Dad, pop, daddy, poppa, dadda, father, old man—no matter what you call him when ya need him, he’s extra special and oh so important. From strolls with trolls to trivia slams, we’re showing you how to celebrate him this Father’s Day! Here’s our list of what’s tops for pops.
Grill Kit from The Clubhouse Oak Brook
Order dad a grill kit from The Clubhouse Oak Brook for curbside pickup. They have three kids available: Casual Cookout, Backyard Special and Grill Master that offer a variety of beef and pork options. They range from $99-$219 and orders can be placed with the restaurant by calling 630-472-0600. Online: theclubhouse.com
Take Dad Down in a Virtual Trivia Slam
Round up the family for a live virtual trivia game that’ll have everyone laughing! The kid-friendly questions cover a range of topics such as cartoon characters, snack foods, board games, famous places, songs, and famous moments in history. And to get you out of your seat, there’s a photo scavenger hunt round.
You’ll be using Watson Adventures’ custom app, which can be used in any browser, so if you get stuck with a question, you’ll get a hint. A game host will lead the game and check in with your team to make sure you’re on track. Sun., Jun. 21. More details.
photo: Morton Arboretum, credit Maria Chambers
Visit the Trolls at Morton Arboretum
Something special has emerged from the woods, meadows and vast open spaces at The Morton Arboretum’s grounds. . . unusual creatures, each made of reclaimed wood and measuring 15- to 20-feet-tall. Enjoy these guardians of the forest, who are trying to make sense of the human world and make us think about our impacts on the planet. Ongoing. More details.
Stroll Around the Chicago Botanic Garden
Chicago Botanic Garden is easing into being open to the public by having a 2.3-mile perimeter walk available to guests for free! This will allow all to experience the Garden, the power of plants, and the respite that nature provides while still maintaining safe social distancing. The route includes views of the North Lake, vistas of the Malott Japanese Garden, and close-ups of spring blooms in Dixon Prairie and the McDonald Woods. Be sure to preregister for a timed entry! More details.
Cruise the Waterways on a Fireboat
Two Navy veterans and licensed Captains invite you to cruise on a piece of Chicago history. Built in 1936, the Fred A. Busse was the largest diesel-powered Fireboat in the world and served the Chicago Fire Department from 1937–1981. It was built specifically to fit underneath Chicago’s bridges, minimizing response times for emergencies and helping ease congestion in a booming city. Her new owners renovated the retired fireboat and she is now cruising the Chicago waterways once again! Ongoing. More details.
photo: Laurie Berkner, credit Jayme Thornton
Rock Out with Laurie Berkner
Legendary children’s musician Laurie Berkner is pulling out all the stops to bring families the real Laurie Berkner show experience, with lights, camera, and sing-along action in a LIVE, interactive Father’s Day performance. Laurie will perform songs like I Love You Daddy, My Family, and Superhero, along with an array of well-loved fan favorites. Kids and grown-ups alike should grab their instruments (or noisemakers), their dancing shoes (or socks), their superhero capes (or towels), and a stuffed animal (for their heads). Laurie will share some cool new ways to interact through a computer and even bring in a few surprises! Sun., Jun. 21. More details.
Pizza Party at Taste Buds Kitchen
Dads rock! They really do. Calling all Dads and their budding chefs to build a world-famous mini pizza that’s their very own. They’ll start by mastering the perfect dough, before moving onto yummy tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese and basil on top. Enjoy this fun Father’s Day tradition that’s a way of saying thank you for all that Dads do! Sun., Jun. 21. More details.
Gift the Royal Treatment from Medieval Times
Dad might be a Game of Thrones fanatic, or he might just be hard to shop for; regardless, why not get dad a gift he can’t return this year? Medieval Times is here to relieve you of your shopping struggles and provide an enjoyable experience and some family bonding time with a royal twist. The Chicago castle hasn’t raised its drawbridge just yet, but they are now taking reservations for early July and have extensive safety measures in place for diners. Use the code 25MT and receive 25% off. Make a reservation.
Plan a Family Scavenger Hunt
Test your family sleuthing skills with a scavenger hunt on Father’s Day. Let’s Roam is a great resource to help coordinate a family scavenger hunt. They have options that keep you at home or exploring parts of Chicago you’ve maybe not noticed before. They even have date night options to add some excitement for those that are continuing to socially distance.
Treat Dad to a River-Side Meal at River Roast
Get a good dose of those river views you’ve missed while social distancing by booking a brunch, lunch or dinner outside on River Roast’s patio and enjoy those gorgeous city views! More details.
Virtual Whiskey Tasking with Koval
Dads are invited to join Koval for a Father’s Day Virtual Whiskey Tasting, Jun. 21, 2 p.m. Participants will learn the ins and outs of how American whiskey is made while tasting through three of KOVAL’s iconic single barrel whiskeys—Bourbon, Rye, and Four Grain. The tasting event link is FREE with the purchase of a KOVAL whiskey trio kit through their online shop. Orders are recommended to be placed by Jun. 20 with pickup times available Wed.-Sun., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. More details.
Band of Bohemia Picnic Pack for Dad
Beer-loving Dads can enjoy their kind of “picnic” with Band of Bohemia’s new carry-out offerings. They’re offering three Picnic Packs each including ready-to-eat meals serving 1-2 people with hearty grain salad, house bread with butter, housemade pickles, crudite, seasonal fruits, and olives. A selection of Band of Bohemia’s house-brewed beers are also available in 32oz. growlers. More details.
Virtual Grilling Demo with The Chopping Block
Up dad’s grilling game with a Virtual Grilling Demo for Father’s Day. Chef Hans Mooser will lead a demonstration for Spice-Rubbed and Grilled Hanger Steak with grilled corn salad with tomato, lime, and queso fresco, Sun. Jun. 21, 3 p.m. More details.
For homerun hitting Father’s Day gift ideas, read our story Break the Mold with These Father’s Day Gifts.
— Maria Chambers
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