Waukesha dads, get ready for what could be a pretty pricy gift this Father’s Day.

The National Retail Federation says 2012 Father’s Day spending is expected to be up 10 percent over last year, with the average person spending $117. Total spending nationally is expected to reach $12.7 billion, meaning consumers are ready to spend more this Father’s Day than ever before.

The top items people will be buying dad this year are:

• Special Outings (golf, dinner, etc.) - $2.3 billion
• Electronics - $1.7 billion
• Apparel - $1.7 billion
• Gift cards - $1.7 billion
• Books or music - $645 million
• Sporting goods $641 million

And local department stores like Kohl’s are expecting to rake in the dough on Father’s Day. According to the NRF survey, four in 10 people say they’ll be looking for Dad’s gift there.

Others say they’ll be looking at discount stores or specialty stores like the Little Swiss Clock Shop, which has a good selection of watches, timepieces and clocks Dad might like.

"It should come as no surprise that dads are considerably more laid back when it comes to their special day, opting most times to simply spend quality time with loved ones at a restaurant or at home in the backyard,"  said the survey's Consumer Insights Director Pam Goodfellow. "But this Father's Day it's evident that consumers want to thank dad for the support and undivided attention he provides throughout the year."

Can't find the perfect tie or lawnmower for Dad? Here are a few gift ideas to from downtown Waukesha:

• The New Man Project, 519 W. Wisconsin Ave., resale shop which offers a selection of tools, camping gear and other 'male-oriented' items;
• A cigar from Nice Ash;
• A look Behind the Vaults: Treasures from the County Museum Collection, the current exhibit at the Waukesha County Museum and Historical Society;
• For trendy dads, maybe a tatto from Waukesha Tattoo Company @ Galleria Edge;
• A record (yes, vinyl) of dad's favorite band from Music Records and Collectibles, 801 Clinton St.;
• Art & Framing 1-2-3;
• Something from the Farmer's Market; or
• A gift certificate for roof-top dining at People's Park or for any of the other downtown restaurants or shops.