Mother’s Day is around the corner and what better way to celebrate than with a vacation that builds the bond between mom and kids? Whether you’re reading this as a mom or as a grown child thinking about taking your mom on vacation, we’ve got you covered.
It can be hard deciding where you want to go when traveling with family, trying to find a destination that will ensure everyone involved has something to see and do. So to inspire your next group getaway, we’ve come up with our picks for the best places to travel with mom – at any age or any stage.
Mom and young kids
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
While kids of all ages will find something to do in sunny Myrtle Beach, this is a particularly ideal destination for moms with younger kids. Nearly 62 miles of beaches mean plenty of opportunities to play in the sand, swim or toss a Frisbee around as a family. Beyond beach-hopping, Myrtle Beach is home to plenty of other activities well suited to younger kids. Check out the oceanfront amusement park Family Kingdom, which offers over 30 rides and a water park, play a game of mini golf at one of the city’s many courses or take a ride on the SkyWheel, a massive ferris wheel on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Nassau, Paradise Island, The Bahamas
Nassau, Paradise Island, is another great getaway spot for moms and younger kids. White sand beaches are an obvious draw for sun-loving families, but there’s more to this sunny spot than the chance to build a sandcastle. Explore downtown Nassau, making sure to check out the interactive Pirates of Nassau Museum, where kids can learn about pirates aboard a replica pirate ship. Next up, pay a visit to Aquaventure where you’ll find 20 different swimming areas (including three kids pools), water slides and all sorts of other water-soaked fun. Any budding history buffs will also get a kick out of Nassau’s forts like Fort Charlotte and Fort Montagu.
Mom and teenage kids
Belize
Compact, easy to travel around and filled with opportunities for eco-adventure, Belize is a worthwhile destination anytime, but for moms traveling with teens, it’s particularly perfect. Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest in the world, so heading underwater is a must for anyone interested in spotting some of the most colorful fish you’ll ever see. On land, you can spend your time visiting the country’s many wildlife sanctuaries, ancient Mayan ruins (the largest number of ancient Mayan ruins of any country in Central America), national parks (for jungle hiking and zip lining) and Cayo District caves (for river tubing).
Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
Well known as a fantastic ski and snowboard destination, Whistler is actually packed with things to see and do no matter the time of year you visit. In winter, of course, there are the aforementioned snow sports, but if you need a break from hitting the slopes, there’s snow tubing, winter zip lining and snowmobile tours. Any time of year, you can hop on the longest and highest lift in the world, the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. In the summer, moms and teens can explore over 30 miles of alpine hiking trails, do some mountain biking or relax at the beautiful Scandinave Spa.
Mom and twenty-something kids
Barcelona, Spain
Looking for a place filled to the brim with things to do and see? Barcelona has it all: stunning architecture, rich culture, amazing food and wine, beaches and a variety of neighborhoods, each with their own flavor and personality. Wander the Picasso Museum or the National Museum of Catalan Art, people-watch along Las Ramblas, shop and snack your way through La Boqueria and be wowed by Gaudi’s architecture with a peek at Park Güell and La Pedrera.
Portland, Oregon, United States
Are you and Mom foodies? How about craft beer drinkers? Hikers? No matter – you’ll find more than enough to keep you busy in Portland. Let’s start with the beer: Portland has over 70 breweries – more than any other city in the world – so there’s plenty of chances to sip your way through some seriously good beer. Outdoor enthusiasts will want to head to Forest Park with its 70 miles of trails, foodies will want to dive into the city’s acclaimed culinary scene (or eat at one of Portland’s over 600 food carts) and art lovers can browse the Portland Art Museum.
Mom and adult kids
Mexico City, Mexico
If you and Mom have already been to the Mayan Riviera, you might be ready to see a fresh side of Mexico. If you’re in search of a destination that offers the perfect blend of history, culture, shopping, art and food, look no further than Mexico City. Explore the floating city of Xochimilco, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, wander the 10-acre Historic Center of Mexico City with its cathedral and massive public square and take some time to visit a few of the city’s many museums and galleries.
Cape Town, South Africa
If ever there was a time for a big bonding trip, this is it. And Cape Town is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for an epic vacation. The city is home to Table Mountain, which you can opt to hike up or take a cable car to reach the summit. The views over the city are well worth the trip no matter how you get there. You’ll also want to make time for the picturesque V & A Waterfront for restaurants, cafes, bars, shops and markets. Beaches are also a huge draw in Cape Town (check out Boulders Beach, just outside of town, for a chance to see penguins), as is the Old Biscuit Mill for shopping local, artisanal souvenirs and snacks. And if you really want to do it up, combine a visit to Cape Town with a weekend safari in Kruger National Park.
Mom in her golden years
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs might have a reputation as a top golfing spot, but there’s plenty more to see here. Easy to explore on foot at whatever pace you’re moving, Palm Springs is experiencing a culinary boom thanks to some innovative chefs, so foodies can get their fill. Fans of mid-century modern architecture will want to take a tour of the many architectural gems around the city, while anyone who just wants to get a real feel for the city’s natural beauty should take in the epic views from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
Curacao
While it’s not on everyone’s Caribbean destination radar, tiny Curacao is a beautiful spot off the coast of Venezuela packed with charm and European flavor. If you want to spend some quality time on the sand, there are many beautiful beaches in Curacao. When you need a break from the surf, head straight for the UNESCO-recognized capital of Willemstad, with its pastel-hued heritage homes, lively waterfront and quaint cobblestone streets made for aimless exploring.
Featured image: PamelaJoeMcFarlane
