Father's Day Top Ten Things To Do

1. Enjoy Classic BBQ

Fire up that backyard grill, but make it extra special this time. Pick up some local, hand-cut steaks at Springfield's best butcher shop, Benedetti's Meat Market and Restaurant or Eugene's favorite, Long's Meat Market. Or maybe your father would relish a dinner from Fisherman's Market, whose fresh seafood selection is hauled from the Pacific from their very own boats. Even Guy Fieri's Food Network Show took note of this popular local spot, featuring them in a 2014 episode of "Diners, Drive-ins & Dives." 

If Dad is taking the night off from behind the grille, check out Bangers & Brews for the ultimate gourmet sausage experience. Or take him to PLAY in downtown Eugene -- a fun hub for all ages -- and get him some great brisket from the Paper Plate BBQ food truck.

2. Check Out Cars Together

Oldies but goodies, right? The Emerald Empire Vintage Auto Club will roll their beauties into Valley River Center for a special Father's Day Car Show, June 19 -21. During mall hours, ogle vintage cars to your hearts delight and talk with their owners. Then take Dad around Valley River Center on a shopping spree to stock up on Oregon gear at The Duck Store. Dads with younger kids will be the hero when they take the family to the Adventure! Children's Museum or for a treat from local toy store Elephant's Trunk.

Or, if your Dad has dreams of road trips across the country, roll on up to Oakridge to check out The Bus Fair, an annual gathering of tricked out buses! The following weekend, check out Wings & Wheels in Cottage Grove -- with classic cars and planes!

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3. Treat Dad to a River Trip

Book a jet boat to cruise the Willamette River. Your small family group can enjoy a personalized tour of the river. Watch for birds and wildlife and enjoy the scenery on an easy, comfortable journey. Or get a little wilder and wetter with a river rafting trip on the McKenzie River! After all, a family that paddles together—stays in the boat, right?

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4. Take Dad Out For a Beer or Glass of Wine

Many winery tasting rooms in the Willamette Valley will be open this weekend with outdoor seating perfect for summer. And many of the local breweries also have outdoor patios and beer gardens. Have you heard of Alesong Brewing & Blending? They have a unique approach to brewing and blending craft beer, and if your father isn't already familiar with them, this is the perfect opportunity to acquaint him— craft beer served in Oregon Wine Country!

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5. Brunch with Dad

Does he like to eat? Just like for mom, a brunch is great way to celebrate. The Heceta Head Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast opens its doors for a spectacular multi-course brunch - usually reserved for overnight guests! Reservations for brunch are required. After eating, walk it off with a short jaunt to the historic lighthouse up the hill, or hike down to the ocean beach. Other great brunch destinations include Our Daily Bread (Veneta), Sweet Waters on the River (Eugene's Valley River Inn) and Marché (Market District Eugene).

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6. Showtime!

Entertain your father with a night out at the theater. From drama to comedy, get to tickets to the performing arts. Add in dinner after the show for an extended celebration.

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7. Ride a Dune Buggy

Whoop as you plunge down the Oregon Coast sand dunes in a dune buggy! Wild or mild rides are available, or haul in your own OHV for an independent adventure. Sandland Adventures has go-karts and miniature golf too!

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8. Play a Round of Golf

Soak up the outdoors, spend time with Dad and golf! Drive around in the carts, enjoying the pleasant golf course setting and relaxing at the clubhouse for lunch.

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9. Watch a Movie 

Let your father have the remote control for once! Pop local corn from the farmers' market or order a pizza to make the movie experience complete. Need inspiration? Check out movies filmed in Lane County. Better yet, see a screening in one of the local boutique movie theaters.

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10. Ride Bikes Together

Out in the fresh air, enjoy a rolling adventure along the region's many great cycling routes. From riding through Oregon wine country to looping through scenic covered bridges, there are plenty of short and long rides to do. Connect Lane has added several signed routes between Willamette Valley towns and the Aufderheide has just been designated one of Oregon's official Scenic Bikeways!

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