If you’re looking to make Mother’s Day extra special this year, why not plan an unforgettable adventure for the two of you? This can be a great way to strengthen your bond while creating beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. To get you inspired, here are six unforgettable things to do with your mom this Mother’s Day that are guaranteed to make you the favorite child! (You’re welcome.)
RELATED: Here are 7 more Mother’s Day ideas!
Flickr CC: Ade Russell
Drift 5,000 feet above the Sonoran Desert
Take your travels to new heights by taking flight over the breathtaking Sonoran Desert in Phoenix. Book your balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders and see the incredible Southwestern desert views together. During this adventure, you’ll enjoy a champagne toast—here’s to your mom and her new favorite kid (that’s you!)—while soaring over towering red rock formations, wildlife and thousands of cacti in full bloom. At the completion of your journey, relax and unwind at Royal Palms Resort & Spa. Here you both can enjoy a delicious lunch followed by a well-deserved massage or facial.
Flickr CC: Richard Rydge
Come face to face with exotic marine life
If your mom has always wanted to visit Australia, now is the perfect time to go and explore the Great Barrier Reef. One way to get close to the marine life is with Reefworld, a pontoon moored 40 miles off shore. They can help arrange the perfect day cruise along Airlie Beach, where you and mom can cruise through the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands to the outer reefs, where you’ll be amazed at all the beauty and color of the coral, anemone, parrotfish and other sea creatures. At Reefworld, marine biologists will share their knowledge with you in an underwater viewing chamber, take you on a semi-submersible ride, and let you snorkel with local sea life—talk about a memorable experience! After a fun day of adventuring, give the onboard waterslide a try, relax on the sun deck or indulge in a delicious buffet with mom.
Flickr CC: Grand Canyon National Park
Soar above the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is known for its geological beauty and is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Rather than gawk over the edge like everybody else, show mom just how magnificent this awe-inspiring natural attraction is by booking a helicopter ride with Grand Canyon Spirit Tour. During this tour, you’ll both be able to take in the whirl of colors and breathtaking sights below. You’ll get to see the collection of valleys, cliffs, desert and forest that make up the whole amazing area. You’ll both remember this picturesque adventure forever!
Flickr CC: arsheffield
Cook authentic Italian cuisine in Rome
What could be better than enjoying Italy’s delicious cuisine while in Italy? How about creating your own authentic Italian cuisine—with your mom—while in Italy! InRome Cooking classes takes you both through an authentic Italian cooking journey that will excite your taste buds. Your guide will take you shopping for fresh ingredients at a local Roman market. You’ll then learn how to create a full four-course meal as you hear about the history of Italian foods. At the completion of the cooking class, you and mom get to sit down and enjoy the delicious meal along with perfectly-paired wine. Looking for a place to stay while on this incredible trip? The gorgeous Hotel Majestic is a comfortable and luxurious hotel located near must-see attractions such as the Trevi Fountain and St. Peter’s Basilica.
ALSO: Mom doesn’t have to know you saved big on your hotel thanks to Orbitz Rewards—join today!
Flickr CC: Michael R Perry
Spot rare wildlife with an island tour of the Galapagos
The Galapagos is a bucket-list travel destination for many. This chain of volcanic islands is one of the best places for wildlife viewing. With the help of BM Tours, you and mom can plan a full-day tour of Isabela Island and Las Tintoreras. You’ll be amazed at the variety of creatures that live here: dolphins, turtles, the famous Blue-Footed Booby, giant tortoises and so many more. As you enjoy your cruise, your tour guide will tell you all about the creatures that you see, and between islands, you’ll get to enjoy a delicious lunch on board. While cruising through the water, be sure to keep an eye out for the stingrays and impressive nurse sharks! If your mom loves nature and wildlife, this is the perfect adventure to plan with her.
Flickr CC: Alessandro Caproni
Stargaze and explore the Milky Way
If you’re in search of a truly memorable experience, take your mom to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. The Atacama Desert is the world’s most arid desert and, as a result, the sky has virtually no pollution. This makes it one of the best places on earth for a breathtaking stargazing experience. Witness the Milky Way with Atacama Desert Stargazing, where you’ll learn about the night sky and the history of astronomy while viewing stars and planets up close with the use of various high-powered telescopes. Snacks, drinks and professional photos are provided at the end of a tour. While in the San Pedro De Atacama area, we recommend staying at Noi Casa Atacama. This beautiful hotel is located in a central part of town. Here, you and mom can unwind at the outdoor pool and book spa services for added relaxation. You’ll both be talking about this one for years to come.
