Introduction: Let’s Get Real About Father’s Day
Father’s Day is one of those sneaky holidays. It creeps up quietly after Mother’s Day has taken all the shine (and all the brunch reservations), and by the time you realize it’s here, you’re panic-Googling: “gifts for dads who don’t like anything.”
And what do you find? BBQ aprons, novelty socks, and another damn travel mug.
Let’s be honest: most Father’s Day gifts suck. They’re either way too generic, weirdly impersonal, or just plain lazy.
But this year, let’s not be that person.
Let’s get creative. Let’s go local.
Let’s give the guy who raised you, coached your soccer team, fixed your garbage disposal (twice), and somehow always knows where the batteries are… something cool. Something useful. Something very Sacramento.
Whether you’re shopping for your dad, stepdad, partner, grandpa, or just a father-figure who deserves a little love, this guide’s got you.
For the Food-Loving Dad
1. Urban Roots Brewery Tour & Tasting
Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse
A solid pick for dads who treat their smoker like a second child. Urban Roots offers brewery tours and craft beer flights, plus legendary BBQ (brisket, anyone?). Book a table, grab a gift card, or better yet, gift a full-on “Dad’s Day Out” with beer, meat, and no one asking him to assemble anything.
2. Mad Butcher Jerky Subscription
He won’t admit it, but he loves snacks. Especially meat snacks. This jerky subscription brings high-quality, locally-sourced jerky right to his door every month. It’s thoughtful, low-maintenance, and wildly satisfying.
3. Brunch at Bacon & Butter
Forget the golf course. Take him to brunch. This East Sac favorite is famous for its bourbon peach pancakes, biscuit sandwiches, and bloody marys that could double as a meal. Warning: you may never go back to basic eggs and toast again.
4. Butcher Box from V. Miller Meats
Old-school butcher shop, modern cuts. Create a custom Father’s Day box with dry-aged steaks, house-made sausages, and even charcuterie. For the dad who believes in grilling as a sacred rite.
For the Handy, Workshop Dad
5. Tool Lending Library Membership
Sacramento Public Library Tool Library
Who knew your library card could come with a power drill? Sacramento’s tool library lets members borrow everything from hammers to hedge trimmers. Perfect for the DIY dad who’s always got a project going—but doesn’t need to own 47 different saw blades.
6. Woodworking Class at Maker HQ
If he secretly dreams of building furniture in retirement, this is his moment. Sign him up for a hands-on class where he can work with wood, metal, or digital design tools. No experience required—just curiosity and a healthy respect for safety goggles.
7. Ace Hardware Gift Card (But Pair It With a Project!)
For the Overworked, Needs-a-Break Dad
8. Asha Urban Baths Recovery Session
He won’t book a massage for himself. But he needs one. Asha offers full-body relaxation with saunas, plunge pools, massage therapy, and herbal tea service. You’ll score major points for being thoughtful—and he’ll finally stop groaning every time he gets up from the couchLocal Ace Hardware Locations
Don’t just hand him a gift card. Include a note that says: “Let’s build the planter box together next weekend.” Dads love quality time disguised as productivity.
9. Float Therapy at Capitol Floats
Imagine a soundproof pod of warm saltwater where he can fully disconnect and just float. No texts, no stress, no one asking where the remote is. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, and he’ll walk out feeling like a new man.
10. Day Pass at McKinley Park Rose Garden
For the nature-loving, peace-seeking dad, plan a chill afternoon here with sandwiches, a blanket, and absolutely no schedule. Bonus: no admission fee. Just quiet time and maybe a nap under a tree.
Check out more info here!
For the Cool, Still-Got-It Dad
11. Hat or Hoodie from Official Brand
Let him level up from his old baseball cap to something designed here in Sac. Their streetwear is clean, understated, and cool without trying too hard (aka dad-proof). They even do custom gear if you want something one-of-a-kind.
12. Custom Threads from R. Douglas Clothier
He might never buy himself a custom-fitted blazer, but he’ll wear it proudly if you gift one. These made-to-measure pieces are clean, modern, and fit like a dream. Great for the dad who still has swagger but hasn’t updated his wardrobe since Obama’s first term.
13. Barber Experience at Anthony’s Barbershop
Skip the $12 chain cut. Book Dad a real grooming experience: hot towel, straight razor, old-school vibes. The works. Top it off with some luxe beard oil or a pomade upgrade.
For the “I Don’t Want Anything” Dad
14. Adopt-a-Pet Donation to Front Street Shelter
For the soft-spoken, big-hearted dad who doesn’t want gifts. Make a donation in his name, or even better—sponsor a shelter pet’s adoption fee. You’ll both feel good about it.
15. A Planned Experience (That He Doesn’t Have to Organize)
Take initiative. Book the kayaking session. Set up the brewery crawl. Plan the backyard movie night. Dads do a lot of the behind-the-scenes work—so giving them a day where they just show up is often the best gift of all.
16. Family Photoshoot at a Local Park
He won’t ask for this. But one day he’ll be so glad you did it. Book a local photographer (Sacramento has tons—like Kelly Boitano or Summer Bear), and capture a few candid shots of the crew. Frame it, wrap it, done.
Bonus Picks: For the Adventurous Dad
17. Axe Throwing at Smart Axe Sacramento
Nothing says “relaxation” quite like hurling sharp objects at a wooden target. It’s oddly satisfying, a little competitive, and 100% unforgettable. You can even book a lane and make it a full family event.
18. Guided Bike Tour of Sacramento’s Farm Trails
If he’s into fresh air and fun facts, this is a great gift that blends exercise and experience. Many include snack stops at farms or breweries along the way. Way cooler than another REI gift card.
Final Word: Give Him Something That Feels Like You Thought About It
At the end of the day, Father’s Day isn’t about buying something expensive or flashy. It’s about saying:
“Hey. I see you. I appreciate what you’ve done for me. And I wanted to give you something that’s actually you.”
So go local. Go thoughtful. Go beyond the standard fare.
Because if anyone deserves better than a novelty tie, it’s the guy who taught you how to ride a bike, drive a stick, or file your taxes.
If you looking for more father’s day ideas check out our other posts here!
