Summer is a great time for kids and dads to reconnect—the pace is slower, kids have more time on their hands, and the good weather allows for some outdoor togetherness.
Here are 5 suggestions that are both guy- and kid-friendly:
Glow-in-the-dark golf
Turn golf on its head with a round in the dark. Family-friendly and a lot of fun, Glenview Prairie Club offers glow-in-the-dark rounds every Saturday night in June and July. Glenview Prairie Club, 2800 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, 847-657-1637
Fishing
Summer is for fishing, and Evanston offers free access to its catch-and-release program most Saturdays, all season long. No experience, or even equipment, is necessary—it’s all on site, including bait. Kids under age 16 don’t require a license as long as they are with an adult. Lovelace Park, Gross Point Rd. at Thayer St., Evanston, 847-448-8256
Cooking class
Who says guys can’t rule the kitchen? Old Orchard’s Sur La Table offers a number of grilling-specific classes all summer long, usually on Sundays. It’s a great chance for dads and kids to create an opportunity to connect over meal prep. Sur La Table, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, 800-243-0853
Canoeing/kayaking
Canoeing or kayaking is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon, and the Skokie Lagoons offer the perfect environment for beginners. Teenagers with some experience might enjoy the skyscraper canyon tours that Chicago River Paddle operates out of its downtown launch, too. Reservations aren’t required for the Lagoons, and you can spend an entire afternoon on the water for less than $100. Tower Rd., west of Forest Way, Winnetka, 847-414-5883
Flying
Windy City Flyers offers its Discovery Flight as a first opportunity to experience piloting an airplane. And with up to two additional passengers, it makes for a great bucket-list experience with a child. A one-hour flight in a Cessna 172 will cost about $225. Windy City Flyers, Chicago Executive Airport, 1098 S. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, 847-808-1188
Photo: Father and son fishing by Bigstock
