Things to Do

9 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day With Your Hill Country Dad

By  | 
Tony Maples Photography

 

Father’s Day is just around the corner. The Texas Hill Country offers activities, food, and gifts for any type of man. Here are a few of our favorite ideas for dads on their day.

1. Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

If the father in mind loves the outdoors, consider taking him to Colorado Bend State Park. Over 5,000 acres, the park offers miles and miles of hike and bike trails, numerous swimming holes to keep dad cool and ample camping. There are also places to climb for the avid climber and cave exploration tours available.

The park is famous for its “Western” feel. Many veterans of Colorado Bend say that the spot has more in common with something found in Nevada or California. Whatever the case, Colorado Bend State Park has a little bit of everything to offer any father/outdoorsman on his special day.

2. The Hill Country Craft Beer Trail

the craft beer trail

Photo: blog.innaboveonioncreek.com

For fathers who are beer fans, The Hill Country Craft Beer Trail is right up their alley. The full trail consists of 15 craft brewers who make their home in the Hill Country.

If you don’t have time to hit all 15 breweries it’s okay. The trail offers suggested routes and a shuttle service to take thirsty patrons to their next destination. If dad loves craft beer, then this trail is the perfect fit.

3. Hang Gliding

Hang glide texas

Photo: www.youtube.com

If dear old dad has a thirst for adrenaline, then consider taking him for a hang gliding lesson at Austin Air Sports or Fly Texas.  Both are located near Austin.

In learning to hang-glide, the thrill-seeking father can earn his wings by receiving practical knowledge on how to fly and then taking to the air to breathe in the beauty of the Hill Country landscape from the best seat in the house–high up in the sky.

4. The Salt Lick

The salt lick

Photo: en.wikipedia.org

When dad works up an appetite, then he has to stop by Driftwood to chow down on some barbecue at The Salt Lick. A Hill Country barbecue institution in its own right, The Salt Lick has been slanging slow-cooked meat and sauce since 1967.

So wash-up for dinner and head over to Driftwood to experience some of the best barbecue Texas has to offer.

5. The Alamo Springs Cafe

Alamo springs burer mmmmmmmm

Photo: www.flickr.com

If barbeque just isn’t on the menu, take the scenic drive out to Alamo Springs Café to enjoy a monster burger and some hand-cut, hand-battered onion rings.

Located 10 miles outside of Fredericksburg in a place the owners say is “inconveniently located in the middle of nowhere”, Texas Monthly rated the Alamo Springs burger as one of the top 3 burgers in the state of Texas.

6. Fonda San Miguel

fonda san miguel

Photo: www.10best.com

If dad would prefer Mexican food on father’s day, then take him over to Fonda San Miguel in Austin.

Dishing out authentic Mexican cuisine for more than 40 years, Fonda San Miguel boasts of fan favorites such as the chile relleno and an amazing atmosphere that combines lush greenery with colorful Mexican artwork, comfortable courtyard patio style seating and creative cocktails.

Come in for a brunch that all the locals say is hands down the best in town.

7. A Standup Paddle Board or SUP

SUP

Photo: vacationrentalpics.com

Summer requires water to keep dad cool. Rather than going out on the boat, consider a stand-up paddle board.

Also known as a SUP, in recent years the sport has become a Hill Country staple. Whether it’s Lake Travis, Lake Buchanan, the Comal River or the Guadalupe, the boards have become a sensation. Riding a SUP is great exercise. It’s also a great way to relax and explore nature.

8. Cabela’s Outfitters

Cabelas woot!

Photo: mapio.net

Whether hunting, fishing, or just gearing up for an outdoor adventure, every Hill Country man deserves to be outfitted. A shopping day or gift card to Cablela’s in Buda is always welcome. The world’s leading outfitter has something for every dad and every outdoor pursuit.

9. TREAD by Leatherman

Don't TREAD on me

Photo: www.coolthings.com

Think dad has everything? Think again. Leatherman, long time maker of famous multi-tools, has released a new product called the TREAD.

The TREAD can be worn as a wristband or watch and each link contains 2-3 tools. In total, the device includes 29 tools and is sleek enough to make a great accessory as well.