7 Awesome Father-Son Getaways in the U.S.

Yes, Father’s Day is approaching, but you need not wait for the holiday to spend some quality father-son time together. And what could be a better way to strengthen your bond than by taking time away from everyday life and hitting the road for an adventure? Whether you’re the type of pair that embraces the challenge of the great outdoors or a dynamic duo who craves the bright lights of a big city, we have a trip recommendation for you. From Colorado and California to Florida and Maine, here are seven great father-son getaway ideas.

Editor’s note: Some services, amenities, and events at these locations may be altered/halted due to the pandemic. Always follow all COVID-19 restrictions, rules, and safety regulations both at your destination and upon returning home.

1. Bike and Soak in the Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Biking culture in Boulder is strong, but if you’re not so serious about cycling, it might be best to head elsewhere in Colorado. Offering similar rugged climbs, stunning winding roads, and tough mountain trails, Glenwood Springs is an equally great place to visit, with the added benefit of direct, unlimited access to the famous hot springs, should you choose to stay at the aptly named Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. (Mini-golf is also available during warmer months at the property.) Plus, there are plenty of bike hire companies around the area if you don’t want to bring your own. After all, there’s nothing like the open road to foster that father-son bond.

Hotel Pick: Glenwood Hot Springs Resort

2. Take a Microbrewery Tour in Portland, Maine

While we would never advocate overdoing things (drink responsibly), there’s nothing like knocking back a few microbrews to get the conversation flowing. Head to Portland, Maine to sample refreshing IPAs, porters, and sour saisons. While Portland, Oregon gets plenty of plaudits as a beer city, Portland, Maine is home to the most microbreweries in the U.S., with 18 per 50,000 people. In addition to the craft beer, lobster rolls and ocean views also make for a great experience. We recommend visiting as many local breweries as possible by jumping on an organized tour from the Maine Brews Cruise or Maine Beer Tours.

Hotel Pick: Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

3. Golf in Naples, Florida

For the father-son duos that love spending an afternoon on the putting green, Naples, Florida is the place to be. For starters, many hotels here cater to a golf crowd, and there are plenty of public courses to choose from. For example, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort is home to two PGA-level golf courses and a spa with treatments specially for golfers. Accessible to any age and ability, a Florida golf trip offers the chance to engage in some friendly competition and bond for hours while walking the fairways.

Hotel Pick: The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples

4. Fly Fish in Sea Island, Georgia

With its long, quiet stretches for introspection and oversharing, fishing is the perfect activity for some father-son bonding. The lure of the line is enough to get even the most emotionally closed person to open up. The U.S. is filled with great fishing spots, but we especially like Sea Island, Georgia. We recommend staying at the luxurious Cloister at Sea Island, which facilitates off-shore fly fishing trips to scout out trout, whiting, and flounder. The hotel also offers tennis courts, basketball courts, and three golf courses to keep visitors busy.

Hotel Pick: The Cloister at Sea Island

5. Gamble in Las Vegas, Nevada

The best thing about going to Vegas with your dad is that if you lose your stash of gambling money, you can always lean on him for a quick loan. Well, that and all the premium bonding you’ll do while shooting for the jackpot. Explore the Strip, shoot craps, play some poker, eat the finest steak dinner in town, and cap off the experience by seeing some of the sites that Vegas has to offer.

Hotel Pick: Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

6. Soak Up the Culture in Chicago, Illinois

For a city break that offers beautiful architecture plus art, comedy, music, and tasty food and drinks, Chicago is the way to go. For starters, the Chicago gangster bus tour is a must; it reveals everything you wanted to know about the history of the city’s association with the mob as told by two men in costume. Then, laugh it off at a comedy show at The Second City. Other must-dos include noshing on deep dish pizza at Pequod’s Pizza and taking an architecture-themed boat tour. Plus, baseball season is currently in full swing (pun intended), so you can also catch a Cubs game while you’re in town.

Hotel Pick: The Drake, A Hilton Hotel

7. Hike in Yosemite National Park, California

If you haven’t checked Yosemite National Park off your bucket list (or even if you have), we recommend visiting for your next father-son trip. From Glacier Point to the Half Dome, Yosemite has plenty to see and do. (There are tailored trails to follow depending on your home base.) Blessed with huge waterfalls, towering peaks, gorgeous glacial lakes, beautiful meadows, and gigantic trees, the scenery is one you’ll never forget. And if you’re not the camping type, but still want to enjoy the outdoors, opt for a rustic cabin in the heart of the park.

Hotel Pick: Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite

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It’s time to throw away that bag from grade school with an upgrade. Away’s carry-on has 360 degree spinning wheels, a USB port, a hard exterior shell, a TSA-approved lock. You won’t regret the buy.

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