36 Father’s Day Experience Gifts for Dad

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If you ask a dad what they want as a Father’s Day gift, most will tell you they don’t need anything. So instead of saddling him with something he may or may not use, why not give him something he’s guaranteed to enjoy? Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to gift an unforgettable experience to the father figure in your life. From sporting events to outdoor experiences and all-inclusive packages to memberships, experiences are a creative way to not only show you care, but that you pay attention to your dad’s (or husband’s!) interests and hobbies.

Sometimes the most thoughtful gifts don’t come wrapped. This Father’s Day, create memories with your dad or better yet, give him a personal day off, filled with pampering and relaxation (or adrenaline). Of course every dad is different, so we’ve pulled together a wide variety of experience gifts for dad. From off-roading through the desert to kicking back with the new cocktail he just learned how to make.

They do so much for us, dads deserve some VIP Father’s Day experiences!

35 of the best Father’s Day experience gifts

Cook a homemade meal

Whip up one of his favorites, or try something new (ambitious or not).

Rent a boat for the day

Whether he’s a captain at heart or never sailed a day in his life, there’s nothing like a day on the water. Check out nearby marinas for local rentals (guided or not) or a boat booking app to rent everything from jet skis to yachts.

Book a quiet weekend in the woods

Glamping > camping. Snag yourselves a couple nights to recharge at one of the gorgeous Poastcard tiny cabins. The super modern designs let you sleep right in the middle of nature without giving up the comforts of home and may even result in actual conversation, sans distraction.

Concert tickets

Give him the a night out listening to his favorite band that isn’t your kids banging on pots and pans. If actual tickets aren’t in the cards, buy a gift card he can use for a later date.

Drone flying lessons

For the tech-loving dad, a drone flying lesson offers a new skill and perspective. Many photography shops and drone retailers now offer introductory sessions to help beginners learn proper techniques and regulations.

Annual pass to an art museum

From works of art to ancient artifacts, there’s a lot to see at his favorite museum. An annual pass is a great way for him to dip in without pressure. Or if you’re in a major city, look for options like the New York Pass which allows him to access a collection of top-notch museums with one single pass.

The gift of a new language

Whether he has family members he’d love to communicate with more easily, a yearning for travel, or appreciates a brain challenge with extra benefits, he’ll be super pumped to learn a new language. We’re fans of the super engaging Babbel which offers both an app he can use on his own time and live small-group classes taught by world-class instructors.

Scuba lessons

Fair warning. On the next family vacation he’s going to be a real know-it-all.

Zip lining experience

For the thrill-seeking pop, a zip lining adventure could be an unforgettable experience. (And less scary than skydiving. Probably.)

Pass to an aquarium or zoo

Who among us couldn’t spend a solid hour marveling at the antics of penguins? Set him up with an annual pass, hand him the kiddos and you’ve got a gift for both of you. Even better, if you purchase a pass to a facility that’s part of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Golf lessons

Help him perfect his swing by booking him some private lessons with a PGA pro.

Tickets to a beer or wine tasting

Encourage his inner sommelier with tickets to a local tasting, or opt for an online experience instead. Wine.com offers a variety of curated on-demand tastings and will ship the featured wines right to his doorstep.

All-inclusive spa day package (or an at-home spa experience!)

Nothing packs more relaxation into a single day than a trip to the spa–yes, even for dads! If you don’t know what he’d like you can always spring for a Spa Finder gift card so he can book it for himself.

Magazine subscription

It’s not just something to read–it’s a once a month reminder of how much he’s appreciated if you go the print magazine route. Or you could sign him up for a daily read like The New York Times and get access to everything from games (Wordle nerds, unite!) to all the recipes he could ever need.

Tickets to a baseball game (or other sporting event)

As riveting as those Little League games may be, he’s sure to enjoy a day watching the pros. Buy tickets to see his favorite team and maybe even throw in a new cap to rep them in style.

Indoor or outdoor skydiving experience

If the zip lining above is too tame, there’s always throwing himself out of a plane to get the adrenaline pumping. But don’t tell his mom (or your mom) it was our idea. (He can sky dive indoors too!)

Trip to the local bookstore to replenish his TBR pile

Local bookstores are always fun to peruse. And no recommendation is better than one from a local bookstore clerk!

Passes to an amusement or theme park

If he’s a rollercoasters and corn dog kinda guy, a theme park pass could pay for itself in just one summer.

Movie passes + a theater snack-themed gift basket

Some movies just have to be seen on the big screen. Plan a date around the premier of a flick he’s been anxiously awaiting or buy tickets in bulk at a discount via Costco!

Organize a family game night

Bring out his competitive side with a family favorite, or break out a new one that’s sure to become one. (Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza will have everyone happily yelling in no time.)

Water sports gear for summer

Think kayak, surf board, or these rad inflatable paddle boards from Isle which he can take anywhere.

Flying lessons

If he’d rather fly the plane than jump out of it, now’s the time to learn! Book lessons for planes, helicopters, gliders and more for the ultimate flying experience gift.

Private art class

From a paint and sip date to a figure drawing course, sparking creativity is always a thoughtful option. Even if he doesn’t fancy himself an artist, there are always options like printmaking or photography to get those juices flowing.

Guided fishing trip

If men’s Tinder profile photos are any indication, fishing-related gifts are always going to be a safe bet. And if you really want to knock it out of the park, include his BFFs on the fishing tour invite.

Outdoor rope course experience

For a fun and exhilarating challenge, book a ropes course adventure. And if you’re not afraid of heights, go together and make it an unforgettable bonding sesh!

A staycation, including lodging + an itinerary with excursions (if you really want to go all out)

One upside to a global pandemic was learning that there’s a lot to do close to home. Book a cozy cabin for some time in nature or a luxury apartment in the big city and recharge.

Gym or studio class membership

How does he know he’s not a Pilates guy if he’s never tried? Or maybe boxing is more his cup of tea? Find a gym or studio that offers classes he’d enjoy and you may even unlock his new favorite hobby.

Sports car racing experience

Has he always dreamed of speeding around a racetrack in a Lamborghini? Get him behind the wheel with the exotic car experience of a lifetime.

Sailing lessons

If you live near a large body of water, sailing isn’t just a good time. It’s a skill as well!

Virtual cocktail making class + his favorite spirits and mixers

Whether he wants to master the art of the martini or some new cocktails to impress guests, a virtual cocktail making class is the gift that keeps on giving.

Host an outdoor movie night in the backyard

Fire up the projector, grab some camp chairs and enjoy a magical summer night together.

National Parks pass

With access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, a National Parks pass offers the most majestic views of any laminated card we could imagine. (And a reminder they need your love, support and protection not more than ever.)

Cooking class

This may be considered cheating since clearly there’s a huge personal benefit. Look for classes at your local resorts and specialty stores or find one online you can even do together.

Off-roading experience

Has he always dreamed of off-road rallying his way across the desert? Or blasting through the wilderness on an ATV? There’s an off-road adventure with his name on it.