It’s that time of year again. Father’s Day is almost upon us (Sunday, June 18th) and we all wonder what to get pops to make his day extra special. Instead of gifting him a cool gadget he’s been eyeing or another “Best dad ever” mug, we’ve got you covered with thoughtful experiences and events that will put a smile on his face! From an F1 race watch party to free whiskey with a side of pizza, here are some amazing suggestions:
1. Treat dad to Van Gogh’s magical artworks
Show dad the appreciation he deserves with a trip through the incomparable universe of Vincent van Gogh. The wildly impressive exhibit features the Dutch painter’s most famous artworks, all coming to life with digital brushstrokes as they dance across the walls and floors. Get tickets here!
2. Go paddle boarding together
Everyone loves a good adventure, especially in crystal clear waters with the sun beaming down on you, so you can’t go wrong with a paddle board session! Take in the breathtaking sights as you paddle through the mangroves and be prepared to see birds, fish and maybe even some manatees along the path! Plus, beers and water are welcome. Snag your tickets here.
3. Embark on an outdoor hike
If you’re both on the adventurous side or simply want a feel of nature while getting out of the city, why not head on a hike? There are so many amazing hiking opportunities that are within a short drive from the city, from the sprawling paths of that lead to the heart of the Everglades to the more urban trails of Matheson Hammock Park. For a list of excellent hiking trails, check them out here.
4. Take him to an enchanting Candlelight concert
Taking place in some of Miami’s most beautiful and historic venues, dad is sure to enjoy a relaxing evening bathed in candlelight. This Father’s Day, June 18, a stunning tribute to Coldplay is arriving at the Coral Gables Congregational Church, which you can book tickets for here.
In case you’re not sure what he’ll enjoy, get him a gift card instead and he can pick the concert he’d prefer. Check out all of the concerts here.
5. Give dad the gift of free whiskey or a cold one
Take him to Evio’s Pizza & Grill, which is giving all father figures what they really want this Father’s Day — free whiskey. Available on June 18th, whiskey cocktails include the classics like a whiskey sour, whiskey mule or whiskey and coke. But if whiskey isn’t his thing, the first draft is on the house for all pops. On theme with mimosa Sunday, mom and the fam (at least those aged 21 and up) can also get in on the fun with $5 mimosas from 12 to 5 p.m.!
6. Bond over cars and racing
The car aficionado in your life will really appreciate being surrounded by Ferraris and family while watching an F1 race at the new Hagerty Garage + Social. The space, in collaboration with BoxBox Car Club, will be home to a Sunday of food, friends, cars and high-speed thrills at their Father’s Day F1 Canadian Grand Prix Watch Party. From 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., there will be large-screen TVs and plenty of delicious food and drinks on hand to keep you fueled up. For the little ones, they’ll also be setting up a build-your-own-car station and hot wheels tracks!
7. Pamper pops at a soothing spa
Perhaps what he really needs is some much-needed relaxation, and what better way than with a spa day? There are so many incredible spas in and around the city, with some Father’s Day specials in the mix! Opt for a Dad’s Day special featuring a sound healing session followed by a soothing aromatherapy massage at Leaf Spa at Hotel AKA Brickell or a Cigar Haven Spa Retreat with a rejuvenating massage and a custom blended cigar oil inclusion at K’Alma Spa. Find a full round-up of spas here.
8. Catch a series of plays together
There’s nothing better than gifting dad an evening of entertainment. Running through June 25th, Summer Shorts: Homegrown Edition at the Adrienne Arsht Center showcases eight 10-minute plays by Miami’s best emerging playwrights. Set against the backdrop of the Magic City, stories include that of teenage girls planning their “rebrand” before venturing into high school, a man safeguarding a space station wormhole, two best friends working at a banana bread coffee shop and a bride struggling to choose whether to remarry her loving husband or reunite with her ex….
9. Tee up your mini golf game
Who’s up for a little friendly competition? Any king of green will have a blast at Miami’s only tech-infused mini-golf destination, with creative courses from beer pong to trivia. As a special treat on Sunday, Puttshack will put up themed photo frames with classic dad jokes or slogans on the 9th hole of every course. And don’t forget about their exquisite cocktails while on the course!
10. Or take up a competitive game of bowling
Treat the sports fanatic in your life with timeless social gaming in a retro environment at Kings Dining and Entertainment. Dabble in some bowling, billiards, shuffleboard, air hockey, foosball and more. Right up dad’s alley, you’ll also get to indulge in delicious dishes from its chef-driven kitchen.