Visit a local state park
Most of the locations within the New Mexico State Parks system are open for day use. Susan Torres, spokeswoman with the Energy, Mineral and Natural Resources Department, said that leaves visitors with several options including picnics, hiking, fishing and boating. Torres said people visiting parks should wear a mask during face-to-face interactions, stay in groups of five or less and maintain a social distance of six feet. Visit emnrd.state.nm.us/ SPD for more information about hours, cost, location, and other safety tips.
Throw an ax
Local business ABQ Ax just opened a new location at 5505 Osuna Road NE in addition to its original location at 2809 Broadbent Pkwy NE. This fun option allows visitors to throw axes at a bullseye. There is also football bowling and a tap room at the original Ax room and street curling at the new location. Reservations can be made for parties of four or more. Prices vary depending on selected activities. Visit abqax.com for hours and more information.
Organize a beer tasting …in the dining room
Going out to a local watering hole might not be ideal for some families right now so why not bring the water, er beer, home? Make a fun party out of sampling several local adult beers. Maybe even turn it into a fun game of trying to guess the style of beer in each glass.
Go bird watching
The bosque is open and so are parks around the Albuquerque metro area. Take some binoculars and water, and start exploring. The Audubon Society in New Mexico has designated several spots in the state as Important Bird Areas, including the Corrales Bosque Preserve, Rio Grande Nature Center, the upper Rio Grande Taos Gorge and the Valles Caldera National Preserve. For a complete list of the areas visit nm.audubon.org/conservation/ important-bird-areas.
Take a bike ride
If dad enjoys zooming around on two wheels, invite him on a bike ride. Albuquerque has multiple biking trails that wind through different outdoor settings. Visit cabq. gov/parksandrecreation/ recreation/bike to download a comprehensive map or to see individual routes in and around the city.
Tackle a project
Is there a project dad has been trying to complete around the house? Offer a few hours of your time on Father’s Day to help him make progress on it. Or come up with a project you can do together on that day. Many hardware stores have online shopping with the option of curbside pick-up.
Light the grill
Have a family barbecue in the backyard or outdoor patio. Splurge and pick out dad’s favorite steak, ribs or other meat. Set the table and enjoy. Throw in some outdoor games for some added fun.
Take a scenic drive
New Mexico offers plenty of outdoor spaces to explore, even from the car. You can make up your own route or follow one of the state’s scenic byways routes. The trails offer a chance to glimpse historical locations, wildlife, mountain ranges and other natural features within the state. Visit newmexico.org/ places-to-visit/scenic-byways for more information.
Listen to a virtual concert
No live local shows doesn’t have to mean no live music. Several bands have put on virtual concerts for their fans during the pandemic. Many of those can be found on YouTube as well as past shows from dad’s favorite artists.
Design a scavenger hunt
If dad enjoys a little adventure, have a scavenger hunt around town, hiding clues in unpopulated or crowdless places. Choose clues with a special meaning for him and consider leaving a note at each area detailing why he’s great. This hunt can even be done indoors and in the yard at home. There are several tips online on how to organize a hunt.
Watch his favorite movie or show
Plan a day to binge shows he loves or to rewatch his favorite movies. Order take-out or cook a meal to eat in front of the television. Include his favorite snacks and adult beverages.