In the United States, Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June. If you’re looking for something to honor good ol’ Dad that goes beyond the boring pair of socks, wallet, or gift card, then these ideas may help, whether you’re planning a few hours or an entire weekend.

Family Get-Togethers for Father’s Day in California

If Dad is the family get-together kinda guy, renting a vacation home can be a fantastic choice. Gather the whole clan, whether they’re related to you by blood or just your closest friends. Consider incredible locations like Pine Mountain Lake near Groveland and Yosemite National Park, Irish Beach just south of Mendocino, or Dillon Beach north of San Francisco.

Father’s Day Weekend Getaways

If you can escape for a whole weekend to celebrate good ol’ Dad, here are a few of the top destinations:

• Catalina Island: Whether Dad prefers adventure or relaxation, he’ll find the right spot here. Activities include ziplining, snorkeling in the harbor, or just lounging on the beach.
• Morro Bay: This destination is family-friendly, brimming with water activities, shopping, and reasonably-priced lodging. The whole family can enjoy kayaking or watching sea otters in the kelp.
• Point Reyes and West Marin: A fantastic getaway for an active family, featuring hiking, beautiful beaches, kayaking, and breathtaking scenery.
• Santa Barbara: No matter your age, Santa Barbara offers something appealing. It’s especially great for history-loving dads, featuring the historic Spanish mission and military barracks downtown.
• Yosemite: Recognized as one of the best family vacation spots in California by readers and various publications. Take Dad for an invigorating hike or a simple stroll through the valley floor.

Taking Dad Out for a Father’s Day Ride

For train enthusiasts, how about an exciting train ride?

• Sacramento River Train: Featuring numerous rides that may appeal to Dad, including beer tours, Wild West showdowns, and special dinner rides.
• Yosemite Train – Sugar Pine Railroad: Families enjoy this charming train journey through the woods near Yosemite.
• Skunk Train: Experience a fun ride through the woods between Fort Bragg and Willits in Mendocino.
• Napa Wine Train: A great option for anyone with limited mobility.
• Railtown Jamestown: Let your dad be an honorary crew member for the day through their unique program.
• Train-loving dads may also appreciate the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento or Sierra Railroad in Oakdale.

If Dad prefers the sea, consider visiting the USS Hornet in Oakland, the S.S. Jeremiah O’Brien in San Francisco, or the USS Midway in San Diego.

Los Angeles, California Father’s Day Weekend Ideas

• For a memorable family day out, here are some fantastic ideas:
• Diver Dads and Ocean Lovers: The Aquarium of the Pacific is an excellent choice for all ages. Certified scuba divers can participate in aquarium exhibits, or for those preferring to stay above water, a shark encounter offers an amazing father-child experience.
• Car Buffs: If your father enjoys cars, check out the LA Roadsters hot rod show in Pomona, Petersen Automotive Museum, or the iconic Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance.
• Play Ball: The Los Angeles Dodgers host a unique Father’s Day Catch, providing a fun opportunity to play catch on the field.
• Get Presidential: For history buffs, visiting the Ronald Reagan Library can be an enlightening experience.

San Diego, California Father’s Day Weekend Ideas

• For a fantastic family outing, consider these ideas:
• Brewery Tour: For adult kids and their beer-loving dads, a trip with San Diego Brewery Tours provides a delightful day.
• Snooze at the Zoo: The San Diego Zoo offers thrilling Father’s Day Campouts for fathers and their kids aged four and above.

San Francisco, California Father’s Day Weekend Ideas

• Take a Segway Tour: For families with children ages 12 and older, the Electric Tour Company offers exciting Segway rides that also function as guided tours.
• Indulge the Inner Engineer: Fathers who are mechanically inclined may enjoy the Cable Car Museum, structured tours of City Hall, or the California Academy of Sciences.
• Disney Family Museum: If Dad loves Disney, he may treasure a visit to the Disney Family Museum.
• Pirate Festival: The Northern California Pirate Festival takes place over Father’s Day weekend in Vallejo.