The Perfect Father’s Day in Kokomo
Father’s Day is a time to celebrate dads like you and me, a day dedicated to fun in the sun and honoring one of the most important members of the family. With the big day just around the corner, I set out on a personal mission to discover the best ways to celebrate Father’s Day right here in Kokomo… at least, according to me, Jay Stephens.
Every family has its own way of celebrating. Some stay home and grill in the backyard, while others head out to create memories. Whatever your tradition, the goal is to give Dad a day that’s all about him.
One of the great things about Kokomo is that the City of Firsts offers a variety of indoor and outdoor options for families to enjoy on Father’s Day.
Whether you’re planning an outdoor adventure, a fun indoor outing or something a little different, Kokomo has something special for every kind of dad.
Let’s dive into some ideas to help you celebrate Father’s Day in a way he’ll always remember.
Outdoor Activities
Grill and Chill: Father’s Day Cookout Ideas
Family cookouts are probably already on your Father’s Day radar and for good reason. Grilling out is one of the simplest, most enjoyable ways to slow down and spend quality time together.
In my family, a Father’s Day cookout has become a yearly tradition. And if it’s not already part of yours, this year’s a great time to fire it up. While we love manning the grill ourselves, we never say no to letting someone else handle the sides. Especially when they're as good as the ones from our favorite local spots.
Hawg Heaven and Wolfe’s Smokehouse and BBQ are my go-tos. Their sides from baked beans and creamy mac and cheese to all the cookout staples are packed with flavor and save you time without sacrificing that homemade touch. Trust me, they’ll take your backyard gathering to the next level.
Walk, Hike, and Celebrate: Outdoor Adventures for Father’s Day
Kokomo is home to a variety of walking paths and trails that are perfect for a summer day spent outdoors. Jackson Morrow Park and the Nickel Plate Trail are two standout spots where families can get moving, enjoy the sunshine, and make lasting memories together.
Up for a short drive? Mississinewa Lake offers more traditional, moderate-level hiking trails that are perfect for nature-loving families looking to explore a little further. Whether you're chasing adventure or simply soaking in the fresh air, these spots are ideal for celebrating Dad with a little movement and a lot of connection.
Not big on walking or hiking? No problem, you can still enjoy the trails on two wheels thanks to Koko-Go’s free bike share program. They even offer tandem bikes to add a little extra fun (and teamwork) to your ride!
Cast a Line at Wildcat Creek Reservoir Park
If Dad enjoys a quiet day by the water, Wildcat Creek Reservoir Park is the ideal spot to relax and reel in some fun. With scenic views and easy shoreline access, it’s a peaceful, laid-back setting for a family fishing outing.
Whether you're seasoned anglers or just giving it a go for the first time, the reservoir is a great place to cast a line, swap stories, and enjoy some quality time. Pack a picnic and soak in the view, even if the fish aren’t biting it’s still a great way to spend the day.
Want to make it even more special? Consider surprising dad with an upgraded fishing pole or some new gear from Soremouth Tackle — my go-to for bait, tackle, and more.
Take Me Out to the Ballgame: Father’s Day at Victory Field
For fans of America’s pastime, taking Dad to a baseball game is a perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day. Championship Park will host numerous youth games throughout the day, including the finals of the Great Lakes Summer Championships (15U–17U) and the Indiana June Games (14U–17U), both concluding on Father’s Day.
If you’re up for a little bit of a drive you could even head to Victory Field in Indianapolis to catch the Indianapolis Indians in action. Make the day even more memorable with a special message on the jumbotron.
The Indians also offer a special Father’s Day promotion: All children 14 and under receive a free hot dog, bag of chips and Prairie Farms milk with the price of admission—a deal too good to pass up.
Baseball is the sport of summer, making it a classic and memorable way to spend the day with Dad.
Father’s Day Camping at Beaver Point Campground
Just a short drive outside of Kokomo is Beaver Point Campground in Windfall. A camping trip with dad is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to celebrate Father’s Day. Set up a tent, enjoy a campfire, and unwind under the stars. With fishing, hiking, and swimming nearby, it’s the perfect spot for family fun and outdoor memories.
Beaver Point offers a peaceful retreat where you and Dad can bond in nature and enjoy quality time together.
Backyard Campout: A Perfect End to Father’s Day
Not in the mood to pack up the car and hit the road? No problem! Bring the adventure home with a backyard or living room campout! Kids love unique at-home activities, and this cozy setup is a fun and memorable way to wrap up Father’s Day for both Dad and the kids. Pitch a tent, queue up a favorite movie, break out the s’mores, and turn your space into your own personal campsite.
Need camping gear, a movie projector, or a few fun extras to elevate the experience? The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library has you covered. They offer free experience kit rentals (for library card holders) making just one more way they're helping local families create unforgettable moments right at home.
Picnic and Play at Highland Park
Located in the heart of Kokomo, Highland Park is a family favorite, especially on a warm summer day. Its spacious grassy areas and shady trees provide the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic while the kids run and play nearby.
With plenty of space, a laid-back atmosphere and even a disc golf course, Highland Park is my ideal setting for a Father’s Day picnic.
Hit the Greens with Dad
If Dad’s idea of a perfect day includes a round of golf, Kokomo has plenty of great options to tee up some fun. Wildcat Creek Golf Course offers a scenic and approachable course, perfect for golfers of all skill levels. While Chippendale Golf Course provides a more traditional layout with well-maintained fairways and a relaxing atmosphere.
Looking to switch things up? Try the golf simulators at Ralphy’s for a fun, high-tech twist on a classic game, or head to Golfup 31, Kokomo’s ultimate driving range experience featuring TopTracer technology. Both spots serve up more than just golf — you’ll find good times, great food, and drinks to round out the day.
Take a Father’s Day Road Trip to a State Park
Looking to go beyond the backyard this Father’s Day? A road trip to one of Indiana’s scenic state parks is a great way to mix adventure with relaxation. Prophetstown State Park in Lafayette offers paved trails, wildlife viewing and a unique blend of prairie and woodland. Tippecanoe River State Park in Winamac is ideal for hiking, canoeing or just enjoying a peaceful day by the water. Or head north to Potato Creek State Park, known for its beautiful lake views and family-friendly trails.
Pack a picnic, lace up your hiking boots and hit the road because a day surrounded by nature is a gift any dad can appreciate.
Indoor Activities
Strike Up Some Fun at Heritage Lanes
Looking for a lively way to spend Father’s Day? Head over to Heritage Lanes for a family-friendly bowling session. From bowling to the arcade, tastsy food and drinks— they have it all at Heritage Lanes. Pro tip: schedule a glow bowling session where the black lights come on and the music is cranked up! It’s the best way to bowl in my opinion.
Father’s Day Movie Marathon
Sometimes the best way to celebrate is by keeping it simple. Let Dad kick back, relax and choose his favorite movies for a Father’s Day marathon at home. Whether he’s into action classics, comedies, westerns or old-school sports films, it’s his call — and his remote.
Grab some snacks, dim the lights and turn the living room into a cozy theater for a day filled with laughs, nostalgia and quality time together.
Speaking of snacks, The Popcorn Cafe offers more than 40 flavors of gourmet popcorn. Its signature flavor, Kokomo Krunch, pairs perfectly with your favorite boba tea — a fun and flavorful combo to help make Dad’s day even more memorable.
Game Day with Dad
Whether your family enjoys video games or board games, Father’s Day is the perfect excuse for a little friendly competition. Let Dad choose the games whether it’s classic “Mario Kart,” a strategy board game or an old-school favorite.
Prefer to play outside the house? Scanlines Arcade, a local favorite, offers a spot for friendly competition with a wide variety of games. Win or lose, the real victory is spending quality time together and making memories.
DIY Pizza Night with Dad
Turn Father’s Day dinner into a fun, interactive experience with a DIY pizza night. Set out a variety of toppings and let everyone build their own personalized pizza just the way they like it.
It’s a simple, delicious way to get the whole family involved and give Dad a slice of the spotlight on his special day.
Prefer to skip the mess? Oscar’s Pizza is a local favorite known for its unique pies — a stress-free option that lets Dad relax without worrying about cleanup at the end of the evening.
Unique Activities
Visit the Sunday in the Park Car Show
Celebrate Father’s Day in style at the Sunday in the Park Car Show at Highland Park. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., this event features a wide range of classic and custom cars, all showcased in a family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy live DJ music, food vendors offering tasty treats, and the chance to win door prizes. Plus, with plenty of shade throughout the park, you can comfortably explore the cars and spend quality time with Dad.
It’s a great way to enjoy the day outdoors, admire some stunning vehicles, and make lasting memories together.
Explore the Elwood Haynes Museum
For a more educational Father’s Day experience, visit the Elwood Haynes Museum in Kokomo. This local gem celebrates the life and legacy of Elwood Haynes, an automotive pioneer and inventor. Explore exhibits that highlight Haynes' contributions to the automobile industry and his fascinating journey.
It’s a great way to spend time with Dad, dive into history, and appreciate the innovation that shaped the world of transportation.
Plan a “Yes Day” for Dad
Give Dad the ultimate Father’s Day experience with a “Yes Day.” For the entire day, let him call the shots from what to eat to what activities to do. Whether it’s a round of golf, a trip to his favorite restaurant, or simply binge-watching his favorite movies, let Dad choose the agenda.
It’s a fun and relaxed way to celebrate him and make sure he gets the full VIP treatment on his special day.
These are just a few fun and unique ideas to help make this Father’s Day the best one yet. It’s also a great opportunity to start new traditions that can lead to lasting memories for you and your family.
No matter how you choose to celebrate Father’s Day, I hope this guide inspires you to plan something truly special for that one-of-a-kind guy in your life. And remember, at the end of the day, what he’ll cherish most is simply spending time with you. Happy Father’s Day, Kokomo!
