Give the Gift of an Ontario getaway and create memories that will last long after the snow has melted! We asked Ontarians to share their most meaningful ways to share an Ontario memory with friends or family and here’s what they told us:
Beaux Mondes – Stephanie Trendocher
@BeauxMondes
“‘Tis is the season of giving. But let’s not forget the most meaningful gifts are not always those wrapped under the tree, rather the experiences we share together…The holidays are about traditions, new and old. And Hamilton’s historic sites certainly take you back to more traditional times. From Whitehern Historic House and Garden to Dundurn Castle, I always discover beauty in the Victorian style decorations these homes are dressed in for Christmas. Every year my mom and I take in a bit of history on a tour of Sir Allan MacNab’s lavish home. I find myself admiring the Garden Club of Hamilton‘s seasonal adornments of cedar boughs, ribbons and dried flowers. The evening tours are my favourite. You get to sample traditional Christmas goodies right in the historic kitchen. Oh, and I have to give a shout out to Brydie Huffman, who really is the best tour guide ever.”
See all of Stephanie’s holiday picks here.
Dundurn Castle
Toronto Christmas Market
Oh! Travelissima – Natalie DiScala
@NatalieDiScala
“When I travel, it’s almost always with carry-on only. You know what that means … there’s no room to bring home any shopping! But I’m okay with that. My most cherished souvenirs have never been trinkets or tchotchkes. They have always been my memories. And sometimes, you don’t need to head to far-flung corners of the world to make those memories. They can be made right here at home… Outside of the city, one of my favourite places in Ontario is Blue Mountain. Another great winter destination (it’s a ski resort, after all), Blue Mountain offers something for everyone and for the past 10 years, it has been the site of my annual girls’ weekend. Even if you don’t ski, there’s lots to do – from shopping in the village, enjoying the great restaurants and of course, visiting the spa. ”
See all of Natalie’s holiday picks here.
Scandinave Spa & Blue Mountain
Nathan Phillips Square
Dineen Coffee Company
Modern Camper – Meg Cassidy
@ModernCamper
“There is no shortage of incredible spots to trot about the city and get yourself in the holiday spirit. Kids certainly make the holidays magical. We watched the girls have starry eyes all weekend while we checked out a few of our favourite spots…. Evergreen Brickworks has the Winter Village that is full of activities for the family including stories by the fire, container markets for shopping and eating, ball hockey, children’s garden, make your own herbal tea and yes, on your way out you can grab your christmas tree! We came home smelling smoky from the fire, warm in our hearts and full bellies. It was the perfect way to spend a Saturday.”
See all of Meg’s picks here.
Love the Design
Shop Windows Decked for the Season
Evergreen Brickworks
What are your favourite ways to share an Ontario memory? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with #DiscoverON.
Don’t forget to check out our complete Ontario gift guide here, including 12 days of gift giving inspiration.