Fathers are hard workers, and they love their families more than just about anything. That's why when Dad's special day rolls around each year, it's important to show him just how much you love and appreciate him. And if you're looking for a few things to surprise dear old Dad with this Father's Day, you've come to the right place. We've compiled some great Father's Day ideas for that special guy in your life. Whether you've decided to skip the gift this year or you're looking for a way to honor Dad in addition to a present, these Father's Day activities will ensure it's a celebration he'll never forget.
READ THIS NEXT: 50 Hilarious Jokes to Send Your Dad This Father's Day.
30 Ideas for Father's Day Dad Will Love
Read on for ideas on how to celebrate this special occasion. Below, we've listed a few fun things to do with Dad.
1. Climb a mountain.
Shutterstock / YanLev
Any active dad who enjoys the great outdoors will love going for a climb on his special day. Strap the little ones into a carrier and hit the trails for a rewarding challenge the whole family will feel good about accomplishing.
2. Go for a hike.
Shutterstock / Monkey Business Images
Is something a little less strenuous more his speed? A hike in the woods is a refreshing change from his day-to-day routine that requires only a moderate amount of effort. Think about how you can really tailor the experience toward his interest and spend the day exploring his favorite trails.
If you know Dad loves birdwatching, then map out a few of the best locations in the area. If nature walks are more his speed, then hop online and look for popular places to go.
3. Organize a barbecue.
Shutterstock / Pixel-Shot
Put those grilling tools he got for Father's Day last year to good use by hosting a Father's Day barbecue for family, friends, or maybe even the whole neighborhood. Encourage guests to bring a side dish so he doesn't have to work too hard on his day off. You can also organize a few fun outdoor games to make the day even more memorable.
4. Host a video game marathon.
Is the dad in your life a gamer? If so, build in some time on Father's Day for a playfully competitive video game marathon. Whether you choose to gift him a new game or stick with his old go-to's, he'll love that you planned something that incorporates his hobbies.
5. Go fishing.
Shutterstock / BlueOrange Studio
Fishing is pretty much the quintessential fatherly pastime. That's just part of what makes going on a fishing trip one of our favorite Father's Day ideas. Before you head out, make sure to scout the perfect location (be sure there are fish around in the spring!), grab all the bait and tackle you'll need, and pack a bite to eat that you can enjoy while you're waiting for the fish to bite.
READ THIS NEXT: 25 Mother's Day Messages That Will Warm Her Heart.
6. Go on a camping trip.
Shutterstock / Ostanina Anna
If you're looking for fun Father's Day ideas, camping should be at the top of your list. It's a fun way to spend time as a family making memories and, of course, enjoying s'mores around the campfire.
7. Go to a car show.
Shutterstock / Pritam dutta77
Nothing says "I love you, Dad!" like a trip to a classic car show. Your old man will love spending the whole afternoon checking out rows upon rows of beautiful, shiny, classic cars from the days of yore.
8. Try whitewater rafting.
PPstock/Shutterstock
If the special dad in your life hasn't tried whitewater rafting yet, Father's Day is the perfect time for him to give it a whirl. Give him the experience of a lifetime by signing the whole family up for a day of rafting. It's one of those Father's Day activities he'll never forget.
9. Take a motorcycle riding class.
Shutterstock / marino bocelli
Forget about that annual bike ride—surprise Dad with a motorcycle riding class instead. Many towns and cities offer these courses to people who own a motorcycle or are thinking of buying one. But if he falls into the latter category, be prepared for him to want his own chopper after taking the class!
10. Rent a sports car.
Shutterstock / Monkey Business Images
Make this Father's Day more about experiences than gifts when you rent a cool sports car for the day and take it out on the town. This unique Father's Day idea is sure to bring fond memories for years to come. In fact, Dad may even decide he'd like to make it a yearly tradition!
11. Go to a baseball game.
Shutterstock / Christopher Penler
Since Father's Day is in June, it's the perfect opportunity to catch a ball game. Treat Dad to a few hot dogs, and a few brewskis, raise a glass to your favorite father figure, and take in the game as you enjoy each other's company.
READ THIS NEXT: 76 Best 4th of July Quotes to Celebrate Independence Day.
12. Go geocaching.
Shutterstock / Damian Lugowski
Geocaching is one of those fun activities that combines detective work with outdoor adventures. Geocachers hide goodies all over, and explorers must use coordinates on the Geocaching app to find these hidden treasures in their area.
If Dad is looking for adventure this Father's Day, this is something he'll definitely enjoy.
13. Go on a road trip.
Shutterstock / Komuso and Colorsandia
Hit the road this Father's Day and whisk Dad off to somewhere cool—better yet if you can find a destination he's been wanting to visit. But no matter what, he'll appreciate the thought you put into this extra special Father's Day celebration and the opportunity to spend some quality time together.
14. Do some woodworking.
Shutterstock / Jack Frog
Help Dad brush up on his handiwork by completing a woodworking project together. For a basic project, assemble this trinket box using only a bandsaw. And if he knows his way around the power tools, opt for a more involved project like this rolling shop cart.
The final product is a gift he's sure to love, especially since he'll think about how he got to make it with you every time he uses it.
15. Go on a brewery tour.
Shutterstock / adriaticfoto
This Father's Day, take a trip with Dad to a local brewery—or several! Make a plan for the day, and arrange the transportation ahead of time so he can relax and enjoy his special day trying all the best brews.
Keep an eye out for a few cool places to eat along the way. You can give him something unique to snack on by scouting out a few food trucks or other local vendors along the way.
16. Watch a movie.
Shutterstock / Rawpixel.com
No dad would refuse a big bucket of popcorn and a movie with his favorite person. That's why going to the movies or streaming a rental should definitely top your list of Father's Day ideas. Just be sure to pick a flick Dad will enjoy!
READ THIS NEXT: The 30 Funniest Movies of All Time and Where to Stream Them.
17. Go to a concert.
Shutterstock / Melinda Nagy
An outdoor concert is just right for the third Sunday in June. This Father's Day idea may require some planning ahead, but it'll be worth it to see the big smile on Dad's face as he takes in a great show in his lawn chair.
18. Attend a comedy hour.
Shutterstock / aerogondo2
If Dad's a comedy buff, there's no better way to spend Father's Day than taking in a comedy show. He'll be in stitches during the set, and memories of the occasion will keep him laughing for years to come.
19. Take him to the golf course.
Shutterstock / AboutLife
Be Dad's caddy on Father's Day when you hit the green together for a long afternoon of golf. He probably doesn't get to play as much as he'd like, so a guilt-free day spent sinking balls with you is probably near the top of his list of ideal Father's Day activities.
20. Make Dad's favorite dessert.
Shutterstock / fizkes
Does the big guy in your life have a sweet tooth? If so, there's no better way to celebrate Dad's day than by making him his favorite dessert. If you want, you can even turn this into a fun activity and make it together!
21. Volunteer together.
Shutterstock / Elizaveta Galitckaia
Make Father's Day an altruistic event when you seek out a volunteer opportunity to do together. If he's got a favorite charity, reach out and see if they have any events you can volunteer at around Father's Day. Other great charities to check out are Habitat for Humanity and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.
22. Go to a park.
Shutterstock / BR Photo Addicted
Looking for a low-key Father's Day idea? Pull off a fantastic day without blowing your budget by packing a picnic, gathering up some sporting equipment, and heading to a local park to celebrate Dad. You'll all have a blast, and he's sure to feel loved—and at the end of the day, that's really the best gift you can give this Father's Day.
23. Host a family game night.
Shutterstock / Leszek Glasner
Another budget-friendly Father's Day idea is a family game night! There are so many amazing games to play, from classics like Scrabble or Monopoly to more mature options like Apples to Apples or Cards Against Humanity. Chances are, you'll be laughing long into the night.
If nothing else, it gives you a great opportunity to teach him a few new things about performers and pop culture.
24. Set up a scavenger hunt.
Shutterstock / Ulza
If you've purchased or made a gift for your favorite guy this Father's Day, don't just give it to him and call it a day. Instead, set up a scavenger hunt and make him search for his present. You can make it as easy or as hard as you'd like; either way, he'll love the thought and effort you put into his day.
READ THIS NEXT: 30 Mother's Day Ideas Better Than Any Store-Bought Gift.
25. Play laser tag.
Shutterstock / BearFotos
Let Dad be a kid again when you take him for an afternoon of laser tag this Father's Day. It's a great way to have a blast together while he leaves the burdens of everyday life behind.
26. Enjoy an afternoon of paintball.
Shutterstock / EA230311
Don some protective gear and fire up the paintball guns for a day Dad will never forget. We guarantee he'll be the last one in the car when it's time to leave this super fun Father's Day activity.
27. Go to an arcade.
Shutterstock / Freeograph
On Father's Day, it's important for Dad to have fun with the people he loves the most—namely, you! So, gather up all the quarters you can find and treat the whole family to a throwback day at the arcade.
28. Visit a historic site.
Shutterstock / Page Light Studios
If Dad's a history buff, then he'll love spending his special day at a historic site. Need some help finding one? Visit the National Register of Historic Places website for some inspiration. There are more options than you might think, and there's a good chance you'll be able to find something nearby.
29. Go bowling.
Shutterstock / Pixel-Shot
Grab a pitcher of beer and some fried food and knock down some pins this Father's Day! Whether it's just you and Dad or the whole family, going bowling provides plenty of bonding time.
30. Go to the gym.
Shutterstock / EZ-Stock Studio
If Dad's passionate about working out, then guarantee him the best Father's Day ever by heading to his favorite workout spot together. Maybe he's impartial to weightlifting, or perhaps he prefers his weekly karate class.
Whatever his workout of choice is, he'll be thrilled to have you by his side on his special day.
Wrapping Up
That's it for our list of Father's Day ideas, but be sure to check back in with us soon for more ways to have fun with the family. You can also sign up for our newsletter to enjoy similar kinds of content, as well as hit pieces on health, entertainment, and travel.
