86 Best Gifts for Dad That He'll Actually Use—& Not Leave in the Garage
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Fact: Finding great, nay, the best gifts for Dad is nearly impossible for the man who has it all, especially for a special occasion like his birthday or, most importantly June 15, better known as Father's Day. For me, it's the one day when the pressure is really on, because finding a gift for my picky dad who doesn't garden, fish, golf or mow the lawn isn't easy. (And there are only so many "World's Greatest Dad" mugs he can fit in the cupboard or—let's face it—gifts he'll actually use for that matter.) Don't get me wrong, dads will enjoy all the Father's Day activities and crafts that are in store for them, but a little gift or two will make 'em feel appreciated.
Maybe your dad is like my workaholic dad who's always hungry to learn, and would be into a MasterClass subscription (starting at $10 per month, billed annually), which will give him access to thousands of videos where he can learn from masters in their field. I also think it's time for my siblings and I to go in on upgrading to the latest Peloton bike, so he can keep up with his low-impact HIIT and LISS workouts. Or how about some tech gadgets from Sony or Apple for the techie? Is he a self-professed grill master? I've got just the thing.
Bottom line? I've sifted through more than 300 top gifts and narrowed it down to the 86 best gifts for dad—many under $100—in 2025 for the guy who's been your number one supporter since day one, all guaranteed to light up his world.
Need even more gift ideas? I've rounded up the best gifts for golfers, some gifts for grandpa and last-minute gifts that will arrive in time for the big day.
I chose a wide selection of gifts to cater to every type of dad, from the handy dad to the techie dad, the adventurous dad to the bibliophile dad. I paid particular attention to best-selling items with high ratings from previous buyers. Some are even endorsed by celebrities, popular talk shows and, of course, PureWow staffers themselves (or the very discerning men in their lives). I also know there are more practical elements to picking out a gift, and not everyone's budgets and timelines are the same, so I took cost, quality, and timeliness of delivery into account as well.
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Lululemon
Dabee Kaye, Gallery Media Group's former VP of Brand Partnerships, told me her husband lives in these pants. "They're super comfortable and they don't look sloppy so he can wear them out," she says. "He even has backups, just in case." These pants are made in four-way stretch fabric, and there's extra room in the seat area to make sure nothing binds when a guy sits down. And since Dad can get a pair in inseams that range from 28 to 37 inches, there's no hemming required, right off the rack.
$128 at lululemon
Amazon
This portable iPhone charger from Anker can keep Dad's phone powered up while he plays a long round of golf with the guys. The pocket-sized power block contains a built-in lightning connector and 12W output designed specifically for Apple devices (iPhones, iPads or iPods), which basically means that it'll work fast. Oh, and did I mention that the compact gadget more than 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon? Many reviewers have reached a consensus: the game-changing tech must-have is easy-to-use, weightless, small and convenient.
$30 at Amazon
Mint&Lily
I don't know who needs to hear this, but dads need arm candy too, and this personalized bracelet from Mint&Lily is cool, handsome and entirely rugged—which, you know, he'll love. It has a braided band, which is available in black or silver, that fastens close with a solid clasp. Plus, you can customize it with text—perfect for adding each kid's name.
$100; $49 at Mint&Lily
MasterClass
A MasterClass subscription is the gift that keeps on giving. Starting at just $10/month, billed annually, the online education platform will give your pops access to more than a hundred virtual classes and sessions led by industry professionals in various fields, from cooking to meditation from top people in their profession, like science with Neil deGrasse Tyson and how to ball properly with Stephen Curry. Basically, he can learn a new skill every day. With new classes being added every month, Dad will never get bored. Retired, who?
From at $10/mo. at masterclass
Snake River Farms
When it comes to Snake River Farms, the ranch-to-table brand known for their cuts of American Waygu beef, they don't miss. While their steaks and pork chops are already juicy and flavorful as-is, a little bit of some pre-made seasoning will take dad's dishes to the next level. As one buyer mentions, this pack of four seasonings (SRF Signature Steak Seasoning, SRF Rosemary Roast Seasoning, SRF Santa Maria Seasoning and SRF Perfect Pork Rub) is 'quite possibly the best seasoning we've ever had. Each product has wonderful ingredients and lends itself to excellent flavor, over what is already a great product.' Plus, they're packaged in a shatterproof plastic container to ensure they arrive safely to his door in one piece.
$49 at Snake River Farms
Target
This impressive streaming stick from Roku is fast, easy-to-use, offers Dolby Audio sound quality and has razor-sharp image quality. He'll be able to load up all his favorite streaming services, apps, and accounts, and watch tons of free content on the Roku Channel as well. The short explanation? This is a great gift—especially if he's been wanting to the cut the cord for a while. (Though he'll want to upgrade the speakers for more of an immersive experience.)
$50 at target
Wonderbly
Any gift from his kiddos is timeless to him, especially personalized books like this gem from Wonderbly that he can hold onto and flip through forever. His favorite part? The 32-page illustrated story is all about how important he is. All you have to do, Mom, is add the number kids, build their characters, upload a photo, select the cover, write a dedication (from the kids, of course) and edit the messages on every page. You'll get to see a preview of it all before it's printed and shipped off. Just make sure you pack a box of tissues with it, because he's going to need it.
$45 at Wonderbly
Thermoworks
Former PureWow editor Katherine Gillen's dad gave her a Thermapen as a gift, which shows his level of respect for this device. "I've never tried a better meat thermometer," she says. "It's so fast to get a reading, and I like that it's no frills and easy to clean." It's popular amongst celebrity chefs because it can provide a reading in just one second—gauging temperatures between -58.0 to 572.0°F—and that speed means he doesn't need to open the oven or grill for too long (and thus lower the temp unnecessarily). After opening this handy gift, your dad will never have to play the 'is this meat fully cooked?' game again. It can also be used in baking or candy making, so he can expand his kitchen repertoire with confidence.
$109; $82 at Thermoworks
Amazon
All of us love our dads, but whenever they don their old wired headphones, we have to laugh, which is why this gift is perfect. These are a big hit with my pops. He loves to whip them out when we go on a walk around the neighborhood without me noticing, so when I try to talk to him, it takes me a few minutes to realize that he isn't responding for a reason. The man wants his alone time…I can't blame him. It's a win-win for us both (kidding, dad). Your dad will love how much better his music sounds when he puts these on, and he'll be even more amazed at the spacial audio and noise-canceling feature he can turn on while he's at the gym or walking the dog.
$249; $169 at Amazon
Amazon
Help Dad melt away those back pains with a neck and back massager he can wrap around him like a comforting blanket, then sit back and relax. Made of faux-leather, it comes with eight deep Shiatsu kneading massage nodes and three-speed intensities. The soothing heat will help further improve blood circulation, according to the brand. Dad will be texting you from home, thanking you for months after unboxing this.
$60; $36 at Amazon
Amazon
My dad's a BIG Peloton guy (shoutout his favorite instructors, Leanne Hainsby and Cody Rigsby), and honestly, anything that gets his body moving and keeps him healthy is worth it to me. Peloton's newest release of their cult-favorite bike, Bike+, has all the updates to impress Dad. I'm talking a 360 degree rotating screen, auto-resistance that'll adjust his resistance automatically according to the instructor's callouts (he can always toggle this feature off) and Peloton entertainment, which lets him stream TV shows, movies and sports through Peloton Entertainment. (Mom might not like that update.) And all those other OG features he loves out of the original model? Yeah, those are there, too. The Peloton All-Access Membership ($44 per month) needs to be purchased separately, which he can activate during the setup of his Bike+, and this will grant unlimited access to thousands of Peloton content in their library for—get this—the entire household. So, yeah, it's a gift for you, too.
$2,495; $2,000 at Amazon
Under Armour
He'll get his steps in on the golf course (and look ridiculously stylish while doing so) with these comfy sneakers. They have zero break-in period per the brand, and the shoes are waterproof and equipped with added durable rubber soles that boast excellent rotational resistant traction. Primed with maximum cushioning and minimal weight, thanks to that extra-springy UA HOVR+ cushioning, they give you just the right amount of support while simultaneously minimizing impact, and if he isn't fond of the gray and blue color combo, there are three other colorways to choose from.
$140 at under armour
Uncommon Goods
Who doesn't love to feel like a kid again? Dad can combine his love of modern technology with his desire for a bit of nostalgia with this paper airplane that can be controlled by a smartphone. Build the plane just like his grandpa taught him. But this time, connect a tiny Bluetooth device to it. Now, download the app and enjoy the 1980s-inspired 'drone' with 21st-century wireless control.
From $60 at Uncommon goods
Things Remembered
Try as he might, Pops can't be at the golf course 24/7. This fun pen holder can add a bit of the green to his every day, so he has something to look forward to while he's sifting through paperwork and sending emails. It comes with pens, pencils and a letter opener that sits perfectly in the golf bag, with the option to personalize the front plate with up to four lines of text. So while it's not the real deal, it's definitely a memento he'll hold onto forever.
$60 at Things Remembered
QVC
Tired of dad's phone always dying? Grab him this handy dandy smart plug, which can be plugged into any place that has an outlet. Aside from giving his electronic devices a fast charge, he'll also be able to set reminders for his daily schedule manually, or with the nifty voice control the device comes with.
$32 at qvc
REI
A headlamp might not be the most glamorous gift, but it'll certainly become one of Dad's most used gifts...but don't just take my word for it. 'My parents' grill doesn't have an outdoor light so, originally, I bought this as a way for him to stay handsfree while grilling and still be able to see anything,' says Abby Hepworth, fashion editor at PureWow. 'But it turns out headlamps are handy for a wide variety of instances—digging things out of the attic or basement, getting a better look at a fiddly battery swap, reading in bed, taking out the garbage at night. Who knew this backpacking essential could prove so convenient for suburban life too?' Best of all, the handy-dandy headlamp runs on alkaline batteries, which are included, but can also function off of rechargeable lithium-ion battery not included.
$20 at REI
Vuori
Whether dad is hitting the gym, running errands or relaxing on the couch watching Sunday afternoon football, he is going to need a comfortable pair of joggers in his lineup. These fit the bill with their tapered athletic mid-weight fit and flexibility, which are some of the many reasons why buyers love. "You cannot get a more comfortable jogger. The quality of the material is outstanding," raves one. "I purchased two and I am very happy with the quality and fit. They are loose around the hips and thighs, and trimmed perfectly around the ankles."
$98 at vuori
Amazon
'My dad is notoriously hard to shop for because he prefers experiences and quality time way more than physical gifts,' admits Nicole Frazzini, audience development strategist for PureWow, 'but he loves going to concerts with my mom, so I got him a shadow box for the ticket stubs he always keeps. Now he can display some of his fave memories' with this 10-inch by 10-inch decorative shadow box, which can easily be mounted on the wall in his home office with the saw tooth hanger included with purchase.
$27 at Amazon
Solo Stove
Your dad? Yeah, he's a professional tailgater. Better yet, he's a professional griller. So the only gift worth his time is Solo Stove's cookout kit, an on-the-go charcoal grill or griddle. It comes with all the necessary gadgets and gizmos he needs in order to whip up his 'World Famous Ribs,' including a charcoal adaptor, cookout kit frame that folds up easily when traveling and cast iron grill top. Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay put it to the test in her home, and had a lot of love to share about its convenience. 'We could bust out the frame for a dinner of burgers and brats, then break it all down for late-night s'mores around the fire. I love that the additional accessories take up minimal space...and as our pickiest guests can attest, you really can't beat the smoky, meaty flavor of a charcoal grill.'
$300 at Solo Stove
Left: REI / Right: Original image from Jillian Quint
Your dad's a simple guy who loves simple things, especially when it comes to footwear. That's why he'll *love* receiving a classic pair of these bad boys. 'What says, 'you're a dad...but, like, a cool dad?' Birkenstocks Boston clogs of course, which are a wear anywhere (and just about any season shoe) that offer both extreme comfort and coolness factor,' says PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint. These bestsellers are designed with an extra layer of foam in the footbed that will conform to the shape of his foot, so he'll be happy that no one can steal them when he's not looking. 'Getting my husband to upgrade from a traditional sandal or—gasp—performance sandal—was major. A treat for both of us,' she adds.
$165 at REI
$165 at DSW
Amazon
If he's the type to get frustrated when his AirPods don't work with the airplane's in-flight entertainment, it might be time to gift him this AirFly audio transmitter. It uses Bluetooth connectivity to pair his headphone device to AirFly for easy listening, and it has a hefty battery life of over 20 hours before it needs to be charged. Oh, and did I mention that it has a 33-foot reach, so Dad can stretch his legs on his 15-hour flight without having to pause his show? Psst...he can even use it on gym equipment, TVs and gaming devices.
$35 at Amazon
Amazon
With this ingenious putting mat, Dad won't have to head to the practice range to get some tee time in. It's a little over seven feet long and 11.8 inches wide for a realistic long-put feeling. The ramp also has a built-in ball return system so that he doesn't waste any time picking up the ball after every shot. Before you know it, he'll be bragging about paring every hole.
$75; $60 at amazon
Eyebuydirect
If dad is desperately in need of some new shades, gift him this nifty round pair as an upgrade. The bold, square lenses will frame his face nicely, and he'll look super cool while he's golfing, fishing or just simply shooting the breeze by the lake. Plus, it's an under $50 buy, which is a *major* steal.
$43 at eyebuydirect
Wayfair
Forget an egg-shaped smoker that has to be constantly fed with more and more charcoal to keep the temperature perfectly regulated. Fill the hopper with lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes, turn up the heat, then Dad can sit back and relax with a beer. He still needs to check on it every now and then to sauce it, turn and add his personal touch, but for the most part, this is so much easier. Crank it and don't be surprised if Dad starts with simple brisket and soon graduates to smoked cheese and delicious steaks.
$500; $345 at wayfair
Amazon
If Dad's always picking up after the fam, then he'll have a field day with the HomeVac H11 model from Eufy by Anker. This PureWow editor-tested and -reviewed handheld vacuum is so impressive, it received a near perfect PureWow100 rating. After seeing how well it cleaned out her car, Rachel Bowie, senior director of special projects & royals at PureWow, ended up purchasing a second one for her home. 'Credit goes to the two-in-one crevice tool attachment, which allows you to reach even the tiniest particles of lint, dust and dirt in things like the cup holders or seat pockets. It's the portability that really makes it extra easy to clean.' So, make it a point to tell him that it can suck up crumbs, dirt and dust from all the smallest nooks and crannies in his precious car and beloved recliner.
$60 at Amazon
L.L.Bean
'Every couple of years, I get my dad a new pair of L.L.Bean slippers for the holidays because he wears them out. At first I chose to gift the classic Wicked Good slippers that feature a leather tie, but that often came undone,' Affiliate Director Pamela Masin tells me. 'So this year, I opted for the slip-on version, and he absolutely loves them. They have all the same features of the OG style (durable rubber outsole and cozy shearling liner), but with the convenience of being able to easily slide on and off (without a trip hazard!)' To make 'em even better, they're built to last, so he'll be able to hold onto these babies for a long, long time.
From $75 at L.L.Bean
Butcher Box
"This delivered-to-your-door subscription box allows you to customize a monthly haul of ethically sourced meat, based on what your dad or husband loves the most," says Quint. "I got this for my husband for his birthday, and he's loved opening it up to find chops, steaks, bacon, you name it. And since he's the cook in our house, I reap the benefits." Give him an introduction to the brand with a ButcherBox Favorites box, which includes filet mignons, burgers, sausage, and ButcherBox bacon.
$169 at butcher box
Bombas
There's a reason these soft and breathable socks are a PureWow reader favorite. For one, it's made from long-staple yarns sourced from top-tier cotton and merino wool producers, so they'll feel unbelievably cozy on his toes and—I bet—fit better than his current options. And it's also available in multiple color options and various styles fit for every dad, from the fit father to the casual dresser.
$78; $68 at Bombas
Craft Beer Club
Calling all beer aficionado dads! This box of beer features bottles and cans of IPAs, Pale Ales or other beers of their choosing from microbreweries around the country. Each box spotlights beer from two breweries located in different regions and comes with either 12 or 24 craft beer that'll be delivered straight to his door on a monthly or quarterly basis. They'll send him four different styles—two from each brewery that'll change every month—and the beer selections consistently range from 5.0 percent to 7.0 percent ABV, per the company. Not only will you earn major kudos, you just might get to crack one open with him.
$48 at Craft Beer Club
On Running
If he tracks his steps, chances are high that he actually cares about sneaker quality, too. So why not upgrade his current kicks by gifting him this soft, breathable and lightweight pair? Available in ten different hues, these bad boys are designed with recyclable materials and are best for walking over speed work. But buyers rave that they're comfy enough to wear all day long (while also obsessing over the sleek design), especially now with recent upgrades to this style, and appreciate that they come with a speed-lacing system, meaning he won't have to tie them every time he puts them on.
$150 at On running
$150 at Zappos
Leatherman
Handymen need an effective and well-made multi-tool, especially when it comes in a portable four-inch size. That's where the stainless steel Rebar from Leatherman comes in. It features a whopping 17 tools (all-locking for maximum safety), including pliers, replaceable wire cutters, multiple screwdrivers, a serrated knife and a bottle opener, just to name a few. But don't just take my word for it: 'The Rebar is absolutely top tier. Excellent feel in the hand, made of high quality, durable metal and has everything I could ever need! And the price for this amazing little beast was right on the mark—not outrageous, but expensive enough that you ensure a good quality product,' writes one customer.
$90 at Leatherman
Amazon
This single-serve coffee machine from Keurig will save Dad a trip to the coffee shop every morning (and a few bucks a day—his favorite thing about the gift). Best of all, he'll get to choose from a selection of seasonal brews, plus warm drinks besides coffee, from cozy hot cocoa to tasty teas. But that's not all. This version can also brew iced drinks in less than three minutes without the need of iced coffee pods, thanks to the machine's rapidly cooling tech. PureWow's Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera tested a similar Keurig machine against the Nespresso machine for the duration of a couple weeks, and marveled over the Keurig's easy set-up, coffee selection and intensity level. 'The strong brew option was a huge plus. It's a simple button on the top of the machine marked 'strong' that you can select to increase the intensity of your coffee.' All that's missing is a side of donuts.
$200 at Amazon
$200 at Keurig
Porter Road
If your pops's ideal day of eating looks something like steak 'n eggs for breakfast, roast beef sandwich for lunch and a bison burger for dinner, then a subscription box from Porter Road. will surely get his stomach grumbling. ICYDK, the company has ribeyes, strips and more, starting at $45 a box, and they're really known for having some of the best steak selections on the market. In other words, Dad's going to love the prime black Angus strip steak.
From $45 at porter road
Amazon
Dad's no Rory McIlroy, but that doesn't mean he can't aspire to be. Enter: the Arccos Smart Sensors, a tracking device that's designed to improve his game with data, so he play smarter and get some of his lowest scores yet. It comes with 15 water-resistant smart sensors and one putter sensor, which he'll twist onto each club and pair with the Arccos app on his iOS or Android phone, Link Pro or Apple watch. Then, he'll gain access his personal stats and insights in real time. From an A.I. powered GPS rangefinder to get precise data on yardages to personal A.I. caddie advice that'll help him strategize every shot and more, these trackers are bound to become his new golfing BFF. It's even trusted by professional golfers, like Matt Fitzpatrick and Edoardo Molinari. Best of all, new members will receive their first year's membership to the app, so he won't have to worry about paying out of his own pocket until 365 days after he falls in love with his gift.
$250 at amazon
Nordstrom
He's not one to accumulate stuff, which means he refuses to carry around a big, bulky wallet. Convince dad to toss the rubber band that's holding his cash together and replace it with this sleek alternative. The slim metal card case can hold up to 12 cards and has an external elastic strap to hold cash or his keys. Get a matching one for yourself and you've got a true father-son gift.
$95 at nordstrom
Great Jones
Dad needs something to cook his steaks in right? Pre-seasoned to make whatever meals you select even more delicious and large enough to cook a big meal for the entire family, he'll love bragging about 'his' brand new 12-inch cast iron skillet during Friday poker night with his pals.
$125 at great jones
Nike
Nike gear is seriously trending among Gen-Zers, so let Dad show off his trendiness with this casual running cap that he can wear when he's picking up the kids or grandkids from school. Available in four sizes and a handful of colorways, it's designed for the gym and trails, so if Dad is an active papa who loves to go for runs, hikes and the like, this lightweight hat is just what the doctor ordered. The Dri-FIT technology will keep him cool and comfortable by wicking away sweat, and reviewers report that it fits true to size.
$28 at nike
Bean Box
He's a man who appreciates a good cup of joe, so help him discover the wide world of small-batch artisanal roasters with this gift from Bean Box. Here's how it works: He answers a few questions about his taste preferences, then will receive one to two bags of coffee (ground or un-ground) every week, two weeks or month—depending on how much he drinks or if he lets anyone else enjoy his liquid gold. That way, he'll be able to experience the freshest beans from different small-batch purveyors, ones he might not have stumbled upon on his own.
from $20/week at bean box
Yeti
'We got my dad one of these because he's notorious for packing coolers for car trips—even if they're only an hour long,' explains Gillen. It's just big enough to hold some drinks and a few sandwiches without being a pain to lug around. Gillen reports it's amazing for everything from camping trips to keeping beer chilled during tailgates (it holds 33 cans of beer or 26 pounds of ice, and is wine bottle compatible, in case you were wondering) The insulation keeps food hot, too, so go ahead and give this to the dad as a high-tech lunchbox, and I love that it's narrow enough to fit behind the driver's seat in his car.
$250 at Yeti
Bartesian
This machine brings a whole new meaning to the idea of coming over for a drink. Dad can add his own spirits and water, insert a Bartesian capsule of the desired drink mix along with bitters, extracts and juice concentrates, and then let the machine do all the hard work. Pour, serve, and cheers! Reviewers love that it saves them money on buying multiple mixers, but do note that the results aren't quite as high-end as something mixed by an actual human.
$379; $329 at Bartesian
Amazon
Whether he's listening in his office, on the back deck, by the pool or heading off to a camping or fishing trip, this portable Bluetooth speaker is rugged, waterproof and drop-proof so it can go with him anywhere and he doesn't have to be precious with it because...well, is he ever? With signature JBL sound (think clear vocals and big bass) and advanced tech AI Sound Boost, he can enjoy the best quality with minimal distortion while he's jamming out. It even has a built-in power bank so Dad can use it to recharge his phone in a pinch. I love that Charge 6, the newest version of the beloved speakers, lasts up to 28 hours before it needs charging, and Quint swears by hers for stream-anywhere podcasting. 'Mine is a mainstay of my kitchen so I can listen to radio or pods while I cook.'
$200 at Amazon
Leaf
If Dad has a beard, he'll appreciate this eco-friendly single-edge razor sharp enough to tackle his scruffy five o'clock shadow as well as his face, nose, ear and head hair. It comes in a five-pack, features a high-tech blade and an easy twist-to-open loading. Reviewers love the ease of use, closeness of the shave and the fact that you get multiple high-quality razors in one go.
$59 at leaf
Samsung
Built with a large, 1.5-inch display, this watch is so easy to read that Dad definitely won't be complaining that he can't see the screen, especially if he gets to customize the face himself. It's great for the fitness buff too (or the guy trying to be more active), providing advanced fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking and more. Plus, he'll never miss a call or text from you when he can get the notification right on his wrist.
$650 at Samsung
Amazon
There's nothing quite like board game night with the fam-jam, whether it's a weekly Friday night tradition or a rainy Sunday activity. Catan is one of those games every dad will love, since it's focused on trading, building, and settling. Dad can show off his strategic prowess as he aims to be a cunning developer of resources like grain, wool or lumber. Or he can channel his inner John Dutton III from Yellowstone or Logan Roy from Succession and show the kids who's really boss. Note that there are a lot of rules to this game, so it's best to play for the first time with somebody who has done it before.
$55; $44 at Amazon
Samsung
When was the last time dad got a phone upgrade? Exactly. Sure, he might argue that the original purpose of a phone was to make calls (and he is right), but I guarantee you he will wind up using the S24 for so much more than that. AI equipped to make Googling easier than ever—he can literally circle an image to search for whatever that "thingamajig" is—and able to take extraordinarily detailed images, thanks to its 50-megapixel camera, it's bound to earn you favorite child status. Not that it's a competition or anything.
from $700 at samsung
Uncommon Goods
Maybe Dad loves bird watching, or maybe you think he would love to pick up the hobby. It's a nice reason to get out of the house after retirement. With this set, which includes three callers made of metal and beech wood, he can call everything from robins to Mallard ducks and Chickadees. If you're joining him, don't forget to bring your camera or phone along to snap a pic once one (or a flock) of birds answers the call.
$66 at uncommon goods
Amazon
Sure, it looks high-tech, but former PureWow Commerce Director Nicole Briese has found that once this baby is set up, every dad will be able to use it for random musings ("Alexa, what's the current GDP?"), playing yacht rock on command or even looking up hands-free measurement conversions when they're cooking. This smart speaker has a clock, too, so he'll always be on time. Best of all, you can get this delivered to him by tomorrow, thanks to Amazon Prime.
$50; $38 at Amazon
Polo Ralph Lauren
It's time to Zhuzh up Dad's look just a little, and he knows you're the one to trust when it comes to fashion. He'll appreciate this classic cable knit sweater from Ralph Lauren that's uber-soft and warm (and doesn't cost you an arm and a leg) thanks to the cashmere-wool blend. It comes in nine gorgeous colors, and reviewers say it really holds its shape with time—so long as he remembers not to throw it in the dryer. You can assist him with a few styling recs, like a nice button-down and some loafers.
$138 at Ralph Lauren
Lawn Bright
If your dad is of the age where he is literally watching grass grow, he might appreciate some tools that will seriously amp up his curb appeal. Have him submit a few questions about the lawn's current state, and he'll get a custom plan based on science and the home climate that's delivered every eight weeks with new materials like pet spot repair, drought recovery and tick control. As one happy customer states, 'I just put on my first application and it went on as advertised and the follow-up has been so good.' So long as he follows the plan to a T, the grass will definitely be greener and get the whole neighborhood talking.
from $140 at Lawn Bright
Home Depot
If dad was a stickler on the house being clean while growing up, he'll most certainly appreciate this pressure washer, which is suitable for cleaning porches, cars, bikes and many other outdoor appliances. It's available in various pressure-intensity levels, ranging from 1,800 psi to 3,000 psi, and comes with an assortment of nozzles so that way he'll able to reach tough cracks and crevices. Plus, the price is quite affordable, with more than 2,500 people giving it a 5-star review.
$149 at Home Depot
Amazon/Background: Tihomir Trifonov/EyeEm/Getty Images
TheDadLab YouTube channel became such a hit, creator Sergei Urban put some of his most popular experiments into an easy-to-follow guidebook. PureWow VP of Editorial Candace Davison says it's a winner. "This guidebook is perfect for rainy days and chilly winter afternoons when you're cooped up inside. It's loaded with unexpected ideas, often using things you have around your house," she says. "My daughter and husband like to pick a page at random and tackle it for that day's project...and I appreciate the break!" The step-by-step instructions will guide readers through everything from how to produce electricity to how to defy gravity with a ping pong ball, a mesmerizing feat for the kids (or grandkids).
$19; $11 at Amazon
Fubo TV
Cable might be a thing of the past, but Dad still wants to watch the big game. With a Fubo TV subscription, he'll be able to stream all the big games from an app on his TV or on the go on his computer. He'll never miss a touchdown, and there are three different plans, with the Ultimate option offering Redzone from the NFL Network and Showtime. With the ability to stream on 10 screens at once, he can track all the games. Plus, maybe he'll lend you the password so you can stay up to date on the Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce situation.
from $80/month at fubo tv
Ooni
This modern pizza oven has everyone talking…and salivating. It operates using wood, charcoal or gas, so he can really hone his backyard baking skills. Gillen says, "We got my dad the Ooni pizza oven a few years ago and now whenever I visit, he insists on a pizza night. He gets very into the process. I think he uses it once a week, and the pizza is very good." Reaching 950°F in 15 minutes, and delivering stone-baked pizza in 60 seconds, it brings a whole new meaning to the idea of fast food…at home.
$299 at Ooni
Samsung
If he's still using the same Dell laptop (scratch that...desktop) you bought him in 2010, it's time for an upgrade. And according to one PureWow editor, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra is even better than a Macbook Air! He'll love that that the 15.6-inch QLED screen produces jaw-dropping quality for videos and gaming. (A work presentation has never looked so good.) Aside from that, he'll he'll appreciate the long battery life and that it's less than four pounds for easy transport to and from the office.
From $900 at Samsung
Amazon
If Dad loves to cook, he probably already has cookware set he's been using for a while, but he may not have this one, which has Gordon Ramsey's stamp of approval and super high-quality. The hexagonal pattern (hence the name) is non-stick, scratch-resistant and metal-utensil safe. Throw in the versatile mixture of pans, and he'll be all set for his next date in the kitchen.
$400; $340 at Amazon
Amazon
Dad probably shoves everything he needs in a little carry-on, swearing that checked luggage is for suckers. At least you can help him organize that tiny suitcase by keeping his unmentionables apart from his crisp white button-up shirts. Available in different colors, each has a top mesh panel that will ensure his smelly socks get ample air so he doesn't keel over when he unpacks back home. Each piece then closes with a double zipper, making it super simple to pack and unpack.
$20 at Amazon
Hyrdagun
Traditional massage guns can't be used on knee joints, but Dad can get some sweet relief for knee pain with this device which provides relaxing heat and steady vibration pulses that feel like a mini massage and help lower inflammation. The latest version of this device heats up a bit faster, has a wider temperature range, a longer battery life and fits small and large limbs a bit better. Warning: The whole fam might ask to try this out as Dad starts complaining less and less about his knees.
From $199 at hydragun
Away
He'll never forget his earbuds, power cord or extra cable again now that he's got a dedicated nylon case with compartments for all his electronics essentials. Laptop chargers and larger accouterments fit in the lower mesh zippered section, and sturdily sewn elastic loops on the case's top fit smaller cords and accessories. Using this little 6.3- by 4.7-inch case, he'll always be able to find a cord to charge up his phone when he's got a quick layover.
$75 at away
Amazon
Davison loves using this easily inflatable paddleboard: "The Weekender is relatively easy to stand on and can support up to 275 pounds. I will say that on choppy waters, it's definitely more of a core workout." She also appreciates that it fits into a backpack to get it from the car to the waves. Your dad will, too, whether he's an experienced user or just wants to try a new water sport. Made of ArmorStrength PVC, it can withstand everything from tubular waves to jagged rocks, but deflates and folds down small enough to easily fit in the back of the trunk.
$200 at amazon
Tea Forte
Sophisticated dads who prefer cozying up with a cuppa tea while reading Hemingway rather than loading up on coffee will appreciate this luxurious set of 20 tea bags. Inspired by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, it features fun, delightful flavors like Ceylon Gold, Citrus Earl Grey, Oolong Creme, Honey Hojicha and Spiced Herbal Mate. Each bag stands upright in the cup and Dad can pull the cute little leaf (a nod to a deep connection to nature!) to remove the bag. Each purchase also goes to the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, which provides educational programs and scholarships and helps with the preservation of Taliesin and Taliesin West.
$38; $30 at tea forte
$65; $52 at Amazon
Walmart
Inside this compact soundbar are two full-range drivers angled to deliver wide, spatial sound and there's a center tweeter specifically focused on clarifying speech. (So everyone will be able to hear better without turning the volume extra loud.) Use it for TV or pair your mobile device using Bluetooth to hear a podcast, music playlist or other audio from your phone or tablet. It's perfect for Dad's den, games room or 'man cave.' Users report that it's great for upgrading the built-in speakers on a TV, but it's unrealistic to expect movie-theater-like acoustics.
$279 at walmart
Amazon
These matching tools—spatula, tongs, silicone basting brush and so much more—are going to get admiring comments from the other dads as they all gather around the grill to discuss whether the burgers are, in fact, ready to eat. The set comes with 20 tools in all, packed in a convenient case so he can whip this out when it's burger time. He doesn't need to tell anyone, however, about the included digital temperature fork that will secretly tell him when the meat is done.
$60 at Amazon
Yeti
All dads love their Yeti tumbler. It's just a fact! But there are a few reasons why it's beloved for sipping coffee and roadies out of. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks icy cold or hot for hours on end. It's also super durable, dishwasher safe and the patented MagSlide lid is easy to sip from. Says one PureWow husband we spoke to: 'I use mine every day for long drives, hot workouts and even coffee on the go. There is nothing better for keeping my beverages at the temperature I want them.' Bottom line: It will be his perfect companion while heading on fishing trips, hikes or to cheer on his kid's soccer game.
$35 at yeti
Amazon
He's been eyeing the latest Apple Watch ever since it launched, but would never spring for one for himself. That's where you come in. Gift him the newest version, which has been upgraded to be the fastest yet, and now has an even bigger display with more screen area your dad will love. It also boasts an always-on retina display, sleep tracking and advanced workout metrics. Mom will appreciate the advanced health insights, especially since it can detect irregular heart rhythms and save her from nagging him to keep his health in check. He can engage in a mindfulness session, pay for items using Apple Wallet, and get all his relevant app and call notifications right on his wrist. He can even talk into it just like the spy from his fave show.
$499; $389 at amazon
Vantrue
If he's committed to getting that Allstate safe driving bonus, this car camera will make him feel a little safer. Offering three views, this dash cam will give him recordings of the front, interior and rear of the vehicle. He'll get 4K video quality and super night vision that will upload to a microSD card or he can view on the device itself. With an external battery, he can activate a 24-hour parking camera to keep an eye on things in a parking garage or hotel parking lot. It's a good just-in-case gift that he can use for insurance purposes, and it's ideal for any rideshare drivers.
$260; $200 at amazon
$260 at vantrue
The Dad Hoodie
Does he suddenly need a spot for a bottle, some baby wipes and 14 pacifiers? And is he really into identifying as a dad? This hoodie takes the the O.G. classic design to another level, featuring a breathable mesh lining with six stretchable internal pockets to store everything that he, or his baby, might need…and it was chosen by TODAY Show as one of the number-one gifts for dads. Just note that the buyers say the hoodie runs small, so if you're choosing between two sizes, get the bigger one.
$135; $115 at the dad hoodie
Tracksmith
Four-way stretch in a pull-up trouser sounds like sweatpants, but the tailored lines of these babies make them look way more acceptable for public appearances. They fit more like relaxed, straight-leg pants with a slight tapering at the ankles. Designed for easy movement, they're perfect for the dad who always wants to look his best and sometimes trades comfort for style to do so. Here, he can have the best of both worlds.
$150 at tracksmith
Gourmet Gift Baskets
If 'I could go for a snack' are six words you often hear Dad say, he'll love this ample gift basket that has a bit of everything to satisfy every craving. Whether he wants sweet, salty, crunchy, creamy or a mix, he'll find it in this overflowing snack lover's dream basket. From kettle corn to candies, cookies to crackers, sausages to cheese, he'll devour it all in no time. And maybe if he's feeling nice, he'll share, too. (I also love that when you order, you have the option to add an 'instant gift notification,' meaning your giftee will get a notice that his present is on the way–perfect if you're a last-minute shopper).
$35 at gourmet gift baskets
Etsy
PureWow's Director of Audience Development Mary D'Alessio gave her dad one of these cutting boards engraved with his mom's recipe for chicken paprikash—in her handwriting. He was so moved he cried, so we'd definitely call this gift a winner. Choose between maple and walnut wood, select your size and send the seller a photo of your recipe. He'll take care of the rest.
from $60 at etsy
Amazon
As the name implies, this weighted drink holder wraps over the arm of your couch for convenient access. Previous buyers say that it's stable and can withstand a slight knock (just in case he happens to elbow it by mistake while raising his arms to cheer for his team or protest a bogus call). He'll have his drink literally at arm's length and you won't have to worry about pesky drink rings and begging him to use a coaster, already!
$25 at Amazon
Amazon
Now that this mega-popular handheld gaming console isn't selling out every other day, you can finally get him one. Pair it with a few games (I recommend Harry Potter Legacy and the classic Mario Party Superstars), and he'll be permanently obsessed. The two controllers are removable for multiplayer games if he wants to let the kids get in on the fun (though you may want to spring for extra controllers that are easier to hold and allow for more players). Play handheld or plug it into a TV for a big screen experience.
$298 at amazon
Amazon
Um, this book has amassed over 42,000 five-star reviews, so I'd say it's worth a read for anyone who is interested in the more emotional side of money. Financial journalist Morgan House shares 19 short narratives that break down how ego, pride and marketing impact how we behave with money. It might have him taking a deeper look at his own relationship with his money, and will definitely provide lots of conversational fodder.
From $20; $11 AT AMAZON
Amazon
These headphones feature industry-leading digital noise cancellation technology and completely block out distracting background noise. The coolest part? It's equipped with personalized spatial audio and dynamic head tracking that adjusts specifically to your exact ear shape and provides theater-like sound for a surround sound experience. Oh, and did I mention that they have up to 20 hours of battery life? Plus, they're wireless so just recharge and go.
$549; $500 at best buy
$549; $449 at Walmart
Mark and Graham
When he's turning the big 6-0 (or any big milestone birthday), a great gift is needed—and there's nothing classier than something monogrammed that he would never get on his own. This stunning weekender bag with a matching toiletry pouch will come in handy as he takes more trips with the time he has on his hands now. Made from canvas with a wax coating that actually looks better the more worn and scratched it is, this puppy comes in khaki, olive, bone, black or slate. The adjustable shoulder strap means he can pick his length and the sturdy material means it can withstand being tossed in the back of a trunk 28 times in a row.
$199 at mark and graham
Garrett Popcorn
Caramel, cheese and classic butter—Dad likes them all! If popcorn is his snack of choice for movies and beyond, he'll appreciate a giant tub of Garretts famous popcorn that has a mix of all three. The popcorn itself is preservative and GMO-free, but the novelty tin will keep it fresh for months (if it lasts that long). I love that you can pick your own tin design and add a personalized note. Just don't be surprised if he devours it—and asks for a refill—the same day you give it to him.
from $35 at garrett popcorn
Amazon
Is Dad always going on about how he hasn't had a good night's sleep since the '90s? If so, he could do with some help. This handy device delivers comforting white noise both at home and on the go (yes, it comes with a travel case). There are three soothing sound (bright white noise, deep white noise and gentle surf) and the option to control the volume, taking it from a whisper-quiet to impressively robust so he can adjust the tone to his liking. It's a good option for relief of tinnitus if he suffers from that, too. 'My husband and I NEED white or brown noise to sleep well,' says one reviewer. 'We have tried many of them, [and] this one has a more like brown noise (low tone fan) and works ALL NIGHT LONG without skips. Also the charge lasted three nights before we charged again. You can also use it plugged in while charging. I would 1000 percent recommend this easily packable small travel sound machine.'
$41; $35 at Amazon
$35 at Yogasleep
Amazon
He's always losing his keys and wallet, and the whole 'leave them by the front door' rule just hasn't worked out. Enter the Tile Life360 Pro. Clip one to his key ring and put another in his wallet and the app will tell him where they are the next time they go missing. He can even use the Tile to ring his phone if he lost that somewhere in the couch cushions. Since there's four in a pack, he can use the others for additional valuables, like his gym bag and travel backpack.
$100; $85 at Amazon
$100 at QVC
Tommy John
Upgrade your dad from those ratty PJs he's been wearing for years. This pair from Tommy John are cooler than your traditional button down plaid pair, and influencers like Jojo Fletcher love them, claiming they're soft enough to feel like a second skin. The slouchy top and fitted bottoms all have pockets (to hold keys as he runs to grab the mail) and the waistband has a secure band to keep everything in place, similar to his favorite boxers.
$136 at tommy john
Amazon
Goodbye, annoying sciatica pain! So long, sore muscles! Introduce your dad to his new best friend, the Theragun massager. Whether he comes home sore after work, playing piggyback with the kids, or pumping iron, he'll appreciate this device, which offers long battery life, three speeds and comes with a soft travel pouch and travel lock so he can even bring it with him to the gym. To use, he'll place it lightly on aching muscles or follow the online videos to know where to target his specific pain.
$210; $179 at Amazon
$210; $179 at Therabody
Amazon
Lucky for Dad, watching The Queen's Gambit and other chess dramas has finally made you just as interested in chess as he always hoped you would be. But maybe his set from the '70s could use an upgrade? This gorgeous wooden chessboard is made from beech and birch wood and features stunning letter algebraic coordinates along the border. Pieces stay sturdy thanks to hornbeam and sycamore wood construction and felted bottoms. It's pretty enough to leave out and will be the perfect way to start his mornings by getting those strategic juices flowing.
$78 at Amazon
L.L.Bean
Fishing rods can easily bend and break, but Dad can securely hold up to four rods in this sleek carrying case. Made of durable waxed cotton canvas, it zips up lengthwise to easily get each fishing rod in and out and measures 33 inches long, so he may have to take apart his longer ones to get them in. The quilted, padded lining protects his gear, and there are two extra pockets to stash hooks and bait. Plus, it's easy to spot clean in case it gets dirty when he's wrestling a 50-pound trout.
$129 at l.l.bean
Compartés
Warning: Dad will devour this ten-piece box of Compartés' delicious chocolate, so good luck trying to get one round in before they're all gone. Known as the 'most decadent chocolate in L.A.,' each piece is made of luxe ganache truffles. One bite and he'll be transported to chocolatey heaven.
$40 at compartés
Amazon
This simple watch from Orient is a sleek option for the guy who doesn't 'do' smartwatches. Its minimalist face shows ticks over numbers, so he can get the time and the day of the month with a quick glance. The real leather band elevates it, and the Japanese-automatic Movement will keep it ticking with no charging required. It's also water-resistant up to 100 feet, though I wouldn't recommend swimming with it. Best of all, it comes in an included gift box, meaning it will arrive gift-ready.
From $150 at Amazon
Uncommon Goods
Dad might have seemingly tried every hot sauce under the sun, convinced he can take the heat. He might even grow his own peppers in the backyard. But what he probably hasn't tried yet is making his own sauce. This kit provides everything he'll need to get creative, including glass bottles and labels, assorted spices and a recipe book. He just needs to add the heat and request that everyone get out of the kitchen. He can even add his own spices to make the best creations, or sprinkle in the granulated onions, dried carrots or chili lime powder included with the purchase.
$40 at uncommon goods
Amazon
Give Dad a few new ones to add to his arsenal of dad jokes with this hilarious novelty-talking button. It contains more than 50 dad-approved dad jokes. When Dad runs out of inspiration, he can press this button and poof! There's a dad joke delivered in the nick of time. It even comes with batteries so he can get started out of the box.
$25; $14 at Amazon
Amazon
Taking to the open road, top-down, wind in his hair is probably a favorite pastime of the car-loving dad. Make sure he's safe with an emergency kit in the trunk that has all the tools he'll need in case of emergency. That includes jumper cables, a nylon tow strap, plastic air pumps, a tire repair kit, a window glass breaker and more. Sure, maybe it's a gift that gives you more peace of mind than him. But if he's ever in a pinch, he'll appreciate having it tucked away in the back.
$90 at Amazon
The 60 Best Gifts for New Dads of 2025 (Other Than the Ability to Sleep In)
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women's walking shoes that won't hurt your feet, we've got you covered.
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Yahoo
24 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Some animals seem to appreciate music. What does that mean for human evolution?
Ronan the sea lion can dance to a lot of different songs, but there is something about 'Boogie Wonderland,' by Earth, Wind and Fire that really gets her going. It didn't take more than a few days for Peter Cook, a marine mammal sciences professor at the New College of Florida, to train Ronan to bop her head to music. Using fish as a reward, he taught her the movement. Then he taught her to move when a metronome played. Over the course of the next two months, he gave her a fish every time she synchronized her head bops to the beat of the music. Once that clicked, she could do it 60 times in a row within a couple of days, he said. Before long, she was able to do this with music recorded live in a studio with natural fluctuations, complex instrumentation and syncopation, meaning different beats were emphasized in different measures, Cook explained. And it wasn't just Earth, Wind and Fire that got her moving, but also the Backstreet Boys and other rock songs. 'Once she understood the task, she seemed to be able to transfer that knowledge over to even complex musical types of stimuli, which do have things like meter,' Cook told Salon in a phone interview. 'The thing is, we're just not sure how she thinks about or understands things like meter, syncopation or anything like that.' Historically, many thought that humans were the only animals that could recognize an external beat and synchronously move to it. But in 2007, Snowball the cockatoo went viral for dancing to the rhythm of the Backstreet Boys. Then, in 2013, Ronan the sea lion similarly acquired world-fame for moving her head rhythmically to the beat of music. These two case studies are part of a growing field of research set on trying to understand which animals have the capacity to be musical, providing clues on how and why music evolved in humans. In 1871, Charles Darwin wrote: "The perception, if not the enjoyment, of musical cadences and of rhythm is probably common to all animals.' Darwin suggests that if music gives us pleasure, it has an evolutionary purpose. And if all animals share a common ancestor, it could be something that is evolutionarily shared. But that isn't easy to investigate. 'We have this problem in studying the origins of musicality … Music doesn't fossilize,' said Henkjan Honing, a professor of Music Cognition at the University of Amsterdam. 'Cross-species work is a way of resolving that problem because the assumption is that if you share a certain trait with a genetically close species, then the common ancestor might also have had that particular skill.' In a way, all animals make rhythms, whether in the form of fireflies flashing, birds chirping or even a tiger pacing back and forth. Some of these rhythms are influenced by pure physiology: Walking, swimming and having a heartbeat are all rhythmic. Yet defining what constitutes music is challenging because it is inherently subjective. Plus, we don't know if animals experience music as music, or if that is our own human experience we are projecting onto them. In one study released last month, eastern and western chimpanzees — which are two different subspecies — were observed in the wild to have distinct drumming patterns. These patterns are short, structured and rhythmic, but they are thought to be used more for communication purposes than for music, said study author Vesta Eleuteri, who studies the evolution of social cognition and communication at the University of Vienna. 'Some chimpanzees drum with isochrony [occurring at the same time], but we didn't find evidence of other core musical rhythms that are present in humans,' Eleuteri told Salon in a video call. Musicality generally implies that animals have control over the rhythm they are making and use it flexibly. One way to determine if an animal is musical is to see if they have the ability to identify a note's pitch in relation to other notes. Another way, which has been studied more, is to see if they are capable of synchronizing to beats in a rhythm, Honing children have been shown to do this before they can walk or talk, though it's unclear whether this ability is learned or innate. Children aren't perfectly synchronized to the beat at younger ages and they improve over time, suggesting that it could be something that is socially learned. On the other hand, one 2009 study found evidence in baby's brains that they were detecting rhythmic patterns as young as seven months old, which could indicate that this ability is already functional at birth. Nevertheless, in a study published in May, Ronan the sea lion was shown to perform better than adult humans when tasked with moving in sync to a beat. Although Ronan doesn't perform this task outside of her training sessions on her own, she does get a fish regardless of whether or not she moves to the music in training sessions, indicating she is voluntarily moving to the beat, Cook said. It's unclear what motivates Ronan to perform this activity, but Cook said sea lions are kind of like the Border Collies of the sea and can quickly learn new tasks. As such, it could have something to do with mastering a task, he explained. 'I think she enjoys the cognitive challenge and the opportunity to sort of master something and then practice that mastery,' he said. 'I just don't know if it's about groove the way it is with humans.' Looking at similarities and differences between our closest living relatives, primates, can provide clues into whether music shares a common ancestral origin. In humans, if we are walking or typing and listening to music, we naturally sync up to the rhythm. In studies conducted by Yuko Hattori, an assistant professor at Kyoto University's Primate Research Institute, chimpanzees were able to synchronize their movement to a variety of rhythms. Similar findings were also reported in another study with a bonobo, in which the bonobo was also able to synchronize its drum beats to a human in the experiment. Movements from primates in these studies are not as precise as humans, but one hypothesis used to explain the origins of music could help explain the differences. It suggests that in humans, our ability to move in time with a beat stems from vocal learning. It could be that humans' ability to refine that beat synchronization evolved along with our vocalization abilities, Hattori said. 'The monkeys are a more distant evolutionary distant species, and so perhaps that there is some gradual development in the course of primate evolution,' Hattori told Salon in a video call. This hypothesis could explain why birds like Snowball and humans can move to a rhythm, although it raises questions about Ronan the sea lion's ability to move to the beat. Sea lions don't naturally adapt their calls to external stimuli in the wild, although seals do, which share an evolutionary root with sea lions more than 20 million years up the ancestral tree. However, it could be that this shared ancestor is related to some degree of vocal learning in sea lions. It's rare to get a brain scan of chimpanzees or sea lions due to ethical reasons, so what is happening neurologically when these animals move to the music is also unknown. However, experiments in birds like the zebra finch help provide some answers as to why this species sings. Although zebra finches sing their own songs and do not move to external rhythms, they do at some point learn those songs from other zebra finches, so there is some degree of learning and internalization related to music. In one 2017 study, Ofer Tchernichovski, who studies animal behavior at Hunter College, and his team set up an experiment in which birds had to get an unpleasant air puff in order to reach a peep hole where they could see a singing bird. What they found was that males were always willing to 'pay' to hear any song, whereas females were only willing to hear the song if they were presented with the song of their mate. When females were presented with the song of her mate, dopamine levels went up. 'The thing is, the females are not very sensitive to songs, so this was exactly the opposite of what we thought,' Tchernichovski told Salon in a video call. 'What we think is that for females, the song is really about sex, whereas for male zebra finches, it's more social.' Another study released earlier this year found dopamine activity increased in young zebra finches when they sang songs that were closer to their eventual adult song versions compared to when they sang songs that deviated further away from them. Other studies have shown male zebra finches 'self-evaluate' their songs when practicing alone with songs they sing better activating the dopamine system more than songs they sing worse. However, when singing for females, their dopamine system is activated by a social response based on the cues they receive from the female. Studies show that the dopamine system in humans is also activated when we listen to music. In one study, people listened to their favorite music while under an fMRI machine. In anticipation of that moment, the dopamine system was activated in the brain. Furthermore, studies have also shown that musical training in adolescence increases empathy and prosocial behaviors. In other words, it brings us together — which we see when we clap to the beat at a concert or sing the lyrics to popular songs. One 2014 study found infants were more likely to help someone if that person rocked them synchronously versus whether they did so out of rhythm. 'One of the theories that is important for the origins of musicality is that it could be a way of social bonding, of increasing the social cohesion of the group,' Honing said. 'You see the same thing with Snowball: He likes to dance when his owner is there … She always dances with him, and that's what the bird likes.' 'Enjoyment is the key,' Honing added. 'If you get pleasure out of something, that means it's important biologically, so it might be an adaptation.'
Yahoo
24 minutes ago
- Yahoo
John Wilkes Booth saga reflects modern US: ‘Mad Men' creator
(NewsNation) — Matthew Weiner, creator of the television series 'Mad Men,' set his sights on Abraham Lincoln assassin John Wilkes Booth in an attempt to understand why people do terrible things. He says the biographical play he wrote, currently in production in Baltimore for a possible Broadway run, raises troubling parallels with today's United States. 'Everything in the play sounds contemporary. Every single argument about North and South, rich and poor, white and Black — every single aspect is going on right now in this country,' Weiner tells 'Elizabeth Vargas Reports.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Yahoo
24 minutes ago
- Yahoo
As Epic Universe draws hype, what's next for Tampa's hometown park?
As Universal Orlando put the finishing touches on its $7 billion new gate, Epic Universe, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay had an announcement too. The Tampa theme park and Adventure Island, its accompanying water park, will spend $40 million to fund a new attraction and restaurant, as well as improvements to other eateries, shade, pathways, restrooms and more. That's an impressive sum of money — until you compare it to what's being spent across Interstate 4, said Robert Niles, founder of Theme Park Insider, an industry publication. Busch Gardens, he said, is going to have to provide what Disney and Universal are not: great deals for locals, who are becoming an increasingly important customer niche. 'It's honestly ridiculous in this industry when you think about it sometimes,' he said. 'Because $40 million is a lot of money. It's just that in the Central Florida theme park industry, $40 million ain't anything anymore. ... If you're in this business and you're saying 'I've got $40 million,' that's like, meh. They found that in the lint trap over at Disney.' Niles said it was easier 10 years ago for Busch Gardens to lure Central Florida visitors. Families might spend a few days at Disney and Universal, then head west for the beach and a pit stop at Busch Gardens, which boasted larger, more thrilling coasters than its Orlando counterparts. But with Epic Universe, Universal aims to become a weeklong destination for tourists, set designers and producers said before its opening last month. Universal is catching up in the coaster department, with new entries Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Stardust Racers. On-site hotel deals and cheaper multi-day tickets are keeping tourists rooted in the park they chose as their primary destination. 'A decade ago, people were saying, 'We're going on vacation to Florida,'' Niles said. 'Now Disney and Universal want a Disney and Universal trip. That's making it really tough on a lot of other attractions around the state that used to be able to ride the coattails.' United Parks & Resorts, Busch Gardens' parent company, also owns SeaWorld Orlando. The company posted a net loss that has deepened since the same time last year in its most recent earnings report. Still, there are reasons to remain optimistic about Busch Gardens, experts said. The park has a new president, Jeff Davis, who wants to tout recent investments and offerings. Wild Oasis, a massive, netted kids' play area that rivals Universal's Islands of Adventure's Camp Jurassic, is expected to open soon. Busch Gardens initially set an opening day of Friday, June 6 for Wild Oasis — just two weeks after Epic Universe launched. But on Thursday, a spokesperson said the opening timeline has been shifted back. It's now unclear when visitors will see the new attraction. Among regional competitors like Six Flags and Dollywood, Busch Gardens looms large, said Carrissa Baker, an attractions and theme parks professor at University of Central Florida. In 2023, Busch Gardens was one of the top 20 most-visited theme parks in the United States, according to the global attractions attendance report, which estimates annual metrics. The parks do not release their own numbers. Busch Gardens netted about 4 million visitors, ranking 13 out of 20, according to the report, just behind SeaWorld Orlando, Knott's Berry Farm in California and Cedar Point in Ohio. Disney and Universal properties in California and Florida dominated the first nine spots. Busch Gardens fulfills an important role in the industry, Baker said. Most can't afford annual visits to Disney or Universal, where one-day tickets can cost more than $200 per person. A one-day ticket for a weekend day in June would run a Busch Gardens visitor about $75. Locals can buy a 'fun card,' which offers unlimited visits through 2025, for the same price. Sweet deals for locals are common among regional parks, Baker said. The goal with those kinds of discounts is to get more money out of local attendees for parking, merchandise and food, Niles said. The strategy works when locals are willing to pull out their wallets each visit — but it falters if residents bring food from home or park off-site. Higher admission prices at Disney and Universal help them avoid relying on in-park spending. Davis, the new park president, said he's not agonizing over the parks owned by corporate behemoths down the road. 'There's always competition,' Davis said, noting that it's not just from other theme parks but from attractions like the beaches. 'I think the parks that are successful are focusing on themselves.' But regional parks are locked in a vicious battle over Universal's and Disney's scraps, Niles said. Cedar Point merged with Six Flags last year, and the company is cutting costs by eliminating individual park presidents. Last week, Herschend, owner of Tennessee's Dollywood, acquired Palace Entertainment, upping its portfolio to 49 parks. Universal and Disney properties all attract at least twice as many visitors as the country's smaller parks. As international travel dips amid global economic uncertainty, the two giants may more aggressively target domestic visitors who would otherwise stick with regional parks, Niles said. 'What we're really heading toward is a further widening of the split between the winners and everybody else,' he said. 'Disney and Universal are gonna get theirs. They're investing huge amounts of money. ... It's everybody else that is now fighting, more viciously than I've seen in a generation, over the rest of the industry.' So what can Busch Gardens do to stay ahead of the curve? Wild Oasis is a good start. New attractions tend to inflate attendance numbers for at least six months, Baker said. And enticing the family demographic is key, she said. Busch Gardens' zoo component, plus new additions this summer of capybaras, a giant anteater and squirrel monkeys, already give it a leg up. Families 'spend more money,' Baker said. 'They form relationships with the park. That means generationally, they come back again and again.' Counter-marketing the hype surrounding Epic Universe could also help, Niles said. Busch Gardens could try playing into the sibling rivalry between Tampa and Orlando. What some forget, Visit Tampa Bay CEO Santiago Corrada said, is that Busch Gardens predates Universal and Disney. Twelve years ago, Busch Gardens was Tampa's premier attraction. Now downtown developments like Water Street and the Tampa Riverwalk give visitors more options. But Tampa owes a debt to its theme park, which put a once sleepy city on the map, Corrada said. 'I assure you, I will be at Wild Oasis before I go to Epic Universe,' he said.