17 Fun Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in NYC

Everyone wants to plan a memorable day for their mother on Mother’s Day. With this special day just around the corner —Sunday, May 121th — we must start planning! So, I’ve come up with the 17 best things to do in NYC for Mother’s Day to help you stress less and plan an amazing day together. I believe our mothers should be celebrated to the fullest, and I hope this helps you and Mom have the best day!

Go on Sunset Sail with Classic Harbor Line
Experience a memorable Mother’s Day on a gorgeous sunset sail around New York City. Take in stunning views of Manhattan and the Hudson and have a few glasses of wine together. Sounds pretty perfect to me! Click here for a complete list of cruise schedules, and plan your day now.
Pack a Picnic for the Park
Head to Prospect Park or Central Park for a lovely Mother’s Day picnic! New York is full of lush green spaces perfect for outdoor gatherings. Pack her favorite snacks, a cozy Krimson Klover cardigan for breezy spring weather, and a few Backpacker’s Pantry freeze-dried desserts like cheesecake or crème brûlée.
Treat Mom to a Spa Day in the City
New York is home to world-class spas, making it the perfect place to pamper Mom. Some top picks include Aire Ancient Baths, Great Jones Spa, and the luxurious Spa at the Four Seasons. Book a massage and a rejuvenating facial for a full relaxation experience.
Attend a Flower Arranging Workshop
Nothing says spring like fresh flowers! Surprise Mom with a flower arranging class at the New York Botanical Garden or find an online option through CourseHorse if she prefers an at-home experience.
Surprise your mom with a magical Candlelight concert
Set in stunning venues bathed in the soft glow of candles, these intimate concerts feature everything from classical to jazz, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening together. It's an exquisite way to celebrate your Mom with the gift of music and a night she'll never forget.
Book a fun family Staycation
Take your mama on a staycation when you book a night at one of NYC’s many luxury hotels. Check out the iconic Gramercy Park Hotel, which grants you key access to the resident-only Gramercy Park. If you’re looking for a blend of modern comfort and urban exploration, Motto by Hilton New York City Times Square is another great choice — offering a unique boutique experience that captures the essence of New York City's vibrant lifestyle, steps away from the city's most iconic attractions.
Visit a fun Museum
Check out the latest exhibit at Fotografiska New York or explore the Met Cloisters for a journey through medieval art and architecture. These make for a unique and enriching Mother’s Day outing.
Shop at Your Favorite Local Farmers Market
Stroll through the Union Square Greenmarket and pick up fresh produce, artisan treats, and a gorgeous bouquet of spring flowers for Mom. Then, cook her a homemade brunch or dinner!
Take Mom on a Brunch Cruise
Enjoy a scenic brunch on the water with City Experiences’ brunch cruise. Indulge in a delicious buffet, sip mimosas, and soak in stunning views of NYC landmarks.
Toast to Mom with a Margarita (or two!)
Celebrate Mom with some tequila and tacos. Pick a fun Mexican spot in Greenwich Village, like Agave, Tacombi, or Toloache, and say cheers, Mom!
Stroll along Brooklyn Bridge Park
For a fantastic view of Lower Manhattan, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park with Mom for a walk. Then, grab a bite nearby at the Time Out Market, where 21 different NYC chefs have come together to share their unique dishes.
Walk or Bike Around Morningside Park
Home to the historic Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain, a stroll in Harlem’s Morningside Park with Mom is a must! If you're both adventurous, grab a Citibike and bike through the park and the surrounding area.
Enjoy Skyline Views from Observatory Decks
Go high in the clouds and take Mom to enjoy skyline views from some of NYC’s amazing observation decks. In midtown, Top of the Rock is at Rockefeller Center and the Empire State Building. Downtown, there’s One World Observatory (the tallest building in NYC), and the newest observation deck, the Edge at Hudson Yards, which is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere!
Take a Day Trip to the Met Cloisters
Explore the Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art that houses nearly 5,000 medieval works. Situated on a 67-acre park in Upper Manhattan, close to the Hudson River to the west, it’s full of cool medieval art and architecture. Click here to learn more and plan your visit today!
Enjoy an Afternoon Tea in the City
Head to the Plaza Hotel, Ladurée, or Alice’s Teacup, for a sumptuous afternoon Mother’s Day Tea in the city. Click here for a list of the top 12 tea spots in NYC.
Treat mom to a pottery class
Take your Mom to a creative and relaxing experience this Mother's Day with a pottery class in New York City. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or a seasoned artist aiming to refine your skills, NYC has a variety of pottery studios that cater to all levels. Consider options like Mud Matters and Pottery Studio.
Check out a broadway show
For theater-loving moms, Broadway is the ultimate treat. Classic shows like The Lion King Aladdin and Chicago remain favorites, but keep an eye out for musicals like MJ The Musical and The Outsiders.