Updated June 10th, 2024
7 last minute ideas for an outdoor Father’s Day adventure
Father’s Day is this Sunday and if you are still trying to think of an awesome experience to share with your dad or father figure, consider an outing in one of your 18 clean, safe MetroParks. Dads of all ages and interests enjoy spending time in the outdoors and as an added bonus; outdoor experience in your MetroParks are free (or low cost) and help your entire family maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
Here are seven fun, affordable Father’s Day adventures you can gift for a later date or experience this weekend in your Five Rivers MetroParks.
- Reservation for a family staycation: Offering both front and back country campsites, your MetroParks are the perfect location for some family time under the stars. Camp sites are available at Possum Creek, Englewood, Germantown and Twin Creek MetroPark, and can be booked online at metroparks.org/easy.
- Gone fishing: Grab your poles and tackle box and get ready for a classic dad outdoor activity – fishing. There are many beautiful fishing spots in MetroParks that don’t require a license. Additionally, limited space is available for Father and Daughter Fishing Day at Possum Creek MetroPark this Saturday, from 9 a.m. to noon. Just remember to beat the heat with proper water, snacks and sun protection. Learn more about fishing in Five Rivers MetroParks.
- Foodie fathers: While some dads specialize in frozen pizza, many dads enjoy crafting recipes in the kitchen and cooking on the grill. Stop at the 2nd Street Market to pick up fresh, local produce, desserts, meats, breads and more, and then spend some quality time with your dad creating the perfect summer meal. The 2nd Street Market is open Friday and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plus, this week it hosts an extra evening of shopping on Thursday, June 13 during Sunset at the Market. Learn more about the Market’s offerings at metroparks.org/localfood.
- Take to the trails: Dads who enjoy spending time outdoors will love the variety of trails experiences the MetroParks Trails Challenge offers. Signing up is free and you have from now until Oct. 31 to complete as many trails you can for the chance to win prizes. Hike, paddle, mountain bike, cycle, and horseback ride just a few or all 28 trails selected by MetroParks outdoor recreation team. Learn more.
- Summer cycle: If you haven’t embarked on a family bike ride this season, Father’s Day weekend is going to be a beautiful weekend for a bike ride. Plan your route so you can stop at RiverScape MetroPark, the nexus of the more than 340 miles of the region’s paved trails, the nation’s largest paved trail network. Take a break to enjoy views of the river and cool off with ice cream from the Fountain Snack Bar.
- Kayak Rentals at RiverScape: Kayak rentals at RiverScape MetroPark are back on Tuesdays from 2 to 6 p.m. and Thursdays from 4 to 8 p.m. and during select special events. Taiters Kayaking Solutions will be at RiverScape MetroPark launching from under the Riverside Bridge along the Great Miami Recreation Trail. Paddling sessions are one hour and for those ages 14 and up. Life jackets are provided and required.
- MetroParks Money: Loved ones can be difficult to plan and shop for, which is just one reason why Five Rivers MetroParks now offers MetroParks Money. This e-gift card program allows your favorite dad to have flexibility while enjoying the great outdoors and even supporting their favorite 2nd Street Market vendors. Learn more.
