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Best Activities To Celebrate Father's Day In Pittsburgh

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Father's Day is more than a special day to honor dads of all ages. It is also a great way to experience the vast opportunities inherent to the Pittsburgh region. There are many interesting venues that include sports, recreation, history, culture and nature areas within Pittsburgh that dads or families may enjoy. It is more than a card or gift that will get dad's attention, but some one-on-one time to share and enjoy common interests or even try something new and exciting. Father's Day is a wonderful way to show appreciation for his guidance and continue a bonding relationship in the future.

North Park
303 Pearce Mill Road
Allison Park, PA 15101
(724) 935-1766
www.alleghenycounty.us

North Park is part of the Allegheny County Park system and a favorite place to experience the outdoors with dads and families. The opportunities are endless and there is enough variation to peak the interest for an exhilarating Father's Day. There are trails, bike paths, water sports, sports fields, fishing and recreational activities to make for a memorable day. The groves make for a great place to have a picnic and the nature center is a nice walk to enjoy wildlife and vegetation. Families may try out the new restaurant at the boathouse after a day on the links, tennis court or batting cages.

Just Ducky Tours
125 W. Station Square Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 402-3825
www.justduckytours.com

If you're looking for a unique, fun and historic tour, then Just Ducky Tours is the place to be. Dads will enjoy an historic ride on land and water inside an amphibious, colorful vehicle. The tour includes interesting facts of Pittsburgh, and a few quirky jokes that the guides inject along the way. The tour navigates through the streets of Pittsburgh to view the prominent architecture, the magnificent Cultural District and famous sports venues. Then, the tour splashes into the river for an inspiring view of the Pittsburgh skyline and completes the excursion at Station Square, which is the original starting point. To ensure a special day for dad, it is best to call for a reservation.

Family Paddle and Ice Cream Social
Venture Outdoors
33 Terminal Way
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 255-0564
www.ventureoutdoors.org

Date: June 15, 2014 at 6 p.m.

Dads and their children may paddle their way on the Allegheny River in a group situation to explore the views of Pittsburgh. Venture Outdoors makes it possible for the family to learn the techniques of kayaking and very little experience is required, but the brief introduction may prove to be a new and fascinating experience. After the gentle paddle, the family will be treated to an ice cream social on the banks of Allegheny Riverfront Park. What better way to enjoy Father's Day than with a healthy dose of fitness, beautiful vistas, a comfortable paddle and a delicious treat to end the day?

Related: Best Rafting And Tubing Near Pittsburgh

Duquesne Incline
1197 W. Carson St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 381-1665
www.duquesneincline.org

A view from the observation deck is a visual masterpiece and awe-inspiring memory that will last for years to come. The Duquesne Incline is an historic landmark that may be shared with a cable car ride with thoughts of the past and present spanning every clank and churn until the final destination is reached at the upper station. There is a museum with photos and artifacts that will prove to be a marvelous educational experience. Dads and families can venture to a well-deserved get-together at several restaurants, and that includes those in operation at Station Square. A refreshing walk through the streets of Mt. Washington will top off a memorable Father's Day.

Pittsburgh Glass Center
5472 Penn Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 365-2145
www.pittsburghglasscenter.org

Dad and kids may enjoy a new hobby of interest by visiting the Pittsburgh Glass Center. This can be an ongoing experience well after Father's Day. There are several programs and classes that involve the glassblowing process, and Make-It Now, one on one, workshops, classes and lessons are available. It is best to call to reserve a time, and that will ensure a particular program can fit the needs and aspirations of each individual. The skilled staff will help with glassblowing instruction and techniques. This precious gift is one of time and sharing. A completed project will be a memento of one very special Father's Day.

Related: Best Art Supply Stores In Pittsburgh

Gerry Cernicky is a retired health and physical education teacher with 36 years of experience. He is a former teacher of the year and a sports writer for the Vandergrift News. He delivers podcasts, and maintains a website and blog. He currently resides in Pittsburgh. His work can be found at Examiner.com.

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