We know your dad loves the tie, 6-pack of beers or grill accessories you usually get him for Father’s Day, but this year take it one step further by taking him on a Texas adventure. Here are 4 dad-approved day trips (dad trips?) to give him a great time and show him just how much you love him!
Dallas: The Beer & BBQ Fanatic Trip
Does dad love the two B’s of Texas cuisine: Beer and Barbecue? Than this trip through Dallas is just for him! Because any great Father’s Day trip begins and ends with beer, start at DFW M’Antiques, where dad can sip FREE BEER while perusing a store full of random man things like antique pocket watches, vintage Lone Star Beer memorabilia and even javelins. Then, when it’s time for food (or dad has purchased dozens of items he doesn’t really need — whichever happens first), head to Pecan Lodge for a heaping plate of some of Dallas’s best ‘cue. The crazy long line will give you and dad time to bond — and, not to mention, bragging rights later!
Treat dad to a slice of pie next door at Emporium Pies, then you’re on to Deep Ellum Brewing Co. for a tour of the brewery (buy tour tickets here). End the trip with a flight of their signature brews and a toast to dad (see I told you there’d be more beer.) Is dad more of a cider drinker? Check out Bishop Cider Co. instead. MAP
Austin: The Rockstar Dad Trip
If your dad’s a rock-and-roll, music-loving old soul then you have to take him to the Live Music Capital of the World. Now if it’s a weekday, you’ve gotta start off with a tour of the famous Moody Theater, home to the ACL Live TV show — and the Willie Nelson statue out front. Weekend trippers can learn all about Texas artists at the Texas Music Museum. Follow the music across Lady Bird Lake to South Austin Music, a historic 1986 music shop frequented by local rockers where dad can spend the afternoon jamming away on classic guitars. Check out the massive mural on the side featuring over 30 Austin musicians.
Give dad a dinner fit for a rockstar at Stubbs Bar-B-Q (an Obama fave), where tender ‘que is served with a side of live music by local bands. Its old Lubbock location was host to legends like Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson. Finish the night with either a country show and a beer at the historic Broken Spoke or a rock show and classic cocktails at the iconic Continental Club — dad’s choice. MAP
Houston: The Extreme Dad Trip
If your dad is the kind of man who doesn’t do anything small-scale, then take him on this tour of Houston that includes wild animals and extreme sports. Your first stop is in Needville (near Richmond) for a gator tour at Brazos Bend State Park. Take in the diverse nature of this park, but keep your eyes peeled for the American alligators like to chill out on the trails.
Since not just any meal will do, you’re on to Houston’s Little India District to dine at Himalaya Restaurant, one of the most famous Indian restaurants in Texas with cuisine that seriously packs a flavorful punch. And since you obviously can’t skip dessert, hit up the Chocolate Bar for a sweets shop with Frito brittle and 1 pound chocolate bars that puts Willy Wonka to shame. If you’re not too full to walk at this point, finish your trip at the Texas Rock Gym, an indoor climbing gym with over 14,000 sq. ft. of climbing wall! It’s honestly the best way to make sure your dad’s day rocks (dad joke intended…) MAP
San Antonio: The History Buff Trip
Is your dad basically Indiana Jones because he’s a history buff who loves exploring? Then take him on this San Antonio adventure, and don’t worry — there aren’t any giant boulders on this trip, just giant cinnamon rolls. This city is full of history, but you gotta start at the most iconic of all, the Alamo. Take dad on a guided tour of the mission or dive even deeper into the past by attending one of the mission’s daily History Talks. Across the street, find the San Fernando Cathedral where Juan Seguín hid the remains of the Texas heroes after the Revolution.
Y’all’s next stop is a bit newer than the rest — we’re talking 2002 instead of the 1800s — but Lulu’s Cafe & Bakery has landed itself a spot in the history books with its 3-pound cinnamon rolls. Grab a home-cooked lunch (or just dessert — we won’t judge), and then work it all off with a few rounds of golf at Cool Crest Miniature Golf, opened since 1929. Finally, head to the Main Plaza at 9 p.m. for “San Antonio: The Saga,” a colorful lights show that projects the town’s history on the San Fernando Cathedral. MAP
Find even more dad-worthy road trips here.
