50 Things to Do on Father’s Day (That Dad Actually Wants)

Let’s be real: most dads don’t want a giant brunch buffet with a balloon arch and a ten-hour itinerary (unless there’s bacon and zero expectations). What they do want? Time to relax, feel appreciated, and maybe squeeze in a nap or two. So whether you’ve got toddlers in tow or big kids who can help plan, here are 50 ideas for Father’s Day that dad will genuinely enjoy.

(And if you want something sweet and easy to gift, I made some printable keepsakes that are actually adorable—more on that below!)

Chill Vibes Only

 

1. Let him sleep in—really sleep in.
2. Bring him coffee in bed (and take the kids far away).
3. Set up a hammock and give him guilt-free quiet time.
4. Stream his favorite playlist while he chills.
5. Let him watch TV alone. No questions. No sharing. Just the remote.

Food = Love

6. Cook his favorite breakfast together (bonus points for bacon).
7. Fire up the grill—his way.
8. Try a DIY backyard burger bar.
9. Let him pick dinner—takeout counts.
10. Surprise him with a snack board: beer, jerky, and all his salty favorites.

 

Outdoorsy Adventures

10. Go for a hike or nature walk as a family.

11. Spend the day at the beach or lake.
12. Plan a backyard camping night (with s’mores, of course).
13. Take him fishing—or just sit by the water.
14. Play catch, kick a ball around, or shoot hoops with the kids.

 

Just the Two of You

16. Sneak in a lunch date (kid-free if possible).
17. Recreate your first date.
18. Watch his favorite movie together.
19. Write him a “thank you for being an awesome dad” letter.
20. Give him a handmade coupon book for things he actually wants: back rubs, uninterrupted naps, or control of the playlist on car rides.

With the Kiddos

 

21. Make a “reasons we love Dad” list or poster.
22. Let the kids draw his portrait—frame it like fine art.
23. Build a blanket fort and watch cartoons together.
24. Plan a backyard scavenger hunt just for him.
25. Set up a “Dad Olympics” with silly games and prizes.

 

Bonus idea: If you want a zero-stress activity that turns into a keepsake, grab this All About My Dad Poster and let the kids fill it out while you sip your coffee. It’s sweet, hilarious, and guaranteed to make Dad smile.

DIY & Creative

26. Decorate the driveway with chalk messages.
27. Record a silly video of the kids telling “Why Daddy is the best.”
28. Let the kids design a Father’s Day crown or sash.
29. Create a photo album or slideshow of dad moments.
30. Do a DIY beer or soda tasting at home.

Want to melt Dad’s heart? Grab this Father’s Day Footprint Keepsake—just add your kiddo’s tiny toes and you’ve got a frame-worthy memory he’ll treasure forever.

Sports & Games

31. Let him watch the game without interruption.
32. Play mini golf—or build one in the backyard!
33. Host a video game tournament with the kids.
34. Go bowling or to a batting cage.
35. Play a board game he likes (not Candy Land again).

 

For the Handy Dads

 

36. Give him the day off from all house/yard work.
37. Let him pick a home project he’s excited about.
38. Head to the hardware store with a gift card and no budget talks.
39. Surprise him with an upgrade to his tools or workspace.
40. Let him tinker in the garage while you handle everything else.

Memory-Making Moments

41. Take a family selfie in matching T-shirts.
42. Film a “Dad Interview” with the kids.
43. Plan a themed dinner around his favorite show or movie.
44. Make a time capsule with the kids to open next Father’s Day.
45. Have a backyard movie night with all his favorite snacks.

 

Keep It Simple

46. Ask him what he wants—and actually do it.
47. Skip the fancy stuff and give him the remote, his favorite drink, and no to-do list.
48. Say thank you, often and out loud.
49. Tell him he’s doing an amazing job (because he is).
50. Let the day be about him—low-pressure, full of love, and kid snuggles optional but encouraged.

P.S. If you’re short on time (because life), my printable Father’s Day bundle has everything you need for a sweet, handmade moment with your kids—without the craft closet chaos. Grab your printables here and check Father’s Day prep off your list!

Click here and get your bundle!!