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A City Caster’s Father’s Day in Chicago

Posted on June 12, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Sidney Madden

Sidney Madden

Lou Mitchell’s exterior

Lou Mitchell’s is my go-to diner with my dad. (Laura LaRose / Flickr)

Don’t have anything planned for Father’s Day Sunday? Neither did I until my editor assigned this article 😅 Here are some last-minute ways I’m celebrating the father figures in my life.

Dad

My dad and I usually go to Lou Mitchell’s in West Loop for the holiday, munching on doughnut holes while we answer trivia. But we’re switching it up and kayaking at Bubbly Creek! City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran’s enthusiasm for kayaking is contagious.

City Cast

Your Guide to June in Chicago

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Grandpas

My maternal grandpa is happiest at home in the northwest suburbs, so I’ll bring him treats from the city: paczki to celebrate his Polish heritage and plants to add to the garden he tends in my grandma’s memory.

City Cast

How to Find Chicago's Best Paczki

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I’m collecting mementos for the next time I visit my paternal grandpa’s grave. I want to bring a print of Rosebud on Rush, his favorite Chicago restaurant, and this Chicago keychain to remind him where most of his grandkids have ended up.

A golf course in the west suburbs of Chicago

My cousin wants to golf all over Chicagoland, including at this course in Sugar Grove. (Jonathan Ferrey / LIV Golf via Getty)

Cousin

My cousin is a new father and golfer, which is why I am texting other relatives to see who wants to go in on a Park District golf membership for him. I’m also looking for golf clubs for a toddler, so his kid can join the fun!

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