How to Plan a Memorable Mother’s Day Outing

Sometimes, the gift that mom will appreciate the most is getting out of the house and doing something fun! What’s considered “fun” will certainly vary from mom to mom, however, here are some ideas to get you thinking about what would work for your Mom.

Following are some tips and ideas on how to plan a Mother’s Day outing:

Remember, It is Mom’s Day

It’s considered bad form to use Mother’s Day as an excuse to go somewhere you or the kids have always wanted to go. This is Mom’s day, so even if she wants to go to an art museum that everyone else thinks is boring, then you take her anyway!

Museums

Speaking of museums, some moms long for time to spend looking at artifacts, artwork, history displays, and so forth without constant interruption. To plan a museum outing where Mom can enjoy herself, make sure you have plans to keep the kids occupied if they get bored. For example, try to choose a museum with kid-friendly exhibits where they can play while Mom browses in the adult areas.

Picnic

Nothing says “Mother’s Day” quite like an old-fashioned picnic. Still, Mom usually is the one who plans the menu and packs the food, so for you to do this for Mom will take some planning. Here are some tips.

* You need a basket to pack everything and of course a blanket to sit on! If you do not already have a pack (which includes plates, cups, basket and everything you need) it is worth investing in one. This Supreme Picnic Backpack is great option!

* Finger foods are the easiest for picnics. Sandwiches, cut up veggies with dips, fruits such as grapes, strawberries (in a container so they do not get squashed) etc.

Work on picnic-friendly versions of her favorite foods (if one of her favorite foods is picnic food, like fried chicken, then you’ve got it fairly easy in this regard!). For instance, if she loves vegetable soup and it is not practical to haul a huge pot of it to the site, then fix individual servings of soup in sealed glass containers or thermoses. Keep them hot with an insulated carrying case. Or if she loves roast beef, try roast beef sandwiches rather than hauling a big carved roast.

* Have games for the kids so mom can relax if she wants to. If she is the type who likes to be active, then plan a hike for after you eat.

* Take flowers or pick a wildflower bouquet to make it extra special.

* Take a bottle of champagne or her favorite wine along. Remember the wine opener!

* Include a special dessert to make mom feel really spoiled.

Day Trips

Day trips offer a lot of the “getaway” aspects of vacations, but without the hassle and expense of a week-long or even weekend-long holiday.

* Do all the planning so she doesn’t have to. You will want her input as to where you want to go, but make sure she doesn’t have to do all the logistics.

* Plan to pick up dinner or eat out at the end of the trip when it’s time to come home. The last thing you want to do is stick mom with fixing dinner right after you get home!

* Day trips can include historic sites, hiking or day-camping, canoeing, or just driving and sightseeing.

Pampering 

If she loves pampering, treat her to a well deserved spa outing. Either give her a day out to a spa with a friend or the two of you can go together. Include a massage, pedicure or whatever she likes and will make her feel good, relaxed and special.

Bike Ride

This Mother’s Day activity is all about the outdoors. Whether you find a special trail or you take a spin around the neighborhood, the whole family will enjoy the weather and each other’s company.

Go to the Movies

If your mom is a movie buff and has not had the chance to go recently, a movie outing is just the thing! Just make sure you chose a movie she is really wanting to see.

Backyard Party

Mother’s Day weekend falls at the perfect time of year to hold an outdoor gathering. If the weather cooperates, gather the family for a multi-generational backyard garden party. No matter who is there to celebrate, nothing can beat quality time spend outdoors among freshly bloomed flowers.

For the Passionate Gardener

Take mom on an outing to a nursery near you, and then spend the day potting, planting, and pruning floral beauties in her garden. 

For the Adventurer

With spring at its peak, Mother’s Day is the perfect time to enjoy a day of hiking, kayaking, or cycling with mom. 

For the Shopper

Treat mom to some retail therapy in a primo shopping district near you.