5 Experiential Gifts for Father’s Day 2023

As Father’s Day approaches, the value and support these figures bring to our lives is never so strongly felt. And as we reflect and prepare for the day’s celebrations and think how we can show him that extra bit of love, we often come up stumped with the perfect way to do it. This year, we have created a guide of experiences to gift the fathers, husbands, grandfathers, and father figures in your life—because the most valuable presents are seldom wrapped in paper and neatly tied with a bow.

From outdoor adventures to creative pursuits, here is how we—and a handful of our trusted real estate professionals who are fathers themselves—suggest maxing out on experiences rather than expenditures. 

1. Embrace the Outdoors: How to Elevate Hiking and Fishing Experiences

The great outdoors and its thrilling experiences provide an irreplaceable backdrop to spend Father’s Day. Whether they are adrenaline-filled or spent leisurely on a bankside, sometimes, the best way to say “thank you” is to put all the distractions away and spend quality time doing one of his favorite outdoor activities. 

Hit the Trails: The thing that hiking expeditions and a few times around his favorite neighborhood loop have in common? Fresh air, the serenity of the outdoors, and great company. No matter the elevation of your Father’s Day hike, elevate your surprise adventure by packing lunch and a camera and looking into the perfect trail, conservatory, or national park to spend the day at. 

Cast a Line: For those who love fishing, organizing a memorable Father’s Day trip can be the perfect way to prioritize his favorite hobbies and enjoy quality time together. Whether or not a fish is caught, this opportunity to bond will be prize-possession enough. As the lines are cast, ask him for his favorite fishing stories—you never quite know what you will learn.

2. Dive into the Day: For When He Wants a Day on the Water

Set sail for a day spent at sea and embrace the beauty of the coastline. Whether it is on a boat, in a kayak, or spent taking a dip—celebrate Father’s Day with the beginning of the summer season’s sweet breezes, sunny days, and serendipitous adventures. 

Sailboat Rental: Find a local marina, boating center, or chartering service that offers boat rentals; this way, he can enjoy all the perks of being on the water without any of the responsibilities. Whether it’s a small sailboat or a larger vessel, a lowkey day trip, or a sunset cocktail cruise, the experiences uniquely found on the waters always paint the perfect picture of cherished memories with those we love. 

Kayaking Expedition: If you want to take a more active approach, explore your communities’ scenic waterways, rivers, lakes, or coastlines firsthand with a kayaking adventure. This unique point of view will help you both discover the hidden gems others would zip by on a boat. This immersive experience will bring you closer to each other and the wonders of your natural surroundings.

3. Get Creative: Dive into DIY Delights

Use Father’s Day as a hands-on opportunity to create something meaningful and unique. There are a myriad of projects and concepts to embark on together—the only limit is your imagination. Unleash your creativity and share an engaging experience while creating something meaningful and unique to remind you of the day for years to come. 

Build and Bond: Choose a project that aligns with your dad’s interests, whether it’s building a birdhouse, crafting a wooden picture frame, or constructing a small piece of furniture. Find a written manual or a great YouTube channel and collaborate, learn new skills, and celebrate the joy of creating something special together.

Paint and Sip: Tap into your artistic side by attending a painting class together. Many studios offer special Father’s Day sessions, providing a fun and relaxed environment to express your creativity. Follow step-by-step instructions from a professional artist, sip on refreshing beverages, and enjoy each other’s company as you create your masterpieces. It’s a fantastic way to bond, laugh, and embrace your artistic talents.

4. Bond and Connect: A Memorable Day Right at Home:

With a little imagination, forethought, and consideration, everything you need for some of the most memorable Father’s Day experiences rests right at home. Prioritize quality time and make memories by creating memorable “events,” which will undoubtedly be followed by the bonding, laughter, and connection that represent the essence of what Father’s Day is all about. 

Game Day Extravaganza: Create an unforgettable day of tournament events in the backyard or a local park. Not only will it inspire a little healthy competition, but the positive experiences of teamwork that all your friends and family can enjoy. Be it soccer, basketball, kickball, or even just tossing a frisbee, getting active and cheering each other on is a great way to spend Father’s Day. 

Movie Marathon: Create a cozy home theater experience for a marathon of his favorite films. Alongside a relaxing ambiance and delicious snacks, this day immersed in cinema (and its respective laughs and conversations) will not only be a chance to learn something new about each other, but a perfect excuse to indulge in the comforts of home while traveling to all the spaces and worlds of the movies you will watch. 

5. Cooking Up the Perfect Day: A Father’s Day Feast to Remember:

If your dad is a food lover, what better way to celebrate Father’s Day than by preparing a feast together? It is the ultimate combination of savory and sweet. 

New Meal Masterclass: Plan a “masterclass” where you and your dad can learn and experiment with new cooking techniques and dishes. Test out different sauces and research methods that all claim to grill vegetables “perfectly.” Going on this culinary adventure will provide all the ingredients for an unforgettable day—not only will you delight your taste, but you will also craft unforgettable memories together.

Gourmet Brunch: A gourmet brunch, whether made at home or ordered from his favorite local hotspot, is a leisurely and indulgent way to celebrate Father’s Day. The surprise of a beautifully-set table, a cup of his favorite coffee, and a menu filled with his favorite items never fail to impress. 

6. The Engel & Völkers Bonus: How to Pamper Him, Dad Style

Pampering him with a day of relaxation and indulgence can give him a chance to truly unwind, recharge, and enjoy some time to prioritize himself. And as we all know, sometimes, this can be the best gift of all.  

Spa Retreat: The spa treatment can be the perfect way to help him escape the stresses of daily life and indulge in the rejuvenating offerings only available at a spa. Be it a massage, facial, or just enjoying their luxurious amenities, consider which spas have the experiences and treatments he will enjoy. Look for businesses offering day passes to their saunas and pool facilities.

Lake Placid, New York, was shot to center stage as the home of the 1980 Winter Olympics. In the time since, it has become a destination for those who love the outdoors, yes,  but also lively restaurants, shopping, and galleries. Engel & Völkers Lake Placid advisor John Holmes suggests Whiteface Lodge, not only for its spa but as the perfect home base for a Father’s Day trip filled with activities he will never forget.

Golf Getaway: If you are looking for a gift for a golf enthusiast, a surprise tee time is a sure win. Better yet, take this as an opportunity to set up a time for him and a few of his golf pals to relax, enjoy the game, and dedicate a day to their passions. And Tom Worley, an advisor for Engel & Völkers Hoboken, would have to agree: “My kids are still too young, so a round of golf with my dad and brother is one of the best gifts I could get.” 

From everyone at Engel & Völkers, we wish you and yours a phenomenal Father’s Day. From extravagant experiences to spirited games and just the quiet moments, too, here is to all the father figures who bring so much joy and happiness into our lives. 

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