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18 Bucket-List Mother-Daughter Trips That Will Make You Two Even Closer

From wine-tasting to disney world.

Author image: Woman in blue dress with sunglasses traveling.

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Mother Daughter Vacations UNI

She doesn’t quite understand TikTok and you’d rather text than talk on the phone. But generational differences aside, you and your mom have more in common than you think (and those dissimilarities just feel like bonding moments waiting to happen, anyway). Whether it’s motivating each other to keep slogging up the mountain or always being game to try a new vino varietal , you’ve got to admit that you two are pretty great travel companions. Need a little inspiration for your next vacay together? Scroll on for 18 mother-daughter trip ideas in the U.S. and beyond for a getaway that’s guaranteed to bring you closer than ever.

28 Life Changing Trips to Add to Your Bucket List

mother daughter trips wine tasting in healdsburg

1. Wine Tasting in Healdsburg

  • Best For: 21+
  • Best Time to Visit : summer
  • Best Time to Save: winter
  • How to Get There: fly into SFO and drive 1.5 hours
  • Where to Stay: Harmon Guest House , Montage Healdsburg

Some of the funniest mama-daughter convos come after the vino starts to flow. Giggles aside, wine tasting is such a pleasant activity. In between sips of terroir-driven red, white and rosé, cherish those unfiltered chats and the chance to stare out at beautiful vine-covered scenery. A few of our favorite spots to swirl in Healdsburg include Aperture Cellars , Flowers Vineyards & Winery , Truett Hurst and Quivira Vineyards . We also love Bricoleur Vineyards in the nearby town of Windsor.

mother daughter trips going to walt disney world

2. Going to Walt Disney World

  • Best For: Disney devotees
  • Best Time to Visit: winter
  • Best Time to Save: summer
  • How to Get There: fly into MCO
  • Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes , Tryp by Windham Orlando

For Disney lovers , it’s not a real vacation without screaming on Twilight Zone Tower Of Terror and snapping pics alongside costumed characters. Even if you and your mom disagree on whether or not to wait in the lengthy line for Avatar Flight Of Passage again (about that…do yourself a favor and book Disney Genie+ service , which includes Lightning Lane entry), that’s about as much conflict as is likely to go down at the Happiest Place on Earth.

mother daughter trips an all you can do culture crawl through new york city

3. An All-You-Can-Do Culture Crawl Through New York City

  • Best For: a weekend getaway
  • Best Time to Visit: fall
  • How to Get There: fly into JFK or LGA
  • Where to Stay: The Standard, East Village , Moxy NYC

New York City reigns supreme as the ultimate culture mecca with more museums, landmark buildings, parks, Broadway shows and unique pop-up experiences that you could possibly cover in a single trip. That means maximizing your time is key. Get Your Guide allows you to book a VIP pass to skip the line and gain access to the greatest hits in the Big Apple. Because who better to see the Van Gogh exhibit, the Empire State Building and a box-office-smash-hit musical all in the same weekend than your mom?

mother daughter trips a posh and rejuvenating spa weekend

4. A Posh and Rejuvenating Spa Weekend

  • Best For: rest and relaxation
  • How to Get There: fly into JFK and drive 2 hours
  • Where to Stay: Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

If there’s one venue intended for a mother-daughter getaway, it’s the spa—and the Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection is a splurge-worthy choice. Upon arriving, turn off your devices (or maybe keep one phone handy to snap these souvenir selfies), slip into a robe and toast with a glass of champagne or a cup of detoxifying tea. In between stress-melting treatments, savor healthy cuisine made with seasonal ingredients and walk around the bucolic property.

mother daughter trips eating your way through chicago

5. Eating Your Way Through Chicago

  • Best For: foodies
  • Best Time to Visit: summer
  • How to Get There: fly into ORD
  • Where to Stay: Viceroy Chicago , Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile

Are you and your mom big foodies? Why not plan an entire trip around your meals? Over the last few years, Chicago has really solidified its status as a major gourmet capital. Plan your journey one bite at a time through an organized tour or pick a few spots and do. a DIY culinary crawl. Maybe even book a cooking class to learn how to make deep dish pizza and bring your newfound skills back home.

mother daughter trips hiking in sedona

6. Hiking in Sedona

  • Best For: hikers
  • Best Time to Visit: spring
  • How to Get There: fly into PHX and drive 2 hours
  • Where to Stay: Casita De Los Santos , The Wilde Resort and Spa

The scenery in Sedona is so breathtakingly beautiful that just stepping outside yields scenic reward. But, obviously, hiking around red-rock country is the best way to see all the formations and prettiest views. Since there are trails for every skill level , you won’t have to quarrel over the route being too easy or too challenging. To foster an even deeper spiritual connection, pick a path that passes an energy vortex.

mother daughter trips glamping in the great smoky mountains

7. Glamping in the Great Smoky Mountains

  • Best For: nature lovers
  • How to Get There: fly into TYS and drive 1 hour
  • Where to Stay: Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains

You inherited your love of nature from your mama. Nothing recharges you more than sleeping under the stars, waking up to the rising sun and breathing in the fresh mountain air. That said, you’d still appreciate some creature comforts. Glamping means you can commune with nature in Great Smoky Mountain National Park and still have a hot shower and cozy bed.

mother daughter trips living your best cowboy life on a dude ranch

8. Living Your Best Cowboy Life on a Dude Ranch

  • Best For: aspiring cowboys and guided activities
  • How to Get There: fly into MSO and drive 1.5 hours
  • Where to Stay: The Ranch at Rock Creek , Triple Creek Ranch

Whether it’s because everyone is binge-watching Yellowstone or because we’ve all been cooped up in the house for too long, but the idea of a Western-inspired dude ranch vacation just sounds oh-so appealing. Especially since you can go horseback riding, learn to skeet shoot, try out archery, eat real-deal cowboy cuisine, sing campfire songs, fall asleep to the sounds of crickets and let your inner Annie Oakley run wild with your OG ride-or-die.

mother daughter trips celeb spotting in los angeles

9. Celeb Spotting in Los Angeles

  • Best For: celeb sightings and good weather
  • How to Get There: fly into LAX
  • Where to Stay: Secluded Hollywood Hills Duplex , Moxy Downtown LA

Love all the latest Hollywood gossip and seeing stars IRL? Los Angeles is called Tinseltown for good reason. It’s one of the few places your odds of seeing a celeb are actually better than not—well, as long as you’re in the right places. Kim Kardashian and Kate Upton frequent A-list hotspot Craig’s . While everyone from Justin Bieber to Channing Tatum has been spotted hiking Runyon Canyon. For down time and some privacy, there’s nothing like a rental in the Hollywood Hills. But if it’s celeb-sightings you’re after, Pendry West Hollywood isn’t just a posh place to stay, it’s also popular among the red-carpet crowd.

mother daughter trips a leisurely riverboat cruise

10.  A Leisurely Riverboat Cruise

  • Best For: exploring the South
  • How to Get There: fly into MSY
  • Where to Stay: American Queen Voyages

Not your typical cruiser? Swap crowded ocean liners for a paddlewheeler that winds along scenic waterways and through diverse landscapes in laid-back yet luxurious, throwback style. You don’t have to travel to the waters of the Danube for a leisurely river boat ride. American Queen Voyages operates cruises between New Orleans and Memphis that showcase all the historic battlefields, blues, flavorful food and Southern charm that the Mississippi Delta has to offer.

mother daughter trips catching some rays in grand cayman

11. Catching Some Rays in Grand Cayman

  • Best For: sun worshippers
  • Best Time to Save: fall
  • How to Get There: fly into GCM
  • Where to Stay: Palm Heights , Hampton by Hilton Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach

Sometimes it just takes a little natural vitamin D, the ocean and your mama to make all your stress feel like it’s many miles away—which it will be when you're sipping pina coladas, eat fresh-caught seafood, sunbathing, snorkeling and posting up in an ocean-view suite at a five-star resort. We’d recommend Palm Heights , a posh and endlessly chic property that’s perched on white sands of Seven Mile Beach.

mother daughter trips escaping to a holistic wellness sanctuary

12. Escaping to a Holistic Wellness Sanctuary

  • Best For: 360 wellness
  • How to Get There: fly into TUS
  • Where to Stay: Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa

If you’ve already done (and loved) the whole spa weekend thing, take your wellness and relationship to the next level with a holistic getaway at Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa that cleanse the mind, body and spirit, expands your horizons and deepens your connection to one and other. The 400-acre property is a well-being-oriented paradise with serene desert scenery, one-of-a-kind wellness experiences, spa treatments and a robust schedule of daily activities, so you can decide what wellness means to you (and your mom) and tailor your trip accordingly.

mother daughter trips cozying up in a cabin near lake tahoe

13. Cozying Up in a Cabin Near Lake Tahoe

  • Best For: peace and quiet
  • Best Time to Save: spring
  • How to Get There: fly into RNO and drive 55 minutes
  • Where to Stay: Carnelian Bay Cabin , Beach Retreat and Lodge at Tahoe

Maybe you live far away from your mom and don’t get to see each other that often or perhaps you’re besties who just love that quality solo time. For duos who want nothing more than each other’s undivided attention, hunkering down at a peaceful and cozy cabin in Carnelian Bay is just the ticket. Be sure to keep the place stocked with plenty of food, booze and board games because you can’t just call Postmates to pick up any last-minute necessities.

mother daughter trips a bucket list safari expedition in hoedspruit

14. A Bucket List Safari Expedition in Hoedspruit

  • Best For: wildlife lovers
  • Best Time to Visit: summer (dry season)
  • How to Get There: fly into CPT, transfer to HDS and drive 15 minutes
  • Where to Stay: Saseka Tented Camp , Mohlabetsi Lodge

If your mom has an eye for exploration and a strong desire to peep elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, wildebeests and rhinos in their natural habitat, she’ll have no qualms about taking a long-haul flight to Cape Town (and then boarding a small plane to Hoedspruit) to traipse through the bush for a few days. And don’t worry about jet lag…it’s no match for the excitement of game drives and sundowner G&Ts at Saseka Tented Camp . Plus, there will be plenty of time to unwind in your luxury tent complete with a private deck, outdoor shower and pool.

mother daughter trips tackling emory peak

15. Tackling Emory Peak 

  • Best For: adventurers
  • How to Get There: fly into MAF and drive 4 hours
  • Where to Stay: Chisos Mountains Lodge , Terlingua Ranch Lodge

Sometimes you just need a few words of encouragement to keep going. And who better to be your hype woman than your mama (and, obvs, you’ll do the same for her). Emory Peak is the highest in the Chisos Mountains and Big Bend National Park (which earns our vote as one the most beautiful places to visit in Texas ). The trek up to the top isn’t easy, but the gorgeous views, the amazing summit selfies, the tales of fortitude you’ll be telling for years to come and the fact that you accomplished this epic thing with your mom make it all worth it.

mother-daughter-vacations: A photograph of the San Diego skyline on the water framed by a palm leaf.

16. A Laid-Back Beach Vacation in San Diego

  • Best For: beach bums
  • How to Get There: fly into SAN
  • Where to Stay: Mission Pacific Beach Resort , San Diego Mission Bay Resort

Warm weather all year round, pristine beaches and the (relatively) warm Pacific Ocean—what’s not to love about San Diego? The family-friendly attractions are well-known (think: Sea World, the World Famous San Diego Zoo and Belmont Park, to name a few) but this SoCal city also has a ton of other things to offer mom-and-daughter duos. Oceanside , La Jolla and Pacific Beach are favorite spots for enjoying some sand and surf. Torrey Pines State Preserve is a beautiful place to take a hike and admire the scenic ocean views. Plus, there’s an excellent food scene, featuring top-notch seafood joints, authentic Mexican spots and all that Little Italy has to offer. (Our favorites in each category include Point Loma Seafoods , Roberto’s Taco Shop and Barbusa .)

best-mother-daughter-trips-punta-cana-dominican-republic

17. Unwinding in Punta Cana

  • Best For: tropical wellness retreat
  • Best Time to Visit: December to March
  • Best Time to Save: May to September
  • How to Get There: fly into PUJ
  • Where to Stay: Zoetry Agua Punta Cana , Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana

Lagoons, waterfalls, forests, crystal clear open waters and loads of adventure await when you pay a visit to Punta Cana—a town in the Dominican Republic that’s known for its long stretches of pristine beach that border both the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. There’s horseback riding, ziplining safaris, snorkeling and plenty of opportunities to just lounge on the beach with a cocktail when you vacay on this beautiful island. When it comes to lodgings for a mother-daughter trip, the Zoetry Agua Punta Cana is our top recommendation, as the luxe property boasts breathtaking ocean views and a ton of wellness-oriented amenities, including top-notch spa treatments and amazing yoga classes, to boot.

mother-daughter-vacations: A photograph of an ornate cabin resort in the Hudson Valley. It's on a lake surrounded by mountains. You can see the reflection of the building in the water of the lake. The sky is clear and blue behind the buildings.

18. A Nature Retreat in the Hudson Valley

  • Best For: activity-packed, all-inclusive stays
  • Best Time to Visit: April and May
  • Best Time to Save: mid-week bookings
  • How to Get There: drive two hours from either NYC airport
  • Where to Stay: Mohonk Mountain House , Tarrytown House Estate

The Hudson Valley is truly a breath of fresh air for NYC residents looking to escape the hubbub of the Big Apple , and it’s also a worthy destination for mother-daughter duos visiting the Empire State. There’s natural beauty to behold all over the region, but our favorite place to kick back and enjoy the idyllic scenery is Mohonk Mountain House ,—an impressive Victorian castle and Historic National Landmark that sits atop a mountain at the edge of Lake Mohonk, surrounded by forest. In addition to the breathtaking natural beauty of the property’s location, the resort offers guests an all-inclusive experience that features enough activities to fill an entire itinerary. There’s rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding, swimming and a wide range of seasonal activities to enjoy. The opportunity for mother daughter pampering at the stellar spa should not be missed and special events like the Spring Wellness Weekend, Tulip Festival and Mother’s Day weekend set the perfect tone for bonding.

The 14 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in California, from Wine-Soaked Weekends to Detox Desert Stays

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The 8 best mother daughter trips, according to travel experts

4. moab, utah.

By Henley Vazquez Updated November 27, 2023

mom with her arm around her daughter on a hike - mother daughter trips

Shutterstock

Whether your daughter is four or 40, a mother daughter trip is more than just a getaway: it’s about having new experiences together, creating important memories and bonding with each other in a new environment. Mother daughter vacations can also deepen relationships, with conversations over meals of local delicacies, while shopping for trinkets or during hikes in a national park. 

Related: 7 best mother-son trips for an unforgettable time

We tapped the travel agents at Fora for the best mother daughter trip ideas, worldwide and in the US. Fora’s picks include less obvious choices than, say, a trip to Paris. And, the best part is: you don’t have to travel very far to get to any of them. From exploring the great outdoors in Moab, Utah to pretending you’re in Europe in Quebec City, Canada, these are the best mother daughter vacations, according to the experts. 

8 amazing mother daughter trips

1. new orleans, louisiana.

The Big Easy is perfect for mother daughter trips: while you may only remember that one bachelorette party on Bourbon Street in your pre-kid days, the city is chock-full of stunning art, lush gardenscapes and chic, French-inspired hotels that are perfect for mothers and daughters. Take a walk along historic Jackson Square to check out the famous St. Louis Cathedral, grab a fresh bag of beignets at Cafe du Monde, then hop on a riverboat cruise on the Steamboat NATCHEZ. Duos can get their nails done sitting side-by-side on a porch swing at Southern Swings (kid’s mani/pedis are on the menu as well). For a special dinner together, check out La Petite Grocery or Mosquito Supper Club. If you’re traveling with a daughter above drinking age, you won’t want to miss Carousel Bar, the city’s only revolving bar with a magnificent carousel in the middle.

Fora recommends: Woman-owned guest house Maison de la Luz in the French Quarter, starting at $391/night, or The Chloe , a charming boutique hotel housed in a 19 century Uptown mansion, starting at $262/night.

For more… check out Fora’s advisor-curated NOLA travel guide .

2. Quebec City, Canada

Eager for a European adventure without the cost of an international flight ? The cozy cobblestoned streets and historic architecture of Quebec City make it one of the best (and most convenient) mother-daughter vacations in the world. The city’s old town looks so much like small-town Europe that movie crews have actually saved money shooting there. Mother-daughter pairs should take a stroll through the Quartier Petit Champlain, or walk along one of Quebec City’s oldest streets, Rue Saint-Jean. Be sure to spend a day gazing at the art of the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec, or relax at the sophisticated Strøm Nordic Spa. For a fun day trip out to the country, check out Île d’Orléans, where duos can go wine tasting and walk the vineyards at Vignoble Ste-Pétronille. Or, for a young daughter, go strawberry picking at Ferme Jean-Pierre Plante, the island’s only organic strawberry farm.

Related: It’s Science: The mother-daughter bond is even more powerful than we thought

Fora recommends: The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , starting at $495/night, is a not-to-miss when you’re in Quebec, and its castle-like appearance both inside and out will amaze daughters of any age. For a smaller hotel with cool, historic-meets-modern charm, check out Auberge Place d’Armes , starting at $245/night, also in the old town.

3. Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia

With two endlessly charming cities just two hours apart, why choose just one? Mothers and daughters can opt for a Charleston-to-Savannah road trip to have the most girly, perfect time as a duo. In Charleston, spend a day exploring the Historic Charleston City Market. Grab a coffee at Bitty & Beau’s and then walk the cobblestoned streets of downtown, where pairs can learn about the area’s important history at the International African American Museum (opening January 2023). Crafty duos should take a candle-making workshop at Candlefish. In Savannah, go honey-tasting at Savannah Bee Company or shop vintage treasures at the Paris Market. Spend a day at the beach together at Tybee Island; or, have the ultimate girly dinner in a pink mansion at the Olde Pink House.

Fora recommends: In Charleston, the proudly pink Mills House , starting at $432/night, or the distinctly designed Emeline , starting at $369/night. In Savannah, the Europe-meets-Southern charm Mansion on Forsyth Park , starting at $279/night, takes the cake, but the Kimpton Brice Hotel , starting at $314/night, is high on the list, too, and kid-friendly.

Related: The 7 best babymoons, according to travel experts

Mother-daughter bonding, but make it an adventure. Moab, Utah, with its splendid scenery and quintessential Southwestern charm, makes for a lovely girls getaway . Pairs should base themselves in Moab,  the gateway to the stunning red rocks of Arches National Park. Here, there are plenty of hikes to explore; or, book a half-day of canyoneering, go rafting through the Colorado River, take a ride in a 4×4 Hummer or even admire the vistas from above via a hot air balloon tour. For less adrenaline-pumping mother-daughter time, head into town to browse local artisan-made souvenirs (at Moab Made) or forage through bins of fossils, rocks and teeth at Moab Rock Shop (we promise, it’s an extra-special souvenir). Don’t miss one of the area’s best breakfasts at Jailhouse Cafe for a classic regional menu. Or, go on a food tour at the Moab Food Truck Park to sample A+ Southwestern fare. 

Fora recommends: Sorrel River Ranch Resort , starting at $1275/night for a luxurious retreat and worth a splurge, or a bungalow at Moab Spring Ranch , starting at $313/night, for a family-friendly unique stay where you can spread out a little.

For more, check out Fora’s advisor-curated Moab travel guide .

5. Montego Bay, Jamaica

In need of a mother-daughter beach moment? Look no further than Montego Bay for splurge-worthy relaxation, with activities and amenities to please all ages. Beyond sunning and spa-going at the countless crowd-pleasing resorts, mothers and daughters should do some cultural exploration with a tour of the Rose Hall Great House, a restored plantation house from 1770. Or, explore the waterfalls of Dunn’s River Falls, which also has ziplines and kids’ splash pads. And after a day of adventuring, take a drive over to Sam Sharpe Square for a variety of local eateries.

Fora recommends: For a luxurious getaway that’s also kid-friendly, Round Hill , starting at $700/night, is a stunning resort with a variety of kids’ activities. For an adult daughter, check out Secrets Wild Orchid , starting at $560/night, designed with couples in mind but perfect for a girls’ getaway too.

Related: You *can* go on vacation with kids and actually relax—here’s how

What’s a mother-daughter trip without a lagoon and a spectacular waterfall? In all seriousness, while Iceland may sound like a bucket list jaunt, it’s more accessible than ever with easy and affordable flights from the East Coast. Bring your swimsuit for a dip in the Blue Lagoon and a handful of Iceland’s amazing hot springs, and visit the Seljalandfoss and Svartifoss waterfalls for Instagram-worthy moments. Sample freshly baked bread from the ground at the Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal bakery, and take a tour on horseback with the family-run Laxnes Horse Farm. For a memorable mother-daughter meal, the best seafood in town is found at the Reykjavik Fish Restaurant.

Fora recommends: For budget-conscious travelers, try the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon , situated between a national park and a glacier lagoon, starting at $160/night. If you’re looking for luxury, you’ll love the Reykjavik EDITION with stunning water views, starting at $500/night.

7. Paso Robles, California

If you have a daughter of drinking age and you both enjoy wine tasting, we suggest Paso Robles, situated on 101 roughly half-way between the Bay Area and Los Angeles. While Napa and Sonoma are always on the list of mother-daughter vacations, Fora recommends the quieter, more affordable Paso Robles, CA. Pairs can explore the bucolic countryside on long walks, or pop into farmers markets and relax in hot springs. For wine-tasting, Eberle Winery, Tooth & Nail, and Le Cuvier are great wineries to start. After imbibing, opt for a foodie-approved meal at Jeffry’s Wine Country BBQ or dine in style at Les Petites Canailles. Finish off your evening with pastries and live piano tunes at AMSTRDM Coffee House and Piano Lounge.

Fora recommends: For a cool landmark built in 1889, check out Paso Robles Inn , starting at $179/night. For luxury-meets-wine country, try Allegretto Vineyard Resort , starting at $279/night, with an on-site spa and horseback riding.

For more, check out Fora’s advisor-curated Paso Robles travel guide .

8. Sao Miguel, Azores

You don’t have to fly all the way across the pond (or across the world, for that matter) to experience a far-flung, mother-daughter-approved destination. The Azores are a Portuguese archipelago situated in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, cutting your travel time nearly in half (compared to visiting Europe). In the Azores, mothers and daughters can stay on the main island of Sao Miguel, which offers otherworldly landscapes for hiking. Or, take ferries to some of the smaller islands like Pico, which is filled with vineyards. On Sao Miguel, visit the Augusto Arruda Pineapple Plantation (and be bewildered that pineapples actually grow out of the ground), or visit Furnas, where you can cook your dinner in a volcano.

Fora recommends: The ecologically friendly beach resort Santa Barbara , located on a black sand beach, starting at $450/night, or the elegant Terra Nostra in Furnas, featuring a historic garden from 1775 and thermal pools, starting at $250/night.

A version of this post was published September 19, 2022. It has been updated.

This story is a part of The Motherly Collective contributor network where we showcase the stories, experiences and advice from brands, writers and experts who want to share their perspective with our community. We believe that there is no single story of motherhood, and that every mother's journey is unique. By amplifying each mother's experience and offering expert-driven content, we can support, inform and inspire each other on this incredible journey. If you're interested in contributing to The Motherly Collective please click here .

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8 Excellent Destinations For A Mother-Daughter Getaway

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Traveling is one of the best ways to bond as a family, but the dynamic shifts as children become adults. Family vacations are no longer about occupying restless kids and finding adventures everyone’s okay with. They’re about creating meaningful memories during one of the most important stages of life: the time when family members become friends.

I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy this type of travel with my family, particularly during getaways with my mom. We’ve bonded over hilarious memories of getting lost, we’ve shared some of the best (and worst!) meals of my life, and we continuously forge deeper friendships with conversations on the trail, while wandering around town, or posted up at nearby breweries.

Mother-daughter getaways bring the two of us closer than almost anything else, and these trips have been essential for helping us stay connected. If you want to bond with your own mother or daughter through travel, here are eight excellent mother-daughter getaway destinations to consider.

Desert View Watchtower at the Grand Canyon.

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The Grand Canyon

The first big adventure my mom and I took together was a trip to the Grand Canyon. In her 20-somethings, my mom worked at the Grand Canyon over a summer. This trip was our chance to relive her “glory days” — and my chance to envision my mom in her heyday. What an experience it was!

My mom is still pretty active, so we spent our time hiking the first portion of the Bright Angel Trail, hiking along the Rim Trail , visiting the Desert View Watchtower for panoramic views of this natural wonder, and watching the sunset from behind Bright Angel Lodge . To make a super Southwest weekend out of it, we even drove to Antelope Canyon for a quick tour on our way back to Las Vegas.

A picturesque bridge in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland.

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My mom and I haven’t been to Iceland together yet, but we both went separately and loved it so much that we’re heading back there as a duo this fall. Iceland is perfect for a mother-daughter getaway given how easy it is to get around. Drivers are friendly, traffic isn’t awful, and if you’re following the Ring Road, it’s virtually impossible to get lost.

Our fall trip will include some time exploring in downtown Reykjavik before renting a car and heading south for rest and relaxation in a quaint cabin. While in Iceland, you can also road trip to waterfalls like Godafoss and visit the luxurious Blue Lagoon . We’re also looking forward to cozying up for drinks and conversations in the quiet little town of Vik.

Vineyard views in Napa Valley, California.

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With delicious wineries at every turn, it’s hard to beat a mother-daughter weekend getaway in Napa Valley . The weekend could go a few different ways depending on your interests and tastes. If you’re into trying as many wines as possible, book a local tour guide or even splurge on a limo excursion from one vineyard to the next.

If you’d rather hunker down and become “pseudo locals,” book a hotel on or near a winery like Las Alcobas so you can visit and imbibe during the day then walk home and relax in upscale digs every night. And, heck, if you’re looking to really go big, get a bird’s-eye view of the vineyards from the comfort of a scenic hot air balloon — an experience my mom and I hope to share one day! You’ll also want to eat local in Napa Valley with the best restaurants to try .

The Louvre in Paris.

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Visiting Paris is a rite of passage for many travelers, and who better to experience (or re-experience) that with than your mother or daughter? For the perfect mother-daughter getaway, book a centrally located hotel near the Louvre so you can walk to major attractions like the art museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Seine, plus must-stop dining spots like the upscale and charming Angelina Paris.

While it’s hard to beat central Paris, my mom and I loved exploring Montmartre for views of her favorite city, not to mention art shops galore. If time allows, stop by Georges , a rooftop bar at the National Museum of Modern Art that boasts incredible views of Paris. While we only shared an appetizer and some wine, this was by far our favorite view of the city.

Downtown Mackinac Island in Michigan.

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Mackinac Island, Michigan

With horse-drawn carriages, no cars, scenic cycling, and a relaxed vibe, Mackinac Island is one of the Midwest’s greatest getaway destinations. My family and I have visited at least a dozen times, and some of my favorite memories stem from the times my mom and I explored this northern Michigan island on our own.

Our favorite days started with biking eight miles around the exterior of the island (bike rental shops abound in downtown Mackinac), followed by lunch at staples like the Village Inn’s Kingston Kitchen and shopping along Main Street. On the days we decided to treat ourselves, we take’d a horse-drawn-carriage “taxi” to The Woods , a fancy restaurant tucked away in — you guessed it — the woods. On afternoons we chose to relax and unwind, we’d grab ice cream at our favorite spot, Ryba’s Fudge Shop , then sit in the lakefront rocking chairs behind the town library.

The quaint town of Bergen, Norway.

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Bergen, Norway

I visited Bergen on the Viking Homelands Viking Cruise press trip with my fiance this fall, and I couldn’t stop thinking about how much my mom would’ve enjoyed not just the cruise (another great mother-daughter getaway idea!) but our final stop: Bergen. This Scandinavian destination is one of the best places I can think of to travel as a mother-daughter duo given that it’s safe, quaint, and scenic, with outdoor activities for travelers of all experience levels. For instance, my mom and I could take the funicular up Mount Floyen , then hike a bit around the top before making our way down on foot to soak up the city’s vistas. Or, if she was feeling up to it, we could make the hike up then funicular back down.

Of course, Bergen is more than just a funicular ride; the main town has dozens of fun sights and experiences for mothers and daughters to enjoy together. The main harbor’s fish market is bustling on weekends, with little shops to try local bites and even have the chef cook a fish you just bought at the stands. Continuing on past the fish market is one of the best views in Bergen: the old Bryggen wharf lined with colorful houses and mountains in the background.

A cliff walk in the Algarve region of Portugal.

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The Algarve

Portugal isn’t just a tourist hot spot; it’s a must-visit destination for mothers and daughters seeking serenity and scenery in a single destination. The Algarve, a mix of cliffs and sand along Portugal’s southern coast, is dotted with upscale resorts like the five-star Vilalara Thalassa Resort .

My mom and I stayed at this resort during the chilly yet crowd-free spring and had the spa and private beach almost entirely to ourselves. That said, summer weather may be worth contending with the crowds for the chance to sunbathe and swim in one of the resort’s many pools.

To make the most of a trip to the Algarve with your mother or daughter, spend some time hiking one of the many famous cliff walks along the coast (The Castelejo Trail was our favorite!). For another Algarve perspective, hit the water for a tour of the spectacular Benagil Cave by boat. Don’t miss one of the Algarve’s many vineyards for an evening of wine tasting; Quinta do Frances Winery is one of the area’s most famous.

The Portland Head Light in Maine.

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Portland, Maine

For a nautical weekend getaway with your mother or daughter, look no further than Maine’s charming town of Portland. My mom and I visited Portland for a Memorial Day weekend filled with lighthouses, lobster, and way too much shopping.

In terms of lighthouses, it’s hard to beat the well-known Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, although we were almost equally impressed by the significantly less crowded Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse in South Portland. For a memorable day getaway, take the ferry to Peaks Island, where you can bike or stroll around this historic, laid-back destination. Or, take a road trip up to one of our new favorite shopping destinations, Freeport, which houses the L.L. Bean Outlet Store , not to mention a variety of other top-notch outlets including The North Face .

To cap off a perfect mother-daughter getaway, don’t miss the waterfront Lobster Shack at Two Lights in South Portland. This bring-your-own-beer restaurant lets the scenery do the talking, with low-frills (yet delicious) lobster and picnic tables overlooking the sea and nearby lighthouses. If you and your mom or daughter want even more lobster, consider our recipe for a perfect lobster crawl in Portland , too.

This list only scratches the surface of destinations for mother-daughter getaway trips. That’s why my mom and I continuously travel to new places — and revisit our favorite spots. We know each trip is an opportunity to make important and lasting memories together.

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Stephanie Vermillion is a travel journalist and filmmaker with a love for all things culture, craft beer, road-tripping, and wildlife. Her bylines include Vice, Fodor's, Mental Floss , the London Evening Standard , and HuffPost .

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5 Incredible Mother-Daughter Trips You’ll Always Treasure

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Melissa McGibbon

Melissa McGibbon is an award-winning adventure travel journalist, editor, and photographer. She is the Senior Editor at Outdoor Sports Guide Magazine and is an active member of the Society of American Travel Writers Editors Council and the North American Travel Journalists Association. Her work also appears in Outside Magazine, HuffPost.com, Elevation Outdoors, and BedandBreakfast.com.

Her favorite travel accomplishments include circumnavigating the globe on a ship, meeting with Fidel Castro, BASE jumping in Idaho, flying over an erupting volcano in Iceland, skiing steep chutes in Canada, and downhill mountain biking in Peru.

She is usually skiing, biking, climbing, practicing yoga, flying, diving, or surfing—and is always in pursuit of adventure, travel, or some daring combination of the two.

Follow Melissa on Twitter @mcmliss or on Instagram @missmliss . Her website is melissamcgibbon.com .

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When you’re little, the idea of traveling with your mom or grandparents seems normal. As a teenager, you may not appreciate it so much. When you become an adult—and maybe even have kids of your own—it gets way better.

The Best Mother-Daughter Trips

By the time your mom or her mom reaches her golden years, you really start to appreciate the chance to travel together, because it’s easier to recognize the moments passing. Though there may be some comical generational differences in travel style, there’s no better way for women young and old to bond than traveling together on a mother-daughter trip.

Here are some of the best mother-daughter vacations to delight moms and daughters of all ages, no matter when you travel together.

Jolly Trolleys and Golden Gates: San Francisco, California

Golden Gate bridge at sunset

Everyone should see the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge at least once, and a mother-daughter trip to San Francisco is the perfect excuse for doing so. Bike or walk across the bridge to get out of the fog, and have lunch with a view in the whimsical town of Sausalito .

Pair a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with a CityPASS , which includes admission to some of the most popular Bay Area attractions, like the California Academy of Sciences and the Aquarium of the Bay , and the option to add on a cable car pass.

While roaming around Pier 39 , have a bread bowl of clam chowder at Boudin Bakery , made with San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread—you won’t regret it. Nor will you regret the decadent chocolate sundae you’ll have at Ghirardelli Square after.

Where to stay: Book a room at Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf for a memorable stay central to the city’s most famous attractions.

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Vinos and Velos: Cycling from Dijon to Beaune, France

Vineyard. Pommard, Cote de Beaune, d'Or, Burgundy, France

For an active vacation paired with exquisite wine and a whole lot of grandeur, try a mother-daughter bicycle tour through the Burgundy region. Explore the French countryside at your own pace while stopping along the way to taste a sampling of France’s finest fermented grapes.

Start in the historical town of Dijon at the Place de la Liberation . Pedal past rolling vineyard hills and storybook chateaus on your way to the charming town of Nuit-Saint-Georges . Take a break while you’re there to appreciate a taste (or two) of the region’s Premier Cru red wines, made from Pinot Noir grapes, and go truffle hunting at one of the local farms.

End your bike tour in the fairy tale town of Beaune. Its main square has been hosting an unmissable Saturday market since the early 13th century.

Where to stay: Stay at the The Maven at Dairy Block for an exceptionally lively atmosphere with loft-style rooms, access to shopping and dining in the city’s Dairy Block micro-district, and easy access to downtown Denver.

Sipping, Sampling, and Shopping: Denver, Colorado

Skyline view of Denver, Colorado with city park in foreground

With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Denver is becoming such a popular destination for mother-daughter trips. If you want to shop, dine, partake in a libations tour, take in the arts, or do all of the above, you can do it in Denver.

The city’s most popular area for strolling and shopping is the neighborhood around 16th Street Mall and Larimer Square . You can dine your way around Denver with stops at Rioja , Tamayo , Avanti , and North Italia , and then drink your way around on a boozy tour. There are plenty of guided tasting tours that will take you to places like Laws Whiskey , The Infinite Monkey Theorem Urban Winery , Colorado Cider Company , and Denver Beer Company . The Cooper Lounge in Union Station is the best place to enjoy a fancy cocktail.

Where to stay: At the MOXY Denver Cherry Creek, you’ll enjoy a fun and modern stay. The space encourages guest interaction with a full bar and an impressive assortment of lobby games, from shuffleboard to Hungry Hungry Hippos.

Relax and Rosé All Day: Calistoga, California

Vineyard in Calistoga, California

While Napa may get all of the shout-outs, the best place to stay in California wine country is Calistoga. It sits at the base of Mount Saint Helena, about 25 miles northwest of the town of Napa. In Calistoga, you can do all of the iconic things mothers and daughters daydream of doing on a mother-daughter trip, like getting daily spa treatments and drinking Rosé all day.

Volcanic ash, mud, and mineral baths are the specialty spa treatment of this town. What better way to celebrate the unique bond between a mother and daughter than taking a mud bath? You can also get a proper massage treatment at Calistoga Spa and Hot Springs and the recently renovated Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa . Basically, you can walk from one end of town to the other in spa flip-flops, getting one treatment after another, and no one would blink an eye.

Take off your shoes and get stomping at Grgich Hills Estate , which offers daily grape stomping during the harvest season. Go for a royal tour and wine tasting at the Castello di Amorosa , a medieval-inspired Tuscan castle that features barrel-tasting and a torture chamber. No trip to Napa would be complete without taking a ride on the famous Napa Valley Wine Train . Book the Vista Dome for one of the most memorable meals you’ll ever have. The three-hour journey includes a gourmet meal and wine, of course.

Where to stay: You’ll find a stay at Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort to be reasonably priced and wonderfully retro.

SmarterStay: Spend a Weekend in San Luis Obispo, California

Drive the road to Hana , hike the Bamboo Forest , go snorkeling with sea turtles at Maluaka Beach , catch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park , and learn about Maui’s fascinating history at a traditional luau. Or, you know, just skip all of that and sunbathe at the beach.

Whatever you do on Maui, try to catch an evening meal at Mama’s Fish House during sunset. One of the photos you take is sure to become your new screensaver.

Where to stay: Treat your mom to a stay in the lap of luxury at the Grand Wailea to make your trip extra splendid. If you’re traveling with the whole family, stay at the Hotel Wailea , a private paradise estate in Kihei so you can make meals together and relax in the comfort of a home setting.

Shamrocks and Smiles: Road Tripping Around Ireland

Cliffs of Moher

Haven’t you always wanted to take a mother-daughter trip to Ireland? Want to kiss the Blarney Stone , drive the Ring of Kerry , or perhaps behold some sheep roaming lush green hills of the countryside? Take a road trip from Dublin that passes through Cork, Killarney, Dingle, and Galway, and you’ll delight in exploring these sights.

Visit the nearby town of Kinsale and take the easy hike to Charles Fort . Spend a day in Killarney National Park , and make time to visit the historic sites of Dingle before heading to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway, which is known for its traditional pubs and live Irish folk music.

Where to stay: Stop by the Hayfield Manor in Cork for a quintessentially Irish stay, complete with gourmet dining and afternoon tea service.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Melissa McGibbon’s travel accomplishments include circumnavigating the globe on a ship, having dinner at Fidel Castro’s house in Havana, skiing steep chutes in Canada, and downhill mountain biking in Peru. Follow her on Twitter @ mcmliss .

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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The 8 Best Mother-Daughter Trips, According to Travel Advisors

Celebrate mom more than once a year with these curated trips!

an elevated view of the london skyline looking east to west

For the best mother-daughter trips in the U.S. and beyond, we tapped two seasoned travel veterans: Brianna Glenn, owner and travel designer at Milk+ Honey Travels , and Abbie Synan , full-time globetrotting writer and travel advisor for Fora . Get ready to add to your wander list with these luxurious destinations, perfect for exploring with every type of mom traveler!

San Sebastian, Spain

spain, san sebastian, buildings on street

According to Synan, this stellar Spanish city is an ideal spot for a food-focused family trip. She adds, “Take your mom to Basque country where the Michelin stars are as plentiful as celestial bodies in the night sky. Known as the food capital of Spain, San Sebastian is a perfect destination for delicious lengthy dinners and long conversations. Not only is this a great destination for a food-loving mama, but the production of txakoli wines in the region is another way to carry on celebrating.” Cheers to that!

Newport, Rhode Island

eastons beach and cliff walk newport

Take to the New England seaside with a breathtaking beach trip to Newport, Rhode Island . Synan recommends the so-called "City by the Sea" and "Queen of Summer Resorts," adding, "With the picturesque oceanfront architecture, a weekend in Newport is just the way to experience the historic homes along the coastline. And, if you time your vacation for Mother's Day weekend, there's no better way to celebrate than by reserving a table for Mother's Day brunch at the Chanler, complete with unmatched views of the manicured gardens overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.”

Where to Stay: The Chanler at Cliff Walk

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

rio celeste waterfall, tenorio volcano national park, costa rica

Glenn recommends the central American gem of Costa Rica if you and your mom appreciate a little adventure on your travels. She explains, “There is a wide range of activities like whitewater rafting, surfing, and snorkeling to enjoy, and these give you a chance to experience the thrill of adventure while enjoying the natural beauty of the country.” Beyond the adrenaline rush, Glenn shares that this is also an excellent destination for those seeking relaxation and wellness, with a slew of meditation classes, yoga retreats, and world-class spas available.

Where to Stay: Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA

the overlook view at garden of the gods

Colorado Springs is a beautiful Front Range city that's conveniently located about an hour and a half from the Denver airport. Consider traveling in the spring, since it's the perfect time to head to the Rockies, hike the Garden of the Gods National Landmark or take the Cog Rail up through the Bristlepine atop Pikes Peak. For the best accommodations, a grande dame hotel, the Broadmoor, ups the luxury ante for moms in the mountains and offers activities like fly fishing, hiking to waterfalls, and a famous brunch. Synan suggests, “After you recharge in nature, be sure to set aside a few hours to enjoy their five-star spa on the property.”

Where to Stay: Broadmoor Wilderness Experiences

Cape Town, South Africa

cape town

Glenn also loves Cape Town as a mother-daughter trip since it provides a little of everything. She says, "Cape Town offers a unique blend of history, culture, food, and adventure, making it a great getaway for anyone who appreciates an unforgettable travel experience. This destination is known for its stunning natural beauty, including Table Mountain, beaches, and beautiful coastal drives." The culinary scene is also impressive, with diverse cuisine and excellent local wines. "A favorite activity of mine in the area is doing a wine tour in the nearby Stellenbosch or Franschhoek regions, where you can sample some of South Africa's world-renowned wines," shares Glenn.

Stay: Mont Rochelle

Barnard, Vermont, U.S.

vermont pastures with foliage

The quiet Barnard countryside hides a world-class hotel, Twin Farms. Vermont's only Relais & Chateaux property shines all year long with hiking, biking, Japanese Furo baths, and stellar cuisine. Synan says, "Visiting the 300-acre pastoral landscapes of Twin Farms is a relaxing way to spend time all year long. The all-inclusive philosophy is a great way to showcase the locally sourced and seasonally grown ingredients that grace their menus. Staying at the 18th-century farmhouse or one of their ten cottages on the property provides a respite that only rural Vermont can genuinely offer." And with the isolated location comes a surprising benefit—poor cell service, making this unplugged vacation the perfect time to bond with mom.

Where to Stay: ​​Twin Farms

London, England, U.K.

an elevated view of the london skyline looking east to west

Bypass Broadway and take your show-loving mother to the West End theater district in London. Synan suggests that you can splurge on lodging and theater tickets and then take advantage of many of the free museums throughout the city. She adds, "Don't head across the pond without setting up tea time. High tea at iconic Harrods or the Biltmore Mayfair are two of my favorite spots." Pro tip: For Biltmore guests, the hotel can coordinate a Penhaligon's Fragrance Profiling Experience, a journey to finding your signature scent with expert guidance from the storied British perfume house. That means mom could take home an incredibly cool souvenir!

Where to Stay: Biltmore Mayfair, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Santa Barbara, California, U.S.

santa barbara view

The Santa Barbara area is an excellent choice for a mother-daughter trip offering a combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, wine tasting, and shopping and dining options. Glenn points to this central coast region as an "idyllic stretch of coastline sheltered by the foothills of the Santa Ynez mountains." Beyond the city itself, oenophiles should head to the Santa Ynez Valley to enjoy some of California's best wineries and beautiful scenery—a perfect way to treat your mom to a trip full of relaxation and indulgence.

Where to Stay: The Inn at Mattei's Tavern

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14 Best Mother-Daughter Trips to Make Memories for a Lifetime

Planning a bucket-list trip with your mother or daughter might just be the best Mother’s Day gift yet.

mountainous hiking trail, mother daughter snapshot, paddle boarding

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Traveling with your mother or daughter can have its challenges, but they are soon forgotten and you’re left with memories that last a lifetime. Consider celebrating the special mother-daughter bond you have by taking one of these unforgettable trips. Whether you’re after exotic adventures or close-to-home comforts, these getaways offer something for every type of traveler .

Oslo, Norway

norsk folkemuseum in norway

Best for Art and Architecture

A design aficionado delight, you may find yourself walking with your mouth agape as you stroll past the striking architecture in Oslo, Norway.

Contemporary architecture, nouveau buildings, and functional spaces dominate the city’s well-maintained thoroughfares. Art lovers adore Oslo’s many manicured parks, sculpture gardens, and its multitude of museums – including The National Museum , which houses Edvard’s Munch’s “The Scream.”

The Fram Museum , Norsk Folkemuseum , and Opera House are among the most visited attractions in the city. Stay in the heart of Oslo at the Clarion Hotel The Hub . It’s steps away from Central Station and has more than 800 modern rooms with unique touches. The hotel has a restaurant and bar on-site as well as a gym, pool, and sauna.

Don’t miss a day at The Well Spa so you can indulge in relaxing, Scandi-style, while surrounded by beautifully designed spa facilities.

More: Mother's Day Gifts Sure to Please Even the Most Hard-to-Buy-For Mom

Bear Camp in Alaska

alaskan brown bear in natural habitat’s bear camp

Best for Wildlife Encounters

If you love wildlife and get excited about the possibility of seeing Alaskan Brown Bears in a safe way, this trip to Natural Habitat’s Bear Camp is for you. From May to August, you can fly from Homer to a remote wilderness glamping site near Chinitna Bay at the southern end of Lake Clark National Park to experience bears like you never thought possible.

The camp’s naturalists, who are bear experts, will guide you on mellow walking safaris that will take you close enough to photograph bears in portrait mode. More than 80 bears live in the area, including mamas and cubs. Only guests of the camp have access to private viewing platforms to see the bears in action.

Tokyo, Japan

senso ji temple in tokyo japan

Best for Big City

More than 30 million people live in Tokyo, Japan, but despite its population density, it doesn’t feel overcrowded. Japanese people are known for being incredibly conscientious and tidy— Japanese football fans famously brought their own trashbags to clean up after themselves in the World Cup—which makes it a welcoming and safe place to visit.

There’s plenty of shopping , dining, entertainment, and other attractions in Tokyo to keep you busy. The mass transit system is easy and efficient so you won’t have trouble finding your way from the Senso-ji Temple to the Shibuya Crossing . My favorite bubble tea can be found at CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice in Shibuya.

The Four Seasons Marunouchi is the smallest in the world with just 57 rooms and suites, which makes for a warm and elegant atmosphere. This family-friendly hotel offers both American-style breakfast as well as traditional Japanese fare and there’s a hot spring onsen bath in the spa.

Mariposa to Mammoth, California

woman looking up at giant sequoias in mariposa yosemite valley california

Best for Road Trip for Outdoorsy Duos The journey from Mariposa to Mammoth Lakes is a nature lover’s dream. Mariposa has the largest grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite Valley and has more than 500 ancient trees. From there, you can wind your way through Yosemite National Park to enjoy its many splendored wonders.

If the Tioga Pass is open, first stop by the Whoa Nellie Deli for some bodacious fish tacos, then head to Mono Lake to see the natural limestone tufa towers, and then make your way to June Lake for some paddleboarding.

When you get to Mammoth Lakes , you’ll want to take the hike to visit the Devil’s Postpile National Monument and Rainbow Falls . Stay at Yosemite Bug Mountain Resort in Mariposa, Yosemite Valley Lodge in the park, and Snowcreek Resort in Mammoth Lakes.

Olympic National Park in Washington

mercedes metris pop up campers in olympic national park

Best for Camping

Rent a fully-loaded Mercedes Metris pop-up camper from Peace Vans in Seattle and head to the Olympic Peninsula to explore Olympic National Park and the nearby rainforests and beaches along the Pacific Ocean. Explore Port Townsend , Dungeness Recreation Area , Lake Crescent , Cape Flattery , and Rialto Beach at your leisure. You can park at campgrounds, Hipcamps, RV parks, or on Bureau of Land Management land. The vans are smartly designed with two separate sleeping spaces and come fully equipped with everything you need including USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, heaters, sleeping bags, and kitchen supplies . Insider tip: Visit Lake Crescent Lodge for lunch and cross your fingers that they have their legendary Dungeness Crab Benedict available.

Musanze, Rwanda

gorillas in musanze rwanda

Best for a Once-in-a-Lifetime

Gorilla trekking is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. A 2-hour drive northwest of Kigali, the town of Musanze, Rwanda is home to Volcanoes National Park and 12 critically endangered mountain gorilla families who live in the Virunga Massif.

It takes 1 to 8 hours to hike through moderate jungle terrain with the help of guides and trackers to find the gorillas. Visitors are allowed to spend an hour observing and taking photos from a respectful distance. There are baby and toddler gorillas in the families and it’s especially heartwarming to see the mother and child interactions.

Permits and group sizes are limited. Tour fees fund conservation and anti-poaching efforts to protect the remaining gorillas. The Five Volcanoes is a nice boutique hotel with a good restaurant and friendly staff located near the gorilla trekking guide meeting point. *Our tour was organized through the Rwandan Tourism Board

Rapid City, South Dakota

devil’s tower national monument in eastern wyoming

Best for National Parks and Cycling Make the Hotel Alex Johnson in Rapid City your base camp and you’ll be within an hour’s drive to some of the most historic attractions in the United States. Tour Mount Rushmore National Memorial , Custer State Park , and the Crazy Horse Memorial , and then head to Wind Cave National Park or Badlands National Park to do some hiking or biking. Go to Deadwood to see the Adams House and Mount Moriah Cemetery and then you’re only an hour away from Devil’s Tower National Monument just across the border in eastern Wyoming.

Insider tip: If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, visit at night instead. From late May through September, you can watch the lighting 45-minute lighting ceremony at 9 p.m. every night.

You can visit the Mount Rushmore twice on the same day using the same entrance fee, so you can go during the day and again at night.

Svalbard Expedition Cruise - Arctic Ocean

seal on ice in arctic ocean

Best for a Splurgy Arctic Expedition Cruise Take an all-inclusive luxury expedition cruise aboard an all-suite, ice-class-rated discovery yacht to the depths of the Arctic Ocean at the top of the world. Scenic Luxury Cruises and its skilled crew of polar specialists provide guests with rare opportunities to see arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, walruses, seals, reindeer, whales, and Arctic birds in their natural habitats while circumnavigating Svalbard .

You’ll never forget the dramatic scenery with calving glaciers, icebergs, glacial waterfalls, and the Arctic Ocean bespeckled with ancient drift ice. The ship’s state-of-the-art cabins, restaurants, lounges, and spa will make you swoon.

Insider tip: In between polar bear sightings, you can partake in one of the 10 dining experiences, such as the rotating Night Market, which serves exquisite creations and changes fare offerings daily to keep it even more interesting. If you’re in need of additional pampering, you can book mother-daughter spa treatments at the Senses Spa and Thermal Lounge.

Budapest, Hungary

szechenyi thermal baths in budapest hungary

Best for Spas You could dedicate an entire week to visiting thermal spas in Budapest. The largest and most popular spa in Budapest is the Szechenyi Thermal Baths , which features 15 indoor pools and three big outdoor pools as well as saunas, steam rooms, and whirlpools.

For a unique experience, try the Beer Spa , a thermal bath infused with hops, yeast, and other beer ingredients. Gellert Baths and Rudas Baths are also great choices for relaxing Hungarian style. Stay at the dazzlingly appointed Aria Hotel , which features musical influences throughout its innovative design. The High Note Skybar on its rooftop offers excellent views of the city.

Insider tip: After you’re done soaking at the thermal baths, visit one of the ruin bars. The bars are inside the deteriorating pre-war buildings in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter. Szimpla Kert is the most popular and serves Kosher street food and Palinka cocktails in a dark and moody atmosphere.

Sandals Dunn’s River Resort in Jamaica

tony wilson dance company performing at sandals ochi beach resort in jamaica

Best for All-Inclusive Luxury Beach Getaway

This new Sandals hotel located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica , is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for an all-inclusive relaxing beach vacay. The 260-room resort has swim-up suites, open-air rooftop villas, and glass-paneled oceanfront balconies with private butler service.

There are 12 gourmet drinking and dining experiences, including a coffee shop that serves brews from locally harvested beans and a specialty rum bar. Diving excursions and golfing green fees are included free of charge as are the daily and nightly entertainment shows.

The Red Lane Spa at Dunn’s River offers a full array of treatments including lavender massages and papaya-pineapple body treatments.

Charleston, South Carolina

sunset sailing trip in charleston south carolina

Best for Foodies

From good old-fashioned southern barbecue joints to vegan-friendly, sustainable bistros, Charleston, South Carolina is a foodie favorite. Stella’s , Slightly North of Broad , Magnolias , and Halls Chophouse are destinations in their own right and 82 Queen has become the talk of the town. Order a bowl of their award-winning She Crab soup and you won’t regret it.

When your bellies are full, venture to Charleston’s historic sites, like Fort Sumter National Monument , Boone Hall Plantation , and Battery and White Point Gardens .

Book a sunset sailing trip with Charleston Sailing Adventures to see magnificent views of the city from the water. Stay at the exquisitely designed HarbourView Inn and enjoy its luxurious amenities, like a wine and cheese reception and a private rooftop terrace with views of Concord Street.

Dromoland Castle in Ireland

dromoland castle in newmarket on fergus in county clare ireland

Best for Feeling Like Royalty

Located less than an hour from the Cliffs of Moher, Dromoland Castle is situated in Newmarket-on-Fergus in County Clare, Ireland on 500 acres of pristine real estate. If you ever wanted to be treated like a queen, book a stay at this 16th-century fairytale castle and you’ll feel like royalty.

Touted as Ireland’s most magical address, this sprawling estate features a baronial facade, lavish decor, white-glove butler service, and meals served with shiny silver cloches. Estate activities range from clay pigeon shooting and horseback riding to bike riding and archery.

Insider tip: Request a packed picnic for your visit to the Cliffs of Moher and you’ll have a tasty lunch with stunning views.

Grindelwald, Switzerland

first person view on yellow kayak in jungfrau region of switzerland

Best for Adventure

For adventurous travelers, there’s no better place than the Jungfrau region of Switzerland. Book a kayaking excursion with Hightide Kayak to paddle the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Brienz or a paragliding flight with Skywings Paragliding for jaw-dropping views of the entire valley.

Head to Jungfraujoch to ride mountain carts and scooters, or take a hike on Schynige Platte or the Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg trail for some otherworldly panoramas. For unparalleled views of the Eiger, stay at Hotel Schweizerhof in Grindelwald.

Stay at the Victoria Jungfrau Hotel and Spa in nearby Interlaken if spa treatments are on your agenda and you adore smorgasbord breakfast buffets. Insider tip: A visit to the Panorama Restaurant atop Harder Kulm above Interlaken will deliver the quintessential Swiss fondue experience along with even more hard-to-believe-it's-real landscapes.

San Antonio, Texas

sun shining through building and trees at riverwalk in san antonio texas

Best for Cafes and Cocktails

With rooftop happy hours, Riverwalk bar hopping, and more brunch hotspots than you shake a stick at, San Antonio is the perfect girls' getaway for ladies who lunch. Head to the historic Pearl, if you’re looking for hip bars, boutique shops, and cafe culture. It’s easy to spend hours strolling through the thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor spaces in this trendy district. Have a cocktail at the swanky Sternewirth Bar inside Hotel Emma or stop by Local Coffee for your caffeine kick. Stay at Omni La Mansion del Rio along San Antonio’s famous Riverwalk to be in the center of the action with plenty of outdoor bars and cafes that will delight anyone who enjoys culinary delights and people-watching. Insider tip: Make time to have a gourmet al fresco meal at Jardin Restaurant at the San Antonio Botanical Gardens and finish it with the olive oil cake or a frozen peach bellini.

Melissa McGibbon is an award-winning adventure travel writer. You can also find her work on Lonely Planet, Travel + Leisure, Outside, The Points Guy, Backpacker, SKI, Scuba Diving, Matador, and more.

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We3Travel

7 Memory-Making Mother-Daughter Trips To Bond with Your Teen

mom daughter travel ideas

A mother-daughter relationship is precious and sometimes precarious. Nothing helps strengthen the bonds between a mom and daughters more than participating in activities shoulder-to-shoulder and sharing new experiences. Mother-daughter trips are a perfect way to accomplish both — and those long hours of travel time can be the perfect way to enjoy quality time and get even a recalcitrant teen to open up.

I started taking mother-daughter day trips with my girl when she was very young and we began lengthening those to mother-daughter vacations when she was six or seven. Over the years, our annual mother-daughter getaways have become a treasured tradition.

This precious time together has become absolutely priceless as she moves through her teenage years. Over the years, we have tried all sorts of trips (see my tips for planning a mother-daughter trip ) and each of them has hit home at various stages of her growth. I wanted to share a few of our favorites to give you memorable mother-daughter trip ideas to use in your own planning.

7 Best Mother Daughter Trips

I understand that sometimes it is hard to pull off a family vacation, let only a one-on-one trip. It is definitely easier for me because I only have one child. But I still think it is worth the effort, even if it can’t happen every year. These trips build a foundation for a strong relationship even when your daughter leaves home and goes off on her own.

1. The Adventure Trip

Hanging off the Mt Norquay

Teens love to be active and often seek thrills that we as moms would rather avoid. But I can tell you from experience that jumping in and adventuring together will gain you respect, empower you both, and generate stories for years to come.

Even if your trip isn’t ALL about adventure, it is easy to build a few adventurous activities into your trip. That can be paddle boarding, kayaking, horseback riding, zip lining, or tree-top adventure courses. Of course, you can hike just about anywhere but for epic views try one of the Utah National Parks .

Some of our favorite adventures include:

  • White water rafting in Oregon
  • Rock climbing in Smith Rock State Park in Central Oregon (Central Oregon is a great place for adventure — hiking, caving, rafting, climbing, tubing, and more.)
  • Hiking in the Canadian Rockies (a trip that also included horseback riding and the exhilarating day climbing the Via Ferrata on Mount Norquay.)
  • Hiking and horseback riding in the Black Hills and Badlands National Park in South Dakota

2. The Wildlife Trip

Mother daughter trips -- seeing the wild ponies in Chincoteague

Tweens tend to be animal lovers and get excited about up close and personal animal encounters . We are both animal lovers and we have a lot of bucket list dreams that involve polar bears, pandas, and penguins.

While some of those dreams are a little inaccessible on the current budget, it is easy to build wildlife sightings or animal experiences into a mother-daughter trip.

For example, after reading the book Misty of Chincoteague together for a mother-daughter book club, I figured that a mother-daughter trip to see the wild ponies of Chincoteague would be a perfect idea. We huddled together against the cold wind and spray of water on our boat ride around the island, but soon we were both beaming when we spied our first pony herds.

Some of our favorite wildlife trips include:

  • Wildlife viewing in Yellowstone National Park and learning about dinosaurs in Bozeman, Montana
  • Watching the bison, burros, and prairie dogs in the Black Hills, SD
  • Bear-watching cruise excursion in Alaska
  • Dude ranch vacation
  • Drive through safaris and zoos

3. The Cultural Trip

Blue Gate of the Fes Medina

If you are looking for something more adventurous, that also wraps in culture, education, and yes some wildlife (in the form of a llama hike!), I would encourage you to look at GOOD Travel . This responsible travel company is founded by a mom and they run mother-daughter trips to Peru each summer.

Every aspect of the trip – from the hotels to the llama hikes to the chocolate making – has been designed to ensure that the local community, economy, and environment benefit from your visit. So it is a great way to have an amazing bonding experience (with other moms and daughters) in a positive way.

I think this would be perfect for a big birthday or moving up from grade school to middle school, middle school to high school, or even a graduation trip . If you sign up , be sure to note that you were referred by WE3TRAVEL (my affiliate code) and you will receive a 10% discount .

Of course, there are countless cultural trips you can take from learning about native culture in your own backyard to exploring a new part of the globe. One of the most immersive cultural trips we have taken as a family was to Morocco .

4. The Big City Trip

girl overlooking river walk in Milwaukee at sunset

If wildlife and adventure aren’t your things, maybe a mother-daughter weekend getaway to a big city — like New York City, Los Angeles , or San Francisco for shopping, eating, and visiting the theater and museums is more your deal. These trips are great for all ages and can even become an annual tradition as most cities have so much to offer and interests change as your daughter gets older.

One of our first mother-daughter getaways was to Baltimore, Maryland. Visiting a new city gives you a chance to explore together and share new experiences. We had a very special time wandering the city streets together and it allowed her a more active role in choosing which attractions and restaurants we visited.

I know that not only have these trips given us fun memories together, but it has also taught her skills about navigating a city, using public transportation, and how to keep yourself safe.

Some of our favorite U.S. cities to visit include:

  • Nashville – music, murals, and food
  • Atlanta – food, Coke, Aquarium, and history
  • Milwaukee – festivals, art, and lakeside fun
  • Minneapolis – Prince, shopping, art, and waterfalls
  • Chicago – theater, views, and museums
  • Philadelphia – history, zoo, and cheesesteaks

5. The Educational Trip

I am a man mural in Memphis

We spend a lot of time teaching our kids, but when you have an opportunity to learn together you are both on the same level and have another shared experience to reference and discuss.

We have taken a lot of educational trips together visiting historical sites, museums, and living history museums. Not every trip is themed around an educational topic, some just include an activity. But others, like our Civil Rights road trip , have been designed for a purpose and had a profound impact.

I think ages 8-14 are ideal for this type of trip. Some of our favorite educational destinations include:

  • Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown (paired with a fun day at Water Country USA )
  • Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia
  • Gettysburg including the National Battlefield — this was one of the first times that I could see her really taking in and processing everything that we learned and observing the impact that it had
  • Memphis including an African-American History tour and visiting the National Civil Rights Museum

6. The Spa Trip

Sierra Grande spa couples massage room

I thought spa resorts would require my daughter to be sixteen (and some do), but these days you can find spas that offer services for tweens and teens — from chocolate pedicures, blow outs, or massages for moms and daughters.

I’ll never forget her dreamy smile after her first massage! What a privilege to share this fun “first” with her. There have been a few times when we have added a spa experience to our trip, and I can’t wait to plan another spa getaway. I’m pretty sure I’ll be able to bribe her to go on a mother-daughter spa weekend even when she has moved out!

Our favorite spa experiences have been at:

  • Sierra Grande in Truth & Consequences, New Mexico
  • The Beach Plum Spa at the John Carver Inn in Plymouth, Massachusetts

7. The College Trip

Now that I have had a senior, we have added a new kind of mother-daughter trip to our repertoire — the college visit trip. While these can be stressful on both sides, and we don’t like to think about sending them off into the world, this is an incredible opportunity to be involved in one of the most important decisions your daughter will make so far in her life.

Sometimes, she may even listen to your point of view or gain some wisdom from your experience! But don’t make it all college and no play. Here are some great tips for turning a college trip into a mini-vacation. And as we have crisscrossed the country college shopping, I’ve also added some guides to visiting campuses on my sister site, Your Time to Fly, including:

  • Planning a college visit to Washington DC
  • Visiting Stanford
  • Tips for visiting University of Michigan , University of Wisconsin-Madison , and University of Colorado-Boulder

These trips have created a bank full of cherished memories — for both of us! Even though planning a mother-daughter getaway with your tween or teen daughter may sound daunting or impossible, I encourage you to give it a try. Start with a day trip or shared experience and go from there.

Need more ideas? What about a cooking class, TV or movie location tour, food-themed trip, attending a sporting event, going to a musical performance, or something else that grabs her interest? The best mother-daughter vacations are ones where she has a say in what you do.

I would love to hear your ideas, suggestions, and experiences. Join our private travel with teens Facebook group !

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Mother daughter trips getaway ideas

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: November 16, 2022

32 thoughts on “7 Memory-Making Mother-Daughter Trips To Bond with Your Teen”

Love these ideas. I haven’t done a spa trip with Cassie yet, and I definitely want to plan one. Gonna check into Beach Plum!

I’m in awe of your Norquay, Banff, via ferrata adventure. I’m a bit afraid of heights and that ferrata route is super challenging. Good on you for conquering it!

thank you!! I had my moments but when your teen is encouraging you, you don’t chicken out. I sure was exhausted and sore that night though!

Love this! I especially like the adventure trip idea, and not just because it features Crater Lake and Smith Rock…in my backyard!

Mother-daughter trips have been SO GOOD for my daughter and me in terms of strengthening our relationship and just plain having a whole lot of fun!

It sounds like so much fun! Eventually, I want to do a Jane Austen tour with her, but I think, for now, she’d rather we go to an adventure playground. Mother-daughter trips have been SO GOOD for my daughter and me in terms of strengthening our relationship and just plain having a whole lot of fun! One of my favorite travel memories was traveling with my mom as an adult child of 25 to Paris for the first time.

This is lovely, my mother and I did trips like this in my teens and now that I’m in my 30s we are doing them again. I took my mum on a northern lights trip recently which was so nice. It will be great when the tables turn and your daughter plans the trip and takes you!

I just went to Egypt with my daughter and it was amazing.

Having only just started in the “tween” world (she is 9) i am learning that i have to do special things with her, so loved this post for giving me inspo.

I’m so glad to hear it!

I traveled a lot with my daughter solo when she was smaller. Now that she’s bigger I think I need to plan another trip!

Love this! I especially like the adventure trip idea, and not just because it features Crater Lake and Smith Rock…in my backyard!

We loved that area. Crater Lake may be my favorite national park so far.

I like the SPA trip!

I haven’t done a mother-daughter trip yet with my 5-year old, but I’m hoping to do it this year before her THIRD little brother arrives! 🙂 It sounds like so much fun! Eventually I want to do a Jane Austen tour with her, but I think for now, she’d rather we go to an adventure playground. 🙂

A literary tour would definitely be a fun idea

Love these! Ours tend to be anything around food, coffee, or chocolate… 😉

Oh that reminds me of a chocolate tasting I did with her!

Cute! I love the photo of you two in your road trip t-shirts. I live in a house full of males, so I take girls-only trips with my mom. We love it.

Thanks! I imagine mother son trips could be very fun too! It is really just about doing things together.

Love this idea so much. One of my favorite travel memories was travelling with my mom as an adult child of 25 to Paris for the first time. It was a fantastic trip that I wish we could have done more often!

That sounds special! I hope my tween wants to keep our tradition going through her teen years.

I absolutely admire your long distance road trips with Hannah! For now, I try to always go to a nails “spa” with my 6-yr old:) and last year for Mother’s Day we had a yoga teacher come to our house for a mother-daughter private class. This year- we repeated the experience DIY style cause we already know the moves:)

That sounds so sweet! We would love mother-daughter yoga!

LOVE LOVE LOVE this! Hannah is just darling, first of all. I know Lucia would love the wild ponies of Chincoteague (so would I) and Gettysburg. You’ve given me some great ideas!

Yay!! And thank you!

I have only done city trips alone with my girls (I guess I’m most comfortable navigating cities by myself). I think a wildlife one sounds great though – I would love to see the Chincoteague ponies!

Wildlife ones are great for animal lovers

My favorite mother-daughter trip would be to the spa. My daughter is super girly and loves getting her toes, nails and hair done.

Mother Daughter Horseback camp at the Sugar and Spice Ranch at the Cowboy Capital of the world… Bandera TX!

Oh that sounds so fun and absolutely perfect for a horse loving girl too!

Comments are closed.

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mom daughter travel ideas

  • 1 A nautical weekend in Chesapeake Bay, MD
  • 2 A wine weekend in Willamette Valley, OR
  • 3 A ranch weekend in Wyoming
  • 4 A wellness weekend in the Poconos, PA
  • 5 An adventure weekend in British Columbia
  • 6 A shopping weekend in Portland, OR
  • 7 A beach weekend in the Bahamas
  • 8 A culinary weekend in Sonoma, CA
  • 9 A Europe-inspired weekend in Québec City
  • 10 An arts weekend in Los Angeles

10 Mother-Daughter Weekend Trips She’ll Remember Forever

Girls, what better way to bond with the most important lady in your life than on a trip together? Whether you’re already close or hoping to cultivate an even deeper relationship, here are 10 ideas for mother daughter trips—from vineyard-hopping around wine country to beaching it in the Caribbean—to treat her to once we can start traveling again.

See recent posts by Devorah Lev-Tov

Bedroom at Inn at Perry Cabin

A nautical weekend in Chesapeake Bay, MD

Moms and daughters who love the water but want to avoid East Coast beach crowds should head to Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Easily accessible from the DC metro area as well as from Philly and New York, the beautiful, low-key region hugging picturesque Chesapeake Bay includes several historic towns like quaint St. Michael’s, which was founded in the 1600s and is home to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum . Book a room at the waterfront Inn at Perry Cabin , where you can dine on freshly caught Maryland blue crabs at Stars and indulge in a Three Rivers Massage—a treatment inspired by the Eastern Shore waterways. For something even more memorable, book their Skip the Bridge Package and you’ll get picked up in the hotel’s custom Hinckley yacht, Five Star , and be transported to the hotel in style—Champagne toast on board included.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all St. Michaels, MD hotels

Bedroom at Allison Inn and Spa

A wine weekend in Willamette Valley, OR

Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley is a great alternative to the prices (and scene) of Napa. In McMinnville, you’ll find charming independent boutiques along the main street, fresh local food at restaurants like Thistle Restaurant & Bar , and hot design sleeps like Atticus Hotel along with more than 20 tasting rooms in town, which feature bottles from the 250-some-odd wineries located within a 20-mile radius. While you can certainly pop into any tasting room unannounced, for a more nuanced experience, we suggest booking R. Stuart & Co. ’s Taste of Place, which takes drinkers through the Valley’s various terroirs one single-estate Pinot Noir at a time. Alternatively, head to the Suzor Wines speakeasy tasting room in the back of Yamhill Valley Dry Goods for their High Tea with Wine on Saturday afternoons. If you need to squeeze in some spa time (we don’t blame you!), book an afternoon at the nearby Allison Inn & Spa for a signature “Pinotherapy” treatment followed by lunch at farm-to-table restaurant Jory.

RELATED: 7 Gorgeous Wine Country Hotels Around the World

Bedroom at Brush Creek Ranch

A ranch weekend in Wyoming

For more active duos, a ranch weekend is just the thing. Magee Homestead at Wyoming’s Brush Creek Ranch offers everything from hiking and horseback riding to shooting clays, mountain biking, and fly fishing—all with the benefit of ending your day in a luxurious cabin complete with Pendleton blankets, plush robes, and nightly turndown. Traveling with a yogi? Guests have a choice between morning yoga at the yoga yurt or going on a hike to a plateau for an instructor-led outdoor class. Afterwards, recharge with a treatment at the Magee Spa (we love the indoor grotto cave and cabana-lined indoor and outdoor pool), then bond over drinks and darts at the Saloon.

Bedroom at the Lodge at Woodloch

A wellness weekend in the Poconos, PA

One of our favorite spa resorts is Pennsylvania’s sprawling Lodge at Woodloch near the Poconos. In addition to luxe accommodations and a massive 40,000-square-foot spa, there’s also a top-notch food program (three daily meals are included in your rate), handmade cocktails, and a large wine selection—something many spa resorts insist on doing without. Of course, the spa is where you’ll want to spend most of your time: it offers more than 40 treatments (the Deep Forest Ritual Treatment provides a unique sense of place) and has multiple saunas and steam rooms along with an outdoor Jacuzzi and float therapy tank that’s large enough for two. If you’re interested in getting a bit more active, you’ll also find aerobics studios and yoga and meditation classes in addition to activities like hiking, archery, kayaking, art classes, and cooking demonstrations. Be sure to check out their Mother-Daughter Getaway package available year-round (except for July/August), where moms enjoy a 30% discount on intro or complete spa packages.

RELATED: 11 Wellness Retreats to Check Out in 2020

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Hawley, PA hotels

Exterior view of Fairmont Chateau Whistler

An adventure weekend in British Columbia

There’s something about being surrounded by dramatic landscapes that inspires awe—and a sense of togetherness. While Whistler-Blackcomb Resort—the ultimate mountain backdrop—is excellent for skiing, the non-winter seasons are also full of fun. How about a helicopter flight over Rainbow Glacier for a picnic and yoga session at scenic Beverly Lake? Of course, the mountain biking and hiking are hard to beat here, too. For the ultimate view, head to the Cloudraker Skybridge , which spans 426 feet high above Whistler Bowl. After all that adventure, rest your feet at the luxurious ski-in/ski-out Fairmont Chateau Whistler , which has plush rooms, six restaurants, a Vida Spa, tennis courts, and two new outdoor barrel saunas.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Whistler, Canada hotels

mom daughter travel ideas

A shopping weekend in Portland, OR

We get it, ladies: we all need a little retail therapy once in a while. One of our favorite cities to shop ‘til we drop in is Portland, Oregon, thanks to its scores of independent boutiques—many of which are female-owned. Some of our favorites include Seagrape Apothecary for handcrafted all-natural bath and body products, Kiriko Made for one-of-a-kind clothing made from Japanese textiles, Wildfang for clothing with a conscience, and Colibri for gorgeous flowers and plants. All that shopping can work up an appetite, so continue supporting the ladies while you dine at women-run eateries like Blue Star Donuts , Kachka , Coquine , Nostrana , and Yonder before spending the night at Woodlark . The hotel features 1920s-era photography by Portland native Imogen Cunningham, original abstract paintings by local artist Maja Dlugolecki, and Abigail Hall, which was named after Oregon’s “Mother of Equal Suffrage” Abigail Scott Duniway and occupies the exact space that housed the Ladies Reception Hall—a gathering place for the suffragettes of Duniway’s time.

Bedroom at Four Seasons Ocean Club Bahamas

A beach weekend in the Bahamas

Sometimes all you want to do is relax on the beach. We’ve got you covered: tranquil turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and balmy weather make Paradise Island in the Bahamas the perfect pick for ladies of all ages. We suggest dropping your bags at the Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort , which truly feels like paradise thanks to its five-mile stretch of private beach, 35 acres of Versailles-inspired gardens, three pools, and secluded Balinese-style spa. Heads up for Moms traveling with younger ones (daughters between the ages of 4 and 12): the hotel’s Kids for All Seasons program is complimentary.

RELATED: The 8 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Bahamas Right Now

mom daughter travel ideas

A culinary weekend in Sonoma, CA

There’s no denying it: one of the easiest ways to connect is over food. While Sonoma County is known for its excellent wine, it’s also a culinary epicenter thanks to thriving farmland and creative chefs. The region is home to acclaimed restaurants worth the splurge like SingleThread  as well as more affordable award-winning spots like Della Fattoria and Madrona Manor . With everything from Japanese ( Hana Japanese and Ramen Gaijean ) to Swedish ( Stockhome ) to Portuguese ( LaSalette ), Sonoma County may surprise you with its breadth. Still, there’s plenty of farm-fresh California cuisine to be had at places like The Spinster Sisters , Barndiva , and Glen Ellen Star . Agri-tourism abounds here, too, so if you’ve always wanted to see how to milk a cow ( McClelland’s Dairy offers 90 minute tours), learn how goat cheese is made (tour Redwood Hill Farm before a picnic with their chevre), or just eat some fresh peaches ( Dry Creek Peach & Produce sets up a farm stand several times a week), Sonoma is the place to do it. Book a room at the Farmhouse Inn for rustic-chic rooms and its own acclaimed farm-to-table fare.

mom daughter travel ideas

A Europe-inspired weekend in Québec City

Longing for a European getaway but can only take a few days off? For a French-filled weekend without the overnight flight, look no further than Québec City, whose fortified historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to churches and chateaus that date back to the 17th century. For the complete chateau-inspired experience, book a room at the Auberge Saint-Antoine , then spend time visiting cultural gems like the The Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec (the province’s largest museum showcasing 400 years of Québec art history) before heading to the top of the Observatoire de la Capitale for 360-degree views of St. Lawrence River and the mountains. If you still have some walking left in you, the cobbled streets of the Petit Champlain District are lined with boutiques and bistros, while you’ll find more modern stores in Saint-Roch. (For something more scenic, the European-style Rue Sain-Jean traverses the old city’s ramparts.) Or, sample another piece of Europe at the thermals baths and saunas of the Strøm Nordic Spa .

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Quebec, Canada hotels

Bedroom at Hotel Figueroa

An arts weekend in Los Angeles

Los Angeles might not be the first city that comes to mind if you’re planning an art-filled weekend away, but hear us out. Cinema aside, it’s got flashy-but-substantial modern art museums like The Broad and MOCA , an acclaimed photography center ( Annenberg Space for Photography ), and a starchitect–designed concert hall that’s home to the LA Phil . If you’re looking to lighten your pockets, pop into the intricately designed bookstore Owl Bureau , the all-pink Glossier flagship, and DTLA’s The Row , home to design stores like Yolk , Still Life Ceramics , and the Poketo flagship as well as Tartine Manufactory —the perfect place to grab a bite between shops. Afterwards, rest your heads at Hotel Figueroa . Originally opened in 1926 as an exclusive women’s hostel by the YWCA, the hotel reemerged from a renovation in 2018 with a lobby art gallery that features a permanent collection by female artists.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Los Angeles, CA hotels

What to Pack

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mom daughter travel ideas

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mom daughter travel ideas

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mom daughter travel ideas

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Wool Loungers

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Moisturizing Cream

mom daughter travel ideas

Self Cleaning Water Bottle

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The best mother daughter holidays for 2023

By Condé Nast Traveller

The best mother daughter holidays for 2023

The Condé Nast Traveller team reflects on their most memorable travel moments with their mums.

SIGHTSEEING IN BARCELONA    Abigail Malbon acting audience growth manager  As a child family holidays meant muchloved...

SIGHTSEEING IN BARCELONA

Abigail Malbon, acting audience growth manager

As a child, family holidays meant much-loved staycations in the UK ; and while our time spent in Wales and the south-east of Britain is cherished, in recent years my mum and I have looked further afield for our trips together. Like many others, we had a booking that was cancelled early on in the pandemic, and over the past year we’ve been planning how we’ll spend our time in Barcelona once we get the opportunity to rebook. Of course, the usual attractions will be on the cards – battling crowds on La Rambla (remember crowds?), marvelling at the Gothic architecture and hopefully visiting some of the best restaurants in Barcelona – but we also intend to get lost in the many brilliant vintage stores around Riera Baixa and carrer dels Tallers, since shopping is what we’ve always done best. No trip is complete without discovering a great new cocktail bar, and while my mum tends to stick to the classics, I’m partial to something a little more experimental, so Caribbean Club, with its delicious Mojitos and creative concoctions, ticks all boxes. A stroll through the city’s bright, lively streets as we people-watch and catch up on the past year apart will be the perfect way to end our break.

LASTMINUTE TRIPS TO PARIS     Rosalyn Wikeley creative content editor  Spending time with my mother is a real novelty in...

LAST-MINUTE TRIPS TO PARIS

Rosalyn Wikeley, creative content editor

Spending time with my mother is a real novelty in our large family. As a well-seasoned traveller, art enthusiast and French speaker, my mum is the ultimate companion for Parisian jaunts (usually meeting in a mad rush of blonde and bulging bags at London St Pancras after work). Admittedly, her French is a little better than mine, despite living in Paris for a shorter time, but our hunger for the latest exhibitions, lesser-known Le Marais boutiques and fresh croissants in Montmartre is on par. As is our mutual abhorrence for routine, a quirk the city caters to exceptionally well: from tucking into Le Tambour’s foie gras and steak frites just before midnight and ambling through the Tuileries Palace as they’re shutting the heavy gates to hopping on the Réseau Express Régional to off-radar markets.

Certain pockets of Paris unlock memories spent here during our formative years – parties that would spill out of medieval-style doorways in Saint-Germain or tourist-free coffee pit stops en route to classes at the Sorbonne. While we both see the city through the prism of our youth, its cobbled streets and squares doused in nostalgia, unsavoury aspects even pardoned through sentiment, discovering streets, shops , hotels , galleries and restaurants in this limestone labyrinth on the same footing is truly special. On our last trip, we walked off our Pavyllon cheese souffles at Le Petit Palais museum’s permanent collection, drooled over Saint Laurent belts and Celine coats at preloved store La Boutique de Cara in Le Marais, and drank late-night hot chocolates in one of Cour des Vosges’s contemporary rooms overlooking the capital’s oldest square.

Feast in Puglia     Katharine Sohn PA to the editorinchief   My mother and I spent 12 days dashing around Puglia during...

Feast in Puglia

Katharine Sohn, PA to the editor-in-chief

My mother and I spent 12 days dashing around Puglia during my first summer as a university graduate. It was a celebratory trip for me but, in reality, it was a present for her, too. We went back and forth between cities we knew or venturing deep into the heel of the Italian boot. A few years before this holiday, we had made the mistake of booking round-trip flights to Bari and never actually making it out of the airport . This time around, we were determined to see what Puglia was all about. We had watched le donne of the streets of Bari spin pieces of orecchiette from their spoons and then toss it to us to nibble on our slippery walks around the waxy city . We climbed hundreds of stairs in the whitewashed hilltop town of Ostuni, jumped toes-first through the silky aquamarine water of Polignano a Mare, and sipped bittersweet Negronis at Area 8 bar (a retro favourite of Wes Anderson and Roman Coppola) in the cliffside city of Matera. My mother and I left with sun-kissed skin, salty, unbrushed hair and seafood in our bellies.

Hike the Queen Charlotte Track in New Zealand    Olivia Holborow engagement manager  Its tricky to get home very often...

Hike the Queen Charlotte Track in New Zealand

Olivia Holborow, engagement manager

It’s tricky to get home very often when home is a 28-hour flight away. So whenever I do make it back to New Zealand I’ll carve out time for a dedicated mum-and-me trip. Our favourite yet was four days hiking (or tramping in Kiwi) through the striking terrain of the Queen Charlotte Sound. It’s a beautiful stretch of calm, inky-blue sea, peppered with great hunks of land that hide coves under their fringes. We spent the days wandering near-empty tracks with nothing but our own conversation for company and so caught up on anything and everything we didn’t know we needed to.

I should admit that the only way I got my mum (who has never slept in a tent) into the wilderness was because there was at least a touch of civilisation at night. So our evenings were spent in lodges – in private rooms with real beds and hot showers. There were also hill-top restaurants and bars on jetties where we ate fresh barbecued fish and downed muscle-soothing glasses of New Zealand wine . It was a trip brimming with all the very best things in life – nature, sea, sand, sun. And, of course, mum was right about ditching the tents.

A yoga retreat in rural Italy

Anna Prendergast, digital editorial assistant

Before our trip to Italy , I’d never done yoga with my mum – she’s far more practised than me and has all the proper kit, which this time was packed neatly into a smart suitcase. I turned up to the airport with gap-year-hangover harem pants and pyjama bottoms trailing from the broken zip on my carry-on bag, which invited a long-perfected look conveying both amusement and despair. We spent three days rising with the sun to salute it as it stretched over the Umbrian countryside around us and telling stories over Persian suppers. Between warrior poses, we read books by the pool and walked to the hilltop village of Preggio. The yoga was divine – well-paced, hands-on – and some classes were even unexpectedly emotional. A session which involved chanting moved one of us (OK, me) to tears – a common effect, our teacher told us afterwards – and I wouldn’t have wanted anyone other than my mum there afterwards to hug it out with. Emma (the flexible one) and Soudy (the foodie one) run various three-day courses across Italy – sign up to their newsletter ( retreatinitaly.com ) or check out our favourite yoga retreats in the world .

Eat out in Girona     Roxy KavousiWalker Senior subeditor   Girona is the kind of place you can pretend youre an...

Eat out in Girona

Roxy Kavousi-Walker, Senior sub-editor

Girona is the kind of place you can pretend you’re an inhabitant of the Mediterranean, happily eating and drinking and strolling, and not having to worry about rushing to this gallery or that museum. It was just the right place for a low-key short break away with my mother (I had just moved back home after living abroad for a couple of years, so some mother-daughter time was in need). Plus, it’s within easy reach of various beaches and coves for sea swimming . One salty, fishy memory stands out from this trip. We love to cook, so we decided to make a bacalao -style fish stew at our vine-smothered Airbnb house with bits and bobs picked up from Mercat del Lléo : juicy red tomatoes, sweet red peppers, fat gordal olives – and salt cod. We had never cooked with the rock-hard ingredient before, and didn’t bother looking up a recipe ; we just freestyled it (my mum is a great cook, generally). I’d heard you’re supposed to soak the fish in water – which we did, but just for a few hours. I later learned that 24 hours is the minimum soaking time. The end result tasted as if someone had collected all the salt in the world and magically condensed it in our harmless-looking, steaming bowl of food. It was an epic fail. If you plan to do a similar trip: 1) don’t bother cooking; 2) look up a recipe if using a new ingredient; or 3) just eat out at one of the fine establishments Girona has to offer. Preferably El Celler de Can Roca which is currently number three in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List (book well ahead though).

Rick Jordan Chief subeditor      I didnt choose to go to Sherwood Forest I was taken. There was no choice for the...

Shoot arrows in Sherwood Forest

Rick Jordan, Chief sub-editor

I didn’t choose to go to Sherwood Forest, I was taken. There was no choice for the under-16s in the 1980s. But this is Sherwood Forest, and I’d been watching Robin of Sherwood , with that breathy, Celtic-y Clannad theme song and a young, non-sweary Ray Winstone – and Sherwood Forest, as any fule kno, is the home of the Merry Men. Others may have Russell Crowe as a reference point, or Errol Flynn, or the Disney fox. But it’s all the same. Bows and arrows, traps and ambushes, sword fights using sticks. Trying to persuade my mother to climb inside the Major Oak, the tree said to have been a favourite hidey-hole of Robin Hood, is the memory that stands out. The Major Oak is immense, and at 800 years old quite a bit older than my mother. It has crutches to support its sprawling branches. You’re not allowed to climb on it now, but in those days you could. My mother wasn’t to be persuaded though. If you decide to go with your mother (or child), arrange an archery lesson while you’re here, under the canopy of the Major Oak – try to match Robin for sharp-shooting and split an arrow in half with another arrow. And visit Nottingham Castle, for more role-playing adventures. facebook.com/the-forest-archer

Sarah James Online intern      My mum took me to the Italian Lakes in the summer after my first year at university...

Summer in Lake Garda

Sarah James, Online intern

My mum took me to the Italian Lakes in the summer after my first year at university, ostensibly for some mother-daughter quality time after being away from home. The truth of the matter – that she felt sorry for me after a harsh dumping from my first ever boyfriend earlier that year – has still never been openly acknowledged. We took long, rocky boat trips to the little towns dotted around the lakes and I taught her the only proper way to attack a happy hour: two drinks each, minimum. It was probably the first time we ever spent together where I was considered an adult. I was tipsy and full-of-pasta and slightly, British-ly sunburnt for a week straight. Take your mum in June , when the lakes are warming up but not crowded so she doesn’t get cross at the dawdling tourists who ruin photographs . villafeltrinelli.com

Tabitha Joyce Online content editor      From the moment you walk into The Foyer at Claridges everything sparkles. The...

Breakfast at Claridge’s

Tabitha Joyce, Online content editor

From the moment you walk into The Foyer at Claridge’s , everything sparkles. The wheels on the pastry trolley, the peppermint-and-cream striped crockery and the busy guests passing through. People-watching over breakfast at Claridge’s with my mum is one of my favourite things. We both work locally, and so stealing an hour together before the day begins isn’t hard – but it’s definitely a treat. Arrive early and order the pancake stack with berries and maple syrup, or smoked salmon with buttery scrambled eggs. And don’t skip the Viennoiserie basket, piled with croissants, almond pastries, pain au raisin – any leftovers can be taken home in pretty cardboard boxes tied up with ribbon. claridges.co.uk

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Becky Lucas Digital editor       My mother and I had both just read Christie's Murder on the Orient Express which...

Ride the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Becky Lucas, Digital editor

My mother and I had both just read Christie's Murder on the Orient Express , which, perhaps perversely, had left us obsessed with experiencing the train. So, as her special birthday approached (60, but sssh), I hatched a plan to get us on board . We may have only been on it for 36 hours, but a week’s worth of sensations flashed by. The tinkle of piano keys and ice cubes on crystal in the bar car. The smell of the buttery moisturiser with gold flakes left by your in-cabin basin. The mist rising over Swiss mountains as we woke up, and the Venetian waters lapping around us as we pulled into our final destination later that day. The flirty – but sweet! – Italian waiters singing to my mother after dinner. Get a joint cabin if you can. Lying on your respective seats/beds, whiling away the hours as your porter ferries fine-dines and drinks makes for precious mother-daughter shoot-the-shit time. Go in autumn, from London to Venice , for toasty cabins chased by Italian sunshine. And dress to the nines, or nineteen-ninety-nines – there is no such noun as ‘over-dressed’ aboard the Venice Simplon- Orient-Express . belmond.com

Karin Mueller Picture editor      I was lucky enough to travel with my mum to Alaska last year. We went on a sevenday...

Sail to Alaska

Karin Mueller, Picture editor

I was lucky enough to travel with my mum to Alaska last year. We went on a seven-day round-trip cruise from Seattle, via Juneau, Glacier Bay and Victoria (BC). I chose to take my mum on this particular journey because it was the trip my father and her had always wanted to do together. My dad had passed away the year before, so this was the perfect opportunity. I'd also not travelled with my mum since my teenage years, so we were long overdue some quality mother-daughter time… My lasting memory is our day excursion in Juneau - the 'Taku Glacier Adventure by Air, Water and Ice'. Stood atop a glacier, utterly surrounded by deep blue pools, with my mum by my side, was a simply unforgettable experience. juneaushoretours.com

Push boundaries in Mexico City    Stephanie Rafanelli acting deputy editor   Im allergic to the word ‘regret in the way...

Push boundaries in Mexico City

Stephanie Rafanelli, acting deputy editor

I’m allergic to the word ‘regret’ in the way some people are to bee stings. It brings me out in hives. ‘I’ll always regret that I never made it to Mexico ,’ my septuagenarian mother, an avid reader of Mesoamerican history, used to say. I had a low-grade itch for years. Finally, I resolved to take her on a 10-day trip from Mexico City through Guanajuato and Jalisco; I knew it was going to be a challenge. I have always hopped on and off planes and trains with a sense of urgency, aware of the world's – and my own – expiration date. But my mum, a very graceful, very English ex-ballerina, is not exactly the intrepid kind. I underestimated her.

When we were hosted for our first lunch in Mexico City, I looked down at the beautifully arranged chapulines salad on my plate, then I looked at her. I glanced down, I glanced at her: there she was politely, elegantly – intrepidly – munching on grasshoppers as I pushed the desiccated carcasses around with a fork. I’ll always regret eating them. (She cried with happiness when we got to Teotihuacan. That I do not regret.)

Rose Astor Contributor    My mother first took me to Venice when I was a wideeye nineyearold. My memory is of pure...

Get lost in Venice, Italy

Rose Astor, Contributor

My mother first took me to Venice when I was a wide-eye nine-year-old. My memory is of pure, unadulterated Italian glamour: heels clicking down cobbled streets, laughter and music tumbling out of the cracks of elegant old buildings, sleek boats and gondolas ferrying fur-coated bella donnas to impossibly exotic rendezvous. It feels appropriate, almost a rite of passage, to take my 10-year-old daughter to capture those memories through her gaze.

We go thanks to Riccardo Lanza, a Venetian events planner who organised George Clooney’s wedding and is, fortuitously, godfather to our principessa . He has arranged a three-day trip for us, WhatsApping me a hit list so that we can experience the city like a local – of which there are scant few left, he laments.

Disembarking at Marco Polo Airport is itself a serious buzz. There is no hire-car coronary, no rush-hour taxis, just a dashing Jean-Paul Belmondo spin-off at the wheel of a pre-booked walnut and cream-leather taxi boat who zooms us to the recently refurbished Gritti Palace. You can’t beat the Gritti for location, right on the Grand Canal opposite the Salute and the Peggy Guggenheim Museum. On arrival, my daughter is helped off the boat by a charming concierge and presented with the hotel’s Venice for Kids guidebook and a stuffed Gritti Lion. I know the Italians love children, but the attention she receives over the three days dispels any worries I had that the hotel would be too smart for small people. We bed down in the Hemingway Suite, which could house my family of five quite comfortably (cots and foldaway beds are free for under-12s). There are also interconnecting family rooms, though beware if you come with toddlers: precious heirlooms adorn every surface.

On our first night, Riccardo introduces us to the fabulous Bianca and Giberto Arrivabene, who now live with their five children on the top floor of the Palazzo Papadopoli, their centuries-old family home. ‘Go down every calle [street]. Go through every door. Get lost!’ Bianca advises us over risotto con trufa . Thanks to my phone battery, this is exactly what we end up doing.

It’s hard not to fall for a cliché in Venice. On our first morning we are woken by gondoliers singing operettas below our open windows and spend a good half an hour soaking it all up. When we make it down to breakfast in the canalside bar we gorge on homemade pastries, eggs and granola (the Gritti also has a renowned cookery school that offers children’s classes) and just sit, watch and listen. The boats, the language, the extraordinary buildings… Venice TV, we call it.

Taking Bianca’s words to heart, we remain alert for open doors. En route to see the Tintorettos at the Scuola Grande di San Rocco (tip: get the iPod guide and lie on the floor of the Sala Superiore to appreciate the ceiling fully), I pull my daughter into a tiny church, where we light a candle, pray and listen to cellists warming up for a concert. There isn’t a single other visitor in sight. We plunge down tiny alleyways off St Mark’s Square that are stuffed with pocket-money souvenir shops (Venetian masks make excellent party-bag fodder). We buy beautiful notebooks from the exquisite stationery shop Gianni Basso Stampatore, which my daughter fills with holiday scribblings back at the hotel.

On the Arrivabenes’ advice, we rent a boat from Brussa Is Boat, which leads to a glorious couple of hours pootling about pretend palazzo-hunting and getting delightfully lost, more National Lampoon’s Vacation than Don’t Look Now . It would be wrong not to ride in an actual gondola, though, so we take a traghetto to Dorsoduro, where we whizz through the magnificent Punta della Dogana gallery (short is sweet with children – you almost want to flash-card them the sights). I hold my daughter’s attention at the incredible Peggy Guggenheim Museum by telling her how Mrs Guggenheim would remove a certain male appendage from a Picasso sculpture facing the canal every morning when the nuns sailed past, then stick it back on.

For scare-seeking children, the Secret Itineraries Tour at the Palazzo Ducale is brilliant. Hearing tales of murders and executions thrills my oddly bloodthirsty daughter, who delights in recounting them to her brothers back home. The concierge has pre-booked our tickets, and on his advice we go in the afternoon to avoid the midday crush. He also bundles us off with tickets for the Giardini della Biennale, as well as St Mark’s Basilica and bell tower, from where we survey the Venetian skyline and count the towers (I get to 24). We then hop on a vaporetto to the Giardini, which has an excellent café where we discuss what we’ve seen. Or rather, where my daughter declares most of the city’s artworks ‘easy-peasy, I could do that’.

Watching the Murano glass-blowers is fun, but you don’t need a whole day. We go on our way back to the airport, stamping our own molten-glass souvenirs at the centuries-old Seguso factory before grabbing a final risotto at Trattoria da Romano amid the colourful fishermen’s houses of Burano.

Venice gets mixed reviews foodwise, which is why insider tips are invaluable. Book Harry’s Bar for an early club sandwich and Woody Allen-style character spotting. The best pizza we find is at the Pizzeria Casin dei Nobili. And the gianduiotto ice cream from Nico’s in Dorsoduro results in an afternoon nap that is more coma than siesta. Antiche Carampane is a great spot for lunch with a good fish menu, and before dinner one evening Riccardo takes us to the Cantine del Vino già Schiavi wine bar, where the after-work crowd spills onto the small bridge outside.

Our trip is short, but my daughter’s diary is testament to how much we cram in, bulging as it is with ticket stubs, maps and receipts. Pre-booking activities and restaurants to avoid queues while allowing ourselves the freedom to segue into open doors feels like a good balance. We are already planning our return so we can work through another layer of this mystical city.

BOOK IT Doubles at The Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice, from about £485, including breakfast. +39 041 794611; thegrittipalace.com

Originally published in the June 2018 issue of Condé Nast Traveller

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The Best Southern Destinations For A Mother-Daughter Weekend Away

Pack your bags and set out on an adventure, just the two of you.

Since 1966, the editors of Southern Living have been carrying out the mission of the brand: to bring enjoyment, fulfillment, and inspiration to our readers by celebrating life in the South. We inspire creativity in their homes, their kitchens, their gardens, and their personal style. We are a friend they can trust, a guide to the seasons, a helping hand during the holidays, and a relentless champion of the Southern way of life.

mom daughter travel ideas

When it’s time for a vacation with your mom, you have your pick of great Southern destinations. If there’s one thing she deserves, it’s a relaxing and fun vacation where she can make new memories with her favorite child (that’s you, of course). From cities to small towns , there are a bunch of great places filled with antiques shops, spas, bed-and-breakfasts , cozy restaurants, and beautiful outdoor scenery that’ll have the two of you bonding anew. No matter what your favorite activities to do together are, there’s something here for you. From the classics to the more off-the-beaten-path locales, a vacation destination is out there calling your name. We owe a lot to our mothers and mother figures–isn’t it time you treated her to a vacation, just the two of you ?  

Asheville, North Carolina

Walter Bibikow/Getty Images

Few mountain destinations have quite the hold on us that Asheville does. It’s also an ideal place for a mother-daughter getaway. Check out some of the city’s best breweries after a day spent exploring the majesty of Biltmore Estate. From mountain sunsets at scenic overlooks to hours whiled away at antiques shops and farm-to-table restaurants, Asheville has it all–and you can enjoy all of it against that beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop.

Eat: Cúrate , White Duck Taco , Chai Pani , Buxton Hall Barbecue

Stay: The Inn at Biltmore Estate , Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville , The Omni Grove Park Inn

See: The North Carolina Arboretum , River Arts District , Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Bentonville, Arkansas

This art-centric city owes much of its creative capital to Walmart and the Walton Family, which spearheads the city’s Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which is set in the picturesque Ozark scenery (also a great landscape for hiking and biking) and contains a stellar collection of pieces from a variety of artistic periods. These days, the city’s dining scene is also reaching for the stars. 

Eat: The Hive , Spark Cafe , Oven & Tap , The Preacher’s Son

Stay: 21c Museum Hotel , Avid Hotel 

See: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , The Momentary

Charleston, South Carolina

Glowimages/Getty Images

It’s a veritable choose-your-own-adventure story when you visit Charleston. No two vacations in The Holy City will be quite alike, but you can be sure you’ll have plenty to do and see while you’re there. Start with a shopping spree along King Street, then wander the streets to either side and marvel at the architecture as you make your way to the views from The Battery. Indulge in fresh seafood and soak up the coastal breezes to make the most of your trip to Charleston.

Eat: FIG , The Grocery , The Ordinary , Chez Nous

Stay: The Dewberry , The Restoration , Hotel Bennett

See: Waterfront Park , Rainbow Row , Gibbes Museum of Art

Covington, Louisiana

tyalexanderphotography /Getty Images

A charming small town with plenty of local flair, Covington is the weekend getaway you didn’t know you needed. It’s a relaxed spot with plenty to see and plenty to browse, including locally-owned art galleries, boutiques, and antiques shops. As a plus, the bustle of New Orleans is just a hop, a skip, and a jump away over Lake Pontchartrain.

Eat: LOLA , The Gloriette , English Tea Room and Eatery , Del Porto Ristorante

Stay: Southern Hotel , The Garden House , Blue Willow B&B

See: Tammany Trace , Abita Brewery , HJ Smith and Sons General Store and Museum

Dahlonega, Georgia

North Georgia is a great spot for a girls’ trip with your mom, and Dahlonega is an ideal hub to explore. There’s a charming downtown to wander through, fun shops for browsing, local restaurants for grabbing lunch, and beautiful scenery to take in on the drives to and fro. Embark on a hike along nearby Amicalola Falls to see even more of the beauty of the Georgia mountains. Don’t miss the area’s wineries, where you can enjoy both tastings and tours.

Eat: Corner Kitchen , White Oaks Barn and Bistro , Shenanigans

Stay: Hall House Hotel , Dahlonega Square Hotel

See: Amicalola Falls , Frogtown Cellars , Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Winery

Greenville, South Carolina

A gals’ getaway to Greenville should always be in the cards. That’s because there’s so much to do and see in this energetic city. An ideal springtime escape, Greenville has parks, restaurants, and trails to keep you busy and having fun. For a perfect way to start your day, traverse the Swamp Rabbit Trail on bicycles after stopping into one of the city’s many stylish coffee shops.

Eat: Trappe Door , Aryana Afghan Cuisine , Soby’s , The Anchorage , Camp

Stay: AC Hotel Greenville , The Westin Poinsett

See: Falls Park on the Reedy , Swamp Rabbit Trail , The Peace Center

Lexington, Virginia

Nestled in the rolling green expanses of the Shenandoah Valley, this small town has all you need for a laid-back Virginia vacation. Reach it via a winding and picturesque drive on the Southern-favorite Blue Ridge Parkway and adjoining thoroughfares. Then explore all Lexington has to offer, from boutiques and local restaurants to hiking trails and hillside photo ops in the midst of the rolling landscape.

Eat: The Red Hen , Pure Eats , Season's Yield Farm at Haywood's , Blue Sky Bakery

Stay: The Georges , Abigail Inn , Grace House

See: The Blue Ridge Parkway , Heliotrope Brewery , Natural Bridge State Park

The Palm Beaches, Florida

Flavio Vallenari /Getty Images

What more can we say about The Palm Beaches? When you escape to these glitzy shores for the ultimate Florida getaway , you’ll be surrounded by opportunities to shop, dine, and lounge on the sands. Hit the sidewalks to browse the shops in this snowbird’s paradise, and don’t forget to book a tour to explore the historic corners of town. Then relax to your hearts’ content–you deserve it.

Eat: Green’s Pharmacy and Luncheonette , Ta-boo , Pizza Al Fresco

Stay: Marriott’s Ocean Point , The Colony Hotel , Grandview Gardens B&B

See: Worth Avenue , The Breakers , Flagler Museum

Savannah, Georgia

Long a favorite spot for weekend trips , Savannah has even more to enjoy these days, from rooftop terraces atop new hotels to buzzy restaurants that’ll have you making return trips. Don’t miss the oak-shaded parks that can be found throughout the historic neighborhoods or the fantastic antiques shops that the city has in abundance. Wander the sidewalks to see the beautiful architecture, then stop by River Street for cobbled streets, waterside views, and Savannah-made sweets.

Eat: The Grey , Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room , Back in the Day Bakery

Stay: The Drayton Hotel , The Alida , JW Marriott Plant Riverside District

See: River Street , SCAD Museum of Art , The Paris Market and Brocante , E. Shaver, Booksellers

St. Augustine, Florida

SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images

Towns don’t get much more historic than St. Augustine, which is known as the oldest city in the United States. Past and present mingle on every street, where new restaurants and old sightseeing stops elbow each other for travelers’ attentions. Take it all in, then head to the beach, which has sunny sands for lounging and greenspaces for picnicking.

Eat: The Ice Plant , Prohibition Kitchen , The Floridian , The Columbia

Stay: St. George Inn , Casa Monica Resort & Spa

See: Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , Lightner Museum , St. Augustine Beach , Anastasia State Park

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10 Mother-Daughter Road Trip Ideas

A re you planning a road trip with your mother or daughter? Before you start packing your bags, I want to share some awesome ideas with you. My mom and I have been on many road trips together and always have a good time no matter what we do – sometimes, it’s as small as playing cards in our hotel room. Here are ten mother-daughter road trip ideas that can make things more fun for the two of you.

Mother-daughter road trips are a fun way to spend time together –bonding and creating lasting memories as you drive away from the hustle and bustle of life. Getaways with your mom can mean so much to her. I see how it affects mine. We visit places she wouldn’t have gone by herself or places she never dreamed of going to. The ideas below are some things we’ve done together that you and your mother might enjoy doing together.

Hit the Road for a Mother-Daughter Road Trip

Every year, more and more families are hitting the road for vacations, including mothers and daughters. My mom and I have taken at least eight road trips in the last five years. We’ve been to the beautiful Kiamichi Mountains in Oklahoma, the Grand Mesa in Colorado, a 6-day Kansas road trip, camping in Natchez Trace, Tennessee, and many places in Texas. And each time, we found fun activities to do. Here are a few ideas we’ve done or will do on our next road trip together.

1. Book A Spa Resort Getaway 

There are many spa resorts worldwide that are for everyone’s budget. There may even be one in the city close to you. Take the whole day at a spa to relax, recharge, and get that total body massage you deserve. Maybe surprise her with this one.

2. Paint With A Twist

Have you ever been to one of those places where you paint by instruction and where they serve wine? You might not think your painting will turn out like the instructors, but trust me – it will. Instead of going to one in your hometown, seek a place on your next road trip. I’ve seen one offered at a winery –now that sounds fun!

3. Play Board Games All Day Long

When we go camping together, I bring a deck of cards and plenty of board games to keep us busy. After a short hike in the evening, we get into our pajamas and play until we are tired.

4. Enjoy Wine Tastings

Wineries and wine-tasting rooms are popping up everywhere. And how fun is it to taste wines to find a favorite, hopefully! We have enjoyed this activity more than once. Though my mother doesn’t like wine as much as I do, she will taste sweet wine. Go to a town that offers beautiful scenery while sipping on wine.

5. Visit Historic Homes In Small Towns

Visiting small towns is our favorite. We love the downtown vibe in small towns and won’t miss a historical home guided tour. Find a guided tour that will take you through a neighborhood full of historic homes. This is always fun during the holidays when the houses are all decked out in fantastic holiday decorations.

6. Go To A Big City

Find a hotel in a big city and make reservations at an upscale restaurant – perhaps in the hotel. Better yet, find a restaurant with gorgeous city views, like the Reunion Tower in Dallas. The tower there slowly turns, and you’ll have the best view of Dallas.

7. Stroll A Botanical Garden

During spring, when all the beautiful flowers are out, it would be an excellent time for you two to enjoy the outdoors and all the pretty flowers. It’s not too hot this time of year anywhere you go. Pick a city with a well-known botanical garden and enjoy lunch in the garden while you’re there.

8. Stay In A Boutique Hotel

A boutique hotel is not like a hotel. They are more quaint, and some are quirky. They are usually one story, have a restaurant and bar attached, and offer several fun things to do on the property. The ones I have visited have outdoor seating next to a lawn with a fire pit, comfortable lawn chairs, lawn games, and perhaps a swimming pool. Choose the ones with comfy robes, luxury linens, luxury bath products, and snacks for purchase in every room.

9. Opt For An Early dinner, Then Go For Ice Cream

No matter where your road trips take you, this idea is one of the best. If your mom loves ice cream, she’ll love this idea.

10. Take A Scenic Train Ride

Train rides offer stunning vistas or dome cars, classic cars, VIP cars, and many others. These train rides are usually relaxing, and the scenic views are unmatched. A few that come to mind are Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in Chama, New Mexico, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in North Carolina, and Napa Valley Wine Train in California.

Next time you want adventures with your mom or daughter, consider one of these Mother-Daughter road trip ideas.

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Going on a road trip can be a lot of fun, but if you're planning to go with your mother (or daughter), here are 10 ideas to consider.

My family of 5 always schedules 'home days' into our vacations to rest and reconnect. We bring board games, wear pajamas, and watch movies.

  • My family of five travels often, and we incorporate "home days" into our travel plans.
  • We stay indoors at our hotel or Airbnb every few days to rest, reset, and find time to connect.
  • On these days, we do things like play games, have dance parties, and cook home meals.

Insider Today

Our family of five travels fairly frequently. We've been to Iceland, Amsterdam, Portugal, Hawaii, London, and more with our kids as they’ve grown. One of the best ways we’ve managed to make the trips enjoyable for all of us and to stay connected to our kids while on vacation is to schedule “home days.” 

Instead of trying to cram everything we can possibly find to do, having this downtime allows us all a chance to reset and connect while on a trip.

I love traveling with a loose itinerary

I’ve always been a bit of a loose planner in my own adventures. I tend to pick a handful of things I want to do or see in a given place but never set a certain day or schedule for most of the activities. The exception being, of course, things that require special reservations or planning (like when I went to Charlie & The Chocolate Factory High Tea in London). 

As I became a parent, I kept this habit, which has been helpful as we traveled with younger kids (hello, unpredictable nap times). It keeps everyone’s stress levels down while giving our kids time to connect with us and each other no matter what city or country we are in.

What a “home day” looks like

We do our best to build in a home day every third or fourth day of a trip. During these days, we mostly stay in our hotel or our Airbnb . The kids often stay in their pajamas all day, and we’ll watch movies or cartoons together on and off. 

It’s not all screen time, though, as that would give us all a little cabin fever. We also each bring a card game or small board game in our carry-on luggage. We rotate through playing these together on our home days. Since my family members are a wide range of ages, the games we bring are always evolving, but some of our favorites over the years have included a game called Sleeping Queens, Phase 10, and every game you can play with a regular deck of cards, but especially Gin Rummy ( this book has been amazing for us). 

We also create a “dance party” playlist for silly dancing when we need to move our bodies . We each add songs in a rotation so we all hear things we like. 

Finally, we end with a homecooked dinner, if possible, where we cook something that is familiar and a favorite of the kids. We’ll get the ingredients from a local market as part of one of our outings a day or two before a scheduled home day. This is also one of the reasons we often stay in a vacation rental instead of a hotel.

A little rest goes a long way

These days are slow and cozy. They allow the kids, and us, to move at our own pace. Adjusting to the time zone and culture of new places can take a lot out of the best of us. For kids, I’ve found having the time and space to rest and reset goes a long way toward helping them be adventurous in exploring new places the following days. After every home day we’ve had, I see an increase in patience in all of us, which always makes traveling a better experience.

Thanks, at least in part, to our home days, we’ve been able to enjoy long drives to try to find the northern lights in Iceland, a complete tour of the Tower of London, and a day trip to Sintra in Portugal to check out the Palácio da Pena, among other adventures, with our kids when they were as young as two years old. Best of all, our kids remember our family trips with joy and are excited about where we might travel in the future. As a person who loves to travel, it makes me happy to not only be able to continue to travel as a parent, but also to see my kids’ growing love of travel , too.

Axel Springer, Insider Inc.'s parent company, is an investor in Airbnb.

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Watch: This single mom and daughter have been traveling full time for a year

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Mom who treated daughter’s cancer with CBD oil instead of chemo, surgery gets 90 days in jail

OREGON CITY, Ore. ( KPTV /Gray News) - An Oregon mother received a jail sentence on Monday after authorities said she tried to prevent her child from getting traditional cancer treatment.

At the start of the proceeding, Christina Dixon stood in court calm and composed but as it went on, she became emotional. Deputy District Attorney Brian Powell asked the judge for 19 months in jail but instead, she was sentenced to 90 days in jail and supervised probation.

“The reason that Kylee is alive today is because she got the chemotherapy, because she got surgery, because of tumors removed,” Powell said.

Christina Dixon, 39, was sentenced to three months in jail and supervised probation for custodial interference and criminal mistreatment of her now 17-year-old daughter, Kylee Dixon.

“I am going to find that probationary sentence would be appropriate in the circumstance,” Circuit Judge Michael Wetzel said.

One of Wetzel’s reasons for not sentencing Christina Dixon longer is because of Kylee Dixon’s continued support for her mom, Oregon Live reported.

In 2019, the then-13-year-old was being treated for liver cancer. Later that year, Christina Dixon was indicted for failing to take Kylee Dixon in for a scheduled surgery.

“After the third round of chemotherapy, she said ‘no,’” Powell said. “She said ‘no,’ despite 23 physicians at Saint Jude agreeing on diagnosis, she said ‘no.’”

Doctors said they wanted to continue chemotherapy. Instead, Christina Dixon took Kylee Dixon to Las Vegas to avoid a court order and claimed the teen did better using CBD oil.

Kylee Dixon was taken into protective custody, and Christina Dixon went to jail.

Nearly five years later in court, Christina Dixon was emotional as she awaited sentencing.

“I never wanted to stop her treatment,” she said. “It was just with this particular doctor. I would’ve never put Kylee in harm’s way. I did everything to fight for her life, and I put my own life on the line for her.”

Kylee Dixon’s father was also in the courtroom. He said he doesn’t believe justice was served.

“I’m glad there’s closure, finally,” said Jim Dixon. “I was a little sad to see how easy she got off on all this considering all the damage she’s done.”

A judge later ordered that Kylee Dixon would have surgery to treat her cancer.

“The truth is that Kylee had a tumor that CBD wasn’t doing a thing to help. The only thing that was helping was the treatment that she was getting, and she had the surgery. And she’s cancer free now because of it,” Jim Dixon said. “We love you, Kylee. We wish you the best.”

Kylee Dixon will be 18 years old later this year. Her father said she is doing well. When we asked about her whereabouts, he said he doesn’t know.

He said he has not seen his daughter since 2020, Oregon Live reported .

Kylee Dixon did not attend the hearing, but she has expressed support for her mother on her mother’s Facebook page.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that cannabinoids like CBD oil can help relieve some of the side effects of cancer and cancer treatments.

“However, studies have not shown that marijuana or individual cannabinoids can cure cancer,” the CDC said. “Avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer or relying on marijuana alone to treat or manage the effects of cancer may have serious health consequences.”

Copyright 2024 KPTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Mom who left toddler alone in playpen for days while she went on vacation pleads guilty to aggravated murder

A Cleveland woman pleaded guilty Thursday to the aggravated murder of the toddler she left alone for more than a week while she went on vacation, prosecutors said.

Kristel Candelario, 32, left her 16-month-old daughter, Jailyn Candelario, “alone and unattended” at her home on June 6, 2023, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael C. O’Malley said in a Thursday release. She didn’t return home until June 16, 2023.

When she returned, Candelario found Jailyn unresponsive and called police.

Jailyn Calendario.

Police found Jailyn in a filthy playpen, and the girl was pronounced dead, officials said. She had been “extremely dehydrated,” according to police.

Investigators determined that Candelario left her daughter alone while she vacationed in Detroit and in Puerto Rico, officials said.

Candelario pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated murder and one count of endangering children in the case. She is set to be sentenced next month.

“This case is one of those truly unimaginable cases that will stick with me for many years to come,” O’Malley said in a statement. “It is our job to represent the victims, and today we spoke on behalf of 16-month-old Jailyn — who is no longer with us — due to the selfish decisions her mother made. This conviction today, is the first step toward justice for Jailyn.”

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.

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This Florida County Is Ideal for a Mother-daughter Trip — With Chic Hotels, Beautiful Beaches, and Relaxing Spas

My mom and I often head to the Palm Beaches in order to get some sun, relaxation, and quality time outside of our typical routines, and these are some of our favorite spots.

mom daughter travel ideas

When it comes to going on vacation with your mother (or daughter) , your best bet is to find a place that offers activities and amenities that appeal to both of you. Over the last few years, my mom and I have been fortunate enough to travel together everywhere from the English countryside to Jamaica — but there’s one place we’ve found that continually appeals to our fondness for warm weather and short flights along the East Coast.

Sean Pavone/Getty Images

The Palm Beaches make up 47 miles of Florida’s coastline and can be easily accessed by most major airlines; Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is in the middle of the region, and Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL) is another option, particularly if you’re exploring South Palm Beach County.

Courtesy of Discover The Palm Beaches

While you can choose to stay in just one part of the Palm Beaches — which is split up into the North, Central, and South regions — you can also turn it into a road trip of sorts.

Bright blue water, top-tier restaurants, luxury and boutique hotels, as well as a mix of nature, quiet communities, and bustling cities can be found as you make your way up (or down) the coast.

Whether you prefer lounging by the beach , spending your day on the golf course, or having a pampered spa day, Florida’s Palm Beaches have something for every type of mother-daughter duo . Here’s where we recommend staying. 

Courtesy of Discover The Palm Beaches 

North Region

In the North Region, we ventured out to Palm Beach Gardens and the PGA National Resort , which underwent a $100-million renovation in 2022. While we’re not golfers, the full redesign of the property’s rooms and suites as well as its 40,000-square-foot spa were calling our names.

In our experience, a successful mother-daughter trip is one that includes making memories together as well as fitting in some alone time. The PGA National Resort allows for both. Together, you can get in a game of tennis at the Sports & Racquet Club or dine at Chef Jeremy Ford’s steakhouse, The Butcher’s Club. Apart, you have the option to swim laps in the club’s five-lane saltwater lap pool or appreciate a moment of silence while reading or walking around the resort.

To get the best of both worlds, stay in one of the 21 Serena and Lily-designed cottages. Outfitted with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, the stylish, palatial retreats provide just the right amount of quality time mixed with individual privacy.

Crystal Bolin Photography/Getty Images

Central Region

Central Palm Beach County is where you’ll find West Palm Beach and, of course, Palm Beach itself. We’ve stayed at several hotels in Palm Beach , but The Brazilian Court is the one we repeatedly bring up as a favorite.

The peaceful nature of the property is evident the moment you enter the lobby. Moments of stillness are found around every corner and throughout the spacious courtyard. The accommodations — ranging from studios to three-bedroom suites — are designed in classic Spanish Colonial style, and are a welcome respite after taking in the South Florida sun during the day. 

Courtesy of The Brazilian Court

Our mother-daughter trips typically involve two types of activities: something active and plenty of reading time by a pool or body of water. At The Brazilian Court, we took the hotel’s Linus Bicycles (complimentary for the first two hours) out for a spin down the historic Lake Trail, admiring the views of the Intracoastal and the stunning Palm Beach architecture along the way. Most of our time, however, was spent by the hotel’s pool. Surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation, the small yet expertly appointed pool is the definition of tranquil; it’s the kind of place that evokes a true sense of peace and complete mindfulness. 

South Region

The Boca Raton’s recent transformation — complete with five new hotel concepts and a $65-million Harborside Pool Club — was one of the most highly anticipated aspects of our 2023 mother-daughter trip. Our first day on the property included a journey down the 450-foot floating river and even taking a couple of turns on the kid- and adult-friendly waterslides.

The final day of the trip, though, we dedicated entirely to Spa Palmera, one of the jewels of The Boca Raton. Inspired by the grandeur of Spain’s Alhambra Palace , Spa Palmera is a destination in and of itself. With 44 treatment rooms, waterfall whirlpools, and a courtyard surrounding a private spa pool, it's more than just a place for a massage or rejuvenating facial. My mom and I arrived early for our treatments in order to get the full experience: tea and sweet treats in the waiting room, adorned with elaborate mosaics and grand arches; poolside relaxation; and post-treatment visits to the sauna and steam room. 

Michael Stavaridis/Courtesy of The Boca Raton

While you can have mother-daughter quality time anywhere, The Boca Raton’s Spa Palmera — and the Palm Beaches as a whole — ensure you have the time, space, and opportunity to enjoy each other’s company while creating new experiences and lifelong memories. 

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    Mariposa to Mammoth, California. The journey from Mariposa to Mammoth Lakes is a nature lover's dream. Mariposa has the largest grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite Valley and has more than 500 ancient trees. From there, you can wind your way through Yosemite National Park to enjoy its many splendored wonders.

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