Father’s Day just might be Dad’s favorite holiday, since it comes with all the fun of a birthday but without the whole aging another year thing. From zipping around in a go-kart to a good old fishing trip, we’ve put together a list of great Father’s Day gifts and ways to spend the day that go above and beyond the usual socks and a tie.
Camping
There are two types of dads in this world: the ones who camp and the ones who haven't camped yet. Great camping lies just 30 minutes from San Jose in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. There's plenty to do with 15 miles of hiking and riding trails through those majestic redwoods.
Gone Fishin'
Annual traditions can be born with something as simple as a Father's Day fishing trip, even if the trip is less about fishing and more about shooting the bull. Regardless, we have some great spots to throw out a line from Almaden Lake Park to Hellyer County Park.
Customize His Ride
Washing Dad's car definitely earns a special place in his heart. For those who don't feel like getting wet themselves, check out
Clip and a Shave
A cut and a shave could be all that Dad needs to enjoy a day with his kids. Getting a haircut can be one of the most relaxing experiences there is if done by a proper salon. Take him to get his ears lowered somewhere like the neighborhood-favorite Bellarmine Barber Shop.
Go Karting
A little competition can be fun, especially if Dad is into racing. The cars may not be full-size, but they sure are fast. Check out LeMans Indoor Karting for a little adrenaline rush.
Beer Tasting
Anyone can take Dad out to a bar, but taking him beer tasting is a completely different animal. San Jose is a great place to sample beers with various breweries such as,Gordon Biersch Restaurant Brewery, Hermitage Brewing Company and Original Gravity Public House an excellent spot for the craft beer loving dad.
Walk on the Beach
Californians are lucky enough to have beaches in our backyards, so why not take advantage? Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk promises deep-fried food, whirling rides or maybe just a simple walk on the beach. If dad is the adventurous type take him sailing at the Summer Sailstice, beginners welcome. Kayak, canoe and enjoy a picnic with the family by the lake.
Enjoy Some Red Meat
Steaks are the quintessential food for carnivorous Dads, and the South Bay has a great selection of restaurants that specialize in the red meat including Alexander's Steakhouse, Spencer's for Steaks and Chops, LB Steak and Forbes Mill.
Cigars with Pops
A fine cigar is nice, but it's even better to enjoy them with like-minded people such as the team over at West Coast Cigars. The lounge has five flat screen TVs, a pool table, poker, dominoes and plenty of leather chairs.
Wine Tasting
If traveling to Napa isn't an option, the South Bay has some great wineries such as the Testarossa Winery in Los Gatos, where four wine tastings costs as little as $10. J. Lohr Winery in San Jose and The Mountain Winery in Saratoga are also good options.
Take Him Out to a Ballgame
What San Jose lacks in huge franchises it makes up for in fierce local fans. Dad and company can take their pick of the SaberCats, Earthquakes or the SJ Giants and save some cash since tickets can be had for dirt cheap and sometimes free.
A Good Ol' BBQ
Save Dad from doing the grilling by taking him to one of San Jose's great barbecue spots. Little Lou's, the Smokin' Pig or Sam's BBQ all make barbecue that even the pickiest grill-master will enjoy.
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Jim
Jun 13, 2014 -
Nice. But in the “Beer Tasting” section, that should be “Harry’s Hofbrau ON Saratoga Ave”, not *in* Saratoga.
Pat
Jun 4, 2015 -
Does your Dad like trains? He can ride an historic electric trolley, a horse car, and pump a hand car at “Trains, Trolleys and Automobiles” day at History Park in Kelley Park, San Jose. The kids will love it too.