excelHR Staycation Guide

IN THIS GUIDE Canada Wide From Your Home Ottawa GTA Calgary Vancouver Québec Pride Events

YOUR RECRUITMENT AND STAFFING PARTNER excelhr.com

At Home Science Experiments: Girls Night In: Girls Night In is the ultimate in virtual interactive comedy.

This hilarious, internationally acclaimed, virtual comedy show is coming live into your living rooms every Tuesday night! www.gnishow.com

Virtual Wine Tasting with CMS Sommelier (Bachelorette): A perfect way to connect with friends, family, and coworkers at a distance. Set up a cheese board, pop open a bottle, and taste wine with a sommelier from the comfort of your own home. https://newworldwinetours.com

Virtual Beer or Whisky Tour (Bachelor night): Virtual Craft Beer Tasting Tours Across North America.

Virtual Happy Hours with a Craft Beer Focus. (Also other virtual tasting available) www.canadiancrafttours.ca

Pre-Order “Bar from Afar” for your night in (Ottawa & Toronto - support local): A service that brings you delicious, classic speakeasystyle cocktails. You can think of this as being somewhat similar to a food box service, but for cocktails. https://barfromafar.com

Take a Cooking Class:

Up your cooking skills with the Relish Cooking Studio virtual classes. From sushi to barbequing to food decorating there's a class for everyone. relishcookingstudio.com

Safari at Home: Try out the safari at home activities to entertain the little ones. lionsafari.com

Visit Zoo Animals Online: Zoos across Canada have decided to bring their inhabitants to your home. Here is a list of places where you can watch wildlife online. www.todocanada.ca

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Here are a few science activities / experiments that are easy, fun and educational. www.todocanada.ca 25 Fun Things to Do with Kids Inside Your Home Things to Do With Teens During COVID-19 Days

Tour International Space Station Ever dreamed of going to the ISS? Tour the International Space Station virtually. www.todocanada.ca

Canadian Museums & Museums Across the World Online: With the advent of technology and widespread availability of the internet, the world is now at your fingertips. You can travel to distant lands, tour famous museums, all from the comfort of your home. www.todocanada.ca Explore Canada From Home: From Toronto to the Arctic. www.todocanada.ca Explore the World From Home: Fancy a train trip? www.todocanada.ca Free & Paid Online Music Classes and Resources for Kids. www.todocanada.ca

Music Concerts to Watch Online: Watch a few of the 50+ online concerts scheduled this weekend. www.todocanada.ca

Theatre Performances From Across the World: With the pandemic forcing theatres to shut their doors, many performing art centres have opened virtually.

Watch the Bolshoi Ballet’s The Nutcracker to Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette from the Metropolitan Opera this weekend. Time limits for watching, varies from 24 hours to a week. www.todocanada.ca

Free Movies:

As Canada’s public producer and distributor, NFB’s website features award-winning movies, documentary and animated films, pioneering interactive works, and more. www.todocanada.ca

*note time zones

Hotels & Packages:

Lord Elgin

Fairmont Momcation Escape (or pamper yourself):

Romantic Package:

Relax, rejuvenate and recharge. Escape the stress of everyday life and enjoy a solo vacation close to home, complete with Dior face mask, champagne, macarons, an in-room movie and breakfast in bed.

You both deserve some romantic time away!

At the Lord Elgin Hotel you’ll be taken back to the time of old-fashioned pampering, where you can enjoy special moments and feel indulged with sparkling wine, truffles and more.

Available: Until Wednesday, June 30, 2021

The Arc Hotel

The Brookstreet Hotel

City on Wheels:

The Family Package:

Explore the beautiful bike paths in Ottawa this summer. Get a gift voucher for Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals when you stay with us, and take a spin along the beautiful Rideau Canal or ride an e-scooter ride in downtown Ottawa.

Take a healthy vacation!

Plan a getaway with the family! It's the perfect Ottawa staycation to enjoy a Family Pass for Blackbird Falls mini putt and to saltwater indoor pools (per restrictions). Complimentary Brookstreet Surprise Packs are included for kids!

Things to Do: Scavenger Hunt: There is no better way to see Ottawa than taking a city scavenger hunt! www.tripadvisor.ca

Ottawa’s Mural & Graffiti Adventure: Walk through downtown Ottawa and along the Rideau Canal to admire the water, trails, historical buidlings and more! https://houseofpaint.ca

Day trip to Parc Omega (Quebec): Breathe in the fresh air at the Parc Omega. Drive through the nature park and observe wild animals from the northern hemisphere like wolves, elks, deer – all from the comfort of your vehicle. (Pending restrictions). www.parcomega.ca

Saunder’s Farm:

Hay rides, campfires, snacks and more. Open as per restrictions, it's a perfect family outing! https://saundersfarm.com/

Parliament Hill & Rideau Canal:

Walk through downtown Ottawa and along the Rideau Canal to admire the water, trails, historical buildings and more!

Glamping Hut Adventure:

Spend some time outdoors and enjoy Ottawa’s surroundings in complete comfort and style. From yurts to cabins, treehouses and more, get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget! https://glampinghub.com

*Some packages include things that may not be open with lockdowns

Hotels & Packages: Four Seasons Toronto

The Drake Hotel Art Passport: Find Your Muse:

Sweet Celebration:

This one-night stay for two enables you to savour he Drake Hotel’s classic cuisine with a dining credit and a gift of an original "Art for You" artwork keepsake and late checkout!

Celebrate a birthday, anniversary or any special occasion with a daily dining credit, cake and champagne, early check-in and late check-out, and much more. It is the perfect chance to plan a romantic experience. Or, if you bring the kids, it includes a complimentary in-room family movie night with popcorn!

The Broadview Hotel

Hotel X

Girls Getaway:

Experience Wellness Package:

Need some time with the girls? This special offer includes some bubbly, charcuterie, mimosas, face mists and more! Relax and enjoy an overnight stay for two.

Enjoy a Technogym Gym eXperience from the comfort and safety of your own room! You can experience it all with a Technogym Bench, treadmill, ball, and more. Enjoy unlimited access to 10XTO Virtual Fitness Classes during your stay, along with a spa credit and in-room amenities.

Things to Do: Explore Public Art Exploring Toronto’s public artworks is one of the best physical distancing activities you can do. www.toronto.ca

Take a Wild Roller Coaster Ride Canada's Wonderland has an entire playlist of POV roller coaster videos on their YouTube channel. Now, you can get your thrills and chills from the couch. www.canadaswonderland.com

Four Season’s Afternoon Tea Takeout (Weekend only & pick up)

Café Boulud is bundling up their afternoon tea into a perfect parcel of joy to take home and tuck into at your leisure. www.cafeboulud.com

Explore Toronto/GTA Nature & Parks Visit Greater Toronto Area parks and conservation areas. www.todocanada.ca Gorgeous gardens grow in the GTA, providing a visually stunning backdrop for a stroll. www.todocanada.ca Toronto's hidden trails wind through parks and wooded areas, past rivers and lakes, and are home to many flora and fauna. www.todocanada.ca

Yoga with Alpacas

(Subject to government regulations)

Feeling stressed? Why not try Yoga with Alpacas as a day trip from Toronto. www.todocanada.ca

*Some packages include things that may not be open with lockdowns

Hotels & Packages:

Hilton Mississauga Meadowvale

The Glenerin Inn & Spa Bliss Package (& many more)

Urban Oasis for All

Enjoy a two-night getaway and truly escape in one of our charming suites. Treat yourself to a couples massage and delicious food prepared by our award-winning chef.

With a variety of rooms and amenities to suit all needs (subject to restrictions), this hotel offers accessible rooms, gardens, pet-friendly rooms, pools and more.

Novotel North York Toronto Family Package Twice the fun for half the price. Enjoy your staycation with the family and get extra perks.

Things to Do: A day trip to Port Credit

Brampton Parks & Outdoors

Mississauga’s entertainment hub with shops, cafes, restaurants, walking paths and more. A hidden gem, lakeside to explore. (subject to restrictions) www.portcredit.com

From Gage Park, Donald M. Gordon Chinguacousy Park and Heart Lake Conservation Park, the nature opportunities are endless! www.tripadvisor.ca

Rattray Marsh Conservation Area Parks, trails, animals and more. Get outdoors in this nature escape and enjoy the beauty it has to offer. https://cvc.ca

Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens Visit one of Canada’s largest public rhododendron gardens.

Enjoy the azaleas and rhododendrons surrounded by white pines, perennials, and shrubs. www.mississauga.ca

Jack Darling Memorial Park Enjoy a picnic on the waterfront, play games, soak up the sun and admire the view! This outdoor space is a must-do for all things relaxing and outdoors. www.jackdarling.com

The Rose Brampton Bringing you virtual (& live in the future) performances, this performing arts venue has a lot to offer (subject to restrictions). https://tickets.brampton.ca/

Big R’ Apple Farm Brampton’s family-operated, pick-your-own fruits and vegetables farm. A perfect activity with the family! www.bigrapplefarm.ca

Black Creek Pioneer Village Immerse yourself in the 1860s and explore an authentically re-created country village of the Toronto region. Currently offering some virtual events & will open as per restrictions. https://blackcreek.ca *Some packages include things that may not be open with lockdowns

Hotels & Packages:

Hyatt Regency Calgary

Alt Hotel Calgary East Village In-room gastronomic experience by NUPO

Picnic and Stay

Treat yourself to Chef Darren MacLean's gastronomic experience at Alt Hotel Calgary East Village. This package is a dream for every fish and sushi lover! Enjoy your dinner from NUPO restaurant served in the cozy atmosphere and comfort of your own room. Then, relax and sleep in as long as you want. Breakfast will be delivered directly to your room.

Enjoy a carpet picnic in your spacious room offering breathtaking views of the city, or choose to dine al fresco amongst the lush greenery of nearby riverfront parks. Your picnic bag includes a hearty picnic lunch for two, a blanket and a map of our personal favorite picnic spots. Stay longer with a guaranteed late checkout.

Hotel Blackfoot

Hotel Arts

Calgary Zoo (Family Package)

Dinner and a Movie

Family fun has to include a trip to the Calgary Zoo! Home to nearly 1,000 creatures across 119 species, you'll find many of your favourite animals, birds and reptiles. The best part about booking this package with Hotel Blackfoot is that you do not need to pre-reserve your time at the zoo--you can go anytime of the day!

Escape for a night with an in-room dinner and a movie at Hotel Arts. Explore culinary delights from the comfort of your luxury room, with multi-course dinners by Hotel Arts Executive Chef, Quinn Staple, paired with your choice of an on-demand movie and truffle popcorn.

(Subject to government restrictions.)

Things to Do: WinSport

Think of WinSport as your one-stop sports and games destination. Home to the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, you can do everything from ski, snowboard, and tube in the winter to mountain bike and mini golf in the summer.

Gear rental is available on location or at nearby Sports Rent. www.winsport.ca

The Calgary Zoo & Butterfield Acres

Butterfield acres is a must-do with the family. The farm includes a petting zoo and other farm-related activities. www.todocanada.ca The Calgary Zoo is one of Canada's top tourist destinations and home to nearly 1000 different animals from over 100 unique species. www.calgaryzoo.com

Enjoy Nature Parks/Outdoors

Visit Banff National Park Outdoor areas and trails. The Banff Gondola is open and Mt Norquay Via Ferrata opens on June 19th. It is a must-see if you want to experience the best of the outdoors! www.todocanada.ca Enjoy a nature walk at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary. This 36-hectare wildlife reserve is visited by more than 270 species of birds, 21 species of mammals (including deer), 2 amphibians, 2 reptiles, 7 species of fish and 27 species of butterflies. www.todocanada.ca Enjoy the Botanical Gardens of Silver Springs. There are over 14 individual gardens each displaying unique flora.

Best visited from late June. www.bgss.ca

*Some packages include things that may not be open with lockdowns

Hotels & Packages:

Wedgewood Hotel

Seaside Hotel Vancouver Capilano Suspension Bridge Package

Imagine Van Gogh

A majestic forest adventure waiting to be experienced. It is a must-see North Vancouver destination. This stay includes an adult ticket for the Suspension Bridge!

A spectacular and immersive exhibition of the works of Vincent Van Gogh will take viewers on a unique journey inside the artist’s paintings of Starry Night, Irises and Sunflowers through projected images. An experience that brings viewers to the heart of these great works of art, accompanied by the music of famous composers.

Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront

St. Regis Hotel

“Take a Bike, don’t get two-tired”

“Steak-cation”

The best part about staying at Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront is your proximity to Stanley Park, Robson Street, and must-visit attractions. Book this package to receive Cycle City bike rentals.

Enjoy fine dining with a complimentary room upgrade. Have dinner at Gotham Steakhouse and get a complimentary upgrade. Your stay is enhanced by a $150 dining credit at Gotham Steakhouse, Vancouver's finest steakhouse.

Enjoy Prime Canadian beef, handcrafted cocktails and an award-winning wine list.

Stay must be between now & October 1, 2021.

(Gentlema’s option - subject to restrictions)

Things to Do: Maplewood Farm - Family Adventure

We offer a unique and enjoyable time for all ages in a rural heritage setting on 2 hectares (5 acres) in North Vancouver. A truly rural experience in the expanding city limits, with a collection of over 200 domestic and friendly farm animals and birds. https://maplewoodfarm.bc.ca/

BeWild!

We were all born to BeWild! Leave the city behind and discover your inner explorer as you head up the breathtaking Sea-to-Sky highway. Setting out on one of many single- to multi-day hiking, nature or adventure tours. www.tourismvancouver.com

Sea to Sky Gondola (Subject to restrictions)

Open throughout the year, this ten-minute gondola ride takes you up almost 2,800 feet past Shannon Falls. www.seatoskygondola.com

Lonsdale Artisan Farmer's Market

Peruse the many vendors at this tree-lined outdoor farmer's market, which is kept cool by a gentle breeze off the water. The location offers a spectacular view of Vancouver. artisanmarkets.ca

The Neon side of Vancouver

Did you know that Vancouver had over 19,000 neon signs in the 1950s— more than even the "Sin City" Las Vegas itself? Get a glimpse of what it was like back in its psychedelic past. https://museumofvancouver.ca/ *Some packages include things that may not be open with lockdowns

Hotels & Packages: Hotel Nelligan

Manoir Saint-Sauveur Packages for All

Drinks Under the Stars, History & More!

Pick your package! There are so many to choose from: Girls Getaway, Romantic Experience, Total Relaxation, Waterpark Extraordinaire and so much more. With options for every staycation experience, it's impossible to highlight just one (subject to restrictions).

With so many packages, you can select your favourite staycation experience. Some include a cocktail on the rooftop terrace, a private dinner for two, tickets to a historic museum and much more. We have an experience to suit your needs! (Subject to restrictions).

Lodge de la Montagne

The Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa

Summer Getaway

Gatineau Park Getaway, Art Lovers & More!

Book by June 22, 2021 to get a great deal on your summer getaway! Anywhere from 15 - 30% off stays, you can enjoy all of the activities in the area for extended stays too. (Subject to restrictions)

There are a variety of packages offered, from outdoor experiences, the spa, a discovery package and more. Not far from Gatineau, Ottawa, and areas of Quebec, come to this oasis and enjoy its beautiful surroundings too. (Subject to restrictions)

Things to Do: Saint Sauveur Outdoors

Cruise on Lac Tremblant

Parc Aquatique Sommet

Mont Royal Park

Mont Saint-Sauveur and Le Jardin de Francois is a mustdo when visiting Quebec. Explore, relax and admire the beauty. www.tripadvisor.com

Waterparks, golf, camping, activities and so much more. This is a must-do in the area for anyone looking to experience fun and adventure! www.sommets.com

Attractions Passport

In Mont Tremblant, the outdoor activities are endless.

Get your passport and enjoy the famous luge, panoramic gondola, paddle boat, mini golf, kayak rental and more. www.tremblant.ca

For all ages, enjoy a scenic cruise on the lake as you listen to stories and legends about the surrounding mountains. www.tremblant.ca For all ages. Enjoy the outdoors, parks, activities and scenic view of Montreal. www.lemontroyal.qc.ca

Botanical Garden

Explore the beauty of the garden while strolling through its 10 greenhouses and some 30 thematic gardens! https://m.espacepourlavie.ca

*Some packages include things that may not be open with lockdowns

OTTAWA

VANCOUVER

We Still Demand! On Exige Encore!

Pride Art Walk

In honour of Canada's first large-scale queer rights demonstration, which took place in 1971. Remembering all the voices that helped us enjoy the rights and freedoms. 2021 Virtual Capital Pride Festival, August 2229 https://capitalpride.ca

Look for our Pride Art Walk map, get your cameras ready and enjoy your self-guided tour with your bubble besties!

July 19 - Aug 3. https://vancouverpride.ca

Virtual National Pride Run

View exhibits with a curatorial vision at the Queer Arts Festival (QAF), July - Aug. https://queerartsfestival.com/

Join the National Capital Pride Run/Walk and come out for Ottawa's most colourful run. This 5 km run (or 2.5 km walk) is open to all genders, ages, orientations, occupations, and skill levels. All funds raised will go to Bruce House. August 28. www.runguides.com

TORONTO Pride Run (Virtual)

Queer Arts Festival

Drag Deliveries Enjoy the livestream mayhem of drag performers giving out swag and asking pride trivia questions. https://vancouverpride.ca

Pride Vancouver In-person & virtual (subject to restrictions). Various events for all, details to come. https://vancouverpride.ca/

Largest Pride Run in Canada. Dynamic, colourful, dazzling event, suitable for all people, even kids.

Professionally managed. Distances include: 2k/25k relay, kid’s race. www.priderun.org

Pride Toronto (Month Long) Drag shows, wellness events, forums, showcases and more. This is a month-long schedule of daily activities (mostly virtual) for all participants. Something for everyone. June 1st to 30th. www.pridetoronto.com

CALGARY

LA PROVINCE DE QUÉBEC

Pride Calgary (Now)

Montreal Pride Festival

Virtual Community Calendar & readings. Feature “Reading with Royalty” on various dates in June. www.calgarypride.ca

B!G Pride (& B!G ART / Drive In) Pride Week (August 27 – September 6, 2021) is excited to share what’s happening in the gender and sexually diverse community throughout Calgary. Details to come here: www.calgarypride.ca www.facebook.com/calgarypride (updates)

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Get ready to take in the festive ambiance of the parade featuring all kinds of colourful people, themed floats, dancers and musicians, along with the marching representatives of our diverse LGBTQ+ communities. August 9 to 15 https://fiertemtl.com

Quebec City Pride Festival This French-language cultural gay pride fest takes place each year on Labour Day weekend in Québec City, the heart of over 400 years of history and romance. www.bonjourquebec.com