Here’s where to treat your dad this Father’s Day in Toronto

If your father is difficult to shop for, why not skip the gift this Father’s Day and plan an activity you can enjoy together? From fun runs to craft breweries and brunch cruises, Toronto offers plenty of opportunities for fun with dad on his special day. Here’s a list to help you plan an unforgettable Father’s Day 2017.

What better way to bond with Dad than by teaming up to support a worthy charity? This 5K fun run is dedicated to raising money and awareness for Prostate Cancer Canada, and it promises to be fun for the whole family. Kids are welcome to participate, and there will be food, games, and activities after the race. Registration is $35 per runner, but your fee is waived if you raise $125 or more.

When: June 18, 10:30AM

Where: Ashbridges Bay Park, 1675 Lakeshore Boulevard East, Toronto, ON

You might not be able to buy dad the car of his dreams this Father’s Day, but you can take him out to admire the 120+ classic and exotic cars on display at the Annual Yorkville Exotic Car Show. The shopping area on Bloor Street will be closed to traffic so attendees can get a close-up view of classic and modern cars made by Ferrari, Aston Martin, Porsche, and others. This event is also in support of Prostate Cancer Canada, and while entrance is free, you’re encouraged to bring a couple of Loonies for the donation box.

When: June 18

Where: Bloor Street W. from Avenue Road to Bay Street, Yorkville, Toronto, ON

The Unbreakable 5K is another great option for working up a sweat for a good cause with your dad on Father’s Day. The run benefits CameronHelps, an organization dedicated to improving youth mental health and ending the stigma associated with mental illness. The focus is on finishing the race and having fun, and all participants will get a medal. Your registration fee also includes an event shirt, a pancake breakfast, and a goodie bag.

When: June 18

Where: Port Credit Lighthouse, 105 Lakeshore Road E, Mississauga, ON L5H 1E9

Take brunch to the next level when you treat Dad to a cruise on the Jubilee Queen. During your 2.5 hour cruise, you’ll enjoy a leisurely 3-course brunch that includes delicious pastries like jalapeno cheddar cornbread and southern style biscuits. After you’ve eaten, you’ll head upstairs where you can take advantage of the live DJ and hit the dance floor or find a spot on the observation deck and take in the view of the Toronto Islands.

When: June 18, 11:30AM

Where: 539 Queens Quay, Toronto, ON

Whether your dad is a craft beer aficionado or just someone who appreciates a cold one from time to time, odds are that he’d be thrilled to raise a glass with his kids on Father’s Day. Happily, Toronto has a serious craft beer scene, and you’ll have plenty of options if you want to take dad to the source and visit a brewery. Most of the breweries offer tastings, so once dad discovers a new favorite, you can buy him a six-pack to take home.

If your dad likes to hit the links, take him out for a round of golf for Father’s Day. Toronto has a number of excellent public courses with greens fees ranging from under $100 to close to $300, and many courses will have special deals or activities for Father’s Day. Bushwood, for example, is offering a round for 2, a cart, 2 BBQ tickets, and a sleeve of balls starting at $134. 

A day at the spa might not be the first thing that you think to gift dad with, but everyone can benefit from a little pampering and relaxation. The Miraj Hammam Spa takes its name from the hammams, or Turkish baths, that have been used for relaxation and detoxification for centuries. You could give your dad a gift certificate for a future visit, but why not treat yourself too? Book massages and hammam treatments for both of you, and spend the afternoon relaxing together.

Where: Shangri-la Hotel, 188 University Avenue, Toronto, ON MSH0A3

Take dad out for a feast fit for a king at Fifth & Terrace. This elegant rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the city, so try to plan your reservation around sunset to take it all in. The Mediterranean-influenced menu will delight devoted carnivores and vegetarians alike, and for a truly special dining experience, a chef’s tasting menu is available. Whether your dad opts for the filet or one of the in-house made pastas, it’ll be a meal to remember.

Where: 225 Richmond Street W, Toronto, ON

Regardless of how your Father’s Day plans ultimately shape up, the real gift is time spent together. Start planning his special day with the help of this guide.