For the dad who’s a booze aficionado…

Toast the patriarch of your family as you learn the lore behind LoHi’s Family Jones craft spirits at the distillery’s weekend Spirit House and Distillery tour, where the Family Jones team will take you and your dad behind the scenes of its fermentation and distilling process. Treat your father’s taste buds to an eight-spirit flight, which includes the distiller’s full-bodied Annika Jones vodka as well as the Ella Jones bourbon, a spirit that took the 2021 Best-In-State prize at the American Craft Spirits Association’s Heartland Whiskey Competition. Afterward, enjoy bites and cocktails as well as discounted bottles to stock Dad’s bar cart. Saturdays at 2 p.m.; reservations required online beforehand; $25

For the dad who’s an art lover…

Journey with your dad to an immersive art experience that blurs the lines between art, earth, and sky at this month’s unveiling of esteemed American artist James Turrell’s Skyspace installation in Green Mountain Falls, just northwest of Colorado Springs. This observatory-meets-sculpture nestled into the side of a mountain offers a different way to view the great beyond, as you enter the small structure and look up at the sky through an oculus. The experience sounds simple, but Turrell’s art is anything but simplistic. It will change your perception of where earth meets sky; what the sky is; and your relationship with the atmosphere above you. Is Dad craving more art after reveling in Turrell’s sensory exploration? Stop by performances and exhibitions at the Green Box Arts Festival (June 18–July 4) for the rest of his creative fix. Skyspace opens on June 18; times vary; entry is free but reservations are required

For the dad who’s a trivia buff…

We all know who’s got the best Dad jokes around. But your master of quips will still get a kick out of watching NPR’s Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me! stand-up tour. The minds behind the live weekly news trivia show, which is in its 25th year, are bringing a slate of their most beloved guests—from regular host Alonzo Bodden to comedian panelists Negin Farsad, Helen Hong, and Mo Rocca—to the Paramount Theatre for a quick-witted comedy show that delivers all the newsy humor that won’t fit into a 45-minute public radio show. June 25, 7 p.m.; tickets start at $39.50; proof of vaccination required for entry

For the dad who deserves a little pampering…

Everyone needs to be spoiled now and again. Treat Dad to a TLC-filled mini-staycation with the Brown Palace Hotel and Spa’s Gentleman’s Journey: He’ll be able to choose from a full-body massage, pedicure, or deep-cleansing charcoal facial, with a cocktail and cigar to complete the experience. Round out Dad’s day of indulgence with slow-roasted prime rib and a flight of Four Roses Bourbon or Stranahan’s Whiskey at the Ship Tavern. June 17–19; starting at $495

For the dad who’s serious about barbecue…

Indulge in all-you-can-eat smoked meat from some of the finest pitmasters around the country at the fourth annual Denver BBQ Festival. Dad can satisfy his cravings with samples on Pit Row, discover new recipes, and learn dozens of techniques—from the basics of smoking pork belly to cooking the whole hog. If you want to earn your barbecue bites (or burn off the calories you’ve already consumed) you can participate in the aptly named Run for the Ribs 5K at Empower Field at Mile High on Sunday morning, and enjoy—you guessed it!—ribs, ice-cold brews, and foot-stomping live music after you cross the finish line. June 17–19; times vary; entry is free but registration is required; upgraded Pit Passes starting at $109

For the dad who likes looking toward the heavens…

Celebrate Dark Sky Month in Colorado with Dad at the Rocky Mountain Star Stare, the annual stargazing party on the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society’s 35-acre “Starry Meadows,” which is nestled between the Sangre de Cristo and Wet mountain ranges. Camp out for several nights so you have time to take in the unpolluted night sky, and take your pick from the fete’s five-day lineup of food, educational workshops, and other activities for astronomy enthusiasts of all ages. June 22–26; times vary; starting at $65 for adults and $30 for children 13 and up; kids 12 and younger get in free

Madi Skahill
Madi Skahill
Madi Skahill is 5280’s former associate digital editor.