What Dads Really Want to Do on Father’s Day

In this informal poll of dads of kids of all ages, we found that most fathers want downtime. They don’t want to drive, have a party or BBQ. They want some time alone, maybe a few hours in nature and that’s about it. Oh, and perhaps brunch—but please, nothing fancy. 

No trip to Home Depot! I’m not the usual guy, but I’d love for someone else to cook for the day—maybe a picnic brunch outside by a lake or in the mountains. 

—Father of three, Fort Collins, Colo.

I’d like to go to brunch, but without the wait and without getting dressed up.

—Father of one, St. Paul, Minn.

My perfect day would be to have until noon free to sleep in and hit the gym. Then we’d go for a bike ride and the kids wouldn’t complain once. Afterwards we’d go somewhere I can get a beer instead of out for ice cream.

—Father of two, San Francisco, Calif.

The kids and my wife would organize the garage while I sleep in. Breakfast in bed with theNew York Times is always nice.

—Father of one, University Heights, Ohio

I don’t want a big deal on Father’s Day. I guess what would mean the most to me is having my family make plans for something that they know I would really like.

—Father of two, Brattleboro, Vt.

The perfect Father’s Day would be no driving and no plans. We would just do whatever we wanted.

—Father of three, Shaker Heights, Ohio

Brunch out with the wife and kids, and two bloody marys; then a few unhurried hours spent on the banks of a river (hoping the kids don’t ask if we can go now, and doubly hoping the dogs behave).

—Father of two, Boulder, Colo.