Looking for a way to make Father's Day memorable for your dad? You're in luck because we've rounded up a long list of fun and unique things to on on Father's Day. Whether your dad prefers a low key fishing trip, an extreme outdoor adventure or something in between we've got ideas that will make him feel loved and appreciated.

 

Things to do on Father's Day

Float Down the River

If your dad likes the great outdoors, he's sure to enjoy a day on the water. Check out these great local spots where you can rent a Canoe or Kayak. Then enjoy the beautiful scenery, fresh air and get some exercise as you paddle around the lake.

Think he would prefer a leisurely float done the river on a tube? Then check out these option on the Cuyahoga River and the Mohican River. Sunglasses, hats and sunblock are recommended. 

Watch a Drive in Movie

Show the kids what watching a movie was like in the good old days! We're fortunate to have many iconic drive-in movie theaters in Northeast Ohio. The prices are affordable and most have double features each night which means two movies for the price of one! Remember there is an additional charge to bring your own food and drinks.

Go Golfing (Frisbee Golf, Foot Golf and Mini Golf Counts too!)

Who knew there were so many ways to play golf. Choose to play as a family or let him spend part of the day at the course with his friends. Don't have time to play a full round? Head to the driving range instead. DEAL ALERT -> Check out these discounts on local golf courses before booking your tee time.

Not very good with a golf club, why not try out one of our local frisbee disc golf courses or make a course of your own using different objects (tree, post) as the “hole”.  DEAL ALERT -> Get discounts on mini golf here. Some deals even include ice cream!

Or maybe foot golf is more your pace. Several area golf courses have holes specifically designed for foot golf players. The goal is to kick a soccer ball into a cup, and way more challenging than it sounds. Find a foot golf course near you.

Have a Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Our newly released scavenger hunts are perfect for your a Father's Day adventure! Have a blast as you follow the map on a quest through an area park. Your team will look for clues, solve puzzles and complete challenges all while making fun memories. Purchase your scavenger hunt now, and start your adventure any time!

Take Him Out to the Ball Game

Well that may not work this year, you can create a mini ball game of your own. Head to a local ball field and play a game of catch, run the bases and see who can hit the ball the farthest.

Go on a Hike Together

Want to check out a waterfall? Head out on one of these waterfall hikes. Our top picks for easy to access waterfalls include Berea Falls, Chagrin Falls, Brandywine Falls and the Gorge Metropark. 

Of course you could also hike along (and in!) the river. Our favorite spots include: O'Neil Woods Metropark, Euclid Creek Reservation, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Rocky River Reservation, South Chagrin Reservation. Remember to bring water shoes, sandals or even rain boots.

Maybe dad would prefer a picturesque view? Then check out the overlook at Cascade Valley Metropark, Chapin Woods Reservation Overlook, Tinkers Creek Overlook or the Ledges Overlook in the CVNP.

Picnic at the Park

Pack a lunch and have a picnic at a local park, bring along a kite to fly, or hike the trails. See if you can complete one of our Scavenger Hunt challenges and then stop for ice cream to make the day extra special. 

Fire up the Grill and Have a Family Game Night

Would your dad prefer a more low key day at home? Pick up some hamburgs and hot dogs (maybe a steak for dad!) and have a backyard barbecue. Play some yard games (try these water balloon games), break out a deck of cards or a board game (check out our board game picks), or try to stump one another with a game of 20 questions. Often it's the simple times that are remembered the most.

Plan a Camping Trip

Cooking over the fire pit, camp fire stories, card games and getting back to nature. Whether you plan to rough it with only a tent and hammock, bring along your RV or book a cozy cabin, there are many great campgrounds in Ohio you can choose from.

Go Fishing

If your dad likes to fish, join him on a family trip to the lake. Most kids enjoy learning to fish, even if they aren’t typically enthusiastic about the outdoors. You can also use these 5  tips to help teach your kids to fish

Bring along some snacks and quiet activities (books, cards, coloring pages) just in case the kids get board and want to leave before dad is ready to call it a day.

Zip Through the Trees

As long as dad isn't afraid of heights, zip lining may be the perfect father's day present. It's fun, unique and he'll likely always remember it After all there is nothing quite like the feel of flying and the bird eye view you'll experience as you take in the world around you. 

Challenge Dad to a Father's Day Competition

Head to a local amusement park and have day of mini challenges and friendly competition. Think go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats and batting cages. Everyone will come out a winner during this day of fun!

You could also try one of these area escape rooms to see if your group can solve the mystery before time runs out.

Plan a Road Trip

What to getaway for the entire fathers day weekend? Plan a road trip to check out Cincinnati, Columbus, Toledo or Dayton. Drive a little father and you could spend the weekend in Louisville, Indianapolis or even Gatlinburg.  Need some idea on things to do when you get these? Check out our Family Road Trip Ideas.

Or maybe you'd prefer to leave the kids at home and have a romantic getaway. We've got great ideas for that too including tree houses, quaint bed and breakfast spots and more. 

Father's Day Events

Looking for more ways to celebrate Father's Day? Many area businesses host fun father's day event to celebrate dad. If you know of a Father’s Day event that we've missed? Submit the details here. Thanks!

DadsDay Run Club

Join the club and put in the miles to stay healthy and fit leading up to DADSDAY weekend! Accept this challenge to run (or walk) and raise pivotal funds for Family Connections, whose service to families with young children is needed now more than ever. (Find Out More)
When: Now-June 21, 2020
Where: Virtual
Cost: Pledge your support [REGISTER]

JC Penney Kid's Zone: Dad, I Love You

Kids can decorate a special toolbox card dad this Father's Day. {Find Out More}
When: Saturday, June 13, 2020; 11am-12pm
Where: JC Penney stores across Northeast Ohio
Cost: FREE

Father's Day at Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant

Bring dad out for a day of wine, food, and entertainment. The day will feature entrée and dessert specials as well as a children’s menu. Live music! {Find Out More}
When: Sunday, June 14, 2020; 12pm-7:30pm
Where: 5750 S. Madison Rd., Madison, OH 44057
Cost: Reservations strongly recommended.

Father-Daughter/Son Cooking Salt Class at The Salt & Serenity Grotto

This class will teach you how to make two seasoning blends that are perfect for grilling! {Find Out More}
When: Thursday, June 18, 2020; 5pm-7pm
Where: 111 S. Buckeye St., Wooster, OH 44691
Cost: $40/person (includes a salt grinder, salt shaker, and 45-min. Himalayan Salt session), $30/person (w/o salt session) [REGISTER]

Middleburg Heights' Fair Food Drive-Thru

While many fairs and festivals have been canceled this year, you can at least still get your favorite delicious fair foods at the Middleburg Heights Fair Food Drive-Thru this Father's Day weekend. {Find Out More}
When: Saturday, June 20, 2020; 11am-7pm
Where: Middleburg Heights Community Center, 16000 Bagley Rd., Cleveland, OH 44130
Cost: Menu prices apply

Barnes & Noble Virtual Storytime

Listen to two virtual stories – Hair Love and When Dads Don't Grow Up – with dad! {Find Out More}
When: Saturday, June 20, 2020
Where: Online
Cost: FREE

Happy Father's Day