LeVar Thomas
Father’s Day comes around once a year, but the memories you make can last a lifetime, especially when travel is involved. Whether your dad is the outdoorsy type, a food lover, a thrill-seeker, or someone who just enjoys quality time with family, there are countless travel activities you can do together to celebrate him.
Skip the last-minute necktie and give your dad what he really wants: time, adventure, and connection. Below, you’ll find 12 awesome Father’s Day travel ideas that are as meaningful as they are memorable.
1. Go on a Classic Father–Child Road Trip for a Father’s Day Travel Idea
Nothing beats the open road, a great playlist, and time to bond. Plan a road trip with a mix of his favorite destinations—maybe it’s small towns with diners, historic landmarks, or scenic routes like the Pacific Coast Highway. Make it about the journey, not just the destination.
Pro tip: Let him pick some of the stops along the way.
2. Book a Fishing Getaway for Father’s Day
Whether it’s fly fishing in Montana or casting a line off a Florida pier, fishing gives you the chance to unwind and catch up (literally and figuratively).
Best for: Dads who love peaceful environments and the thrill of the catch.
Pack snacks, a cooler, and your favorite conversation topics—it’s not about how many fish you catch, but the stories you’ll tell.
3. Hit the Golf Course (or a Golf Resort) for Father’s Day
If your dad lives for the green, why not go all in with a golf vacation? Whether you’re teeing off at Pebble Beach or hitting a local resort with a spa for balance, this is the kind of weekend that brings relaxation and friendly competition.
No experience? No problem—many resorts offer beginner clinics or private lessons.
4. Explore a National Park for Father’s Day
From Yellowstone to Yosemite, America’s national parks are the perfect stage for a Father’s Day adventure. Hike, camp, or just take in the views from a scenic overlook.
Inclusive tip: Many parks are wheelchair-accessible and offer ranger-led tours for people of all activity levels.
You’ll come back with beautiful photos and stories worth retelling for years.
5. Attend a Sports Event or Stadium Tour for Father’s Day
Does your dad love baseball, basketball, or even motorsports? Book tickets to see his favorite team or explore a historic stadium. Many venues now offer behind-the-scenes tours where you can walk the field, visit the locker rooms, and learn the backstory.
Make it extra: Grab a custom jersey or hat from the team store.
6. Wine or Brewery Tour (With a Scenic Backdrop) for Father’s Day
If your dad appreciates a good glass of wine or a cold craft beer, consider a weekend in a wine country region or brewery town. Napa, Finger Lakes, or even Portland are great options.
Bonus: Many locations offer food pairings, vineyard walks, and live music.
Just make sure to have a designated driver or book a tour shuttle.
7. Rent a Cabin in the Woods or a Lake House for Father’s Day
Disconnect to reconnect. A weekend surrounded by trees or water can create the peaceful environment needed to have deeper conversations and genuine laughs.
Activities to try: Kayaking, grilling, nature hikes, or watching the sunset with a couple of cold drinks.
This kind of setting naturally opens the door for honest chats and heartfelt moments.
8. Take a Historical Tour of a City He Loves for Father’s Day
Whether he’s a history buff or just enjoys a good walking tour, exploring the past in cities like Boston, Philadelphia, Charleston, or Washington D.C. can be incredibly rewarding.
Book a guided tour, visit museums, or follow a self-guided route with apps to complete this Father’s Day travel idea.
Make it interactive: Ask him about his own childhood stories while learning about the past together.
9. Book an Outdoor Adventure for Father’s Day
Does your dad have an adventurous spirit? Plan a whitewater rafting trip, ziplining adventure, or even skydiving session (yes, really).
This one’s all about the adrenaline. Choose an activity you’re both excited—or terrified—to try. Facing it together is the bonding part.
10. Plan a Father–Daughter or Father–Son Spa Day for Father’s Day
Dads enjoy pampering too! Resorts and wellness centers now offer men’s grooming, massages, and spa treatments catered to dads who deserve to relax.
Pair it with a nice dinner or wine tasting to round out the day.
This is perfect if you’re looking for something restorative and chill.
11. Take a Culinary Trip for Food Lovers for Father’s Day
From BBQ joints in Kansas City to seafood shacks in Maine, traveling for food can be an unforgettable journey.
Research food festivals or plan a food-themed itinerary through a region known for your dad’s favorite cuisine.
Pro tip: Book a cooking class together and learn a dish you can recreate at home.
12. Do a “Memory Lane” Tour for Father’s Day
If your dad grew up in a different town or spent time in the military, college, or abroad—go back there. Revisit his old neighborhood, schools, or even the diner he loved in his twenties.
Ask questions and document the trip. You may hear stories you’ve never heard before.
This is one of the most personal and sentimental trips you can take together.
Travel Tips to Make for Father’s Day Seamless
- Book early: Father’s Day weekend can be busy, especially in tourist areas.
- Make it flexible: Have a loose plan but leave room for spontaneity.
- Pack extras: Snacks, chargers, sunscreen, and a camera or journal.
- Involve him in the planning: Even if it’s a surprise, get a sense of what he enjoys.
The best Father’s Day gift doesn’t come wrapped—it comes with laughter, new experiences, and time spent together. Whether you’re heading to a national park or simply taking a scenic drive, the destination is secondary to the quality of the connection.
Time is the most valuable thing we can give. This year, make it count.
