Whether you’re planning a surprise for a special occasion like Mother’s Day or simply want to reconnect with mom, a mother-daughter trip is a great way to spend time together without the hassle of everyday life. Need some inspiration? We’ve picked 15 of the best destinations for mother-daughter getaways across the US, with plenty of opportunities for bonding and fun, from hikes and gallery-hopping to wine tastings and spa sessions.
Best Places to Visit: Charleston, Underrated Hidden Gems: Hudson, NY, Best Places to Stay Healthy: Sedona, AZ, Best Places to Wine and Cook: Healdsburg, CA, All-Inclusive Vacation Destinations: Granby, CO
Read on for the rest of the recommendations.
Charleston
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Consistently voted the best city in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure readers, Charleston knows how to charm visitors. The historic downtown is packed with storied buildings, museums, and walking tours, and you’re not far from world-class beaches, shopping, golf courses, and culinary experiences. Whether you’re looking to indulge in Southern cuisine or browse antique stores and luxury boutiques, there’s plenty to do in the Holy City. From historic mansions to luxury boutique hotels with chic rooftop lounges, there are plenty of noteworthy hotels to make your stay even more comfortable.
Hudson, New York
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New York’s Hudson Valley is dotted with quaint towns, and Hudson is one of the most popular. Warren Street stretches for nearly a mile and is crammed with eclectic shops, boutiques, eateries, and galleries. Antique hunt at Finch Hudson, pick up some beauty products at Face Stockholm, find unique wardrobe accents at vintage collective Proprietors, and pick up home goods at Fig & Bella. After shopping to your heart’s content, enjoy a bite to eat at Soon Kitchen Bar or Lil Debs Oasis. Plus, the Hudson Farmers Market features over 30 local vendors every Saturday from late April through November. Stay in the heart of the vibrant city with a stay at The Maker, a chic boutique hotel on Warren Street.
Sedona, Arizona
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Wellness seekers of all ages will love a trip to Sedona. This Arizona location is known for its stunning red rock formations and energy vortexes where visitors can introspect and meditate. After hiking Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock (both known for their spiritual energy), grab a bite to eat at the popular Elote Café, which serves up regionally inspired Mexican dishes like elote (grilled corn) and carne asada (grilled and sliced beef). After a day full of adventure, relax in your room at the Amara Resort and Spa. This popular resort is known for its heated outdoor infinity pool, holistic spa treatments, and contemporary rooms with private balconies.
Healdsburg, California
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Head to California’s Wine Country for a wine-filled vacation. The charming town of Healdsburg in Sonoma County is the perfect base for touring renowned wineries such as Ferrari Carano Vineyards and Winery, J Vineyards and Winery, and Dry Creek Vineyards. Tasting rooms are located around the picturesque town square, Healdsburg Plaza. In between tastings, dine on the finest farm-to-table cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants such as Singlethread and Burn Diva.
Granby, Colorado
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About a 25-minute drive from Rocky Mountain National Park, Granby is your gateway to Colorado’s incredible wilderness. For a mother-daughter getaway, C Lazy U Ranch is the perfect balance of luxury and adventure. One of the best all-inclusive resorts in the country, this family-run dude ranch sits on 8,500 acres and combines upscale accommodations with rustic hospitality. There are endless ways for you and Mom to bond and rejuvenate in nature, from fly fishing to horseback riding to massages in a canvas tent by the stream (some activities, like spa treatments, cost extra).
San Antonio, Texas
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Sure, Austin is cool, but if you’re looking for a more laid-back getaway that’s just as charming, consider a trip to San Antonio. The city is packed with sights, sounds, and attractions that will delight history buffs. Whether you and your mom want to tour the Alamo or stroll the Riverwalk, there are plenty of cultural highlights to fill your weekend. San Antonio is one of two U.S. cities designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, which means there’s an abundance of food to tempt your appetite.
Clearwater, Florida
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Treat your mom to the perfect beachside getaway in Clearwater, Florida. This vibrant city is known for its white sand beaches and emerald green waters. The city’s namesake, Clearwater Beach, is a great place for sailing, fishing and water sports, or just relaxing and strolling along the shore. Across Clearwater Bay, you’ll find several restaurants and shops downtown along palm-lined Cleveland Street. When it’s time to refuel, don’t miss the margaritas at Tequila’s Mexican Grill & Cantina.
Philadelphia
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Philadelphia is best known for its role in early American history (Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, The American Revolutionary War Museum, Betsy Ross House, etc.), but this vibrant destination has much more to offer. The City of Brotherly Love is experiencing a culinary revival thanks to innovative eateries like acclaimed Israeli skewer joint Laser Wolf and elegant Mediterranean-inspired Lark. You can also explore the city’s quirky arts scene with a stroll through Philadelphia’s Magic Garden.
Asheville, North Carolina
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A trip to Asheville will allow you and your mom to spend some quality time in nature. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city is a magnet for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The area is packed with moderate trails offering stunning mountain views, such as Lookout Trail in Montreat and Mount Pisgah Trail. Afterwards, head to the enormous Biltmore Estate for a tour and wine tasting. Or relax in the 43,000-square-foot spa at the Omni Grove Park Inn, where you can relax in several pools, including a dimly lit lap pool with underwater music. Afterwards, head to one of three lounges for a chat and a cozy fireside chat.
Palm Beach, Florida
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Palm Beach County is made up of 47 miles of beautiful Florida coastline and 39 vibrant towns and cities. Make one your base or plan a fun mother-daughter road trip along the coast. Start in the North Region with a stay at PGA National Resort, boasting world-class golf courses, tennis courts, pools and charming cottages. Then head to the Central Region to explore West Palm Beach, filled with chic boutiques, weekly markets and trendy cafes. Round out your South Region adventure with a stay in Boca Raton, a sprawling resort where you and Mom can spend time on the beach, get a spa treatment or relax poolside.
New Orleans
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New Orleans is a feast for the senses, with striking historic architecture, soul-stirring live jazz music, and the aromas of Creole and Cajun cuisine. The city is famous for its Mardi Gras celebrations, but you don’t have to be there on Fat Tuesday to feel the city’s vibrant energy. Whether you’re in the mood for a foodie getaway with beignets and muffuletta sandwiches or a cultural soak up with museums and galleries, there’s something for everyone in the Big Easy all year round. Immerse yourself in the city’s history with a stay at The Celestine, a 10-room boutique hotel with a tranquil courtyard in the French Quarter.
Savannah
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Southern hospitality is on full display in Savannah. This picturesque riverside city is filled with beautiful architecture and green spaces dating back centuries, the largest being Forsyth Park, shaded by oak trees draped with Spanish moss. Savannah’s historic landmark district is the largest in the United States, with around 24 quaint squares lined with mansions, churches and other distinctive buildings. For thrill seekers, taking a ghost tour is one of the best things to do in the city. In between sightseeing, enjoy Southern comfort food like fried green tomatoes at The Olde Pink House, set in a converted 18th-century mansion, or Vic’s on the River, set in a 19th-century warehouse.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
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With waterfall hikes, mountain biking trails and over 700 wineries, the Willamette Valley is a wine and outdoor lover’s dream. With so much to see and do, exploring this Oregon region on a road trip is a blast. The valley is known for its Pinot Noir wines, but it’s also home to craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants and an official food trail. Spend at least one night at the Tributary Hotel, where the on-site restaurant serves seasonal micro tasting menus. Start your trip in Portland, Bend or further north in Washington state for the ultimate Pacific Northwest girls trip.
Santa Fe
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Boasting pueblo-style architecture and a world-renowned arts scene, it’s no wonder Santa Fe draws visitors from across the country. Its namesake plaza is considered the city’s heart, and the surrounding downtown is easy to walk around, so pack some comfy sneakers. From there, sip on the city’s Margarita Trail, go gallery-hopping on Canyon Road, or check out exhibits at the Governor’s Mansion, Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, New Mexico Museum of Art, and the International Folk Art Museum. Whatever itinerary you choose, be sure to sample the city’s specialty chili at local favorite The Shed.
Newport, Rhode Island
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This coastal New England city is dotted with Gilded Age mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House. After exploring the sprawling grounds, enjoy a waterfront stroll along the nearby Cliff Walk, followed by lunch (cocktails recommended) at The Chanler at Cliff Walk. If the weather is nice, take a sunset tour or a sightseeing boat tour. Newport is considered the sailing capital of the world. If the weather is nice, shop on Thames Street or relax at the spa at The Vanderbilt Auberge Resorts Collection, a 1909 mansion turned luxury hotel. We also highly recommend brunch at The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn. Pro tip: order the lobster roll.
