Overview
There comes a point when buying something for your dad becomes impossible. He has the gadgets, the tools, the hobby gear, and the polo shirts. What he probably doesn't have is a day with you — phones down, full attention, doing something totally memorable.
That's the real win this Father's Day. Not another thing for the shelf, but an experience you can both enjoy doing together. Whether he's still bragging about his first Commodore or just enjoys the great outdoors, these Adrenaline-approved experiences are designed to be shared.
Here are seven ideas to help make that happen in and around Melbourne.
Take a V8 Supercar for a Spin at Sandown
Nothing says "cool dad moment" like seeing him behind the wheel of a proper V8 supercar. At Melbourne's Sandown Raceway, this Race Car Experience lets your dad live out his racing fantasy for six blistering laps. He'll be briefed by professional instructors, kitted up in proper race gear, and then let loose on one of Melbourne's best motorsport tracks. Even if he's never gone faster than the West Gate speed limit, he'll be buzzing by the end of it. And if you're up for it, you can join him for back-to-back sessions, resulting in twice the trash talk over lunch.
Book a V8 race car drive experience here
Go Off-Road with Rally Driving in Avalon
For dads who prefer dust over tight cornering, Rally Driving at Avalon is a must. Located just outside Geelong, this off-road course is designed with long straights, loose gravel, and plenty of corners to slide through. Your dad will handle a fully spec'd Subaru WRX STi, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo, Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ for 16 fast-paced laps with a pro in his ear the whole time, guiding every drift. Then he'll jump in the passenger seat and let the instructor show off. It's intense, fun and the drive back home will no doubt be full of laughs.
Book a rally driving experience here.
Do a Track Driving Day in Your Own Car
Some dads love their cars as much as they love you. If that sounds like yours, this Track Day at Sandown is the ultimate Father's Day activity. For one full day, he can take his own car out on a professional racetrack and experience what it's really made of — legally, safely and without speed limits. He'll get safety briefings, track etiquette guidance, and all the space he needs to push his driving skills to the max. If dad was the one who first taught you how to drive, this is the ultimate way to pay him back.
Book a track driving day in your own car here.
Visit Hector's Deli in South Melbourne
For breakfast done right, head to Hector's Deli in South Melbourne, or one of their other locations in Richmond, Little Collins or Fitzroy. These guys have turned the humble sandwich into a cult item — messy, crunchy, flavour-packed and very, very satisfying. Choose from thick-cut pastrami, fried chicken and melty cheese layered between slices of golden toast. Pair it with a solid coffee and you've got the kind of fuel that sets the tone for a big day ahead. Come early as lines form fast, but it's worth the wait.
Go on a Fishing Charter in Sorrento
This Sea Fishing Adventure is the perfect option if your dad's more into calm mornings, good banter and the occasional bite. You'll spend a few hours cruising through Port Phillip Heads, soaking up the fresh air while you cast lines for snapper, salmon and flathead. Everything's sorted with your ticket, including rods, bait, snacks and drinks, so you can both focus on the important stuff: winding down and talking rubbish in the best way. Even if the fish don't bite, the time together is the real reward. And if they do? Just don't let him tell the same fishing story twice.
Book a fishing charter here.
Watch the Sunrise From a Hot Air Balloon
If you're chasing something more peaceful (and photogenic) go for a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Melbourne. You'll meet your pilot pre-dawn, watch the setup, then float silently above the skyline as the city wakes up below you. After you touch back down, you'll sit down for a prosecco breakfast at Mansfield Coffee Merchant. It's stunning and something that feels like a genuine adventure you can do together. If all dad wants is to see you happy, this is the best gift you can give him this Father's Day.
Book a hot air balloon here.
Earl Carter
Book a Dinner at Gimlet in Melbourne CBD
If you want to finish up the day with something a little fancier, book a table at Gimlet at Cavendish House. It's decked out with polished timber and old-school charm. Whether you're there for lunch or dinner, the oysters, local and imported cheese selection, Gippsland beef tenderloin and perfect martinis are all a highlight. If your dad's a fan of great service, great cocktails and good conversation, this one will hit the mark.
This Father's Day, don't get stuck trying to pick the "perfect gift". Choose something you'd love to do, then bring your dad along to experience it together.
Book dad an adventure with Adrenaline — five-year validity, instant delivery and memories made together.