As Father’s Day approaches, the countdown to making meaningful memories begins.

Whether you’re looking to share a new experience, try something creative or simply spend quality time together, Southern California offers plenty of options to make the day special. We’ve compiled a list of events to consider — from vibrant chalk art to thrilling horse races and hands-on workshops — that go beyond the usual gifts and are tailored for creating lasting memories.Aquarium of the Pacific

Is the dad in your life into sea life and brewskis? For Father’s Day, the aquarium is hosting a lunch where families can enjoy a meal and explore the home of some of the ocean’s most breathtaking animals. Tickets for the lunch, served on the aquarium’s rooftop Veranda dining area, which overlooks the beautiful Rainbow Harbor, include all-day admission. All fathers will receive a complimentary beer or soft drink. Reservations will be offered hourly between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

When: 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. June 15.

Where: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach

Admission: $85 for adults, $65 for children age 3-11 includes general admission. Available at aquariumofpacific.org

The Dad Games at Dave & Buster’s

Whether you have a father who will come ready to win or just likes to play video games, Dave & Buster’s will host an event to see which dad or father figure has what it takes to win a year of free game play. Participating fathers will receive unlimited game play all day with admission, along with a buffet of food for competitive fuel, including cheeseburger sliders, flatbread cheese pizza, chicken bites, pretzel dogs, french fries, macaroni and cheese, and unlimited soft drinks and iced tea.

When: Noon to 2 p.m. June 15

Where: Participating Dave & Buster’s locations

Admission: $34.57 at daveandbusters.com

Dine with Dad at SoFi Stadium

If your dad is a fan of football, you can treat him to a brunch buffet in a suite complete with wide views and first-class hospitality. After brunch, there’s a behind-the-scenes guided tour of SoFi Stadium, which includes access to locker rooms, premium suites, the Owner’s Club and more. A separate add-on explores the NFL’s West Coast headquarters.

When: Brunch begins at 10:30 a.m. June 15. Allow enough time for the meal before your tour.

Where: SoFi Stadium, 1001 S. Stadium Drive, Inglewood

Admission: Brunch tickets, including the stadium tour, are $95. Beer and wine vouchers are $17.40, and the NFL add-on is $23.15. All tickets are available at sofistadium.com.

Dad Day at the A

The Angels will host this event where dads can take swings in batting cages, go on a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, chow down in the Lexus Diamond Club and have a chance to meet Angels alumni. Fans can also stick around to watch the Angels face off against the Baltimore Orioles.

When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. June 15

Where: Angel Stadium, 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim

Admission: $132 per adult and $69 for children at mlb.tickets.com

Newport Beach dinner cruise

If your dad prefers the sea, this cruise features a front row seat to the ocean with open-air decks, a meal prepared by a chef and unlimited craft beer. The boat will journey past Newport Beach landmarks like the Balboa Fun Zone, Balboa Island Ferry and the Balboa Pavilion while a DJ sets the mood for celebration.

When: 4:30-7:30 p.m. June 15

Where: 2431 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach

Admission: $344.19 for adults and $225.06 for kids at eventbrite.com

Pasadena Chalk Festival

You can spend Father’s Day weekend checking out art under the sun. This family-friendly event invites the community to watch hundreds of artists transform pavement into stunning, large-scale murals at The Paseo shopping center. From whimsical illustrations and iconic pop culture references to powerful tributes and museum-worthy re-creations, there’s something for just about everyone. Guests can also check out a silent auction featuring original works, shop for festival merchandise, and support arts education programs through the Light Bringer Project.

When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and June 15

Where: The Paseo, 300 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

Admission: Free; more info at pasadenachalkfestival.com

Pottery class

You can get hands-on this Father’s Day with a pottery experience in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Hosted by The Potters Bar, this beginner-friendly workshop invites guests to craft a custom rustic ceramic mug from scratch, and no experience is required. Set in a penthouse terrace studio inside a historic loft, the class is guided by a professional ceramicist and includes all materials. Participants can choose from 12 glaze colors for their mug, which will be finished and ready for pickup three weeks later. Guests are also welcome to bring their own favorite drinks to enjoy during the class.

When: 12:45 p.m. June 15

Where: L.A. Cornell Building, 743 Santee St., Los Angeles

Admission: $65; tickets available at thepotterybarceramics.com

Santa Anita Park

If your dad’s idea of a great day involves photo finishes and barbecue, the racetrack has a lineup of experiences to match — from trackside feasts to whiskey tastings. On the track, dads can bet on the $100,000 San Juan Capistrano Stakes. The FrontRunner buffet has track views, and a barbecue picnic offers craft beer and ice cream.

When: Gates open at 11 a.m., first post at noon June 15.

Where: Santa Anita Park, 285 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia

Admission: Options range from $10 general admission to premium dining packages starting at $50. Details and tickets at santaanita.com.

Scotch master class

For the whisky-loving dad — or one curious to explore — Vintage Wine & Spirits is offering a tasting event. Guests will sample nine premium Scotch whiskies, including the 27-Year Bowmore valued at $550 a bottle. Guided by Jay Roberts, co-founder of The Whiskey Lab, the class blends storytelling and expertise with a curated flight of exceptional pours. Your $10 ticket includes a full store credit, making this a great opportunity to sip and shop. Class is limited to 36.

When: 5-7 p.m. June 15

Where: Vintage Wine & Spirits, 16938 Saticoy St., Lake Balboa

Admission: $10 plus fees (includes store credit); tickets available at vintagewineandspirits.com.

Paint and sip brunch

Paintbrush in one hand, mimosa in the other — this laid-back event is a colorful way to bond with Dad while creating a keepsake together. Guests of all skill levels will be guided step by step through a painting project by experienced instructors, making it a relaxed and fun way to bond over canvas and conversation. All supplies are included.

When: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. June 15

Where: Autumn Flynn Art Paint Studio & Gallery, 1355 Westwood Blvd., No. 210, Los Angeles

Admission: $45; tickets available at Eventbrite.com.