Gifts for 6 Types of Dads: A Father’s Day Gift Guide to Franklin, Pennsylvania

This Father’s Day, dad deserves a gift as fun and unique as he is. Franklin, Pennsylvania is a fun and unique place full of fun and unique gifts. Here are a few of our favorites for six different types of dads:
For the Foodie Dad
We might be a little biased here but we say give dad the gift of food, history, and fun. These 3 hour walking tours from A Bite of History Food Tours highlight Franklin’s history and feature tastings from several establishments across town. From beer to barbecue, dad may even discover a new favorite shop or restaurant. Get a ticket for yourself too and spend quality time with your dad making memories in Franklin. You can book tickets HERE.
Plus, you can save 20% off tickets for any tour in the month of June with code DADSROCK.
For the Adventurous Dad
It’s no secret that Franklin is a GREAT destination for outdoor fun. Franklin has direct access to over 65 miles of paved multi-use trails great for walking or biking. It also sits at an intersection of the Middle Allegheny Water Trail and the French Creek Water Trail. So plan a day of adventures with dad out on one of these trails.
If you need help planning your adventure or need to rent some gear to make it happen, check out OARS – Outdoor Allegheny River Services. This full service outfitter rents bikes, canoes, kayaks, and even stand-up paddleboards. They can help you plan your trip, rent you the gear you need, and even pick you up once it is finished.
If dad is already committed to life on the trails, visit 4 Season Cycle. Here you can find dad a new bike, necessities, or even schedule a Bicycle Tune Up to keep dad riding safe.
For the Thirsty Dad
If dad is a coffee connoisseur do not miss Bossa Nova Coffee Roastery. Bossa Nova even has a shipping option if you are local to Franklin but dad isn’t. If dad loves coffee and beer, try the Bossa Nova Coffee Stout at Trails to Ales Brewery. But if spirits or cocktails are more his thing, don’t miss shinewine, whiskey, and other goodies from Grumpy Goat Distillery. And if dad is more of a wine man, Vino and Vibes or Boutique Malo are great places to have a glass or a bottle. All of these watering holes can be found on Liberty Street in Franklin.
For the Barbecue Dad
The can’t miss attraction for barbecue loving dads is Franklin’s Blues and BBQ Festival. This 2 day event is held the Saturday and Sunday of Father’s Day weekend in Franklin’s Bandstand Park. It features nationally known blues musicians and locally famous beer and BBQ.
If you’re visiting Franklin at another time, take dad into The Liberty Vault building for JP’s “Tickle My Ribs.” From brisket to barbecue chicken to the extremely popular Piggy Mac (mac and cheese topped with pulled pork), nobody leaves Tickle My Ribs hungry. The BBQ sauce comes from an old family recipe and is available to purchase by the quart.
If dad is more of a DIYer when it comes to BBQ, a stop at River Valley Butcher’s Block is in order. Pick up fresh cuts of chicken, pork, beef, and more. The friendly team also has BBQ supplies and a lot of knowledge to share.
For the Musical Dad
Franklin is home to not one but TWO great music stores! Porch Music Store is the go to for all things folk music. They sell handmade instruments including canjos, cigar-box ukuleles, traditional ukuleles, mandolins, guitars, and so much more. You’ll also find lots of accessories and gift items.
If dad is a bit louder, head over to West Park Guitar. Here you’ll find acoustic guitars, electric guitars, basses, amplifiers, effect pedals, and the like.
Both establishments offer lessons for a variety of instruments, including voice.
For the “I have no idea what to get this guy” Dad
Buying a gift for the dad who has everything can be tricky. Franklin Retail Association to the rescue! With a Franklin Retail Association gift card, dad can choose his own adventure at over 40 locations throughout Franklin.
Happy Father’s Day!
Whatever gift you choose, make sure you call your dad or go see him! He would love to hear from you.
Happy Father’s Day to all of the dads out there! Thanks for everything you do.