It's always a great time of year to celebrate the dad in your life! Whether he loves cats, beer or Donkey Kong, check out these fun ways to celebrate Father’s Day in 2021.

Adventure Dad

Nothing is more satisfying as a parent than introducing your kids to the hobbies you already love—but sometimes it’s great to try something new together! Our recommendation: geocaching. Think of it as treasure hunting for adults (and kids). Using clues, GPS and your handy navigation skills, find treasure (a “cache”) and explore the great outdoors.

For younger kids, check out this fun adventure at Pritchard Park right by Chapel Hill Public Library. Kids can take a toy at each of the ten treasure boxes and leave a toy for the next kid to find.

For big kids and adults, there are geocaches all over Orange County (and the world!). Sign up on the website and let the adventure begin.

Foodie Dad

Does the dad in your life binge watch "MasterChef" or “No Reservations”? Take him and his refined palate on a mini food tour or progressive dinner. Start with a cold one at Craftboro and make sure to visit the bottle shop for craft beer to-go. Next up, make the very brief walk to Coronato for Pizza Romano (Roman inspired pizza). Finally, head over to Crossroads at Carolina Inn for a decadent dessert on the front porch.

Yes, we know we just suggested you feed Dad beer, pizza and dessert for Father’s Day, but hey—don’t mess with the classics.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Farmer Dad

Does Dad dream of hay bales and happy tails? What we’re saying is—does he like goats? You’re in luck! Spring Haven Farm has more farm fun than you can shake a chicken at. This one is family friendly, so be sure to bring the whole gang for tractor rides and hands-on activities. Need we mention the prime family photo ops? Make sure to schedule your visit with Peppa Pig, Annie (donkey), and Wilbur & Orville (Highland cows) in advance.

Bougie Dad

Sometimes even dad needs a little TLC. Spoil him with a spa day and make this Father’s Day one to remember. With the motto, "Lose yourself for an hour...find yourself in a day," Hillsborough Spa is the perfect place for a little R&R.

For a truly bougie experience, treat Dad to a night's stay at the Colonial Inn. There's nothing quite like a Dirty South Martini right after a relaxing massage. Or so we hear.

Fun & Games Dad

MORTAL COMBAT!!! Foster Dad’s healthy sense of competition with a day or night at Baxter Arcade. Check out this sweet lineup of games and get ready to relive the arcade days of his not-so-distant-youth.

We see your high score in Donkey Kong and raise you best of three in Frogger.

You could go kid-free with this one or bring the kids and make it a family tradition because nothing says fatherly love like destroying your children at pinball. Children are welcome every Saturday and Sunday from 12 PM-6 PM, or during the week from 2PM to 6PM. Call ahead and ask about upcoming events.

Beer & Sustainability Dad

Did someone say agritourism? If Dad loves beer, sustainability and food trucks, have we got the perfect place for him. Behold Pluck Farm, the newest addition to Steel String Brewery. Currently open on weekends, the farm features local food trucks, farm tours, and of course, a beer garden.

Bring a picnic blanket and chill with friends and family or take a tour and learn more about local agriculture. It’s a win-win.

Cat Dad

We all know that dads come in all shapes and sizes, so make sure to celebrate the Cat Dad near you. Get them all-natural pet treats from The Barking Bedlie. Made with the same meat you feed to humans, there is nary a preservative or additive in sight in these scrumptious bites.

For the full feline experience, check out Cat Tales Café, an "aMEOWzing place" to meet adoptable floofs in need of a home. Even if you don’t up with a new friend (or two), Dad is sure to enjoy spending time with these lovable kitties.