Last-Minute Gift Guide for Father’s Day

By Rosemary Bernth, Editor

Life can be busy: dropping the kids off at summer camp, doing yard work, cleaning out the garage, planning the family road trip, the list goes on and on. Pretty soon you realize Father’s Day is just around the corner. But there’s no need to worry if you’re blanking on ideas for gifts. Check out our simple guide below– for all the fatherly figures in your life!

For The Adventure-Seeker

Does your guy love the outdoors? Squirrel Hill is surrounded by the Frick and Schenley Parks, with plenty of trails for biking or hiking. Check out Pro Bike + Run or Biketek Pittsburgh for some cycling gear, as well as a variety of bicycles for the Dad-On-The-Go. Is he more of the trailblazing camper type? 3 Rivers Outdoor Co. has lots of quality camping and backpacking gear, as well as helpful staff to help you choose the right tools for hiking or sleeping under the stars. Located close to Frick Park, it would be easy for Dad to get his gear and hit the trails right away. Take Dad on a trip around the world with Ten Thousand Villages. Support global fair-trade artisans with handmade crafts and household items that are as unique as your own father.

For the History Buff/Bookworm

If your dad loves literature, Amazing Books is a great place to trade in his books for some new reads. Classic Lines also features a lot of great reads, especially the latest best-sellers. If your pa is into Pittsburgh history, buy him a copy of Chuck Beard’s books from the Abandoned Pittsburgh collection: “Steel and Shadows” and “Gears and Ghosts”. Then Dad can have them signed by the author on June 23rd during the Squirrel Hill Night Markets!

For The Gamer

Is your father a video-game techie? Is he very competitive or more of the causal gamer? Check out The Exchange for some of the latest video games and consoles, as well as some favorite retro ones he might remember from his childhood. Is he more old school, in the board games kind of way? Take a trip to Games Unlimited for a vast array of puzzles and tabletop games. June 16th is Free RPG Day  from 11am-7pm for those who love role-playing games. Spend the day with Dad as you discover new games for Family Fun Night, plus there’s free swag for the taking.

For The Sweet-Tooth

Does he have a weakness for sweets? Gaby et Jules always has some delicious French pastries, especially the macarons. This month’s special flavor is Blue Hawaiian, perfect for the surfer dude. For chocolate and candy, head on down to The Chocolate Moose, where Dad will feel like Charlie in Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. There’s tons of delectable novelty sweets to choose from. Check out the truffle selection, featuring Moonstruck Chocolate Co.’s unique beer-inspired flavors. They even come with a chocolate bottle cap!

For The Fashionable Gentleman

Do you have a fashion-savvy father? The shoes at Little’s will definitely have people stopping in their tracks to take a look at Dad. From designer dress shoes to comfy casuals, Little’s has the perfect fit for Dad. Right now, the store is featuring the limited edition Vans Marvel Collection. Get a pair for your hero! For summer shades, check out Eyetique‘s array of luxury sunglasses, as well as quality frames. Dad’s eyesight might not be perfect, but he’s 20/20 in your book.

For The Laid-Back Guy

There’s nothing like relaxing after a hard day’s work, so treat your dad to some downtime with a drink. Blue Monkey Tea will make your father feel like royalty with its wide selection of tea blends, some imported from across the pond (that’s Great Britain).  Does Dad enjoy cocktails or a locally brewed cold beer? Take him out for dinner and drinks at Independent Brewing Company or Hidden Harbor for some good food and specialty drinks. You can also go to the Manor Theatre to catch a flick with your father. I suggest the Mr. Rogers movie, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” as a top choice.

No matter what you do for Father’s Day, it’s always important to remember that time is the best gift you can give.