No Idea What to Do with Dad for Father’s Day in L.A.? There’s More Than You Think for Father’s Day Events. Does your dad live in L.A. or travel town or is he coming to visit? L.A. activities seem to be for twenty-somethings who party hard, but there are many hidden activities for quiet types, mature folks and yes, even dads. Celebrating Father’s Day in L.A. but not sure what to do with Dad? Try one of these dad-friendly activities on Father’s Day, such as attending car shows, participating in classic car rides, visiting automotive museums, going to baseball games, and enjoying special events and festivals tailored for Father’s Day.
Looking for unique and exciting Father’s Day events? Surprise dad with special and unexpected experiences, including activities for both dads and kids, as well as homemade crafts and gifts for dad. These Father’s Day events are sure to make the day memorable.
Planning for Father’s Day weekend? Explore various activities and attractions in Los Angeles that fathers and their families can enjoy together. Visit the World of Illusions, Griffith Observatory, Universal Studios Hollywood, Dodger Stadium, The Getty Center, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, Petersen Automotive Museum, Runyon Canyon Park, or participate in LA Food Tours over the Father’s Day weekend.
- A Dodger’s Game
Take dad to a baseball game in L.A., a classic activity for sports-loving dads. A baseball game may seem like an obvious choice, but few dads would be disappointed. Go to a game in June when it’s not too hot in L.A. or take advantage of the special Father’s Day ball game activities. According to TripSavvy, “Each year for Father’s Day the Los Angeles Dodgers host a special home game event called the Father’s Day Catch on the Field where dads and their kids get to play with the pros before watching them play a game against one of their rivals.” Tickets are required but there are discounts available for the event making it a great option for Father’s Day weekend.
- The Autry Museum
Located in fun and easy to find Griffith Park, the Autry Museum has something for the whole family and is all about Southern California heritage. Open year round the museum is dedicated to the American West. Activities include gold panning and guided tours. Exhibitions include art and artifacts of the Old West, the American cowboy and Native American art, music and activism. Nights at the museum feature crafts by local SoCal artists. A great option for dads who are more John Wayne than John Krasinski.
- Visit the Tall Ships
Is dad a nautical type? For unique and exciting Father’s Day events, check out the 3-masted schooner, American Pride, one of the many fun things to do in Long Beach, built in 1941, docked just next door to the Aquarium of the Pacific. This ship is usually a school ship but does offer whale watching cruises, BBQ and evening sails. The SSV Tole Mour is operated by Catalina Island Marine Institute and offers sea camp for teens and can be seen at the dock. The Pilgrim, a replica of an 1825 Boston brig, is docked in Dana Point, the only harbor deep enough for tall ships in Orange County. A replica of a 1770’s privateer, the Spirit of Dana Point, has many public outings, whale watching, onboard plays, excursions and pirate battles! Check out their schedule here.
- Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance
During the Concours, or car show, most of Rodeo Drive (the 200, 300 and 400 blocks) is closed to show off over 100 cars. If dad is a car guy, this is the perfect place for him on Father’s Day, featuring classic cars. Over three days, the event showcases amazing cars with a different theme each year, historical cars from the turn of the century, luxury cars few have ever owned, 50’s cars, and the fastest cars in the world. According to TripSavvy, “The 25th anniversary of this event was in 2018 and to honor that milestone an entire block was filled with silver cars.”
- It’s Off to the Races
Plan a fun filled day around Santa Anita Park. Ready, Set, Go! Few things are as thrilling as the seconds your horse crosses the finish line. Have a side bet with dad or treat him and little kids to the Whiskey Brunch Dads ‘n Drams in the Chandelier Room or the BBQ Trackside package for Father’s Day. These unique and exciting Father’s Day events at Santa Anita Park are a one-of-a-kind experience for dads and families.
- Road Trip out of L.A.
What if dad just doesn’t like the city? The best Father’s Day gift you can give him may be to get dad out of L.A. for Father’s Day weekend. Head down to San Diego to visit the Naval yard and see the Queen Mary, last in battle during WWII. Events include a ghostly tour of the haunted ship several times a day. Or head north for the Santa Barbara art festival or a tour of Malibu. Take him surfing at Zuma Beach. If you’re willing to go on a longer road trip you treat dad can visit the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, the Monterey Bay Aquarium or Yosemite National Park.
- Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
For an active Father’s Day take dad on a hike through Griffith Park and visit the Griffith Observatory, two of L.A.’s fun attractions. The observatory has exhibits on space and astronomy and telescopes for the public to use. If dad is an astronomy buff this is the place to go. The Observatory also has live shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium where you can learn about the cosmos, enjoy live music, and see amazing visuals. After the hike, grab lunch at the Trails Cafe or the Café at the End of the Universe.
- The Getty Center
The Getty Center is of course a great place to spend the day with Dad. The museum has an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures and decorative arts, American and European photographs. The Getty Center’s gardens and architecture are beautiful and inspiring. Admission is free but parking is $20.
- Universal Studios Hollywood
For a more adventurous Father’s Day take dad to Universal Studios Hollywood, one of L.A.’s top attractions. The theme park has rides and attractions based on movies and TV shows. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Jurassic World ride and the Studio Tour which takes you behind the scenes of a working movie studio are popular attractions. Universal Studios Hollywood is a fun way to spend Father’s Day with dad.
- Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is an L.A. institution and has a lot of activities for a fun-filled day with dad. The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium has over 100 local species, hands on activities and daily educational programs. A must see for families. Amusement park rides, arcade games, ride the Ferris wheel. Fishing, dining and shopping. Take a walk on the beach and enjoy the ocean views.
- Petersen Automotive Museum
If dad is a car buff the Petersen Automotive Museum is a must see with an extensive collection of classic cars. The museum has classic and contemporary cars as well as rotating exhibits on automotive history and culture. The Petersen Automotive Museum offers guided tours, car shows, interactive exhibits and special events. A great place to spend Father’s Day with dad.
- Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
For a more relaxed and nature filled day take dad to the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden for a fun filled day. The 127-acre garden has plants from around the world, beautiful landscapes, walking trails and historic buildings. The Arboretum offers guided tours scenic hikes, educational programs and special events. A great place to spend a peaceful Father’s Day with dad.
- Battleship USS Iowa Museum
Located in San Pedro near Cabrillo Beach Coastal Park and Cabrillo Marine Aquarium the Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a unique and educational experience for Father’s Day. The museum has interactive exhibits, guided tours and special events that highlight the history and significance of the USS Iowa. Explore the ship’s decks, learn about its role in World War II and enjoy the views of the Los Angeles Harbor.
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a great place to spend the day with dad. The museum has exhibits on the natural world history including dinosaur fossils, gems and minerals and wildlife dioramas. The museum has interactive exhibits, educational programs and special events. A fun and informative place to spend Father’s Day.
- Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a great place for children to spend the day with dad. The zoo has animals from around the world, beautiful gardens and walking trails. The zoo has guided tours, educational programs and special events. A fun place to spend Father’s Day.
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There are many things to do with dad on Father’s Day weekend in L.A. that you didn’t know existed. For a unique experience try a beer tasting and classic car show at the Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum. Whether dad likes cowboys, ships or race cars there are plenty of ways to spend some quality time with dad this Father’s Day! Need a car to take dad out on the town? BlueLA powered by Blink Mobility members can rent electric vehicles for as low as $9 per hour. Learn more at BlinkMobility.com. Happy Father’s Day!
