San Diego is a city that boasts a variety of activities perfect for celebrating Father's Day. Whether your dad enjoys the outdoors, loves classic cars, or prefers a relaxing day at the spa, San Diego has something to offer. Here's a list of 16 fun activities to make this Father’s Day memorable.
1. Father’s Day Car Show at Belmont Park
+ Location: Mission Boulevard, Mission Beach
+ Highlight: Vintage Cars
+ Price Range: Free
Kick off Father’s Day with the annual Car Show at Belmont Park. From 10 am to 3pm, enjoy a display of classic and vintage cars set against the beautiful backdrop of Mission Beach.
This family-friendly event is free to attend and provides an opportunity to reminisce about the golden age of automobiles.
2. Dad’s Jukebox Bingo at Punch Bowl Social
+ Location: Downtown San Diego
+ Highlight: Music Bingo with Classic Rock Songs
+ Price Range: Free (with food and drink purchase)
For a unique twist on the traditional bingo game, head to Punch Bowl Social from 2-4pm. Dad’s Jukebox Bingo combines music trivia with classic rock songs, creating a fun and interactive atmosphere.
While the game is free, enjoy delicious food and drinks available for purchase.
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3. Concert Featuring Darryl Hall and Elvis Costello
+ Location: Cal Coast Credit Union Amphitheater, SDSU Campus
+ Highlight: Live Music
+ Price Range: $50-$150
Celebrate Father’s Day evening with a concert featuring Darryl Hall and Elvis Costello. Starting at 7pm, this event at the Cal Coast Credit Union Amphitheater promises a night of great music and entertainment.
Tickets range from $50 to $150, ensuring a memorable experience for music-loving dads.
4. Spend the Day at Sesame Place
+ Location: Chula Vista
+ Highlight: Sesame Street Characters and Activities
+ Price Range: $50-$75
For a day full of family fun, visit Sesame Place in Chula Vista. This theme park features beloved Sesame Street characters and special Father’s Day activities.
Ticket prices range from $50 to $75, making it a fantastic destination for families with young children.
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5. Visit the 33rd Annual Wooden Boat Festival
+ Location: Shelter Island
+ Highlight: Historic Boats
+ Price Range: Free
From June 15-16, the Wooden Boat Festival showcases beautifully crafted wooden boats at Shelter Island.
Running from 9am-4pm, this event is perfect for dads who appreciate maritime history and craftsmanship. The festival is free, offering a fascinating and cost-effective day out.
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6. Attend the San Diego County Fair
+ Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds
+ Highlight: Rides, Games, and Retro Theme
+ Price Range: $10-$20 (general admission)
The San Diego County Fair, held from June 12-July 7, offers an array of rides, games, and food. With a retro theme, this fair provides fun for all ages.
General admission tickets cost between $10 and $20, making it an affordable option for a day filled with excitement.
7. See the Play “Fat Ham” at the Old Globe Theatre
+ Location: Balboa Park
+ Highlight: Retelling of Hamlet Set in the South
+ Price Range: $29-$99
Catch a performance of “Fat Ham” at the Old Globe Theatre. This modern retelling of Hamlet is set in the South and provides a fresh take on a classic story. Ticket prices range from $29 to $99, offering a cultural and entertaining experience for theater enthusiasts.
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8. Enjoy the 21st Annual Father's Day Pow Wow by the Sea
+ Location: Imperial Beach
+ Highlight: Traditional Powwow
+ Price Range: Free
The Father's Day Pow Wow by the Sea is a vibrant celebration of Native American culture. Held on June 16 in Imperial Beach, this event features traditional dancing, music, and crafts. The powwow is free to attend and provides a unique and enriching experience.
9. Browse the Harney Street Market
+ Location: Old Town San Diego
+ Highlight: Local Crafts and Goods
+ Price Range: Free (with items for purchase)
Explore the Harney Street Market in Old Town San Diego from 10am-4pm. This bustling market offers local crafts, antiques, and artisanal goods. While browsing is free, you might find the perfect gift or keepsake to purchase for Dad.
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10. See a Comedy Show by Celeste Barber
+ Location: Balboa Theatre
+ Highlight: Stand-Up Comedy
+ Price Range: $40-$80
Laugh the night away with a comedy show by Celeste Barber at the Balboa Theatre on Father’s Day evening. Known for her hilarious take on social media and celebrity culture, Celeste Barber’s performance is sure to be a hit. Tickets range from $40 to $80.
11. Take a Father’s Day Brunch Cruise
+ Location: San Diego Bay
+ Highlight: Scenic Bay Views and Brunch
+ Price Range: $70-$100
Treat Dad to a luxurious Father’s Day Brunch Cruise around San Diego Bay from 11am-1pm. Enjoy a delicious brunch while taking in stunning views of the bay. Prices range from $70 to $100, providing a unique and scenic dining experience.
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12. Catch Plays at the Carlsbad Village Theater
+ Location: Carlsbad
+ Highlight: Previews of The Color Purple Musical
+ Price Range: $20-$50
For theater lovers, the Carlsbad Village Theater offers previews of the musical The Color Purple. Enjoy powerful performances and a compelling story. Ticket prices range from $20 to $50, making it a great cultural outing for Father’s Day.
13. Do a Father’s Day Improv Workshop
+ Location: Normal Heights, Bab & Friends Gift Shop
+ Highlight: Interactive Improv
+ Price Range: $25-$40
Join a Father’s Day improv workshop in Normal Heights at Bab & Friends Gift Shop. This interactive workshop is a fun way to bond and create memories through the art of improv. The cost ranges from $25 to $40, providing an entertaining and engaging activity.
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14. Go Mountain Biking or Hiking
+ Location: Mount Laguna or Lake Cuyamaca
+ Highlight: Outdoor Adventure
+ Price Range: Free (with potential rental costs)
For dads who love the great outdoors, head to Mount Laguna or Lake Cuyamaca for mountain biking or hiking. These scenic locations offer trails for all skill levels. The activity is free, though bike rentals may incur additional costs.
15. Play a Round of Golf at Torrey Pines
+ Location: Torrey Pines Golf Course, La Jolla
+ Highlight: Iconic Golf Course
+ Price Range: $75-$200
Celebrate Father’s Day with a round of golf at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course.
Known for its breathtaking ocean views and challenging holes, this course is a golfer’s paradise. Green fees range from $75 to $200, depending on the time of day and residency status.
16. Spend the Day at San Diego Safari Park
+ Location: Escondido
+ Highlight: Over 3,000 Animals
+ Price Range: $62-$65
Visit the San Diego Safari Park in Escondido to see over 3,000 animals in expansive habitats.
This park offers unique experiences such as safari tours and animal encounters. Ticket prices range from $62 to $65, providing a day full of wildlife adventure.
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Conclusion
San Diego offers a plethora of activities to make this Father’s Day unforgettable. From car shows and concerts to outdoor adventures and cultural events, there’s something to suit every dad’s taste. Choose from these 16 activities to plan the perfect day for celebrating and honoring your dad in beautiful San Diego!
