Father’s Day is just around the corner, and for many of you kids that means a mad scramble to buy a fresh pair of khaki cargo shorts or maybe another whimsical World’s Best Dad travel mug. Skip the trip to the mall this year and save your gas money by choosing one of these sure-to-please selections available locally. Here are 10 presents that will remind your favorite patriarch that procreation was a surprisingly great idea.
- An evening of righteous music.
Space, Evanston’s own premier concert hall, hosts legendary artists from Pop’s heyday, up-and-coming new performers and interesting local talent. Choose from jazz, folk and rock shows featured in this summer’s eclectic lineup. Tickets are still available for a few of the Out of Space Canal Shores outdoor shows including Trampled by Turtles, Lucinda Williams and Buddy Guy. Visit Space online for details.
Space, 1245 Chicago Ave. - Literary diversions.
If you’re looking for a book on obscure WWII battles, naval disasters, calamitous arctic expeditions or other dad-tempting topics, Bookends and Beginnings has you covered. In addition to its expansive history section, this cozy back-alley shop also offers a full range of best-selling fiction, mysteries, biographies, science and nature titles and just about every other genre you can think of. There’s even a selection of droll dad humor books in case yours is in need of a little fresh material.
Bookends and Beginnings
1712 Sherman Ave. Alley #1 - A good walk spoiled.
Canal Shores is a charming 3,600-yard, par-60 community golf course located right in Evanston’s back yard. What could be more convenient? Book Dad a round of golf or a 45-minute lesson to straighten out his unconventional swing. If there’s a mysterious dent in the car bumper or you have yet to share last semester’s grades, consider splurging on a season pass. Round of golf, $32. 45-minute lesson, $50.
Canal Shores
1030 Central St. - Wellness products.
Dads who are plagued by achiness, stress or sleep issues may benefit from Botanica’s specially formulated CBD products. A variety of hemp-based tinctures, creams and edibles are available to address a range of maladies including muscle and joint pain, anxiety and insomnia. It’s very possible you may be the cause of some of these complaints. Why not provide the solution? Botanica can help you make the right individual selections or create a good-looking customized gift basket containing an assortment of products. Receptra Topical Cream, $44.
Lunchbox Stress Gummies, $59. Serious Rest Gummies, $54.99. Pana Sport Mulligan Golf Tablets, $18.
Botanica
1306 Chicago Ave. - A chance to be almost famous.
The air guitar can only take a fellow so far. It’s time to put a real instrument in Daddy-o’s hands. Building on folk-based music traditions, Hogeye offers instruction in guitar, fiddle, mandolin and ukulele playing. The intimate, welcoming space also sells new and used equipment as well as an impressive selection of classic vinyl albums. Half-hour lessons, $26.
Hogeye Music
1920 Central St. - Spa pampering.
Getting a massage not only feels great, it also increases oxygenated blood flow through the body and can help alleviate stress and anxiety. Book a one-hour session for the world’s greatest guy or choose something else from Egea’s comprehensive menu of services, which includes mani-pedis and back waxing. (Maybe let Mom explain how this last option works.) 1-hour massage, $110.
Mani-pedi, $60. Back wax, $60.
Egea
1521 Sherman Ave. - Grilling enhancers.
Armed with just a slab of raw meat, an open flame and his trusty tongs, Dad is already a backyard grilling hero. There’s no telling what he might achieve with a collection of piquant rubs, blends and seasonings from the Spice House. Choose the standard barbeque collection or customize your own box. Watch out Bobby Flay. 4-jar gift box, $35.
The Spice House
1941 Central St. - Napping equipment.
When you were young Dad rocked you, jiggled you or maybe drove you up and down Sheridan Road to get you to sleep. Now you can return the favor. A portable Eno hammock will allow him to drift off peacefully while he enjoys the gentle rhythmic motion and fresh air in the location of his choice. Nylon hammocks come in an assortment of fun colors and patterns and in single- or double-occupancy versions. Separate suspension systems required. Eno hammocks, $49.95 to $79.95. Atlas suspension system, $29.95.
Gearhead Outfitters
1600 Sherman Ave. - His favorite beverage.
Whether your dad is a regular guy who’s happy to gulp a frosty mug of beer or the sophisticated sort who enjoys sipping a smooth single-malt scotch while wearing a smoking jacket, a gift certificate to Beer on Central is sure to please. This comfortable neighborhood spot offers a wide selection of the Midwest’s most flavorful craft beers as well as small batch spirits, wine, cider and mead. Drinks may be sampled and enjoyed in house or packed to go.
Beer on Central
1930 Central St. - Something sweet.
Father’s Day is a golden opportunity for revelry and Falstaffian indulgence. After you’ve served the king of the castle his requisite grilled turkey leg and tankard of ale, present him with a dessert of the highest order. Comfort Desserts Reimagined specializes in delectable hand-made pies, rich cakes and sophisticated bread puddings. Classic key lime pie, thickly frosted carrot cake and four-chocolate bread pudding are local favorites. Single servings or whole desserts are available. Order ahead to avoid disappointment. Pie or cake slice, $5.70. Bread pudding, $5.40
Comfort Desserts Reimagined
517 Dempster St.