The 8 best places to celebrate Father’s Day in New York City

Looking for something to do in NYC to celebrate all the special dads in your life this Father’s Day?We’ve curated a list of the best places for celebrating Father’s Day 2023 in New York City (NYC), including museums, restaurants and more.

The 8 best places for celebrating Father’s Day in New York City (NYC)

Celebrating Father’s Day in New York City is a wonderful opportunity to not only celebrate the special dads in our lives but to check off one of things we New Yorkers always say we want to get to–but never do.

This June 18th, instead of doing the same old, same old, we’ve come up with a list of 8 unique Father’s Day outings for every kind of dad. Whether he’s a movie buff, sports fanatic, or a foodie, here’s how to make the day as fun as the dad you’re celebrating.

1.   For the sporty dad: Mini golf at Pier 25

The next best thing to a round of golf at a swanky club is getting the competition going with the entire clan. With 18 holes and 13,000 square-feet of professional grade space, Pier 25’s setup is one of the most impressive in the city. With waterfalls, streams, footbridges, and a cave, there are plenty of delightful surprises at every turn. Should you need some nourishment before or after the big game, check out Grand Banks, a celebrated oyster bar aboard the historic wooden schooner, Sherman Zwicker a few steps away. The docked restaurant also serves up a seasonal menu built around sustainable, wild-caught fish species and seasonal local produce.

Hudson River Park 225 West St, New York, NY

2.  For the dad who loves to cook: Cooking class at Taste Buds Kitchen

Taste Buds Kitchen offers cooking classes and parties for kids, families, and adults in a fully decked-out but intimate kitchen studio. On Father’s Day, there are three options for learning to cook with dad. In the morning, the toddler set and their dads can learn how to make and decorate donuts. In the afternoon, ages 9+ are welcome in for Sliders & Shakes and in the evening, big kids 21+ can learn how to cook with beer. And yes, you get to eat your creations so pay attention!

Taste Buds Kitchen  109 W 27th St, New York, NY

3.  For the dad who needs a break from grilling duties: Pig Beach BBQ

The scene: a spacious industrial warehouse that opens to a backyard beer garden with family-style picnic tables that’s kid and pet friendly. Equipped with the biggest indoor smokers in all of NYC, Pig Beach BBQ’s new 28,000 square foot outpost in Long Island City also has three premium bars and live stage music. Come here for award-winning burgers, smoked wings and brisket tacos, as well as globally influenced bbq like Greek seasoned smoked lamb shoulder. Don’t worry dad–we’ll still say yours is better!

Pig Beach 35 – 37 36th St, Long Island City, NY

4.  For the movie buff: E.T at Skyline Drive-In

For a uniquely nostalgic experience, take dad to a showing of the Spielberg’s classic E.T at Greenpoint’s drive-in cinema. Situated on the East River with killer views of the Manhattan Skyline, it will be one of the most memorable movie nights your family will cherish. No car? No problem. You can also rent a chair and watch the movie from the sitting area with a bucket of buttery popcorn from concessions or order takeout from one of the nearby trendy eateries.

Skyline Drive-In  1 Oak Street, Brooklyn, NY

5.   For the adventurous dad: Kayaking and paddle boarding in Hudson River Park

The Manhattan Kayak Co. caters to all skill levels and kids so the entire family can enjoy a day out on the Hudson, floating along the soaring skyline. Whether you choose from lessons or guided tours, the experience is seamless with experienced staff who make sure every venture is safe and secure. The boats and boards are available for rent and launch from Pier 84 Boathouse.

Manhattan Kayak Co 555 12th Ave, New York, NY

6.  For the dad with the moves: Central Park Swings at King Jagiello Plaza

Spending an afternoon in Central Park is always a good idea but it helps to have a destination in mind. If the dad in your life loves music and dancing, head to Central Park Swings, a live outdoor swing music concert and dance open to the public. There’s even a dance lesson at the start to get the whole family rock stepping.

Central Park Swings  King Jagiello Plaza (between Turtle Pond and Belvedere Castle)

7.   For the dad who needs to chill: QC Spa at Governor’s Island

Sure, you can send him to a trendy hotel spa but why not combine family fun with relaxation time? The former military base island has transformed into an urban oasis with parks, adult playgrounds, art installations and exhibits, and eateries.  All just a five-minute ferry ride from the southern tip of Manhattan. And last year, QC NY Spa opened to much fanfare. After hiking or biking around the island, treat dad to a day at the state-of-the-art spa which features two heated outdoor infinity pools with underwater hydro seats and loungers designed to massage the body and increase lymphatic circulation.

QC Spa  Governor’s Island

8.  For the jetsetter: TWA Hotel at JFK International Airport

Whether you have a getaway planned or not, soak in all the historic travel vibes at the first class TWA hotel. Restored and reimagined to showcase the heyday of travel, it’s also full of fun activities for the entire family. The rooftop infinity pool with runway views is open year-round while indoor amusements include museum exhibits dedicated to the Jet Age and midcentury modern design, a Twister room, and a 10,000-square-foot fitness center. Start your trip here or just enjoy a unique staycation.

TWA Hotel  John F. Kennedy International Airport, One, JFK Access Road, Idlewild Dr, Queens, NY

best places for celebrating Father’s Day in New York City (NYC)

There you have it — eight great ways to celebrate the dads in your life this Father’s Day in New York City. Dad jokes not included.