It’s a day that only comes once a year, and every mom deserves to be recognized for the daily hard work that goes into being a mother. Make this Mother’s Day memorable by making a plan geared toward that special lady’s interest and hobbies.
From boats to brunch to books, here are some of the best places and ways to treat mom.
For the outdoorsy mom
Spirit of Chicago
600 E. Grand Ave.
Get out on the water with the whole family and set sail on the Spirit of Chicago’s Mother’s Day Cruises on Lake Michigan. With stunning views of the city as your backdrop and fresh air in abundance, the cruise includes a buffet, DJ, dancing and activities. Each mom will be treated to spring flowers and complimentary champagne or mimosa. There are three cruise times to choose from. $59.90-$79.90 adults.
For the risk-taker mom
Arlington Park
2200 W. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights
Place your bets and get off to the races at Arlington Park Race Track. On Mother’s Day, the first 5,000 moms to arrive will receive a free rose, presented by one of Arlington’s jockeys dressed in racing silks. Bust out the derby-style hats, grab a mimosa and bring the whole family for fun at the Junior Jockey Zone, plus Sundays are family day with pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting and many more activities.
For the chocolate lover mom
Geja’s Café
340 W. Armitage, Chicago
Let mama kick back and indulge herself at Geja’s Café in Lincoln Park with delicious chocolate fondue, complimentary champagne and pampering. On Mother’s Day, Geja’s treats all moms to a complimentary five-minute massage from Lincoln Park Massage Spa. Not much is better than chocolate, champagne and a little relaxation, especially all at the same time!
For the athletic mom
Susan G. Koman Race for the Cure
Lace up those gym shoes and get involved as a family in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, held on Mother’s Day starting in Grant Park in downtown Chicago. With options for a 10K run, 5K run, 5K walk and 1-mile walk, register as a family or help get involved in fundraising or volunteering on the day of the event. Considering 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, Mother’s Day is a great day to make a difference.
For the adventurous mom
Chicago Aerial Tours
6150 S. Laramie Ave., Chicago
Take to the sky this Mother’s Day to treat mom to a view she won’t easily forget. Chicago Aerial Tours offers helicopter and private airplane rides for scenic and close-up flights around downtown Chicago. Tours are available both day and night and depart from the executive terminal at Midway Airport. $197 per person helicopter, $97 per person airplane.
For the bookworm mom
A Letter to My Mom
Sometimes all mom really wants is some peace, quiet and time to herself. Give her the gift of appreciation with A Letter to My Mom, a series created by Lisa Erspamer. The sweet book is filled with letters from celebrities and civilians writing notes of gratitude and admiration to the women who raised them. Take the time to also include your own personal note of gratitude to your own mother, alongside letters from celebrities such as Melissa Rivers, Shania Twain, will.i.am, Christy Turlington and Kristin Chenoweth.
For the artsy mom
Art Institute of Chicago and Terzo Piano
111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago
Spend the day with mom soaking up culture, art and decadent food as you explore the Art Institute of Chicago and then eat at Terzo Piano, on the third level of the Modern Wing. Award-winning chef Tony Mantuano will create a special brunch menu 11 a.m.-3 p.m. featuring local, organic and sustainably produced ingredients to delight moms. Reservations are not required, but are strongly recommended. $85 adults, $25 kids 12 and under.
