51 First Father’s Day Gifts to Make Him Feel More Special Than Ever
Updated: Mar. 26, 2024
His first Father's Day is one of the most important holidays of his life. To properly celebrate his new role as "World's Best Dad," we found the best first Father's Day gift to make him feel loved and appreciated.
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It’s an important day in any man’s life: His first Father’s Day. A celebration of stepping into one of the most important roles deserves a gift that’s just as special as he is and shows your appreciation for how well he’s earning the title of “World’s Best Dad.”
We know that being a new parent isn’t always easy. There are sleepless nights, the constant surprises that come with learning how to care for a baby and the adjustments of a new rhythm of life.
So, we tracked down the best first father’s day gift for every type of dad, whether they love to spend their free time out in the mountains or lounging on the couch, or they love finding trendy new outfits or are always hunting down the coziest thing to wear at home.
These gifts range from charming to practical, and from the silly to sweet (literally). The most important thing? Choose something that he’ll love most and is personalized to his lifestyle, hobbies and needs.
For the Starry-Eyed Dad
Constellation Chart Lamp
Celebrate the birth of his first kid with a constellation map that commemorates the stars at the time (and location) of the little one’s birth. This is a beautiful first Father’s Day gift to have on desks during the day, and it doubles as a night light when it gets dark. It’s a meaningful and unusual way to preserve a moment in time, and they can share it with their child when they get older.
For the Gluten-Free Dad
Caramel Cake Bites
Nothing like a sweet treat to celebrate such a big occasion, and these gluten-free caramel cake bites do the trick. Gluten-free yellow cake is topped with caramel and coated with white chocolate. They’re bite-sized, so need to worry about finding a knife, fork or plate, and dad can enjoy one whenever he needs a little pick-me-up or me-time. (Pro tip: They also taste delicious frozen.)
There are plenty of non gluten-free options, too!
For the Dad Working from Bed
Laptop Tray
Duty still calls, and this laptop tray lets him tackle his inbox without getting out of bed. The tray can be adjusted to find the right angle for his laptop, and there’s a pocket for his phone so he won’t miss any notifications. This first Father’s Day gift also doubles as a breakfast in bed tray on those (rare) mornings he’s able to sleep in.
For the Sleep-Deprived Dad
Flash-Frozen Coffee
Some days with a new baby, even brewing coffee can seem like too much work. Enter the future: Capsules made from flash-frozen coffee. He can just pop one into his mug (or glass, if he’s craving cold brew), and pour in water and flavoring of choice. The capsules are made when the coffee is freshly brewed, so the taste is strong, not stale, and you can customize which roasts he receives.
For the Dad Who Needs a Deep Sleep
Weighted Blanket
When sleep is in short supply, make sure the quality of that sleep is top-notch with a weighted blanket. Studies have found that weighted blankets can promote deeper, more restful sleep, and we love this one because it’s made of 100% cotton without any toxic chemicals. This first Father’s Day gift is also machine-washable, so no dry cleaner necessary.
For the Dad With the Great Sneaker Collection
Ascot Slipper
Days at home deserve slippers that feel like a treat every time he slips them on. A suede exterior meets a thick, plush wool interior with these loafer-like slippers. They’re incredibly durable, so they can handle daily wear and the demands of the new dad lifestyle. With a rubber sole and a sleek appearance, they’re well-equipped for the outdoors if he needs to run on a quick errand or grab something from the yard.
For the Dad Who Journals
One Line a Day
This best-selling diary has become beloved for encouraging people to write down one line a day, every day, for five years. But we love it as a first Father’s Day gift to highlight one special moment every day with the new kiddo and the family. It’s a great way to make sure that even less note-worthy days are remembered and treasured, so they can be shared with the little one in the future.
For the Outdoorsy Dad
Camping Hammock
He can enjoy some fresh air from his porch or yard thanks to this hammock. And once baby is big enough to go camping or dad heads out for a weekend in the woods, this makes a welcome addition to his outdoor supplies. This option is light, easy to carry, durable and stretches out to 9.5 feet. It also has a pouch for his phone or a drink.
For the Dad On-the-Go
Coffee Mug
Yeti has been one of my favorite drinkware company (sorry, Stanley fans!) for several years, and this coffee mug is great for coffee-loving dads, whether they’re staying at home or hopping in the car. It’s double-walled for greater insulation, so hot drinks stay hot and cold drinks stay cold, and he can just pop it in the dishwasher to clean. You can even customize this first Father’s Day gift to make it extra special for dad.
For the Dad Who Accessorizes
Personalized Bracelet
He has great taste in accessories—add to his collection with a personalized bracelet including the baby’s name. It’s a subtle memento of the newest member of the family that easily complements any outfit. You can select the cord material, size and number of personalized, sterling silver beads, so it feels unique to him and his style.
For the Dad Who Loves a Novelty Mug
Personalized Mug
My family’s love language is mugs, and this charming mug commemorates the year your giftee became a boyfriend, fiancé, husband and dad. It’s a sweet first Father’s Day gift to celebrate some of his most special moments while letting him get his fill of coffee or tea. You can customize the appearance (slightly), and he can pop it into the dishwasher or microwave no problem.
For the Dad and the Dad's Dad
Grandpa and Dad Hats
Someone else is celebrating this first Father’s Day—Grandpa. These embroidered hats let Grandpa and Dad celebrate this big moment with vintage-style baseball caps. Available in a variety of options, it’s a gift that honors all the Father’s Days that have led him here. You can personalize the text on the hat, in case you would prefer the names read something else.
For the Dad Who Loves Surprises
New Dad Gift Box
Some call it a present, some call it a survival kit. This gift box is stocked with the funny and practical things dad needs in his new role, from a coffee tumbler (that doubles as a wine tumbler), a book of dad jokes, extra socks for when he doesn’t have time to do laundry and more. You can also add on a few more surprises or have this first Father’s Day gift gift-wrapped.
For the Funny Dad
Your Baby's First Word Will Be Dada
From one of the most famous dads, “Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada” is Jimmy Fallon’s best-selling kid’s book. It’ll help every dad do their best to ensure the first thing the kiddo says is their name, a worthy goal dad and baby can undertake together. This board book has adorable illustrations and is fun and interactive to read.
For the Trendsetter Dad
Diaper Backpack
Just because it’s a necessity doesn’t mean it can’t look great. This diaper bag is a stylish spin on the usual—and it also has room for his laptop, in case he has work on-the-go. He’ll be prepared for any baby-related situation with a bag that he’ll be happy to carry around. Made out of recycled material, this first Father’s Day gift also includes an insulated bottle holder and is water-repellent.
For the Stay-at-Home Dad
A Cozy Robe
Whether he’s stay-at-home, work-from-home or just needs something comfortable (and easy) to wear while he’s back at home, treat him to this plush robe. Made of Turkish cotton, it brings a touch of spa-like luxury to loungewear, with pockets to stash cellphones, baby supplies and snacks. It comes in a variety of colors, and it’ll add some softness and coziness to new parenthood.
For the Dad Who Needs a Massage
Theragun Mini
While gifting him a massage a day might not be practical, this mini massage gun is a close second. With its three different speeds, he can relax and ease discomfort from any tight muscles. This first Father’s Day gift can be used on most parts of the body, including neck, feet and lower back, to help eliminate stubborn knots.
I have the mini size and love it for how easy it is to take on the go (and it requires little room to store it).
For the Dad Who Knows the Most Important Meal of the Day
Breakfast Sandwich Maker
Preparing breakfast gets a smidge harder when there’s a little one around, and this breakfast sandwich maker will let him prepare customized meals (and save money, since those to-go breakfast sandwiches can add up). All he has to do is add bread, meat, cheese and egg, wait a few minutes, and enjoy. It creates two breakfast sandwiches at once, great for bigger families or bigger appetites. The device is compact (so it won’t take up extra room in the kitchen), easy to use and easy to clean.
For the Dad Who Always Asks What Day It is
Custom Photo Calendar
With a new baby, it can be easy to lose track of time. This personalized photo calendar helps him keep track of the date while treasuring some of his favorite moments. Each month is accompanied by a different photo, and the calendar is elegant and minimal, a nice addition to an office or kitchen wall. There are numerous different designs to choose from, so this first Father’s Day gift feels unique to what he likes.
For the Dad With a Skincare Routine
Energizing Moisturizer
Or for the dad who’s ready to start one. This moisturizer features vitamin C and caffeine to refresh and smooth dry skin. A simple addition to his day, it delivers a much-needed boost of hydration and can help counteract the impact long nights can take on his skin. It’s a fan favorite for absorbing quickly and not being greasy, and can pull double-duty as an aftershave.
For the Dad With Full Hands
Slip-On Sneakers
Sometimes, there just isn’t time to worry about laces. These hands-free, slip-on sneakers are helpful and stylish (one of our favorite combinations)—all he has to do is step in and the heel springs back up. With lots of cushioning, the sneakers are comfy to wear wherever the day may take him while looking sleek enough to head out to meet up with friends. There’s even a kid’s line, so he can match with youngster when they’re a little bit older.
For the Forgetful Dad
AirTag Keychain
With a new kiddo, there’s a lot going on—it’s easy to forget your keys. This leather AirTag keychain is a sleek, sophisticated way to keep track of everything. He can slip his AirTag inside (a magnet will hold it in place) to add a little bit of calm to even the busiest of days. It’s also great as kids get older and think hiding keys is a fun game. Trust us: It’s a lot more fun when the keys are easily found.
For the Dad Tired of Changing Diapers
Decision Coin
The best way to decide who has to get up and change a diaper? Flip a coin. This wooden decision coin turns over the decision-making to luck. A fun, charming first Father’s Day gift, this coin can be customized depending on the couple, with the options to feature different image options. If you really want to delight him, put his partner’s name on both sides of the coin, so it’s never your giftee’s turn to deal with the diaper!
For the Whole Foods Shopper
Portable Blender
Help make healthy eating easy in the early days of parenthood with this portable blender. He can toss in his favorite fruits, veggies and protein powders for quick and nutrient-dense smoothies and juices. The 18-ounce blender-and-cup has a carry strap and fits into cup holders, so it’s easily taken on-the-go. And, for an adults-only night, it can help whip up mixed drinks like margaritas.
For the Dad Who Wants to Taco 'Bout It
Burrito Baby Swaddle
A funny (and comfortable!) gift for the dad who’s always down for taco night. This burrito baby swaddle looks like the little one is rolled inside a tortilla. It’s made out of a cotton-polyester blend that’s breathable, so baby will stay at the right temperature, and mom and dad will share plenty of adorable photos with you as thanks for the gift.
For the Wordsmith
Letters to My Baby Keepsake Book
Created to preserve the small moments, this keepsake book includes twelve letters that he can write to baby, preserving memories big and small. The letters can be sealed and saved for different times in the kiddo’s life. It can even start an ongoing tradition of letter writing to celebrate major milestones or capture the beauty of quiet times together.
For the Dad Who Wears His Heart on His Sleeve
Love Letter Cuff Links
Add a thoughtful touch to his formal attire with these love letter cuff links. The envelope-shaped cuff links open up to reveal a personalized wooden letter. Customize them with “New Dad,” the baby’s name or the date of birth, so he can carry a piece of home with him to any event. You can even upload images to be printed on the letters.
For the Dad Who Likes Some Spice
Hot Sauce Variety Pack
Help him add a little heat to his meals with this four pack of hot sauce. It contains milder sauces, from a chipotle habanero, to the fiery red scorpion sauce, so he can experiment with a range of flavors and heat.
In our house, Secret Aardvark is a go-to hot sauce. It’s made from high-quality ingredients so the flavor and the heat are equally matched. They’re also plant-based, so it’s a good surprise for vegetarian and vegan dads, too.
For the Dad Who's a Little Fishy
Tinned Fish Pack
For people who love tinned fish (and those are our kind of people), this tasty bundle offers a nutrient-rich and flavor-packed treat. As a bonus for new dads, enjoying the fish—including smoked rainbow trout and sardines with preserved lemons — requires little prep and clean-up. If they have more time, they can also get creative with adding them to different recipes for easier and delicious meals.
For the Griller
Japanese BBQ Sauce
This pack of Japanese BBQ sauce will help him up his grill game. These sauces are made in small batches from organic ingredients for maximum flavor, and they’re made with mirin, a rice wine, which adds a distinctive flavor. The flavors have an impressive range to suit difference preferences, from original to citrus-y yuzu to savory miso to hot & spicy. The pack comes with a recipe book, so he can try out new dishes.
For the One Who Loves His Rewards Card
Personalized Wallet
He’ll carry a piece of the family everywhere he goes with this personalized wallet. The front can be engraved with his name or initials (or logo, if that’s more his style), while the inside features a short note. To make it extra meaningful, a handwritten message can be added to the inside. The wallet is made from leather and hand-stitched, with 12 card slots, so he can fit everything he needs.
For the Dad Who Loves to Sing in the Shower
Shower Speaker
If the shower’s his stage, then this speaker is a necessary addition to his routine. Water-resistant and universally compatible, it lets him enjoy a concert wherever he is. Even better: it has up to six hours of playtime before needing a charge. Of course, it can be used outside of the shower, too, so his tunes can travel with him or for background music when guests are around.
For the Artist
Custom Paint-by-Number Kit
What’s more meaningful than treasuring a special photo? Turning that photo into a piece of art that he can create with his family. This custom painting kit recreates one of his favorite family memories as a paint-by-numbers activity on professional-grade white linen. He and his partner can tap into their creative spirit for an end result that’s ready to hang on the walls. More than 30 paints are included in the set.
For the Interior Decorator
Custom Sound Wave Art
At first glance, these pieces look like abstract art or unique landscapes. But these canvases are actually an audio clip converted into a visual piece of art. You can make it the baby’s heartbeat before being born, their first word or any other meaningful sound, ready to hang in his house. You can select the color as well as the style of the canvas (including whether you’d like a frame) so it’s customized to his aesthetic.
For the Dad Who Loves a Spa Day
Shower Steamers
These shower steamers make every day feel like a day at a luxury spa. Each of these cubes consists of essential oils, and their scents release when the water hits them in the shower. The steamers can calm or energize, depending on the scent—it includes favorites like eucalyptus, lavender and mint. The cubes can also be used as a body scrub.
For the Proud Papa
Matching Pajamas
Some of the best first Father’s Day gifts are ones that include something special for dad’s bundle of joy, too—like a set of matching pajamas. Made of a buttery-smooth bamboo viscose material, they’re adorable for daddy-baby snuggles in bed. As foodies, we’re particularly smitten with the “Breakfast Buddies” print.
For the Planner
Moments with Dad Journal
Dad will never run out of things to do with his mini me, thanks to this scratch-off journal. Inside, he’ll find plenty of activities for kids of all ages, from having a water balloon fight to reading a book together to visiting the zoo. Check out our favorite Father’s Day decorations.
For the Chronically Tired Dad
Coffee Subscription
Whether dad is looking for a new favorite brew or believes variety is, indeed, the spice of life, he’ll appreciate a coffee subscription from Trade Coffee. Here’s how it works: You choose how many bags you want to send him (ranging from two to 24), Trade Coffee sends a redeemable gift code (on the date of your choosing), dad takes a quiz to discover which kinds of coffee he would like and his new brews show up on his doorstep. It’s that easy! Maybe he’ll look forward to those early-morning wake-ups a little bit more now (thanks to you).
For the Hands-On Dad
Tactical Baby Carrier
No more borrowing mom’s baby wrap—now dad can have his own way to tote around baby with the tactical baby gear carrier. Rugged, durable and water-resistant, it’s just what he needs when he’s out and about with his child and wants to keep his hands free. Practical, outdoorsy dads will also love these lawn and garden gifts.
For the Fashionable and Functional Dad
The Dad Hoodie
The Dad Hoodie has gained a lot of popularity for good reason—it looks like his go-to hoodie, but it has six internal pockets to carry everything from diapers to bottles to his cellphone. He can leave the diaper bag at home for errands with the kiddo while everything he needs is close at hand. It’ll become his version of a superhero suit.
For the Sentimental One
Engraved Photo Keychain
Give dad something to show off whenever someone asks about his little one with this personalized photo keychain, which is made of leather and is available in seven masculine hues. Have it engraved with “Daddy” and then tuck his favorite photo of baby inside. It’s worthy of our list of the best personalized baby gifts, which includes even more gift ideas.
For the Beer Drinker
First Time Dad Beer Labels
As if dad needs an excuse to crack open a cold one, these funny beer labels remind him of all the important causes for celebration—like dirty diapers, sleepless nights and 3 a.m. feedings. Wrap them around a six-pack of his favorite craft beer and you have yourself a real winner of a gift.
For the Funny One
Dad Jokes Book
Now that he’s a father, it’s officially socially acceptable for him to crack all the horribly cheesy dad jokes. Give him some material for his next knee-slapper with this this book of funny, yet family-friendly, jokes that will have everyone rolling their eyes (in the best way, of course).
For the Coffee Connoisseur
Single-Serve Coffee Maker
Unless he’s one of the lucky ones whose baby slept through the night from day one, chances are dad is in serious need of caffeine. He can fuel up with one of the best Keurig coffee makers out there: The K-Elite. This first Father’s Day gift can brew a flavorful cuppa of hot or iced coffee in less than a minute.
For the Photographer
Heirloom Video Book
Like most new parents, dad’s phone is probably filling up fast with adorable clips of baby smiling, rolling over and getting his first bath. He can keep all those memorable videos in one spot with a Heirloom video book. The hardcover book has a 5-inch HD screen inside that plays a 10-minute video when opened.
For the Safe Driver
Baby Car Mirror Camera
A baby car mirror is great, but a baby car mirror camera is even better. No more craning your head trying to see what your little one is doing in the backseat—now dad can just look at the tiny display mounted on the dashboard to find peace of mind that she’s happily snoozing.
For the Homebody
Ultra-Soft Joggers
Between trying to get the baby on a sleep schedule, entertaining guests who want to meet the little one and somehow also trying to squeeze in a nap or meal, dad is probably spending more time at home these days. He can lounge around in style—and comfort—with these Cozy Earth bamboo joggers. This first Father’s Day gift is snuggly, cozy and stylish.
For the Fit Dad
Stroller Phone Mount
If daily stroller walks are dad’s primary form of exercise, he’ll appreciate this phone mount that hooks right to the top bar of most strollers. From more than 37,800 ratings, many praise how sturdy it is, thanks to its shockproof design. Dad can answer emails, listen to a podcast or FaceTime mom while he closes his rings.
For the Grill Master
Omaha Steaks Assortment
Thinking about giving dad one of the best gifts for grilling this summer? Better pair it with a flight of deliciously juicy meat from Omaha Steaks. This build-your-own bundle includes the proteins of your choosing, from ribeyes to bratwursts to steak burgers.
For the Caffeine Fanatic
Papa Bear Mug
He can sip his morning joe with a custom coffee mug that proudly displays his new title: Papa Bear. Not only is this first Father’s Day gift dishwasher and microwave safe, you can even get a matching Mama Bear mug for a cute first Mother’s Day gift, too.
For the Snoozer
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
For any parent who is in desperate need of sleep (which is likely every new dad), a pair of Bose QuietComfort earbuds can help. Designed to fit comfortably in almost any size ear, they’re completely noise-cancelling—for drowning out baby’s cries when it’s his turn to rest—and can last for up to six hours on a single charge.
Originally Published: April 25, 2023
