcsportshall.com
Best time to visit: Anytime, check their schedule for tours.
E-Cards Available: No but Tickets can be purchased online
Gift (if you must): Click here to purchase a local sports history book or book about a specific sport.
19. Escape Room
Escape rooms are a fun family bonding experience as you race against the clock to try to solve a mystery. Many escape room venues are popping up in the lower mainland, from Abbotsford to Vancouver. You (or in this case, Dad) and a group of family and/or friends are locked up in a room and have to solve a series of riddles and tasks before time runs out. The rooms have varying difficulties designed for rookies to advanced escape artists. Each room usually has a theme as well, ranging from the psychiatric ward to an Egyptian tomb to a doomed submarine. Escape rooms require everyone to work together as a team to solve the riddles in an environment just real enough to provide some serious motivation to get out. What better way to spend some family time with Dad?
Location: Abbotsford, Richmond, Vancouver, Burnaby Chilliwack.
Cost: Varies based on location.
Website: www.e-exit.ca
Best time to visit: Anytime, open year round.
E-Cards Available: No but you can reserve your time online.
20. Vancouver Foodie Tour
Vancouver is well-known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, making it the perfect place to explore for any Dad who is a foodie. With a Vancouver Foodie Tour, your Dad will have the opportunity to sample dishes from some of the city’s best restaurants while learning about the local food scene. They’ll also get the VIP experience of meeting the chefs and restaurateurs behind their favourite dishes, getting an inside look at how Vancouver’s unique culinary culture comes to life. Whether your Father is a fan of seafood, Asian cuisine, or good old-fashioned comfort food, they’re sure to find something to love on a Vancouver Foodie Tour, so be sure to add this adventure to your best Fathers Day gift experiences list.
Location: Multiple places around Vancouver
Cost: Varies based on the tour
Website: www.foodietours.ca
Best time to visit: Open year round.
E-Cards Available: No, but you can book a tour via their website.
Gift (if you must): A cookbook that was written by one of the local chefs of the restaurants for the tour that you are selecting. A great way to support local businesses and connect the experience to the recipient.
Book your Vancouver Foodie Tour here!
Free Father’s Day Experience Gifts
Some of the best Fathers Day gift experiences don’t have to cost anything at all. Here are our free gift recommendations.
21. Backyard Overnight Campout
Surprise Dad with a backyard campout this Father’s Day. Set up the tent, throw in the sleeping bags, cook up some hot dogs and s’mores. Dad will love being able to camp, and the kids will love being able to set up the tent and spoil him!
Tip: If it’s raining, set everything up INSIDE and make a memory that everyone in the family will cherish!
22. A Day At The Beach
Does Dad deserve a little rest and relaxation? Take him to the beach on Father’s Day and treat him like he’s the king of the shores. Kids can set Dad up with his own towel, bring him fresh, cool drinks, feed him some fun treats, and let him lay in the sun and enjoy soaking in the rays while listening to his children play.
23. Be an Explorer – Go Geocaching
Does your Dad like to explore new places? Why not try geocaching, or if you’re a geocaching family check out a new location! For those of you looking to learn more about Geocaching check out our step by step guide to getting started!
24. Burnaby Village Museum
Take a step back in time at the Burnaby Village Museum (perfect for a history-loving Dad). The museum is brilliantly dedicated to the local history of the region, and it offers a variety of exhibits and programs that focus on the past. Fathers can explore the village, which is made up of historic buildings that have been restored to their original appearance. They can also watch demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as blacksmithing. Be sure to take a ride on the carousel and check out the incredible trains and locomotives. In addition, the museum offers a variety of special events throughout the year, such as concerts and holiday celebrations when actors get dressed up and transform the museum into a different era.
Location: Deer Lake Park, Burnaby
Cost: Free Admission (Carousel Rides – $2.52 + tax each)
Website: www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca
Best time to visit: November 25 – January 5 (Heritage Christmas) / March (Spring Break) / Summer Season (early May to early September) / October (Haunted Village)
E-Cards Available: No
Gift (if you must): Click here to purchase a Then and Now Vancouver history book!
What is the best gift to give on Father’s day?
Father’s Day is about appreciation, not about stuff. As long as he gets the message that he is valued and appreciated for all he does as a father, mission accomplished!
Do you have another experience you can recommend for Dads, or know of a local company that should be on this Father’s Day gift experiences guide? Please let us know at [email protected] We love giving the gift of experiences over things and seeing families outside playing and making memories together!
