Father’s Day is this month, so it’s the perfect time to celebrate our dads! But you don’t have to spend lots of money on physical gifts. (Does dad really need another pair of socks?) Instead, plan a day doing what dad loves best, and splurge on quality time with him. Here are some fun ideas to make this Father’s Day one for the books!
For the Outdoorsman
From Hueston Woods to East Fork Lake, the entire region is packed full of great fishing spots, woodsy campgrounds, hiking trails, and a brand new Bass Pro Shop off I-75 in West Chester. Whether dad is looking for a new Browning rod and reel or upgrading the family camping tent, a trip to Bass Pro is always a great place to start.
Take your gear to Great Parks or Five Rivers MetroParks and enjoy a day of kayaking on the calm waters of Winton Lake or horseback riding at Carriage Hill Riding Center. Both park systems offer camping at different locations and sometimes include fun perks like free wifi, splash pads, pizza delivery and naturalist events.
For the Sports Fanatic
Whether dad likes to play them or watch them, Southwest Ohio has leagues of all shapes and sizes. For the baseball fan, the Dayton Dragons will be in town on Father’s Day for an afternoon game at Day Air Ballpark. FC Cincinnati and the Reds will be on the road but you can catch a game on the big screen at Newport’s Bridgeview Box Park.
Break a sweat with dad at The Pickleball Lodge or Aces Pickleball in Norwood’s Factory 52. Take it easy with a few swings at Top Golf’s high-tech driving range or play a nine-hole round at Meadow Links Father Child Classic. Sign up dad for Gem City Social Sports in Dayton where the community is building friendships of all skill levels in various athletic leagues across the city (mom can come, too!).
For the Artsy Bookworm
The Contemporary Arts Center and The Contemporary Dayton supports art and wellness in their stunning showcases. Take a stroll through one of Southwest Ohio’s prized museums before a trip to Bookery Cincy or Bonnett’s Book Store to dive further into knowledge. The Joseph-Beth Book Club is a great gift for dad to find the best selection and receive a 20% discount on future purchases.
For the Car Guy
Take dad to the races! At Moler Raceway Park in Williamsburg, dad can get a glimpse of life in the fast lane at the Impact RaceGear 40 Super Late Models race. The race track is cash only, so come prepared! If dad has a need for speed himself, Full Throttle Adrenaline Park puts him behind the wheel of high-speed go karting, axe throwing, virtual reality, and an indoor paintball field.
For the Foodie
There’s no better place than a fresh market to visit on a summer day with a foodie dad. Both 2nd Street Market and Findlay Market feature local growers, bakers, and artisans like the award-winning Blue Oven Bakery. On 2nd Street in Dayton, enjoy a special Sunset at the Market only held twice this summer.
Dine with dad on a special brunch or dinner cruise on BB Riverboats or encourage him to throw back a few at Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company. The brewery is hosting an epic Bourbon, BBQ, Brews, & Blues Festival on Father’s Day with bourbon pours and food trucks.
Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to make your dad feel special and appreciated. Whether you choose one of these activities or combine them to create a full day of celebration, spending quality time with dad is the best gift of all!
