The Ultimate Guide for a Day Dad Won’t Forget


With Father’s Day right around the corner, now is the time to start planning your day with dad. If you’re in the Knoxville area, you’re in luck! With so many fun options available to you, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect way to spoil your dad on his big day. From riverboat cruises to spa days, brewery tours to an all-you-can-eat fondue buffet, there’s a unique Knoxville experience for every type of dad. 

You can’t go wrong by kicking off your day at K Brew with some locally roasted coffee and a handmade bagel. With four locations spread throughout Knoxville, K Brew is the perfect Father’s Day jumping-off point. Plus, before a full day of exploring Knoxville, the extra caffeine can’t hurt! 

The Adventure-Seeking Dad on Father’s Day

Knoxville has so much to offer the dad who appreciates some good old fashioned thrill-seeking. Rock climbing, kayaking, fishing, and exploring the Urban Wilderness are all options for an epic Father’s Day. 

Kayaking

Riversports Outfitters offers kayaking excursions every weekend during the summer. Choose from longer or shorter excursions, based on experience level and desired scenic routes. With costs ranging between $25-$35, you can book an exhilarating afternoon out on the water for you and dad (or the whole family!) Be sure to check the schedule and book your desired excursion in advance. And don’t forget your sunscreen! 

Rock Climbing

Onsight Rock Gym is the perfect place to get the adrenaline flowing. If you or your dad have never climbed before, no worries! The gym offers adult instruction for every experience level. If you’d like to involve the whole family, consider booking a group event! An adult day pass is $17, but keep in mind that you must also rent equipment. Be sure to check the hours and schedule your visit ahead of time, that way you can get the waivers filled out early. 

Fishing Tours

Deuces Wild offers captained fishing charters for the father who fancies himself an angler. With a professional catfish guide service, you and your pops can spend the day on the boat, hunting for catfish and striper while soaking in the East Tennessee views. Rates start at $400 for 4 hours on the water, and all the gear is included! The only thing you need is your fishing license and determination. Get in touch with Mark Nawrocki and plan a perfect fishing experience for Father’s Day. 

The Urban Wilderness

If your dad is into the great outdoors, you can’t go wrong with a day spent at Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness. This gorgeous outdoor space covers over 500-acres and includes 50 miles of trails. Perfect for biking, hiking, or paddling, the Urban Wilderness has it all, and it’s located right in the city center. Even a simple family picnic will be epic in this incredible natural landscape. 

For the Laid-Back Dad on Father’s Day

If adrenaline pumping activities aren’t your dad’s vibe, check out some of Knoxville’s more chill experiences. Whether it’s a massage, a leisurely brunch, or a relaxing day out on the golf course, you can find it all in Knoxville. 

Boat Rentals

If your dad prefers a more laid-back experience out on the water, then consider renting a pontoon or party barge for Father’s Day. With enough room for the whole family, you can treat dad to a full day cruising the coves of the Tennessee River. Rates run from $400-$500 for 8 hours during a holiday weekend, plus you’ll be responsible for refueling the boat at the end of the day. Reserve your boat early with Sun Life Marina, as these popular rigs book up fast! 

Spa Day

If you really want to spoil your hardworking father, then treat him to a massage at Belleza Salon and Spa in Knoxville. With full-body deep tissue massages starting at $90, you can make sure your dad gets some well-deserved pampering. But why stop there? The spa also offers beard grooming services, along with manicures and pedicures. If dad was hoping to relax this Father’s Day, then there’s no better place to spend the day than at the spa. 

Golf

For some dads, the best way to unwind is an afternoon on the golf course. In Knoxville, there are plenty of options. With several golf courses catering to every skill level, you can shop around until you find the perfect tee time for you and the old man. Centennial Golf Course, Beaver Brook Golf & Country Club, and Gettysvue Country Club are just a few of the beautiful courses Knoxville has to offer. Check out all the Knoxville courses and get your Father’s Day tee time on the books! 

Father’s Day Cruise

For something a little more exclusive, treat the whole family to a Father’s Day Lunch Cruise around Knoxville. Enjoy a three-course meal at a private table, while you and your family take in the scenic views. With a decadent menu and an upper deck bar, this experience is sure to be one that your dad will never forget. Adult tickets start at $48.95. Reserve your spot on the Volunteer Princess and spend a memorable day celebrating dad. 

Where to Eat and Drink on Father’s Day

No matter what you decide to do on Father’s Day, eventually, you’ll need to feed the man. Luckily, Knoxville has a wide variety of world-class restaurants and bars that’ll please even the pickiest fathers. 

A Dopo

Make a reservation at this Knoxville pizza staple for Father’s Day. A Dopo is a dinner-only, wood-fired pizzeria that specializes in sourdough, Neapolitan style pizzas. They also serve a selection of seasonal vegetable dishes and small-batch gelato, with wine and beer on tap. 

Lonesome Dove

For some western-inspired fine dining, reserve a table at Lonesome Dove Knoxville. Located on Central Street, Lonesome Dove is a local favorite, and its unique menu never disappoints. 

Schulz Brau Brewery

To taste some incredible craft beers, head over to Knoxville’s first German Biergarten, Schulz Bräu. The Biergarten is a great place to take the whole family, with a lively atmosphere and outdoor seating. You can even taste some authentic German cuisine. 

Ending a Perfect Father’s Day

End your day with dad where you started it—at K Brew. Grab an espresso or a decaf cappuccino and recap the day’s adventures. After a full day exploring Knoxville, your dad will be feeling truly loved and appreciated. And, if you want to seal the deal, grab him a K Brew gift card on the way out—that way he can get his coffee fix any time, not just on Father’s Day.

Micah Stephens