Family trips don’t stop when you grow up. In fact, some of the best memories can come from reconnecting with your dad during a weekend away — just the two of you. Whether he’s the outdoorsy type, a sports nut, the king of the grill, or someone who just likes simpler things, a couple of days away can do a lot for your bond—and your story collection.
You don’t need a luxury cruise or a week-long expedition to have quality time together. A solid weekend trip with Dad can bring back old laughs, spark new conversations, and give you both a break from your daily grind. We’ve rounded up some tried-and-true travel ideas that work well across generations — and involve everything from grilled meats to baseball mitts. So grab your overnight bag and load up the car. It’s time to get out there with your old man.
Remember When…?
Relive the best travel memories of your childhood by treating Pop to a redo – this time with you in the driver’s seat and in charge of the wallet. You could try to rebook that beach house where you spent your summer vacation when you were young or go on ahead to the mountains for a hike that you both loved to do years ago.
Did your family tend to go to the same Florida beach or Colorado ski resort every year? Is there a framed family photo from a trip on your dad’s desk or placed prominently in his office or workshop? He might be longing for a reboot of those happy days. Maybe it’s been decades since your family packed up the car and headed to Lake George, New York—but the arcade is still there, the mini golf is as goofy as ever, and the ice cream shack somehow stayed exactly the same. Spend the weekend reliving those moments, but without the annoying siblings this time.
Embrace Dad Jokes!
Let’s face it, your dad’s jokes aren’t all that great. But you’ve gotta give him his due for trying. Reward his efforts with a comedy-focused trip. A night out at the clubs in Chicago, ancestral home and still torchbearer of improve, is guaranteed for a gazillion of guffaws. Same can be said about yukking it up in comedy heartland of Toronto or attempting to catch a glimpse of the next rising star in L.A.
Are you both big fans of a late night TV? A trip to New York City with plans to see Stephen Colbert or Jimmy Fallon do his stuff in front of a studio audience. Or maybe attend an episode of Saturday Night Live, which should prove to be an absolute blast.
Take Pops to the Ball Game!
If your dad still yells at the TV during baseball season or references stats from 1975, catch a game together the old-fashioned way — in person. Chicago’s Wrigley Field is a bucket-list stadium, and even non-fans can appreciate the atmosphere. Make it a weekend by staying in the city, grabbing deep-dish pizza, and taking a Wrigleyville walking tour that explores local baseball lore.
For smaller crowds (and smaller prices), try a weekend in Durham, North Carolina, where you can catch the Durham Bulls in action. It’s got all the fun of a big-league game without the mayhem of downtown parking. The surrounding American Tobacco District has great eats and breweries, and if your trip lines up with basketball season, you’re right near Duke. Don’t be surprised if Dad wants to tour the old Cameron Indoor Stadium “just to stand where greatness stood.”
Gone Fishin’!
You know what they say about a bad day fishing…it’s better than a good day doing just about anything else! If your dad loves to fish, there’s no better gift than inviting him to do just that. From fly fishing in Montana to deep-sea excursions off the North Carolina coast and all sorts of other reasons to cast a line across the world, booking Father’s Day flights to just go fishing is ideal for lots of folks to relax and enjoy the company of those who mean the most to them.
Not every fishing trip means trekking into the wild. Lake Texoma, on the border of Texas and Oklahoma, has excellent striper fishing and is just a couple of hours from Dallas. You’ll find cozy cabin rentals, local guides if you want some help, and enough nearby BBQ joints to complete the picture. And if you’re not the fishing type, just bring a deck of cards, grab two chairs by the lake, and let the hours pass however you want to.
Bucket List Adventures
Ready for something bolder? Some adventures are better when shared—and especially better when they result in a framed photo of your dad in full zipline gear looking both terrified and thrilled. For a win in that category, consider a weekend in Moab, Utah. You can hike Arches National Park, rent ATVs, or go river rafting on the Colorado. Whether you’re adrenaline junkies or just want that epic Western scenery, it’s a memory-maker.
Maybe your dad’s always wanted to fly—literally. Head to Sedona, Arizona and book an early morning hot air balloon ride over the red rocks. It’s peaceful, dramatic (in a good way), and something most people only do once in a lifetime. Stick around for jeep tours or take a short trip over to the Grand Canyon. Big views make for big feelings, even if they’re mostly “wow, I can’t believe we did that.”
Foodie Father-Son (or Father-Daughter!) Feast
If your dad’s love language is barbecue ribs and perfectly smoked brisket, make your weekend all about the eats. Kansas City, Missouri is a paradise for meat-lovers. You could easily spend two days hopping between restaurants, comparing sauces, and arguing over what defines “true” burnt ends. Bonus points if you cap things off at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, which gives both food and learning value.
Austin, Texas also hits hard — tacos in the morning, brisket for dinner, and some live music in between. Franklin Barbecue is worth the wait (but get there early), and the city has more food trucks per block than probably anywhere else in the country. If food is the entire point of your entire last-minute trip, that’s perfectly legitimate.
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Road Trip Revival
There’s a reason road trips feel timeless. It’s the snacks, the playlists, the “let’s stop there” moments that mostly happen by accident. If you want a classic weekend route, head to the Blue Ridge Parkway between Virginia and North Carolina. It’s packed with mountain views, small towns, and roadside gems like Mabry Mill where you can still get old-school grits and country ham.
If your dad grew up during the golden era of the American highway, a Route 66 segment is a memory-lane ride and then some. Try the stretch from Flagstaff to Kingman, Arizona for a manageable loop filled with diners, neon, and retro motels. You don’t have to drive hundreds of miles to get the effect. Throw on his favorite tunes (and maybe a few of yours), take the long way, and talk about everything and nothing.
FAQs:
Q: How far should we travel for a weekend trip with Dad?
A: Aim for a destination within a 4–6 hour drive or a short direct flight. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the weekend without spending most of it in transit.
Q: What’s a good budget for a weekend trip with my dad?
A: Budget depends on your destination and activities, but $300 to $700 per person is a solid range for lodging, meals, gas, and a few activities. You can go higher or lower with a little flexibility.
Q: What’s a smart way to split costs on a trip with Dad?
A: It depends on your relationship. Some parents insist on footing the bill, but many adult kids like to chip in or treat. Discuss it ahead of time to avoid awkward moments during the trip.
Q: Do I need to book everything in advance?
A: It’s wise to book lodging and any ticketed activities ahead of time, especially for popular weekends. Meals and smaller attractions can usually be handled on the go, unless it’s a high-demand location.
Q: What should I pack for a quick weekend trip?
A: Stick to essentials: a couple of outfits, weather-appropriate gear, toiletries, snacks, and chargers. If you’re planning specific activities like hiking or fishing, pack accordingly. Don’t forget any prescriptions or health items Dad might need.
Q: What if we haven’t traveled together in a long time?
A: Start small with a low-pressure destination. You’ll find your rhythm by doing something familiar or relaxing. Keep expectations realistic and allow space for downtime—it’s about the connection, not crossing off lists.
How do you plan to celebrate Father’s Day? Tell us where you’re going in the comments below if you’re traveling!
