Father’s Day is coming up, which means it’s time to plan a day Dad will love. 

And before you panic-buy another three-pack of socks or a barbecue spatula he’ll never use, let’s look at some better options. Whether he’s into food, cars, competition, the outdoors or just getting the family together for a few hours, Canberra has plenty happening across the weekend. 

Here are a few ways to spend Father’s Day around town. 

 

For The Takes Competition Way Too Seriously Dad 

If your dad turns a simple board game night into a full-blown family showdown, these options are for him. 

Put him behind the wheel at Power Kart Raceway and let him loose on the F1-style electric go-kart track, with mini-golf, VR and laser tag also under one roof. 

For something a little less high-speed, head to Holey Moley for a round of themed mini-golf, tricky holes and plenty of friendly competition. 

Alternatively, lock him in a room. No, we’re kidding. Sort of. Escape Rooms Canberra lets you test whether Dad’s problem-solving skills actually live up to his claims. 

And if he’d rather settle the family rivalry with a bowling ball, Kingpin or Zone Bowling has bowling, arcade games and entertainment all under one roof. 

 

For The Outdoor Dad 

If your dad is the type to drag everyone out of bed at 7:00 AM on a Sunday morning to “enjoy the fresh air,” these are for him.  

The Googong Kite Fest is back, with huge colourful kites taking over the sky, plus food trucks and plenty of space to wander. 

If he likes a bit more adrenaline, head to Corin Forest and take on the 1.2km Alpine Slide through the forest. 

For something more relaxed, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offers walking trails, native wildlife and beautiful bushland. 

Or head to Wild Festivals of Fun at the Zoo for live music, food specials, lawn games, a threatened-species discovery trail and plenty of animals to see around the zoo and aquarium. 

 

For the Foodie Dad 

If Dad’s ideal Father’s Day involves a loaded plate, a cold drink and absolutely no one asking him to cook, these should have him covered. 

At the Canberra Southern Cross Club, Dad can tuck into an all-you-can-fire feast featuring Wagyu, sirloin, lamb rump, roasted whole chickens and desserts. 

Designed for dads who prefer burgers over pastries and beers over tea, Olims Bar & Bistro is serving a special ‘Guy-Tea’ packed with hearty favourites, with optional Sydney Brewery tasting paddles. 

For something a little more flame-fuelled, Capitol Bar & Grill is also serving up a Father’s Day Fire Feast. 

And for the dad who takes his Sunday lunch very seriously, the Hyatt Hotel Canberra is serving a seafood buffet loaded with fresh seafood, hot dishes, salads and desserts. 

 

For the ‘Don’t Get Me Anything’ Dad  

If your dad insists he “doesn’t need anything”, give him an experience instead.  

At Jet Flight Simulator Canberra, he can live out his pilot dreams in a realistic flight simulator and take control of a commercial jet.  

For something a little more out of this world, head to the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex to learn how giant antennas communicate with spacecraft exploring deep space.  

If Dad loves his cars, Rear Vision: The Holden Collection explores the history of the Aussie automotive icon through rare artefacts, images and archival records.  

Or head into the city for the Canberra Moon Festival, featuring three days of food, live performances, cultural experiences and family-friendly activities.  

Whatever kind of dad you’re celebrating, Canberra has plenty of ways to make the day feel special. And if all else fails, there’s always next year’s three-pack of socks.