RVANews Father’s Day gift guide

It’s that time again… time to impress the Big Guy, the Head Honcho, the Papa Smurf, the Chief Commander. Whatever you call your old man, make sure you have something planned for his special day. Father’s Day is this Sunday, and RVANews will help you choose the perfect gift for your almost-perfect dad.

June 17, 2010; 6:00 AM • by Lindsey Norment

It’s that time again… time to impress the Big Guy, the Head Honcho, the Papa Smurf, the Chief Commander. Whatever you call your old man, make sure you have something planned for his special day. Father’s Day is this Sunday, and RVANews will help you choose the perfect gift for your almost-perfect dad.

Mr. Rookie

Whether he’s got one on the way or already running around after a few kids, he’s going to want to remember these early years. Get over to Richmond Camera in Carytown (3128 W. Cary Street) for their selection of digital cameras (ranging in price $100-300). They even offer a few classes on the basics of photography ($35 and $50).

Mr. Hard Worker

For the dad that just won’t quit, give him a chance to take a breather and relax. We all know it won’t last long, that’s why the Express Massage at Salon Vivace (3426 W. Cary Street) is perfect for this go-getter. A 30-minute break will be the perfect way to recharge before getting back to all his meetings ($50).

If your dad enjoys a cold one at the end of the day, stop by Mongrel (2924 W. Cary Street) and pick up the Big Beer Glass ($15). Holding up to five beers in one glass, this could come in handy after a tough day in the corporate jungle.

Mr. ESPN

For the dad that eats, breathes, and sleeps sports, give him a taste of the local fare. Head over to The Diamond and check out the Flying Squirrels on Father’s Day. For $120, you can get the Pop’s Picnic Package, including four tickets to the game and an all-you-can-eat buffet for the whole family.

Tailgating and sports go hand-in-hand. If your dad is a sports-enthusiast, consider updating his parking lot party gear with a Weber Portable Gas grill from Pleasants Hardware (see website for locations). Ranging in size and price ($35 to $115), you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for his grilling needs.

Mr. Grill-Master

Skip the Kiss the Cook apron and get some accessories that will really make people envious of your dad’s grill skills. The Compleat Gourmet (3030 W. Cary Street) has a great selection of grilling supplies for your master of the coals. Grab some Cedar Grilling Planks — one box will run you about $25 and includes four different kinds of wooden planks, perfect for adding an extra flavor to your meat. Other accessories could include a grill press ($20) and a grilling stir fry skillet ($25).

Mr. Geekster

While some dads dream of their kids making the winning touchdown at a game, others have visions of their little geniuses carrying home the Nobel Prize for a new scientific discovery. It takes all kinds in this world, and if you find your dad to be a little more on the nerdy side, he is sure to love Geek Dad: Awesomely Geeky Projects and Activities for Dads and Kids to Share (available at Mongrel for $15 or on Amazon.com). This little gem is packed full of projects and ideas for dads and kids to enjoy together. Ever wonder how to create a historically correct pirate treasure map or the exact rules of Dungeons and Dragons? The answers are within.

Mr. Fashion-Conscious

Just because he’s a dad doesn’t mean he has to give up his refined sense of fashion. If your dad appreciates the GQ-side of life, drop into Need Supply (3010 W. Cary Street) and pick up a pair of Tried and True Levis ($198). Labeled as Richmond’s source for premium denim, Need Supply is full of great options for the dad with an edge.

Mr. Impossible-to-Shop-For

Most dads are hard to shop for because they are generally low maintenance and don’t want anything. If this is the case, skip the pointless objects that will just sit in the garage all year and spend some quality time with him instead. If he’s into seafood, Richmond has some great options for dining. Take him to The Water Grill (3411 W. Cary Street) and try their Oyster Sampler plate with three different types of oysters for around $24. Or stop by The Hard Shell (1411 E. Cary Street) for their all you can eat crab legs and spend the evening cracking crabs and jokes with your dad (dishes are around $20).

Not into seafood? Pack your own picnic and enjoy a day at Maymont (see website for directions). Dad will appreciate the time together and enjoy checking out the local sites in one of Richmond’s best outdoor parks.

June 17, 2010 6:00 AM 0