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When it comes to giving gifts for the holidays in 2021, you want to give Dad something he’ll treasure . . . and use. We asked our editors what they’re giving the papas in their life, from the practical to the personal. Read on to see the unique gifts for dads they’re gifting this year.


GrowlerWerks uKeg Carbonated Growler

$179 as shown BUY NOW

Keep your favorite beer cold, fresh and carbonated for up to two weeks with this pressurized growler. Not only does it look good on your counter, but you can choose your desired carbonation level for optimal refreshment.


Dr. Squatch Star Wars Limited Edition Soap

$35 BUY NOW

This sustainably sourced soap has no harsh chemicals and is inspired by your favorite Star Wars characters.


Hydro Flask Soft-Sided Cooler

$89.95 BUY NOW

The days of lugging a heavy plastic cooler are over, thanks to this stylish backpack that's deep enough for plenty of juice boxes (or wine bottles).


Oculus Quest 2 VR Headset

$399 BUY NOW

Dad can take his gaming to another level when he jumps into VR with this set. He can also immerse himself in a concert or sporting event, get moving with a fitness program and travel all over the world. Be warned: the teens are going to want to borrow it, for sure.


California Cowboy PCH Full-Zip Hoodie

$148 BUY NOW

Dad will love all the bells and whistles that come along with this ultra-durable hoodie like the sunglasses loop, bottle opener pocket and dry pocket. Plus, the style can't be beat.


1000-Piece Van Life Puzzle

$40 BUY NOW

This will be a fun puzzle for the family to put together over winter break. You can feel good about giving a gift from this women-owned family business that donates a portion of proceeds to marine conservation initiatives.


Solo Stove Bonfire

$250 BUY NOW

It's always a good night for s'mores when you have this smokeless, portable fire pit.


Ted Lasso Mug

$22 BUY NOW

On those days when he's just not feeling it, Coach Lasso will cheer him right up.


Ghostbusters Plasma Series Ecto-1

$100 BUY NOW

Dad will love this blast from the past Ghostbusters collectible vehicle that will look awesome displayed on his office bookcase.


The Periodic Table of Hip-Hop

$30 BUY NOW

A whopping 223 artists appear on this poster that's sure to garner compliments from unsuspecting house guests.


Bellroy Tech Kit

$59 BUY NOW

Keep all those cords organized in style with this zip-around pouch.


MEATER Plus Wireless Meat Thermometer & Apron

$100 BUY NOW

Get Dad geared up for grilling with this thermometer that he can monitor via an app. It comes with an apron that any dad would be proud to wear at the grill.


Peace Pies 12-Pack

$100 BUY NOW

Yes, there's a smaller (less-expensive) option to get these treats shipped to your home, but take our advice and go big. With flavors like Pecan Pie and The Elvis, you're going to wish you gifted this to yourself.


Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger Sweatpants

$98 BUY NOW

Yes, these joggers have a cult following. And yes, they are as good as you thought they'd be. Immerse dad in jogger culture this holiday season.


Winston Set from Harry's

$25 BUY NOW

Upgrade his shaving routine with German craftsmanship. This classic set will become a favorite in no time.


Nintendo Switch OLED Model

$350 BUY NOW

For the dad who has to have the newest everything, meet the OLED model. The 7-inch screen is nothing he's seen before.

—Kate Loweth & Editorial Team

Editor’s Note: Prices and availability reflect the time of publication. Images courtesy of retailers.

If you purchase something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

 

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From outdoor adventures to the behemoth Biltmore Estate, Asheville is tops for traveling with tots and a great spot to keep cool. Read on for our picks for this pinnacle of family fun.

Soak in the Scenery 
Chimney Rock State Park is just 25 miles from Asheville and well worth the short drive. You and the kiddos will love the beautiful scenery, walking trails and even a gorgeous waterfall. And bonus points for efficiency; you just crammed a lot of mountain beauty in to one day trip!

Details: Chimney Rock State Park, 431 Main St., Chimney Rock, NC, 828-625-9611, chimneyrockpark.com

Set Up Camp 
The Brookstone Lodge makes a lovely base camp for your brood. It’s located near the Biltmore Estate, but is just a hop, skip and a jump (or a short drive) away from the Blue Ridge Parkway and situated close to downtown Asheville’s many attractions. What we love about the Brookstone, is that it’s lovely amenities would be perfect for a just grown up getaway, but it’s fun, family friendly demeanor is evident. You’ll find families splashing in the indoor pool and plenty of kiddos in line for a waffle at their free breakfast buffet.

Brookstone Bonus: Two words: Fun Depot. Yes, this hotel is next door to a kids dream come true: golf, climbing walls, laser tag, arcades and much, much more. ‘Nuff said.

Details: Brookstone Lodge, 4 Roberts Rd., Asheville, NC, 828-398-5888, brookstonelodgeasheville.com 

Go Wild
Has your kiddo been asking, “What does the Fox say?” What about wolves, bobcats, cougars and coyotes, too? Western North Carolina Nature Center hosts over 60 species of animals native to Southern Appalachia and will bring your little critters face to face with wildlife.

Details: Western North Carolina Nature, Center75 Gashes Creek Rd., Asheville, NC, 828-259-8080, wildwnc.org

Grab a Bite
Your kiddos might think they are in heaven when they get a load of Asheville Brewing’s Millroom, a dine-in movie theater which serves up yummy pizza, burgers and nachos, and for mom in dad, you guessed it, hand-crafted micro brewed beer! You’re always sure to find a family friendly flick, and if this was not good enough, guess what; the patio is dog friendly too!

Details: Asheville Brewing, 66 Asheland Ave, Asheville, NC, 828-255-4077, ashevillebrewing.com

Treat Time 
Head over to Mast General Store and step back in time. Restored to its1940’s heyday ambiance, here you will find over 500 old-fashioned candies, toys and perfect souvenirs. Much more than a candy pit stop, you have to put this on your list of must-dos for its uniquely North Carolina charm.

Details: Mast General Store, N. Carolina 194, Valle Crucis, NC, 828-963-6511, mastgeneralstore.com

Have any Asheville favorites? We’d love to hear in the comments below.

—Candice Rose

Photos courtesy of Asheville’s Fun Depot, Chimney Rock Park, WNC Nature Center and Mast General Store via Facebook and Mark N. via Yelp