I find experiences and making memorable moments are far more valuable than gifts. Ideally, it would be nice to get a little sparkle however at this point in my life I value time and experiences with my loved ones which leads to great memories.
It does not take much effort to order stuff online. Scheduling a weekend getaway or a day outing really shows your someone that they matter. Don’t get me wrong, gifts are wonderful but sometimes the effort is more meaningful which is why I prefer a Mother’s Day Outing.
That said, if my children read this I will not be offended if they do both. Honestly, my daughter is in college and my son is 14. I do not expect them to afford gifts however they can gift their time and thoughts.
This guide will provide you with some gift activities for Mother’s Day. Several of the ideas are completely free or low cost; some are a little on the posh side. There is a little something for all budgets.
May your Mother’s Day be filled with happiness and love because you deserve it!!!!
Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge:
I recommend making this an early evening activity so you can miss the heavy traffic
Stop and grab a slice of pizza, ice cream or ride on the carousel on the Dumbo Side
Stop by for a Shirley Temple or Cocktail at Hotel 1
Enjoy a sandwich with your kids when relaxing on the greenery.
Use this opportunity to guilt your kids into a photo shoot!
Hike
Check out https://www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/hikingtrails The link will provide you with an abundance of different options based on length and difficulty. Pack a backpack cooler with some sandwiches and water so you can enjoy a lunch at the summit.
Broadway:
Order some reasonable Broadway tickets using TDF , Plum Benefits or TodaysTix . Plum Benefits is a free subscription, just enter your work email and you are set. In the past, I have seen several amazing plays for as little as $25 using the Rush system. You can read more about how to score Rush tickets here …http://www.playbill.com/article/broadway-rush-lottery-and-standing-room-only-policies-com-116003
Central Park
Below is a list of activities however Central Park has so much to offer and this list is just a snapshot of ideas.
- Take your mom for a bike ride
- Picnic- Get her favorite sandwich and enjoy the greenery
- Enjoy the greenery
- Go on the Carousel
- Tour Shakespeare’s Castle
- Tour the zoo
High Tea
- I prefer Tea across the pond however if you are unable to travel to London, The Pierre hosts a very nice tea service.
- https://hightea.com/afternoon-tea-at-the-waldorf-astoria-new-york-city
- The Waldorf is a luxury hotel that embodies New York, it’s a landmark luxury hotel, but it’s steeped in so much history that it’s difficult to talk about New York without mentioning the Waldorf.
You can enjoy this majestical getaway just for a day trip or you can spend the night. The Mohonk offers day passes for hiking or you can reserve a lunch. However, if you spend a night or two you can enjoy in all. Be sure to do your research – apparently, Stephen King was inspired to write The Shining after many stays. I have befriended the hotel workers and they spilled the tea on his room, haunting and urban legends. Despite the possible haunting, this is an amazing place that you will definitely return to. Below is the link…https://www.mohonk.com/?nck=gbbtri&gclid=Cj0KCQjwn8_mBRCLARIsAKxi0GJ1keSZSx1WlmuMqPh0Awff_CAZ_2h_4CxdVu6sA5WgL17WzC6q9WgaApdkEALw_wcB
Roof Tops Escapes
1 Hotel, Dumbo Brooklyn offers a stunning view of NYC and cocktails! What’s not to like. I believe there is a cover charge however it is worth the views. Below you will find a link for more information
The Rainbow Room Bar 65 is a gem of a rooftop. You can make reservations on Open Table and you’re set. You can sit at a small cocktail table, order little bites and enjoy the view. They have an outdoor terrace with better views!
Beach
Rockaway Beach and Riis Park offer amazing beaches. I suggest you bring a cooler with food because the concessions do not open until Memorial Day.There are some restaurants however you will have to strategically pick your beach order to be in walking distance to them. Enjoy the Ferry ride to and from the City (they have a snack bar onboard). No car rental is needed because they offer a free shuttle. Just bring a blanket, pack a lunch and ferry fee. You can explore around town on rented bikes too!
Mother’s Day is an opportunity to let your Mom know she is valued. This list is just a sampling of the many opportunities you can show your Mom that she matters. If you take time out of your day, I am certain any Mom would love just meaningful time with her!!!! No gift is necessary just your time is.
May you have a wonderful Mother’s Day. Please feel free to comment on what you are doing for Mother’s Day. I am always on the hunt for new ideas and would love to share yours!