Father’s Day in NYC: 18+ Fun Ways to Celebrate in 2025
Father’s Day in NYC isn’t just about brunch — it’s about time well spent. Whether your dad loves being outdoors, exploring neighborhoods, or simply soaking in the city’s energy, there’s no shortage of fun ways to make the day special. Here are some fresh ideas to get things rolling.
How to Celebrate Father’s Day in NYC
Take a Father’s Day Cruise on the Hudson
Treat Dad to a City Experiences cruise with skyline views, a full meal, and live music. Some packages include beer or cocktail pairings for an extra treat. It’s a relaxing way to experience the city from the water — without the touristy chaos. Great for dads who like the finer things, but chill.
Walk the High Line and Grab Lunch at Chelsea Market
Start with a scenic stroll on the High Line, a historic rail track turned urban garden path. It’s got views, shade, art, and cool people-watching. Then head downstairs to Chelsea Market for tacos, seafood, or coffee — no reservation needed. It’s a simple, flexible plan with room to roam.
Bike Central Park Together
Rent bikes and explore Central Park, from Bow Bridge to the Reservoir. There are plenty of shady lanes, scenic spots, and places to stop for snacks or photos. It’s a good mix of movement and chill, with a side of classic NYC. You can even cap it off with an ice cream cone near the Loeb Boathouse.
Hit a Yankees or Mets Game
Take your dad out to the ballgame — whether it’s the Yankees at Yankee Stadium or the Mets at Citi Field, the energy is always high. Grab hot dogs, sit back, and enjoy the crowd. It’s classic, nostalgic, and a built-in excuse for snacks and beers. Check the Father’s Day weekend schedule early.
Picnic at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Pack some sandwiches and head to Brooklyn Bridge Park for skyline views, green lawns, and a front-row seat to the river breeze. It’s family-friendly, photogenic, and never too crowded in the morning. Bring a blanket, some sunscreen, and a playlist of Dad’s favorite tunes. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot the Statue of Liberty across the water.
Grab BBQ and Craft Beer at Pig Beach BBQ
Skip the usual brunch and take Dad to Pig Beach BBQ in Gowanus or Astoria. It’s big on smoked meats, local beer, and a chill outdoor setup that’s made for families or groups. You can order brisket by the pound and settle in for a low-key afternoon. Not fancy, just really good food and a laid-back vibe.
Book a Table at Keens Steakhouse
If you’re looking for a more traditional Father’s Day dinner, Keens Steakhouse is one of those old-school NYC places that never disappoints. The mutton chop is legendary, but the atmosphere — dark wood, pipe collection, sharp service — makes it feel like a true occasion. It’s great for dads who love a classic meal done right. Pro tip: book early.
Visit Great Jones Distilling Co.
Give Dad a taste of Manhattan’s only legal whiskey distillery. Great Jones Distilling Co. offers weekend tours, tastings, and a sleek bar upstairs with strong drinks and solid snacks. The space feels upscale without being stuffy. It’s a cool change of pace from the usual bar scene.
Catch a Comedy Show at The Stand
Not everything has to be dinner and a stroll — treat your dad to a good laugh at The Stand, a comedy club with big-name acts and killer burgers. Shows run all weekend, and it’s a fun way to do something a little unexpected. Grab drinks before or after — it’s right in NoMad, so you’ve got plenty of options nearby.
Get Ice Cream and Walk the West Village
For something simple and sweet, grab a cone from Van Leeuwen and wander through the quiet streets of the West Village. It’s a no-reservations, low-effort kind of outing that still feels thoughtful. Sit on a stoop, people-watch, and just hang out. Sometimes that’s all a dad wants.
Tour the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
If your dad’s even a little into history or military aircraft, the Intrepid Museum is a solid choice. It’s got fighter jets, submarines, and even the Space Shuttle Enterprise parked on deck. You can easily spend a couple of hours walking around, and there’s plenty of room to take it slow. It’s hands-on without feeling like a kids’ exhibit.
Book a Tee Time at Randall’s Island Golf Center
Want to skip the crowds and keep things active? The Randall’s Island Golf Center has a driving range, mini-golf, and even batting cages. It’s super casual and only a short Uber from Manhattan. Not too serious, just a good excuse to swing some clubs and hang out.
Watch a Broadway or Off-Broadway Show
If your dad’s more into music or storytelling than steak and sports, grab tickets to a Broadway show or something smaller downtown. Comedy, musicals, drama — there’s always something running, and it feels like an experience. A matinee followed by drinks is a nice, relaxed combo. Just check for Father’s Day weekend performances in NYC ahead of time.
Explore the Museum of the Moving Image
Located in Astoria, the Museum of the Moving Image is low-key one of NYC’s coolest museums — and great for dads who love movies, video games, or vintage TV. You can see old cameras, learn about editing and sound, and walk through full-on exhibitions. It’s spacious, quiet, and a fun alternative to the usual big-name museums.
Spend an Afternoon at Governors Island
Catch a ferry and take Dad to Governors Island, where you can rent bikes, grab lunch from food trucks, and take in skyline views in every direction. There’s a ton of open space and not a car in sight. It’s the kind of day where you don’t need a plan — just go and see what happens. Bonus: it’s usually way less crowded than Manhattan parks.
Visit the New York Transit Museum
For dads who appreciate engineering, design, or just love the subway more than they admit — the Transit Museum in Brooklyn is a hidden gem. Housed in an actual decommissioned subway station, it’s full of vintage trains, tokens, and interactive exhibits. It’s surprisingly fun, even if you’re not a train person. And it’s indoors, which is a plus if the weather turns.
Hit the Arcade at Barcade
If your dad grew up in the ’80s or just likes a little nostalgia, Barcade is the perfect low-key hang. It’s packed with classic arcade games like Pac-Man and Galaga, and the beer list is strong. You don’t need a reservation or a plan — just grab tokens and go. Great for dads who’d rather chill than sit through a fancy dinner.
Plan a Rooftop Happy Hour
Head to a rooftop like Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge or Refinery Rooftop in Midtown for drinks with a view. Most of them open in the afternoon, so you can grab a table without the late-night crowd. Order a cocktail, toast the day, and enjoy that summer skyline. It feels elevated without trying too hard.
Book a Private Pizza-Making Class
Surprise Dad with a hands-on pizza-making class at a local spot like Pizza School NYC. You’ll stretch dough, sauce pies, and eat everything you make — no experience needed. It’s a fun twist on going out to eat, especially if your dad enjoys learning new things. Plus, it ends with pizza, so everyone wins.
Just Walk and Talk
Sometimes, the best moments don’t need reservations. Pick a quiet neighborhood like DUMBO, the West Village, or Riverside Park and just go for a walk. Stop for coffee or a drink, take your time, and talk. Father’s Day in NYC doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to feel like you were thinking of him.
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