The ultimate NYC Father’s Day guide: Where to eat, drink, and celebrate dad

For two days only, The Art of Bourbon Father’s Day Shop is taking over Vanderbilt Hall. Inspired by Knob Creek’s eight-generation father and son legacy, this immersive experience features bourbon tastings, Old Fashioneds, and curated gifting. You can also grab a limited-edition Knob Creek x Huckberry tote bag.

Want to take to the waters? Treat Dad to the official Father’s Day Brunch Cruise departing from Pier 36. This luxury daytime harbor cruise features an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet (complete with applewood smoked bacon, maple chicken sausage, and a full dessert bar) alongside bottomless mimosas. You’ll enjoy top DJs spinning hits and jaw-dropping views of the NYC skyline as you sail past the Statue of Liberty and under the Brooklyn Bridge. 🚢 Reserve your tickets for the Father’s Day Brunch Cruise here!

Mini golf, but make it VIP. Take Dad to Swingers NoMad, a wildly fun and theatrical space designed to look like a lush 1920s English golf clubhouse. You can challenge him on the themed indoor mini-golf courses while enjoying craft cocktails and gourmet street food delivered right to the hole. It’s competitive, ridiculous, and highly entertaining.

If you want to treat him to an unforgettable meal, head to the award-winning British steakhouse Hawksmoor NYC. They offer a spectacular Sunday Roast (served from 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm) featuring slow-roasted beef, crispy roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, and endless gravy. Have Dad pair it with their signature Hawksmoor Bloody Mary for the ultimate weekend feast.

For the dad who is completely obsessed with true crime podcasts or Law & Order, this is the perfect activity. The Jury Experience is a 60-minute immersive theatrical trial where you and Dad become the jury. You’ll sift through evidence, watch professional actors testify, and argue over the verdict. It’s a heart-pumping crash course in morality that he won’t stop talking about.

If your dad is a serious foodie, skip the traditional steakhouse and take him for a hype-worthy smash burger. Gotham Burger Social Club is teaming up with the ultimate food dad—Mike Chau, creator of the massive account FoodBabyNY—for a special collaboration available only on Sunday, June 21.

They are dropping the FoodBaby Burger, paying homage to the legendary peanut-butter-topped Goober Burger from 1940s Missouri. This glorious creation features Gotham’s signature smash patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon-bourbon onion jam, pepper jelly, and creamy peanut butter that melts right into the heat of the beef. It’s a rich, sweet, smoky, and savory explosion with pickles and jalapeños on the side.

If your dad is a gamer at heart, take him to battle it out at Dave & Buster’s for their epic Father’s Day “Dad Games.” It’s the perfect excuse for some friendly family competition over arcade classics to prove who the real champion is. Note: The Dad Games aren’t being hosted at the Times Square location this year, but you can join the fun at nearby spots like Long Island, NY, Freehold, NJ, and other neighboring areas!

You don’t need to fly him down south for top-tier barbecue. Take him to Hill Country Barbecue Market for a true Texas-style feast. Load up a tray with pitmaster specials, massive beef ribs, smoked brisket, and classic sides, all washed down with local draft beers. It’s casual, messy, and absolutely delicious.

If the weather is looking splendid, head to the waterfront. Brooklyn Bridge Park is hosting free kayaking sessions from the Pier 2 Boathouse. You can paddle the East River with Dad during the Sunday family sessions (12 pm to 2:30 pm) and admire the spectacular downtown Manhattan skyline from a completely new vantage point. No prior experience needed!

If your dad gets a little too competitive at family game nights, take him to SPIN 23. You can reserve a private ping pong table for just the two of you or a group of up to 10 guests. Order some drinks, grab a paddle, and see who still has the best backhand.

There is a reason Skirt Steak is always a hit. This Midtown favorite keeps things wonderfully simple: a set menu featuring an incredibly juicy prime skirt steak, a fresh field greens salad, and—the best part—unlimited handmade French fries. They are walk-in only, so go early and arrive hungry.

Ready to completely blow his mind? Book an extraordinary sunset sail on The Mark Sailboat by Jean-Georges. Departing from Tribeca’s North Cove Marina, this sophisticated sailing adventure offers perfect viewpoints of the Statue of Liberty alongside an exclusive food menu (think Maine lobster rolls and crispy sea trout) curated by the iconic chef.

If you have younger kids (or a dad with a massive sweet tooth!), check out the brand-new i Candy NYC right at One Times Square. This immersive, multi-floor attraction reimagines iconic NYC landmarks as a candy-coated dreamland. You get a commemorative container to fill with candy as you explore interactive exhibits, games, and photo moments across three vibrant floors. It’s a fantastic, family-friendly scavenger hunt that ends at the ultimate Candy Shop.

For stunning panoramic views of Midtown Manhattan and Brooklyn, take Dad up to the 26th floor of the historic Beekman Tower. Ophelia, an Art Deco-inspired cocktail lounge, is offering an incredible three-course pre-fixe dinner for just $60. He can feast on duck confit spring rolls, a filet mignon au poivre, and finish it all off with coconut creme brûlée or tiramisu.

Tucked along the East River just steps from the historic South Street Seaport, Industry Kitchen is rolling out a special à la carte menu built specifically for the steak-and-seafood-loving dad. While soaking in the waterfront views, Dad can indulge in a classic lobster caviar bisque or an over-the-top Foie Gras Beef Burger served on a soft pretzel bun.

Spend Father’s Day waterfront-side with massive headliners, family fun, and a zero-waste festival vibe. If Dad’s idea of a perfect day includes live music and an easygoing outdoor setting, the Hudson River Music Festival returns to Croton Point Park on Sunday, June 21, 2026, featuring headline collaborations, a new Rainbow Stage, family programming, and a strong zero-waste commitment. Tickets (General Admission, VIP, and parking passes) are available online, and children 12 and under enter free with a GA adult.

Fresh off the Knicks’ unbelievable championship win this past Saturday, keep the ultimate New York momentum going for Dad! You can bring the iconic flavors of the city straight to your kitchen. Carnegie Deli, the legendary spot founded in 1937 (and famously located inside MSG!), is offering a massive Father’s Day Gift Box.

It’s filled to the brim with everything you need to recreate their signature, meaty sandwiches at home. The kit includes 1.5 lbs. of pre-sliced pastrami, 1.5 lbs. of corned beef, spicy brown mustard, a 32-ounce jar of sour pickles, a 24-ounce loaf of rye bread, a 4” cheesecake, and a Carnegie Deli hat. It’s available on their online store and on Amazon, but you must order by Wednesday, June 17th for guaranteed delivery!