This Father’s Day, skip the tired ties and grilling equipment. Instead, take dad out on one of these unique experiences he’s sure to love!
Bond Over a Beer or Two
Photo by Joe Polillio
New Jersey’s rapidly-growing craft beer scene has meant a boon in tap rooms across the state. Which means there are plenty more places to enjoy a pint with pop. Raise a glass to your old man at these 38 amazing tap rooms.
Make Time for Wine
Photo courtesy of Pexels.
If your dad is more of an oenefile, consider taking him to one of the myriad Father’s Day events hosted at New Jersey’s wineries. Chow down at a Father’s Day Lunch at Hopewell Valley Vineyard, or a Pig Roast at Four Sisters Winery. More information and events at Garden State Wine Growers Association.
Take Him Out to the (Minor League) Ball Game
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New Jersey might not have a professional baseball team to call our own, but you can still enjoy America’s Pastime with one of the state’s five minor league teams. Tickets go for less than $15, and games run through the summer.
Get Lost In a Book
Photo by Frank Marshall
Instead of buying dad a book, take him to one of New Jersey’s thriving independent bookstores. Pick out something to read together, or find him some off-beat titles he might otherwise overlook.
Take a Spin in a High-Speed Ride
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Does your dad have the need, the need for speed? What better way to scratch that itch than booking him an exotic driving experience? Pop can take a few laps in his dream car at New Jersey Motorsports Park from September 23-25.
Get Roped Into the Rodeo
Photo courtesy of Cowtown Rodeo.
Wild horses couldn’t drag dad away from this Jersey gem. The Cowtown Rodeo in Salem County is the longest running weekly rodeo in the United States, attracting cowboys from as far away as Wyoming and Texas. It runs every Saturday at 7:30 p.m. from May 28 through Sept. 24.
Take to the Skies at QuickChek Balloon Fest
The largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America returns to Readington July 29-31. To fully experience the event, reserve a flight and join over 100 vessels that will soar above the Earth. Reservations start at $250.
Ride Down the Delaware
Photo by Cindy Ross.
The shore isn’t the only spot where you can feel the cool embrace of water. Canoe, tube or kayak along the Delaware River. Prices vary.
Bib Up for Barbecue
Photo by Jason Varney
Even if dad considers himself a barbecue master, he won’t be able to resist the offerings from the sizzling BBQ joints in North, Central and South Jersey.
Mull Over Museums
Photo courtesy of museum.
Is your papa an aviation expert? Does he have an intense interest in glassmaking? Would he be thrilled to visit the Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World? There are a plethora of unique museums that cater to your dad’s unique hobbies.
Get In A Few Rounds of Golf
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Of course we’re going to suggest this Father’s Day staple. Check out our list of the top 10 public golf courses in the state.
Take Him to See Hamilton
Photo by Maryrose Mullen.
Oh, you thought we meant the Broadway musical? Good luck. A more feasible venture for your history buff father is taking him on a tour of the many, many historic sites the $10 Founding Father without a father frequented throughout his life in New Jersey.
What Father’s Day plans do you have on the horizon? Let us know in the comments!