Happiness Now: Outdoors with Dad

Pennsylvania has many ways to reward the dad or father figure in your life. From outdoor recreation to sports, say thanks to your dad this Father’s Day at one these attractions.

Lake Arthur, Moraine State Park

Butler County has more than 40 miles of shoreline to explore at Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park, making it the perfect spot to go fishing or boating with Dad. Rent kayaks or a pontoon boat, and enjoy the day on the water. Lake Arthur has some of the best fishing spots with a wide variety of fish, from Bluegill to Musky. While fishing, enjoy the beautiful scenery and try to spot the Bald Eagles that have been known to frequent this area.

Father’s Day Celebration, June 16

Show your dad how much you care by bringing him to the Father’s Day Celebration at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium on June 16. In honor of Father’s Day, dads of all ages receive free admission to the Zoo and Aquarium when accompanied by their kids. The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is home to thousands of animals representing more than 400 species, including 22 threatened or endangered species.

Full Moon Family Fun, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, June 16

Full Moon Family Fun at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary on June 16 has engaging activities for the whole family! Embark on a family moon walk to South Lookout and use all of your senses to experience nature at night. The program begins at 8:00 p.m.

Pittsburgh Pirates v. San Diego Padres, PNC Park, June 22

Take Dad out to a ballgame and experience a Pirates game at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, ranked one of the best ballparks in the nation! On Sunday, June 22, the Pirates play the San Diego Padres during the seventh annual Faith Night at PNC Park. After the game, you can listen to the inspiring personal stories from the Pirates players and coaches of how their faith has impacted both their lives and their careers in baseball.

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, July 11-21

Car lovers should attend the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, a vintage car festival that raises money for the Autism Society with donations. There are 10 days of events dedicated to celebrating the automobile. The highlight of the event is Schenley Park Race Day, the world's largest vintage car race and the only one held on city streets. This year is the 37th anniversary of the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix.

Whitewater Rafting on the Yough, Ohiopyle State Park

If your dad is a thrill-seeker, then whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River in Ohiopyle State Park is just the place to celebrate Father’s Day! The seven-mile Lower Yough, with its class III and IV rapids, is the busiest section of whitewater east of the Mississippi River. But you don't have to be an experienced paddler to join in the adrenaline-pumping fun. The section known as the Middle Yough features class I and II rapids — making it ideal for beginner kayakers, families with young children, and anglers.

Tussey Mountain Wingfest, Aug. 15

What dad doesn’t enjoy wings? For 19 years, Tussey Mountain Wingfest at Tussey Mountain has been drawing hungry, happy crowds to the slopes on Thursdays in the summertime. Thousands come for the competition just outside of State College for the camaraderie and the entertainment. All six winning restaurants will compete at The Finals to determine the Tussey Mountain Wing King!

Ridge Soaring Gliderport, Julian

If your dad isn’t afraid of heights, take him soaring over Happy Valley on an engineless glider ride with Ridge Soaring Gliderport.

River Tubing with Bucks County River Country

Take dad (and maybe mom, too!) tubing down the Delaware with Bucks County River Country! Relax and unwind as you float down this gorgeous river for two, three, or even four hours.

Camping at the Endless Mountains of Northeastern PA

Campgrounds are open and waiting to welcome dads this spring and summer throughout the Endless Mountains of Northeastern PA! From furnished cabins at family-friendly campsites to primitive pads at state parks, the scenic splendor of Sullivan, Susquehanna and Wyoming Counties awaits dads and families looking to connect in PA’s great outdoors.

Covered Wagon Ride on the Pine Creek Trail

Give Dad a taste of the Old West this Father's Day with a ride along Pine Creek Trail on a covered wagon led by a team of horses! Ole Covered Wagon Tours offer a unique adventure surrounded by the scenery of Pennsylvania's beautiful northern tier.

Mines & Meadows ATV Resort

Mines & Meadows ATV Resort offers ATV, UTV, SxS and dirt bike enthusiasts a truly unique experience with more than 84 miles of trails on 877 acres that cover a full spectrum of riding skills, from beginner to advanced. What really sets Mines & Meadows apart? The opportunity to ride underground through abandoned limestone mines. These mines provide matchless thrills with underground lakes, total darkness, and numerous surprises that help make each journey unforgettable.

Fishing at Yellow Breeches Creek

Spend a day fishing at the Yellow Breeches Creek, LeTort Spring Run, or Big Spring Creek in Cumberland Valley. With many great options to choose from, it’s difficultto choose just one favorite fishing spot. The world-renowned limestone stream, Yellow Breeches Creek in Michaux State Forest, is famous for stocked brown trout. Many anglers prefer to fish at Allenberry Resort, where there is ample parking on the opposite side of the creek, easily accessible waters, and the beautiful backdrop of the Allenberry grounds.

Hiking in the Lehigh Valley

Lace up your hiking shoes and hit the trails with your dad! Whether you prefer to walk, run, or bike, the trails of Lehigh Valley offer a variety of terrains — setting the pace for any level of activity. Explore Henry’s Woods, an old growth forest within Jacobsburg State Park; bike along the Ironton Rail Trail, where you’ll get a glimpse of the cement kilns at Saylor Park; or make your way along the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor.

Aronimik Golf Club, Newtown Square

Hit the greens at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square. Featuring 300 scenic acres full of fresh air and relaxation, the challenging course was designed by one of America's foremost golf architects: Donald Ross. Serenely nestled amidst rolling hills e, the Aronimink Golf Club will host the BMW Championship in 2018.

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