7 Dad and Son Gifts That Create Lasting Memories

When it comes to gifts for him, it’s not about what’s inside the box. The best gifts can be enjoyed together! Whether you’re celebrating Father’s Day, a birthday or just want to spend some time catching up, shared experiences are what really stick. 

That’s why Dad and Son gifts you can do together are such a win. Instead of another gadget or pair of socks, give Dad something you can both enjoy. From creating art to cooking over the grill, these workshops and experiences across Australia will help you make memories, not clutter.

Here are seven dad and son gifts that are guaranteed to turn an ordinary day into something unforgettable.

1. Make something together at a tufting workshop

At this tufting workshop in Adelaide, you’ll both grab a tufting gun, pick your colours and bring your designs to life as custom mini rugs. It’s part art, part DIY project, and totally addictive once you get the hang of it.

Why they’ll love it: Using a tufting gun is pretty fun! And watching the yarn come together can be quite mesmerising. Dad will walk away with his own design on his rug. It’s pretty cool to see, and it will look great in his man cave.

Take it home: You’ll leave with two completely unique rugs and a shared memory that’ll outlast any store-bought gift. Whether it ends up on the floor or the wall, it’s proof of your creative teamwork.

2. Fire up the grill at a BBQ and beer class

If your weekends usually involve Dad manning the barbecue, why not help him take his skills to the next level? This BBQ and beer cooking class in Sydney is a flavour-packed experience where you’ll learn how to cook restaurant-quality meats while enjoying a few cold ones along the way.

Why they’ll love it: It’s all about good food, good company and plenty of laughs. You’ll learn new grilling tricks, taste incredible BBQ dishes and swap dad jokes while you’re at it. There’s even a touch of friendly rivalry when it comes to whose steak turns out best.

Take it home: By the end, you’ll both have a handful of new recipes, better grilling skills and full stomachs. Plus, you can recreate the feast at home next time you fire up the barbie together. We can’t think of a better father-son gift than connecting over meat and beer.

3. Forge a bond that lasts at a blacksmithing workshop

If Dad loves tools, craftsmanship or just a bit of old-school elbow grease, this blacksmithing class in Melbourne will be right up his alley. Together, you’ll learn how to heat, hammer and shape metal into something amazing (anything from a bottle opener to a fire poker).

Why they’ll love it: There’s something primal and deeply satisfying about working with fire and steel. It’s a hands-on experience that’ll challenge you both and give you serious bragging rights afterwards.

Take it home: You’ll finish with a forged creation that’s as solid as your teamwork. It’s the kind of keepsake that’ll sit proudly on a shelf for years, reminding you of the day you quite literally hammered something out together.

4. Capture shared moments at a photography class

For dads and sons who prefer getting out and about, a photography class in Brisbane is the perfect pick. Learn how to frame the perfect shot, master your smartphone camera and see the world from a new angle—all while exploring the city together.

Why they’ll love it: It’s relaxed, engaging and gives you both a reason to slow down and notice the details. You’ll spend a couple of hours enjoying the Brisbane sunshine and each other’s company—what’s not to love? Plus, this workshop only requires a smartphone, not an expensive camera.

Take it home: By the end of the day, you’ll have a gallery of photos that capture not just the scenery, but the fun you had together.

5. Brew the perfect cup together at a barista class

If love of coffee runs in the family, this Melbourne barista class will be a hit. You’ll both learn the secrets of great espresso, how to froth milk just right and maybe even try your hand at latte art.

Why they’ll love it: There’s no better bonding moment than sharing a perfectly brewed coffee, especially when you’ve made it yourselves! It’s equal parts educational and energising, with plenty of caffeine-fuelled fun in between.

Take it home: Beyond a boost of energy, you’ll leave with legit barista skills and the ability to whip up café-worthy coffee at home. Sunday mornings will never be the same again.

6. Carve out quality time at a woodworking class

For dads who love to tinker, this spoon-carving workshop in Sydney is a fantastic way to connect. You’ll learn the basics of woodcarving, from shaping to smoothing, and walk away with a one-of-a-kind creation carved by your own hands.

Why they’ll love it: It’s calm, creative and gives you both the chance to focus and chat in equal measure. Plus, woodworking is a quiet, focused activity. It’s the perfect gift for the strong but silent Dad types.

Take it home: Whether your spoons turn out wonky rather than round, they’ll definitely be special. Each one tells the story of patience, craftsmanship and a fun day spent together.

7. Sketch, laugh and learn at a drawing workshop

Whether you’re both doodlers or total beginners, this dragon drawing workshop in Perth is a fun way to unleash your inner artists. You’ll both learn how to sketch dynamic designs, experiment with shading and colour and bring a mythical creature to life.

Why they’ll love it: It’s laid-back, creative and surprisingly relaxing. If Dad loves his video games or mythical lore, this is the perfect gift for him.

Take it home: You’ll each end up with a unique drawing to keep and the skills to keep doodling at home.

Still unsure what to get? Find more unique gift ideas for men he won't expect here.

At the end of the day, the best Dad and Son gifts aren’t things—they’re experiences you share. Whether you’re crafting, cooking or creating something new, these workshops are a chance to slow down, reconnect and make memories that last far longer than a gadget ever could.

So this year, skip the socks and surprise Dad with something he’ll really remember! Explore a range of workshops across Australia and find the perfect experience gift for him—because the best present you can give is time together.