Baker’s Dozen: 13 Things to do with Dad

Most of the time I spent with my dad as a child consisted of doing outside yard work, helping fix broken gates and lawnmowers, and grilling. It was in these moments that I realized the hard work my dad put in to help maintain the household, and I realized how important it is to take the time to spend quality time with him.

This Father’s Day, take the initiative to spend some quality time with your father or father figure. And if you’re out of ideas, Saline County has a lot of different activities to offer. Here’s a list of 13 activities to do with your father this summer:

1: Go on a Hike 
Enjoy the Natural State and take a hike. Not only will you be getting your steps in, but you will have the opportunity to spend quality time with Dad while taking in the lovely scenery Arkansas has to offer.

2: Go Fishing
Take out the family boat, hunt down that unused canoe or pull up alongside the riverbank and go on a fishing trip. While patiently waiting for the big catch, take the time to catch up and enjoy the peace and quiet together.

3: Take a Trip to the Farmer’s Market
Help support local farmers while also shopping for delicious foods to grill with your dad at home. Nothing beats homegrown, fresh veggies and fresh meat.

4: Get Crafty
Find that old toolbox and build something fun yet useful, whether that be a birdhouse, bookshelf or a simple porch table. 

5: Play Yard Games
Spend some time outside playing some fun, yet competitive games. Dust off that old cornhole set-up, or break out the old horseshoes, and enjoy a fun day outdoors.

6: Watch a Movie
Enjoy a nice throwback movie, picked out by your father. You could end up going “Back to the Future,” or even visiting the “Lone Ranger.” Grab your favorite snacks and popcorn, and go back to simpler times.

7: Visit Memory Lane
Take a trip down memory lane and break out the old family albums. With most things in this day and age being digital, take the time to reminisce about your childhood, while also spending quality time with those who raised you.

8: Have a Game Night
Get competitive and challenge your father to a classic game of Checkers or Blackjack. Spend time with your father while having fun along the way, as long as you don’t bet your entire wallet on that game of Blackjack.

9: Take a Day Trip to Big Rock Race one another on the go-karts, grab a couple clubs for mini-golf and play some arcade games at Big Rock Mini Golf and Fun Park. Spark up that competitive spirit; just don’t wreck your go-kart.

10: Go to the Park/Have a PicnicGet a breath of fresh air, and take you and your dad out for a nice picnic at Mills or Tyndall Park. Catch up on your day while enjoying some good finger foods and cool beverages. 

11: Shop Local Help support local businesses around town, while also finding a good, useful gift for your dad. There are many businesses in Downtown Benton and within the Bryant area that would love your support.

12: Visit a Local BreweryEnjoy a nice night out with your dad while also supporting some local breweries. Many local breweries offer tours through their facilities, as well as taste testing.

13: Grill Together And of course, there is the classic art of grilling. Learn some new grilling techniques from your dad, while also bonding over the staple dad hobby.

The phrase “baker’s dozen” means providing more than a dozen. In other words, when we buy a dozen of an item such as vegetables, fruits, or a bakery snacks, the seller gives one or two extra items out of love or generosity. This Father’s Day, think about how throwing in a little extra time and love could make all the difference for Dad!