Dad. Pops. Daddy. There are many reasons why we love the fathers in our lives — they’re sweet, helpful and maybe they even know some pretty good Dad jokes. Most of all, they love their kids no matter what.
When Father’s Day rolls around, we want to make sure Dads know that they’re the best. There are so many ways to make them feel great, including delicious food, meaningful gifts or a special family outing.
Make June 18 an unforgettable day for dad. We’ve rounded up some fun Father’s Day activities that Chicago families can enjoy.
Events
Local businesses are getting creative to celebrate Dads with these fun family events. Looking for more Father’s Day events? Check out the latest events added to our calendar and more of our top picks listed in this roundup.
Busse Lake Outdoors Day & Fishing Derby at Busse Lake Boating Center
June 17, 2023
- Address: Higgins Road, Elk Grove Village
- Cost: Free, registration required; no fishing license required for ages 15 and under
Enjoy a free fishing derby, local food, prizes, tree climb, nature play, animal encounters and more at this annual event.
Dads Play Miniature Golf for free on Father’s Day at Haunted Trails Burbank
June 18, 2023
- Address: 7759 S. Harlem Ave., Burbank
- Cost: $7/guest, Free/dads
Dads accompanying their children or grandchildren can enjoy a free round of miniature golf on Father’s Day.
Eat the Parks Foraging Walk: Horner Park Father’s Day Edition at Horner (Henry) Park
June 18, 2023
- Address: 2741 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago
- Cost: $40/person, $70/pair, free/dads; group rates available
Join Dave Odd, Chicago’s only professional forager, for an edible plant identification walk around Horner Park. Learn about at least 50 edible plants and berries.
Father’s Day Classic Car Show at Oakbrook Center
June 18, 2023
- Address: 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook
- Cost: Free
Celebrating its 53rd year, more than 70,000 visitors are expected to attend this one-day-only event where more than 80 antique, classic, vintage and specialty automobiles will be on display throughout Oakbrook Center.
Father’s Day Mini Golf Tournament at River’s Edge Mini Golf
June 18, 2023
- Address: 2205 Skokie Valley Highway, Highland Park
- Cost: Free for dads
Put those putt-putt skills to the test at the Father’s Day Mini Golf Tournament. Kids can compete with their dads to win prizes at the 18-hole course. Registration required.
Gifts
Don’t wait until the last minute to find the perfect Father’s Day gift! Here’s help to get you started, whether you want your Father’s Day gifts practical or something special and homemade from the kids.
Handmade Father’s Day Cards (Metro Parent)
Skip buying a card this year and give Dad something that he will treasure forever. These handmade Father’s Day cards from Metro Parent make our hearts melt. Especially the “I Love You This Much” card!
Father’s Day Gift Experiences
Sometimes it’s tricky to find a wonderful gift for the dads in your life. We rounded up some simple and cool Father’s Day gift experiences that any dad will love.
Tin Can Planter Craft
Brighten up Dad’s day by re-creating one of these tin can planters filled with personality. Tip: Let the kids get creative by adding a little more of Dad to the planter gift. You can print out family photos or include his favorite sports team.
Food
Surprise dad with a great meal for Father’s Day. While you can take him out to his favorite restaurant, you can also cook at home or treat him with the best ice cream with these suggestions.
Suburban Breweries Worth the Trip
Make a toast to the best dad in the world. Some of these suburban breweries are family-friendly, but you can also make it a special outing with your partner, or even own father, for some quality time without the kids.
Slider Recipes for Father’s Day (Metro Parent)
Sliders are fun and delicious for the whole family. Plus, you can make more than one recipe to give everyone plenty of options. Our personal favorites on this list has to be Sloppy Joe sliders and cheesesteak sliders.
Ice Cream Shops in Chicagoland
We all scream for ice cream! With Father’s Day taking place in the summer, you can’t say no to a trip visiting one of these ice cream shops.
More Activities
As much as any father would love food and gifts on his dedicated day, sometimes family time is just as special. Here are some ideas on things to do with the whole family on Father’s Day.
Watch a Father’s Day movie
If you want to relax at home, grab some popcorn and catch these dad-focused movies featured in our Watch This, Do That series. Some movies to watch include “Finding Nemo“, “Despicable Me” and “The Mitchells vs. The Machines“. Plus, read about Chicago TV dads we love and learn from.
Go on a beautiful bike ride
Expecting amazing weather on Father’s Day? Take out the bikes and head out on an outdoor adventure. We rounded up our favorite family-friendly biking trails in Chicagoland with the best views.
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