Father’s Day is the perfect time to show your dad how much he means to you. Whether he’s the kind of dad who loves a good backyard BBQ, a long hike, or just a quiet moment with the family, there are so many ways to make the day feel special. From heartfelt and personalized Father’s Day gifts to shared experiences, this list of things to do for Father’s Day will help you create lasting memories and let Dad know he’s appreciated.
Father’s Day Activities & Ways to Celebrate
1. Cook His Favorite Meal Together
Instead of going out, make his favorite breakfast, lunch, or dinner at home. Get the family involved in the cooking — even if it’s just flipping pancakes or setting the table. If he enjoys grilling, plan a BBQ with all his go-to sides and sauces. To make it even more special, gather his best-loved recipes (and maybe a few secret ones) into a custom recipe book he can treasure and use year after year.
2. Take a Hike
Spend some time outdoors on a local hiking trail or nature path. Bring along snacks, drinks, and take a few group selfies along the way. Afterward, surprise him with a custom water bottle or photo mug from Shutterfly that features one of your best snapshots from the hike.
3. Plan a Backyard Movie Night
Turn your backyard into an open-air theater. Set up a projector, string some lights, and watch one of Dad’s favorite movies. Bring out cozy blankets, popcorn, and his favorite drinks for a relaxed night under the stars.
4. Make a Personalized Father’s Day Gift
If you want to give Dad something meaningful, design a personalized gift with one of his favorite family photos. A desktop photo plaque, personalized puzzle, or custom keychain can remind him of happy memories every day.
5. Host a Game Night
Whether he’s into board games, poker, or video games, a family game night is a fun way to spend time together. Let him pick the games, and don’t forget the snacks. For an extra surprise, gift him a custom deck of cards made just for him.
6. Go on a Mini Road Trip
Explore a nearby town, national park, or scenic highway. Play his favorite road trip playlist and stop at a roadside diner for lunch. Later, you can collect your photos and create a travel photo book to remember the day.
7. Set Up a Beer or Root Beer Tasting
Create a tasting station with different craft beers or root beers from around the country. Pair each with snacks or small bites. Personalize the experience with a custom beer glass or stein that he can reuse long after the holiday.
8. Create a Tribute Video
Gather video clips from friends and family sharing stories or messages about what makes your dad so great. Put them together into a short tribute video he can watch anytime he needs a pick-me-up.
9. Spend the Day Fishing
If your dad loves fishing, take him to his favorite fishing spot or explore a new one. Even if the fish aren’t biting, the quiet time together is what counts. Pack a cooler, bring folding chairs, and just enjoy the calm.
10. Build Something Together
Is your dad handy? Take on a small DIY project — build a birdhouse, paint a bench, or assemble something fun for the backyard. It’s a creative way to bond, and you’ll have something physical to show for the day.
11. Watch a Sports Game
If there’s a game on, make an event out of it. Wear team gear, set up snacks, and cheer on his favorite team together. If he’s more into playing sports, shoot hoops or play catch at the park.
12. Surprise Him With a Photo Book
Collect pictures from family vacations, holidays, or everyday moments and design a personalized photo book for him. Add captions, quotes, or little stories to make it extra personal.
13. Have a Backyard Campout
Pitch a tent in the backyard, light a fire pit, and enjoy s’mores and stories under the stars. It’s perfect for adventurous dads who like the outdoors but prefer to stay close to home.
14. Go for a Bike Ride
Plan a scenic bike route and ride as a family. Bring along drinks, stop for ice cream, or find a quiet spot for a picnic. It’s a healthy and fun way to get some fresh air and spend time together.
15. Take a Class Together
Try something new together — a cooking class, pottery workshop, or even a local brewery tour. Shared experiences like these can bring you closer and make for great memories.
16. Make a Playlist
Put together a playlist of songs that remind you of your dad — the ones he used to play in the car or sing around the house. Play it during your time together or gift it to him with a sweet note explaining your choices.
17. Create a Custom Phone Case
Take one of your favorite photos together and turn it into a custom phone case for him. Every time he picks up his phone, he’ll be reminded of that happy moment.
18. Take a Scenic Drive
Choose a beautiful route — along the coast, through the mountains, or past the countryside. Bring snacks, play his favorite music, and stop to take photos along the way.
19. Visit a Local Museum or Exhibit
Check out a local history museum, science center, or art exhibit. It’s a great way to learn something new together while supporting your community.
20. Write Him a Letter
Sometimes the most meaningful gift is the simplest. Write your dad a letter sharing what he means to you, specific memories you cherish, or lessons you’ve learned from him. Tuck it into a custom Father’s Day card that you design just for him. If you’re stumped on what to say, get inspired with our guide on Happy Father’s Day Messages.
Related Resources on Celebrating Father’s Day
No matter how you choose to spend Father’s Day, the most important thing is making your dad feel appreciated. Whether it’s a fun outing, a heartfelt gift, or just time spent together, what matters most is showing him how much he means to you. For more creative ways to celebrate your dad, check out these additional resources:
