Mother’s Day 2026 will be celebrated across the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries on Sunday, May 10. Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, and has been since 1914, when President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation establishing the day as a national holiday.
There are plenty of ways to celebrate mothers, grandmothers, and stepmothers, including with gifts and celebrations. However, gift givers also may want to trade wrapped presents for a shared experience. Consider day trips or overnight excursions as options for treating Mom to something special. Here are some day trips that can make lasting memories.
Wine country: For moms who love wine, a visit to a nearby vineyard is an elegant way to celebrate. However, there’s also the option to travel to historically popular and well-regarded wine regions, such as Napa Valley, Sonoma County or Willamette Valley in the western United States. An even more epic adventure can be a trip to key regions in Europe like Bordeaux, France, Tuscany, Italy, or Rioja, Spain.
Historic sites: Moms who are history buffs can travel to areas of the country that are known for their historical significance. Boston, with its hop-on-hop-off trolley tours, provides an up-close look at sites that shaped the American Revolution. Williamsburg, Virginia, and nearby Jamestown also offer a historical touch. Colonial Williamsburg is a living-history museum where actors in period costume depict daily Colonial life. At Jamestown, walk in the steps of Captain John Smith and Pocahontas and explore a unique locale in American history.
Peace in nature: Some mothers find that nature is their happy place. A garden tour or a visit to the nearest botanical garden is a great choice. Many beautiful flowers peak in early May, including late tulips, lilacs and azaleas. Roses also may start budding around this time. Butchart Gardens in Canada is a 55-acre National Historic Site known for its Sunken Garden, and can be a lovely spot to tour. Another option is the Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, which boasts formal gardens, meadows and large indoor conservatories.
Coastal escape: When treating Mom to some “vitamin sea,” a day trip to the coast cannot be beat. A walk on the sand certainly can be a winning choice, but activities like a Mother’s Day brunch cruise on a riverboat or ferry can elevate the excursion.
