Father’s Day is almost here, and if you’ve found yourself caught off guard by how quickly it’s approaching, there’s no need to worry! There’s still plenty of time to plan a unique celebration for your dad. Here are a few last-minute reccs to make his day unforgettable this Sunday, June 18th!
1. Show dad the magical surprises at this Harry Potter™ experience
Get ready to embark on a magical adventure to Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with your dad! If he loves the Wizarding World, and you’re looking for something great for the entire family, venture to Harry Potter™: Magic at Play before it bids farewell to Chicago!
Presented by Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment and Original X Productions, this unique Harry Potter™ experience occupies an impressive 30,000 square feet across three floors at Water Tower Place, nestled on Chicago’s iconic Magnificent Mile. The whole family will love experiencing the most magical parts of the films, from stepping into the Dursley residence on Privet Drive to sharing a Butterbeer with your pops.
🚨On Friday, June 23rd, Magic at Play will host a trivia night at 6 p.m. to see how well you know the Wizarding World! 🚨
🏰Looking for more family fun? Check out the best 35 things to do for the entire fam!
2. Surprise him with tickets to the highly-anticipated NASCAR races!
NASCAR is officially coming to Chicago on July 1st and 2nd for the first-ever street race in the city—and if your dad is a fan, it’s the perfect opportunity to surprise him with tickets! The race will cover a 2.2 mile, 12-turn course, kicking off and ending at Grant Park’s famed Buckingham Fountain.
🏎️Learn all about it here and grab last-minute tickets!
3. Take dad back to the Prohibition-era…for a night!
If you’ve ever wanted to step back in time to the Prohibition era for one-night-only, now is your chance! A hidden Prohibition-style speakeasy is open in downtown Chicago for a limited time, and is such a unique experience that any dad would love.
The experience begins as soon as guests find the secret entrance at the green newspaper stand at 437 N. Rush Street in River North. As you walk through the doors, time turns back to the 1920s for a delightfully unique evening. Enjoy cocktails and music in the speakeasy before venturing to four hidden rooms and are guided by interesting historical figures who will tell you fascinating tales from that era as you explore each room. In each secret space, you’ll enjoy a delicious cocktail … so good, it’s almost illegal! Just so you know, those four drinks are included in the cost of your ticket, so cheers to you and your dad!
🥃 Snag your spot for you and your dad here!
4. Enjoy Craft Brews at Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual festival
The Lincoln Park Zoo is offering something special this Saturday, in case you’d like to celebrate your dad a day early! On June 17th, check out the 8th annual Craft Brews at Lincoln Park Zoo and sample over 100 beers and ciders while wandering around the marvelous zoo.
As you stroll the famed zoo, make a stop to see your favorite animals (including those adorable new lion cubs), enjoy live entertainment, and perhaps, even play a lawn game with your dad.
5. Celebrate Father’s Day at The Chic Pendry Hotel
Head to the luxurious Pendry Hotel this Sunday, June 18th, for an al fresco cocktail celebration for Father’s Day, celebrating your dear dad! The rooftop party is at the historic Art Deco Carbide & Carbon building (230 N. Michigan Ave.) at the rooftop bar, Château Carbide. Enjoy French-inspired drinks and botanical absinthe-infused cocktails, seasonal drinks, pizza, and other delicious bites with an unbeatable view of the city!
6. Check out over 150 murals at the “Artists of the Wall” Festival in Rogers Park
Head to Rogers Park and get ready to celebrate the highly-anticipated return of the renowned “Artists of the Wall” Festival this upcoming weekend! The vibrant neighborhood on Chicago’s Far North Side was recognized as one of the top 5 neighborhoods in the country and the best in the Midwest earlier this year, and is set to commemorate the 30th anniversary of this beloved annual event. It’s the perfect place to celebrate with your dad this weekend, especially if he loves art!
7. Enjoy Kayaking down the Chicago River with your father!
Kayaking in Chicago is a dream come true, whether you’re enjoying the Chicago Riverwalk surrounded by the city’s famous highrises or getting a spectacular vantage point near Monroe Harbor! It’s truly an unforgettable activity and the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day if you want to get active!
🛶 Get all of the details here!