Top Ten Things to Do With Dad on Father's Day

Ready for some fun with Dad on Fathers' Day? Here are ten ideas to celebrate his awesomeness in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region!

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1. Host a Classic BBQ

Fire up that backyard grill, but make it extra special this time. Instead of a packet of hot dogs, pick up some local, hand-cut steaks at Springfield's best butcher shop, Benedetti's Meat Market and Restaurant. 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, pick up barbecue to go.

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2. Visit a Vintage Car Show

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 16 -18. 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.

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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 have outside seating, sometimes by reservation. 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—now that they've opened up their Alesong on 5th tasting room.

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5. Run With Dad

If you and your dad share a love of fitness, lace up your tennis shoes for one of the many runs happening this summer. There are a variety of charities and good causes to support.

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6. Discover a New Waterfall

If you and your dad want to see some of Oregon's great outdoors this Father's Day weekend, you're in luck: this region is knows for its abundance of waterfalls! Go for a short walk to see some of Oregon's best waterfalls from easy-to-see viewing platforms, or reward yourself with a gorgeous cascade off the beaten path after a long hike. Bring your camera!

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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

There is one thing you can count on these days — golf! Drive around in the carts, enjoy the pleasant golf course setting and relax 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.

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10. Go on a Bike Ride

Out in the fresh air, physically distant, 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.

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