Dad deserves a day out too, which is why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on the special events taking place around the Greater Des Moines metro area that honors and celebrates dads of all kinds. Whether he’s an avid golfer, a foodie, a live music fan, or something else entirely, our city is no stranger to celebrating everyone.
Brunch/Dinner
AJ’s Steakhouse
AJ’s Steakhouse is pulling out all the stops for some pretty killer Father’s Day specials that exude fine dining on Sunday, June 21 from 4-9 p.m. Get a deluxe Tomahawk Steak for two for only $130, or Rainbow Trout for $50. Cocktail features include a smokey old fashioned or a bourbon flight. Sounds too good to be true, right? Make your reservation here.
Splash
If your pop is a seafood lover, then you won’t want to miss special Father’s Day reservations at Splash Seafood Bar & Grill in downtown Des Moines on Sunday, June 21. Dine on delicious lobster, succulent crab, and fresh fillets. (Don’t worry, if you aren’t a seafood fan, they have plenty of other options!) Get your reservation here.
Smash Park
It’s brunch, with a side of bingo! Smash Park in West Des Moines is hosting a Father’s Day brunch from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. free to play bingo that’s loaded with awesome prizes. Best part? Dads eat free with a $25 purchase (one standard brunch entree, dine-in only). You can both chow down on eggs, bacon, French toast, and get on his competitive side with multiple rounds of bingo.
Mulberry Street Tavern
Leave grill duty to the professionals at Mulberry Street Tavern this Father’s Day. On Saturday, June 21, make a reservation for brunch and let dad enjoy full plates (like a prime rib benedict or a sweet and savory breakfast roll), strong cocktails, and an excuse to order dessert before noon. Make a reservation here.
Events
Father’s Day Flop Contest
Calling all daddios, think you got the biggest splash? Adventure Bay is holding a contest to see which dad can do the best cannonball, belly flop, or signature jump on Saturday, June 20 from noon-2 p.m. The top three flops of the day will get prizes! This event is included with park admission, so get your tickets here.
“Dad Games” at Dave & Buster’s
It’s the ultimate Father’s Day competition on Sunday, June 21 at Dave & Buster’s! Starting at $24.99 per person, you’ll get access to the ultimate player pack banquet, unlimited soft drinks, a $20 Power Card, and entrance to the Dad Game Challenges. The prize? Free game play for a whole YEAR. Get your tickets here.
“Dadurday” Party at Smash Park
Father’s Day comes early at Smash Park, so skip the stuffy dinner and bring the whole family out on Saturday, June 20 from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Enjoy a $10 burger and domestic pint deal, dad jams vs. Modern hits music bingo (3-5 p.m.), and open play giant pong and cornhole. No reservations are required, just bring your dad and some great energy!
Father’s Day Free Visit
Your frugal father will be proud of you for this one! The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is offering free admission to all dads on Sunday, June 21 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wander through the beautiful flora and plant life as you escape to a tropical paradise right here in central Iowa.
Pints & Ponytails at Big Grove
On June 20, dads and their daughters are invited for a 1-hour hair styling session at Big Grove! For $50 per dad-daughter duo, you get a beer for you, a soda/mocktail for her, an interactive class, a loaded goodie bag with hair tools, and a $5 Fresko coupon. Learn how to style your child’s hair with confidence and level up your dad game!
An Afternoon or Evening at the Biergarten
It’s Biergarten season in Des Moines, and what better way to celebrate dad than to bond over a couple of IPAs? Even if beer isn’t your thing, the Biergarten has cider, wine, and other beverages on tap! Peruse their menu of snacky items that make you feel like you’re spending a summer afternoon with dad in Germany. Head over to Water Works Park on Saturday, June 20 or Sunday, June 21 anywhere from 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Dough with Dads
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is providing a DIY pizza workshop for kids and their dads at Flora Cafe on June 20 from 3-5 p.m.! One ticket is for two participants and includes two non-alcoholic beverages, one personalized pizza, personal chef instruction, and your own season blend to take home. Register here.
Day at the Ballpark with Dad
Catch an Iowa Cubs game at 1:08 p.m. on Sunday, June 21 and make it a day with dad! Starting at noon, all fathers and their kids are welcome on the field to play a game of catch. As the cubbies face off against the Indianapolis Indians, grab a good ol’ fashioned ballpark dog, a beer, and settle in for this summer pastime. After the game, run the bases together to really make this day a home run. Get your tickets here.
Gift Guide
Still need a gift for dad? Check out our local gift guide here for ideas for the perfect present!
