Finding the perfect Father's Day gift isn't always easy, especially for the dad who insists he doesn't need anything. This year, skip the gift card and spend the day making memories instead. In Greater Fort Lauderdale, that could mean lingering over brunch by the water, challenging Dad to a friendly pickleball match, teeing off on a golf course or toasting with a locally brewed craft beer.
Whatever his idea of a great day looks like, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate. Need inspiration? Here are some of the best Father's Day activities in Greater Fort Lauderdale.
Dad’s Orders
Nothing says "I love you" quite like booking a unique brunch, perhaps one set inside a restored 1920s church. Jay’s Steakhouse in downtown Fort Lauderdale is rolling out the red carpet this Father's Day with a buffet-style brunch featuring fresh seafood towers and a raw bar, carving stations, breakfast favorites, caviar and live entertainment. Make it even more memorable with a glass of whiskey or bubbly.
If you're craving barbecue, book a reservation at Shooters Waterfront on the Intracoastal Waterway. Here, you can enjoy an all-you-can-eat barbecue brunch buffet with grill favorites such as burgers, beer-broiled bratwurst, barbecue chicken and classic sides. Prefer dining later? An à la carte dinner is also available by the water, offering another memorable way to celebrate with Dad.
Dock ’n Dine
Make dinner reservations more exciting by chartering a boat to explore the "Venice of America" and its many waterfront restaurants. Favorites include Billy's Stone Crab in Hollywood to the south, fresh seafood at Coconuts near Fort Lauderdale Beach, and the chic yet casual Kaluz Restaurant near Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Of course, you can also get around via the famous Water Taxi for a stress-free way to explore the area.
Game Face Ready
For dads who never turn down a little competition, a Father's Day pickleball match might be just the thing. Head to The Fort for a few friendly rallies. The 10-acre sports complex is home to 43 regulation pickleball courts and the world's first pickleball stadium. After the match, pull up a seat at Florida Room, the new lakeside oasis from "Top Chef" alums Janine Booth and Jeff McInnis, featuring Southern coastal comfort food such as short-rib meatloaf and double-buttermilk-crispy fried chicken.
Diadem Pickleball Complex in Coconut Creek has also become a locals' favorite. The 25,000-square-foot facility features nine premium, climate-controlled indoor courts that stay cool no matter how hot it gets outside. At Epic Pickleball & Padel Athletic Club in Sunrise, play on one of 10 indoor pickleball courts or try your hand at padel, the popular racket sport that blends squash and tennis. More casual pickleball options include George English Park and Holiday Park.
If tee time is more of dad's thing, you're in luck. Greater Fort Lauderdale has more than 35 world-class golf courses where you can play a proper round under the sun.
Not ready to commit to 18 holes? Topgolf Pompano Beach is a great alternative. Reserve a hitting bay, grab a drink and let the whole family take swings at the outfield targets. Nearby, Strokes ‘n’ Drivers offers an indoor golf simulator experience featuring more than 500 golf courses, games and a driving range, plus a bar and food vendors for relaxing.
Get Your Brew On
Discover dozens of breweries scattered across the region, including LauderAle, the area's first nanobrewery, tucked inside a marine-industrial warehouse with small-batch beers on tap and rotating food trucks out front. Save the Visit Lauderdale Ale Trail Passport to your phone so you and Dad can access curated breweries and distilleries, along with deals and discounts, to build the ultimate beer crawl.
Mango Mania
Dads get VIP treatment at the Island SPACE Mango Festival, the city's only Caribbean mango celebration, where the new "Daddy's Kingdom" experience includes a throne-and-crown photo opportunity, curated gifts, tastings and a premium raffle. Afterward, enjoy tasting exotic mango varieties, watching Caribbean chefs prepare dishes on stage and sampling offerings from more than 40 vendors.
Hands-On Fun
Little ones can have fun with dad by heading to the Lauderhill Central Park Library for a day of discovery, then pick up a Take & Make craft kit to kick off the day before things get more competitive. For even more family fun, head downtown to Huizenga Park, where the Father's Day Toddler Sensory Workshop (Dinosaur Edition) invites young explorers to dig, discover and play alongside Dad.
If Dad prefers horsepower to dinosaurs, make a pit stop at the Supercar Sundays Florida 3rd Annual Father's Day Car Show in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The free event features an impressive lineup of exotic, luxury and classic vehicles, giving car enthusiasts the chance to admire some of South Florida's most coveted rides while enjoying a Father's Day outing together.
However you choose to celebrate, Greater Fort Lauderdale has a Father’s Day activity that suits all ages and interests.