For the Top Pops

For those dear old dads who wish to spend some time with their families this year, we have a few new and fun places around the city to have some kicks with the kids.

A trip to South Beach would be nice—but we’re not suggesting you book it to Miami this weekend (wishful thinking). Instead, head south to Lakeshore and take in the recently opened Sugar Beach at the bottom of Jarvis, across from the Redpath Sugar refinery. Sugar Beach is open to the public, offers glistening sand, Muskoka chairs, tables, a small splashpad and a boardwalk. Kids will love the look of the candy-striped rocks (but they’re not edible). We suggest you pack all your fave sand toys, some swimsuits, towels and a picnic (or pop into Loblaws across the street and grab a mini-picnic to go). Your sugar daddy will love Sugar Beach.

If all he has on the brain is golf, then a family-friendly putt at Beach Fairway Golf Range on Victoria Park, south of the Danforth is just the thing. It’s a fun, 18-hole mini-putt course that’s well maintained and offers a variety of holes (including a waterfall), and is a great way to celebrate with kids as young as three. Note that Father’s Day can be very busy, so skip the breakfast-in-bed and go early if you can, as the Beach Fairway opens at 8 am.

It’s large, has an opening at the top and we often wonder what goes on inside. The Rogers Centre offers regular tours weekly, typically from 11 am to 4 pm, when a Blue Jays or Argonauts game, or special event is not being held. On Father’s Day, tours will be running and for a fee, the one-hour, fully-guided tour takes you through various levels and behind-the-scenes parts of the building. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the Rogers Centre, but be sure to check the schedule online for details.

A little family time on Father’s Day may go a long way. Keep it local and laidback, and don’t forget to give him a pat on the back (or more) for being a great dad. Tested by Alison R., Toronto

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