Make new memories with Dad with these 10 Meaningful and Affordable Ways to enjoy Father’s Day! Looking back on the times I spent with my Dad, the family activities and the photographs help to keep his memory alive.
Make new memories with Dad this year with these fun, affordable, and meaningful Father’s Day ideas! Some of my most cherished moments with my dad didn’t come from expensive gifts—they came from simple family activities, shared laughs, and treasured photos that keep his memory alive.
Whether you’re celebrating a father, grandfather, or another father figure, here are 10 easy ways to make this Father’s Day unforgettable—without spending a fortune. I have affiliate partnerships meaning I may earn a small referral commission at no additional cost to you if you shop using my links. Thank you for supporting a small woman-owned site. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases..
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1. Go for a Bike Ride
If the weather is nice, hit the local trails for a family bike ride. Many cities now offer bike-sharing programs, making it easy to rent bikes for the day. Just search “[bike sharing + your city]” to see what’s available near you.
2. Take a Hike
Explore nature together! Visit trails.com or use the AllTrails app to find hiking and biking paths near your location—or while traveling.
3. Catch a Minor League Baseball Game
Minor league games offer all the fun of the ballpark, up close and on a budget. Tickets, snacks, and souvenirs are typically much cheaper than major league events. Check the minor league schedule near you.
4. Play Miniature Golf
Challenge Dad to a game of mini golf and see who can beat the windmill! You can find a course near you using this mini golf directory.
5. Treat Him to a Pedicure
Yes, really! A relaxing pedicure can be a fun and unexpected treat. I gave my husband his first one years ago, and now it’s something we enjoy together. Bonus: no more scratchy feet in bed!
6. An Old-Fashioned Shave and Haircut
Surprise Dad with a gift certificate to a classic barbershop for a traditional shave and haircut experience. It’s a relaxing treat he’ll appreciate.
7. See a Drive-In Movie
Pack up the car, bring Dad’s favorite snacks, and enjoy a double feature under the stars. You can use this drive-in theater locator to find a drive-in theater near you.
8. Visit a Car Show
Many communities host classic car shows around Father’s Day. It’s a fun way to share stories about the “good old days” and teach kids a little car history. Here is a car show directory.
9. Visit the Zoo
Over 50 zoos across the U.S. offer free admission for dads on Father’s Day. Just search “[your local zoo + Father’s Day]” to see if yours is participating.
10. Start a New Tradition
Plant a tree or garden in Dad’s honor. A salsa garden (tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro) is perfect for spicy food lovers. Or, create a gratitude jar filled with notes, memories, and drawings from the family—something he can open all year long.
Bonus: Capture the Memories
Don’t forget to preserve your special moments! Create a personalized photo gift, such as a framed print, a coffee mug, a keychain, or a photo book. Both Vistaprint and Shutterfly offer affordable, high-quality options with quick turnaround.
If your budget allows…
My husband’s favorite Father’s Day gift, which he received from his children (they pooled their money), is his digital photo frame. This is one we have from Amazon, and we both enjoy looking at it every day. I’m going to add more photos to surprise him for Father’s Day.
Do you have any inexpensive and memorable ways to enjoy Father’s Day that you’d like to share with us?
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One of your suggestions was to plant a tree and put a marker with the date. We did something similar, but every year at Fathers Day- including the year planted- the kids stand next to the tree and we take a picture. Each year, we get to see how big the tree has grown and how big the kiddos have gotten. It’s a nice gift to have year after year.
Thank you Cindy! this is such a sweet, wonderful idea. These are absolutely the best gifts when we are making memories. Thank you for sharing!