Next Sunday – it’s time to shine the spotlight on dad. Whether they were helping us with our sixth-grade math homework, or changing the oil in our car, our fathers provided for us + influenced us in their own paternal ways. So, how do we say thanks?
Start with a hug – to remind them that their children are the ultimate gift, after all. But, if you’re after something extra + a bit more personalized, we’ve unearthed a selection of local gems to gift the strapping father figure in your life.
Peruse the list below to find the perfect present to thank the man who made both dad jokes + dad bod a trend.
👕 The Cool Dad

Photo via @sodaclothingsc
If your dad prefers a laid back, casual vibe, get him a t-shirt from Soda Clothing Co. – a brand inspired by the city of Columbia (~$19-$24).
🍖 The Smokin’ Dad

Rib platter from Home Team BBQ | Photo via @hometeambbqcola
Give your father a meal that he’ll really enjoy (i.e. one he doesn’t have to grill himself) – like the shredded brisket sandwich at Bone-In Barbeque or a rack of ribs from Home Team BBQ (~$15).
🇺🇲 The All-American

Segra Park | Photo via @colafireflies
Take pops out to the ball game with Columbia Fireflies tickets. Splurge for the Scout Seats – which include waitress service + padded seats ($14).
🛫 The Jet-Setter

Flying plane from CAE | Photo via @flycae
Does your dad have a spark of spontaneity? Hit the skies for a quick weekend trip out of Columbia Metropolitan Airport. With thirty nonstop destinations (like NYC, Houston or Chicago), your father is sure to cross a locale off his bucket list. (Prices vary.)
🚣 The Adventurer

Kayak on the Congaree River | Photo via @heather_twin
Secure a kayak or river tube rental with River Runner Outdoor Center or Palmetto Outdoor and take your pops on an exciting trip (that he won’t soon forget) down the Congaree River ($15+).
🎣 The Rodfather

Challenger Ultra Tackle Bag by Simms Fishing from Barrons Outfitters | Photo via @barronsoutfitters1947
Get your outdoorsy dad a sporting bag from Barron’s Outfitters for his next fishing trip with sizes ranging from travel cases to duffles (~$49-$349).
👔 The Tie-riffic Dad

Colorful tie display at B.P. Skinner | Photo via @bpskinnerclothiers
Help your dad look dapper in a tie, cufflinks or formal wear from BP Skinner. Or keep his bills crisp in a handcrafted leather wallet from Nana by sally. #ProTip: Catch her at Soda City most Saturdays ($35+).
From the stay-at-home, to the nine-to-five, to the dads who made us take sample SAT exams to earn our practice hours for Driver’s Ed. – (we won’t name names, but they know who they are) – we want to wish a Happy Father’s Day to all.
Have a treasured photo of your dad? Share it with us! We want to see the man who gave you airplane rides + still calls you his “Sweetie Pie.”