Comf bike for around town

looking to buy my 70 yr old father a bike for riding in town (on sidewalks, roads...not trails). Trying to figure out a good option between the big box store bikes that don't seem great and spending 500 bucks at the bike store.  Any ideas?

No specific recos, but I wouldn't rule out buying a used bike from Swap SOMa or Craigslist. Some retail bike shops sell used bikes that they have tuned up. Fit is important, not just height, but also type of handlebar, its distance from the seat etc.

One thing that can add to comfort as a shock-absorber is having carbon forks on the front wheel. But those are pricey new - so a used, older model with a great tune-up might be a better deal.

If you decide on a new bike, for a few bucks more consider the Trek Verve. It's designed for comfort. Padded seat with suspension and adjustable handlebars that keep the rider in an upright position. 

I test rode one and was very impressed. It's highly rated. Solid build. Wide tires for added stability.

https://www.trekbikes.com/us/e...

You might want to check out a used Electra "Townie"...the 7 speed model.  Unfortunately, a new one goes for about $500 - which is more than you want to spend - but you might be able to find a used one for less. They really are quite nice and are especially designed for less-steady riders due to offset pedals that allow the rider to place  his/her feet on the ground when they stop.    http://www.electrabike.com/bik...

my better half has the verve 2.  she loves it.

I have always heard it is illegal to ride on sidewalks....all it takes is one grump calling the cops.  If he was going slow and careful, unlikely the cops would care unless a complaint was made.  I used to have a neighbor who happened to be the mother of the police captain in that town that would not let young children ride past her house on the sidewalk..even on a tricycle.

It's illegal to ride on sidewalks because it's dangerous. It may feel safe, but if you are moving at bicycle speeds, drivers going into and out of driveways and in intersections do not look for you. There are more collisions riding on the sidewalk than from riding in the road.

A used bike is a good value, especially if you have it fixed up right by a bike mechanic. Craigslist is full of all styles of bikes.

bikes don't belong on sidewalks. If he's too inexperienced or shaky for the street, he should go to parks with bike paths, not sidewalks 

In 2004, I saw the Giant Revive at an event in Athens. The Dutch were riding these beautiful semi recumbents. I bought one and truly enjoy it for around town. Its easy to get on and off, the center of gravity is low, meaning it doesn't tip over while riding. and its super adjustable. Comfy seat and back support.

Not sure it is so perfect on hills but it has a wide gear range and while Im younger than 70, never had any problems with it. I did a quick google of the model and it appears to still be for sale in some places.  http://www.roadbikereview.com/...

Those suggestions are good.

You could also take a standard old mountain bike and adapt it with tires appropriate for the terrain and handlebars set to the ideal height. There are various saddles you can get with gel inside or springs underneath to take the shock out of riding. Really, nearly anything will do if you're willing to have a mechanic accessorize it for you, and you can spend less than $500 this way.