From pampering to pancakes, here are the top things to do in Metro Detroit to show Mom how much she means this spring and summer.
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Take Mom to a Garden Escape
Detroit’s Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory – Belle Isle
Enjoy a peaceful stroll among tropical plants and blooming flowers at this historic conservatory. Pair it with a walk around Belle Isle or a stop at the nearby aquarium. Free with a Michigan Recreation Passport.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens – Ann Arbor
Wander through themed gardens and walking trails. Kids can explore the Gaffield Children’s Garden while Mom enjoys the bonsai collection or a serene woodland path.
Ford House Gardens – Grosse Pointe Shores
Tour the grounds of Edsel and Eleanor Ford’s historic estate. The gardens are picture-perfect in spring, and the view of Lake St. Clair is stunning.
Book a Spa or Wellness Day
Woodhouse Day Spa – Detroit or Rochester Hills
Treat her to a massage, facial, or pedicure in a peaceful, luxe setting. Spa gift cards make a great present, or you can join her for a relaxing couples’ treatment.
True REST Float Spa – Novi
For moms who love wellness experiences, try a float therapy session—quiet, zero-gravity relaxation in a private pod. Total silence, stress relief, and no laundry? Yes, please.
Plan a Brunch She Didn’t Have to Cook
Dime Store – Downtown Detroit
This hip brunch spot offers inventive egg dishes, loaded hash, and artisan coffee in a cozy atmosphere. Go early—it fills fast.
Social Kitchen & Bar – Birmingham
A rooftop patio, signature cocktails, and a killer cinnamon roll French toast make this a favorite for moms who brunch in style.
Toast – Ferndale or Birmingham
A Metro Detroit staple, Toast is bright, fresh, and full of charm. Order the mimosa flight and let the kids split a stack of rainbow pancakes.
Go on a Mother’s Day Cruise or Picnic
Detroit Princess Riverboat
The Mother’s Day brunch cruise includes live Motown music, great views of the city, and a full buffet. Advance reservations recommended.
Stony Creek Metropark or Kensington Metropark
Pack a picnic, rent a paddle boat, and let the day unfold slowly. Mom gets sunshine and family time—without the cleanup.
Make Something Together
Painting with a Twist – Various Locations
Sip, snack, and paint your way through a guided class. Look for Mother’s Day–themed sessions or family painting events.
Catch a Show or Concert
Meadow Brook Amphitheatre – Rochester Hills
Check the summer concert schedule—whether Mom loves throwback bands or classical, there’s usually something fun (and outdoor!) happening around Mother’s Day.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra – Midtown Detroit
For a classier celebration, treat her to a matinee performance or a family concert. The Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center is a beautiful venue with nearby dining options.
Visit a Local Market or Boutique District
Eastern Market – Detroit
Flowers, local goodies, and handmade gifts? Yes, please. Visit on Saturday morning for a vibrant, bustling experience or Sunday for a quieter flower day market.
Downtown Plymouth or Downtown Northville
Perfect for a leisurely stroll, cute shops, garden decor, and patios to grab coffee or a treat. Stop at Guernsey Farms Dairy in Northville for the best ice cream around.
Bonus: For the Outdoorsy Mom
- Bike the Dequindre Cut or Hines Park Trail
- Go kayaking on the Huron River in Ann Arbor or the Clinton River in Rochester
- Visit the Detroit Zoo—spring babies and fewer crowds make it a great May activity
- Hike at Maybury State Park or Indian Springs Metropark
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