Mother’s Day is approaching on May 14, and whether the mom in your life prefers brunch or time outdoors, we’ve got you covered with ideas to make the special mom in your life feel loved.
Trek Along the James River
For outdoorsy Moms who love to explore, a hike along the James River is the perfect way to spend Mother’s Day. With little ones in tow, I suggest Belle Isle or Pony Pasture, both of which are all-terrain stroller-friendly. For a lesser-known, not stroller-friendly trail, try The North Bank trail, which offers beautiful views of the Richmond city skyline.
Get Creative Together
Is your Mama a fan of Matisse? If so, take your creative Mom to Art Factory Play Cafe & Party Place. On Mother’s Day, Art Factory is offering a Family Fun Creative Canvas Class, where you can paint a canvas together in a casual atmosphere.
Wine & Design is also hosting multiple Mother’s Day events, including Open Studio, where you can choose what to paint on a pre-sketched canvas, or choose to paint an Eiffel Tower, following step by step instructions from an RVA artist.
Another venue to get creative with Mom is Muse Paint Bar. No experience is required as you paint watercolor inspired bouquet.
Celebrate at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden makes for a picturesque and accessible Mother’s Day! Not only is it beautiful, but the paved walkways make this a safe outing for those with mobility issues, as well as little ones in strollers.
While walking through the gardens, don’t miss Incanto: An Oasis of Lyrical Sculpture, a new exhibit, featuring five scupltures created solely for Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Another don’t miss is M&T Bank Butterflies LIVE! in the Conservatory’s North Wing.
Stroll and Picnic at Agecroft Hall & Gardens
Pack a picnic, blanket, and chairs and head to the exquisite Agecroft Hall & Gardens. Spend the afternoon traipsing around the gardens and grounds for free. Then, from 6:00-7:30 PM, enjoy a free Mother’s Day Concert, by the Richmond Concert Band.
Discover one of Richmond’s Museums
There are so many museums to explore in RVA. My favorite for Moms with young children through teens in tow: Science Museum of Virginia. Lots of opportunities for hands-on learning, plus the DOME theater, where she can put her feet up while watching a movie! (Don’t miss the SMV’s current exhibit: Playing with Light!)
If your Mom appreciates art, then Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is an excellent choice. Peruse the galleries and then grab a treat from the cafe to enjoy in the The E. Claiborne and Lora Robins Sculpture Garden.
Lastly, for the history buffs, consider Virginia Museum of History and Culture, where moms get free admission on Mother’s Day!
Spoil Her at Home for Free
Don’t forget – the most meaningful Mother’s Day doesn’t necessarily have to include an exciting outing. Breakfast in bed and handmade cards are memorable gestures to show your love and appreciation for all Mom does.
Part of my family’s Mother’s Day tradition includes my musically inclined daughter playing a piano piece for me, while I watch a photo slideshow my husband puts together. Other simple, free ideas: make a bouquet out of flowers in your yard, write a story about Mom, or make an easy, DIY no-sew blanket.
However you choose to celebrate the significant motherly figures in your life this year, be sure to honor her in a way that displays your love and admiration for all she does.
