On Sunday June 18, dads and father figures around the country celebrate the day dedicated to honoring their important role in the world. As a father of two, I am looking forward to a day of “me time.” However, finding a way to say “thanks” can make any dad feel special. Fortunately, there is a bounty of gift ideas at your fingertips right here in and around Westchester County which can make any father feel like “The World’s Greatest Dad.”
Fore!
There is nothing more embarrassing than teeing off on the first hole and shanking the ball so poorly you almost decapitate the beer cart girl. Although men rarely ask for help with their golf swing, there’s always room for improvement. GolfTEC in White Plains offers a variety of instruction to help improve one’s golf game. From a swing evaluation using a patented computer program to advice on the proper clubs to use, GolfTEC is a wonderful gift idea for golf season. An evaluation is priced at $90, but Groupon often offers discounted packages so keep your eyes open for offers. GolfTEC, 190 E. Post Road, Suite 201, White Plains. 397-4820. golft
The Beer Connoisseur
The craft beer industry has exploded over the last decade giving those who enjoy a frosty beverage plenty of choices. Half Time Beverage in Mamaroneck is a football-field-sized store offering more than 2,000 different kinds of beers from all over the world. Not sure what variety the dad in your life prefers? Don’t worry, Half Time is offering Father’s Day gift cards and special deals on growlers and crowlers, 32-oz cans filled with any one of the 20 beers they have on tap. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and will help you serve up a great gift for your hops-loving dad.Half Time, 139 Hoyt Ave., Mamaroneck. 341-1666. halft
‘I Was a Bayman Like My Father Was Before … ’
There is something to be said about being out on a boat with friends and simply enjoying the escape from life on the shore. Island Current Fleet has been sending people out on the Long Island Sound for 24 years. The City Island based company offers daytime and evening packages for anyone interested in spending a few hours trolling for striped bass and blues. The owner, Captain Chris, is backed by a crew who provides everything needed (poles, bait, etc.) except food and beverages. Regardless of your experience level, Island Current goes out of their way to make sure everyone has a great time on the water. Packages start at $65 per adult for an open boat trip. Island Current Fleet, 551 City Island Ave., City Island. 417-7557. islan
Time for a MANicure
Contrary to popular belief, men do enjoy being pampered every now and then. However, it can be challenging for men to find a place where they’ll feel comfortable getting a facial or manicure. 18/8 Fine Men’s Salon in Mamaroneck is a “salon just for men.” Their services include facials, waxing, hair coloring and even scalp treatments to battle hair loss. 18/8 Fine Men’s Salon, 315 Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck. 559-2188. eight
G.I. Joe
Back in the day, boys used to race around the neighborhood with water guns pretending they were saving the world from evil. Crazy Paint in Mohegan Lake offers the chance for dads to play soldier, except with paintball guns. In addition to carrying a full line of guns and accessories, you can book an afternoon for dad and his friends to relive their childhood. Crazy Paint, 1949 E. Main St., Mohegan Lake. 526-0806. crazy
Lights … Camera … Action …
Jonathan H., a father of two from Somers, misses going to the movies. “For Father’s Day, I would love nothing more than to just go and see a movie. I forgot what that’s like!” If you really want to give dad the movie experience he deserves, check out iPic Theaters in Dobbs Ferry. Just opened in May, the eight-screen theatre offers high-end food and drink service to patrons while they watch the latest blockbuster in reclining seats. In addition, the City Perch Kitchen & Bar located on-premises offers pre- or post-film farm-to-table meals to go along with the experience. With summer blockbusters arriving soon, dad is sure to appreciate a gift certificate to this ultimate upscale movie experience. iPic, 1 Livingstone Ave., Dobbs Ferry. 348-7002. ipict
Hitting the Trails
A bike enthusiast from Ardsley, Andy G. says “Endless Trail Bikeworx in Dobbs Ferry serves all your biking needs with incredible customer service. I’d love a gift certificate from there!” The shop is near the Old Croton Aqueduct, giving bikers easy access to the Rivertowns’ beautiful Hudson vistas. A full day rental package is $35, or hourly at $15 an hour, includes a bike, helmet and full roadside assistance in case you get a flat a few miles away. Endless Trail Bikeworx, 56 Main St., Dobbs Ferry. 674-8567. endle
As you can see, there’s a wide assortment of thoughtful gift ideas for dad.
On the other hand, many of the best gifts are free. For example, Doug D. from Cortlandt says, “My wife is due on May 18 so for me, to be a father again is the most I could ask for. Otherwise, taking my kids swimming or fishing would be amazing.”
In the end, most dads just want to sleep late and have a care-free day with no responsibilities. So, steer clear of the ties and sock aisle, and think outside the box this Father’s Day.
Seth Leibowitz is a Westchester father and special education teacher who enjoys writing about what he knows including parenting, hockey, music and study skills. Seth founded Tutoringhelp914 to help children with ADHD and dyslexia thrive in school.