Every year, millions of dads, step-dads, uncles, grandfathers, and dog-dads get the dreaded “Best Dad Ever” mug (or equally ironic gift from Amazon), and this epidemic has to stop. With Father’s Day literally around the corner, we’re here to let you in on a secret – Lake Charles has the thoughtful yet convenient gift you need to make this Father’s Day one to remember for that special dad in your life.
The Fashionable Dad: Iron Shop Provisions, 625 Broad Street
If you’re looking to upgrade your man’s style, this is where to do it. This boutique exudes fresh and head-turning style out of every corner with their carefully curated selection of quality made clothing and accessories. Each item has a story of responsible craftsmanship, from their true denim clothes and leather jackets to relaxed shirts and stylish shoes. Beyond the incredible selection of clothes, you’ll also find eyewear, boots, leather goods, iron goods, and other accessories for the best dad.
The Gamer Dad: Game2Life, 3311 Broad Street
Game2Life is a key entertainment destination for those looking for another level of fun. Their iCOMBAT Tactical Laser Combat isn’t your grandma’s laser tag, but instead it’s a multisensory combat experience straight out of your favorite video game. Play with strangers or take over both team with your crew and put in a solid work out while you’re at it. And to top it off, there’s a great bar and axe throwing.
The Pampered Dad: 1740 Barbier at L’Auberge Casino Resort, 777 Avenue L’Auberge
Who says men don’t enjoy mani-pedis? When the dad in your life needs a break, head to L’Auberge for their luxurious barber experience, complete with a premium Scotch or bourbon in hand. 1740 Barbier offers a full line of skin care, grooming products, and gift sets, or book your dude for one of their relaxing manicures, pedicures, cuts, shaves, or waxing.
The Foodie Dad: Pasta Lab, 1301 East McNeese Street, Suite 105
Pasta Lab is a love letter to fresh and clean eating, and whether you’re looking to cook up a great Father’s Day pasta bake or want to book an entertaining and informative pasta-making workshop, this place has it all. When you drop by, pick up a variety of olive oils, balsamic vinegars, cheeses, and sauces, and your resident pasta experts will give you the behind-the-scenes tour of their workshop while offering the best pasta/sauce/cheese pairings for your dish.
The Sipping Dad: Crave / The Cellar at Crave 2801 Ryan St., Ste. 100 & 200
You may think of Crave as the wine place with fancy oils and vinegars, but you’ll be happily surprised to hear that they have a serious section for the man who’s looking for the finer things to sip on. Crave and The Cellar at Crave have a dynamic selection of spirits – both local and non-local – that can upgrade your guy’s liquor cabinet. Then top it off with the perfect addition of bourbon balls, whiskey glasses, and other perfect drink pairings. Other ideas are the new Oaked Otro from Yellow Fin Vodka or brews from Crying Eagle!
The Rockstar Dad: Sunday Jazz / Zydeco Brunches
So, this is a win-win. If your dad loves music, plays music - and also - needs to eat, Louisiana's Playground is going to be rocking on Father's Day. The popular Jazz Brunch at Luna is always a crowd favorite as well as the Zydeco Brunch at Rikenjak's with evening jazz. Not to mention, Crying Eagle's Summer Concert Series is kicking off June 18. Check out more live music Father's Day weekend here.
The Artful Dad: Art Markets
If you’re at your wit’s end trying to find the best unique gift that’s not going to max out your credit card, then head to your local art market and peruse a selection of one-of-a-kind gifts that’ll give you some serious credit with dad. Weekly markets like the Cash & Carry Farmers Market (801 Enterprise Boulevard, Tuesdays, 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.) and the Charlestown Farmers Market (1001 Ryan Street, Saturdays, 8 a.m. - noon) have regular art booths with handmade gifts and artwork. You can also find local art and artists as part of the HeartBeat Virtual Tour in Lake Charles.
The Outdoorsy Dad: Lake Area Adventures, 5959 Common Street
If the dude in your life needs to reconnect with nature (or just get out of the house for once), then Lake Area Adventures is your perfect Father’s Day gift. Since 2016, Lake Area Adventures has been delivering family fun with kayak and boat rentals, water tours, and scuba certifications. Southwest Louisiana is full of beautiful waterways ready to be explored, so pack a picnic, rent a boat or kayak, and hit the water for a summertime adventure among the beauty of the marshes and rivers. Also, check out other ways to get out on the water or see the city from a glow bike tour with activity rentals in the area. And, of course, golf or a nice drive along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road!
However you decide to celebrate the dads in your life, they will no doubt have a memorable experience in Louisiana's Playground. Happy Father's Day, y'all!
