The Best Gifts for Grandfathers

There’s only so many Argyle socks and fun ties you can gift your granddad before the sentiment wears. To help find the perfect gift for granddad this Father’s Day, I spoke to Celebrate Father’s Day with these thoughtful presents grandparents (including ones who’ve written books and blogs on grandparenting) and a couple of thoughtful grandkids for their suggestions. I also sifted through the Strategist’s archives (including our senior survey) and handpicked additional gifts to make sure we cover every type of grandpa, from the outdoorsman to the grill enthusiast. And, if you’re shopping for Dad, be sure to check out our Father’s Day gift hub.

Americanflat 10×12.5 Kids Artwork Picture Frame – Black
For the grandpa who hoards artwork from the grandkids. It can store up to 50 pieces, comes with matting, and is a good size.

‘A Love Journal: 100 Things I Love about Grandpa’ by Manny Oliverez

This fill in the blank-style journal contains simple but creative prompts that grandfathers and their grandchildren can complete together over time. Older grandkids could also complete the exercises solo, then gift an already completed book of love notes for their grandfather to read and enjoy.

‘Letters to My Grandchild: Write Now. Read Later. Treasure Forever.’

Compile and hold on to Grandpa’s own writing in this book. It comes with 12 prompted “letters” for him to fill out, complete with envelopes and stickers for the full effect.

Toysmith Beetle & Bee Build a Bird Bungalow

Birder or not, Grandpa will enjoy a project he and the grandkids can assemble together.

‘Sparrow Envy,’ by J. Drew Lanham

And if he is an avid birder, he’ll enjoy thumbing through author, poet, and wildlife biologist J. Drew Lanham’s first collection of poems, Sparrow Envy.

‘How to Babysit a Grandpa,’ by Jean Reagan

This silly book includes tips on “babysitting” a grandpa, like what to eat for snacks and what to do on a walk. It’s the perfect for him and younger grandkids to read aloud together.

‘Being a Proactive Grandfather: How to Make a Difference,’ by Richard Eyre

DeeDee Moore, the founder of the grandparenting blog More Than Grand, likes gifting Richard Eyre’s book to new grandfathers. “It’s an excellent gift for those grandfathers who want ideas to help shape their role as grandpa or who need a little help getting outside their comfort zone,” Moore says.

CB’s Nuts Jumbo In-Shell Peanuts

Upgrade his snack stockpile with these fancy peanuts. They taste like high-quality peanut butter and have a long shelf life.

Kneipp Herbal Bath Oil

Or, elevate his next at-home soak with this “therapeutic” bath oil recommended to us by Lou Diamond Phillips. It’s made by a priest-cum-holistic doctor and will turn the bath into a restorative oasis.

Tryone Gooseneck Mount Holder

Whether he’s streaming videos on his phone or tablet, this gooseneck mount holder will let him set up in any room of his home with ease.

Pro-Tec Spiky Massage Ball
This massage ball is a perfect stocking stuffer if he complains about sore feet. It’s designed to knead out pain after runs, bike rides, or simply sitting around.

Body Back Buddy Classic Trigger-Point Massage Tool

And if it’s his back that’s achy, gift him this hook-shaped massager designed for kneading out hard-to-reach spots.

W&P Microwave Silicone Personal Popcorn Popper
This convenient, collapsible silicone popcorn maker slash bowl would make an excellent gift for the grandpa who’s into cinema.

Bombas Men’s Everyday Compression Socks (15-20mmHg)
A pair of nice-looking compression socks Granddad will actually be excited about.

Ticket to Ride

Board games came up with multiple grandparents who said they’re a fun gift that encourages family time. Go with Ticket to Ride, an easily accessible game for multiple players that’s also strategic enough to play over and over again.

Fire Sense Large Yakatori Charcoal Grill

Grandfather Manny Oliverez told us his grill was one of the best gifts he’s received, because “what is better than being together grilling and eating with friends, family, and the grandkids?” We like this large yakitori, which can easily hold a couple of steaks.

Artisan Griller Insulated Cooking Gloves

A set of pit gloves will keep him from scalding his fingers. These are coated with neoprene rubber and “designed for true-blue barbecuers who have to handle hot meat on the smoker — that means they’re waterproof, stainproof, and, most important, greaseproof.