It can be difficult to shop for fathers.

It’s not like the man of the house doesn’t have things he wants; but it can be hard to find something your dad hasn’t bought himself already. Or, perhaps you are just out of ideas for a Father’s Day gift outside of ties or power tools.

Whatever their preferences, fathers always appreciate gifts that suggest some thoughtful consideration and creativity. For those looking for a truly unique gift that keeps on giving, consider this list of experiences in gift form.

After all, you can’t take it with you — but memories of family experiences together will last a lifetime and beyond. Here are seven ideas to get started:

Monthly fun and excitement with a mystery box

It can be hard for dads to find time to unwind, especially with demands like home maintenance and kid carpools. These monthly mystery puzzles — created by a local Utah company — are a fun gift for dad, and they provide something he can do with the whole family.

Described as an escape room experience in a box, using your smarts together to solve a puzzle will bring hours of entertainment and give you a common goal—something all families could benefit from. Visit findersseekers.com to sign up today.

Cooking classes

Your dad might be dynamite at grilling, but how are his skills in the kitchen? Cooking is a great skill to have that literally keeps on giving: to the chef as well as the diners! If you think your dad might enjoy learning a new skill in a casual setting with loved ones, consider signing him up for a local cooking class.

From high-end cooking classes to instruction at a more basic level, there’s always room for improvement. And if it helps you eat better while mom’s not around, why not? It never hurts to try something new. If you’re sure your dad would rather just stay at home but he has a passion for spicy foods, consider getting him this DIY hot sauce kit, found at Uncommon Goods.

Utah firm's mystery boxes provide cure for summer boredom

Forget pricey, crowded escape rooms. Instead, experience the world and solve clever puzzles and clues with a mystery box delivered straight to your door every month.

Flying lessons

Speaking of learning new skills, the experience you gift your father doesn’t have to be a big commitment, but it should be enjoyable. Perhaps your dad has always had a dream of learning to fly a plane? Flying isn’t for the faint of heart, but there are great ways to sign up for flying lessons and more via Groupon. If you’re looking for fun group experiences, pick your dad’s brain on what he’d like and then see what else is out there. Skydiving is always an option, if your dad’s up for it!

Delectable dining

The best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, right? It never hurts to appeal to the food-inclined, which is one way of saying everybody. If your dad likes to go out on occasion but has a hard time trying new places, give him a list of tried and true recommendations that you’ll take him to at his convenience. Places like Stoneground Italian Kitchen and The Copper Onion give you plenty of fresh and gourmet food for your buck. Explore more of Utah’s best restaurants at Gastronomic.

Getaway(s)

Whether your dad is old or young, it’s always nice to get away from the humdrum and experience something new. Staycations and vacations can be costly, but putting some money and thought towards an experience you can share says a lot. These budget friendly staycation spots in Utah are sure to please your dad this Father’s Day, and you can always book a long-awaited vacation with Getaway Today.

Sports or summertime baseball

No matter what sport your dad enjoys most, there’s an experience gift package that will be perfect for him. From golfing to ATVing, think about what your dad would enjoy most, and then purchase the experience for him!

If his favorite sport isn't in season or you aren't sure what to choose, buy some tickets for a summer game with the Salt Lake Bees.

Workshops

There’s no harm in trying to learn more about family relationships. Whether it’s a parenting course for young fathers or a couples’ retreat workshop, everyone in the family will benefit from dad attending a simple family education class. Classes like these are designed to help attendees have fun, learn, grow, and to better connect with and enjoy family relationships. If you feel like you or someone you love could use a refreshing retreat, consider choosing from Gottman-certified Know How Mom’s courses, taught right here in Utah (or elsewhere, if you prefer a vacation with it!).

With some outside-the-box thinking (or inside the box if you opt for Finders Seekers mystery boxes), you can make this Father's Day one your dad will treasure and remember.

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