Father's Day gift guide (beyond the basic tie)

For the dad who loves red meat

Burger tour of Buffalo

Plenty of men appreciate the finer things in life, but when it comes down to it, most seem equally satisfied by a truly good burger. Create a burger tour of Buffalo with a collection gift certificates to the best spots in town: $10 or $20 gift certificates to each place will do the trick!

We recommend:

• Juicy Burger Bar, 1 Buffalo St., Hamburg
• Vizzi’s, 967 Kenmore Ave., Kenmore
• Grovers Bar & Grill, 9160 Transit Road, East Amherst
• Allen Burger Venture, 175 Allen St., Buffalo
• Roost, 1502 Niagara St., Buffalo
• Griffon Gastropub – locations in East Aurora, Williamsville and Niagara Falls

For the dad who needs a tech upgrade

The Seal Tablet

A tablet that’s locally manufactured? Oh yes. It’ll cost a bit more than a necktie, but the Seal Tablet is a great option for dad — especially if he’s on the rough-and-tumble side. The water-resistant, dustproof and drop-resistant tablet is made in Buffalo by socially conscious Bak USA, founded by Danish immigrants in 2015. The company’s vision is to make mobile technologies accessible to every human being on earth – while empowering underserved local communities – so you can feel extra good about your purchase.

Available at: Microsoft Store, Walden Galleria or at Bakusa.com; $699-$979

For the reader (who loves beer)

Buffalo Beer: The History of Brewing in the Nickel City

It’s no secret that Buffalonians adore their craft beer. But the area’s brew culture is steeped in a colorful past, and a historian and brewer join forces to tell the tale in this book. Not only is this a gift your dad will love, you’ll also support two native Buffalonian authors: Michael F. Rizzo (known for his writing career, preservation work, speaking engagements, and as owner of Naked Buffalo Tours) and Ethan Andrew Cox (avid brewer and president of Community Beer Works).

Available at: Talking Leaves Bookstore, 951 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo; $19.99

For sports-loving (and hating) dads

Buffalo Braves T-shirt and “What it’s like to be a Buffalo Sports Fan” Coloring Book

Does dad still mourn the loss of the Buffalo Braves basketball franchise? Honor his ’70s memories with this T-shirt, while appealing to his sense of humor with author Greg Bauch’s hilarious take on the agonies of being a Buffalo sports fan. Don’t forget the colored pencils!

Available at: Store716.com

Shirt: $19.95. Coloring book: $12.95

For nerdy dads

Lessons at the American Force Academy

Dad a Star Wars fan? At the American Force Academy, he can learn martial arts while incorporating fighting techniques like Western fencing, Asian weapon arts and European longsword fighting. The studio starts off with a wooden weapon that can later be replaced with — yes — a custom lightsaber.

$80 per month for classes and $80-$800 for a custom lightsaber

525 Wheatfield St, North Tonawanda

For thrill-seeking dads

Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour

If dad loves adventure and the water, a jet boat ride may be the perfect bonding experience for you both. The high-speed boat takes you up the Niagara River, from calm waters towards class 5 rapids, so prepare for a wet ride. (The front row can be a little intense, but as you head towards the back, you won’t get hit as hard.) Register in advance and plan to arrive 45 minutes before your scheduled ride – and be sure to bring a change of clothes and a towel. Make a day of it with hot dogs and fries at the Silo, a charming waterfront spot in Lewiston a short walk away.

115 S Water St, Lewiston

Adults: $63; Children 12 and under: $45