Healthy Lifestyle

Unique Mother's Day activities in Hudson Valley NY and Western CT

A couple, arm-in-arm, walking down a row of apple trees on a cloudy day; the man is on the left with a basket hanging from the nook of his left arm, and the woman is on the right.

05/02/2023

Mother's Day is a special day to show our appreciation for the woman who gave us life and nurtured us throughout the years. If you're looking for a way to celebrate with your mom in the Hudson Valley New York/Western Connecticut regions, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Here are some suggestions to make this Mother's Day extra special.

    Brendan’s signature logo on a onesie for infants

  1. Walkway over the Hudson State Historic Park

    If your mom enjoys the outdoors, a visit to the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is a great option. This pedestrian bridge spans the Hudson River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. There are also picnic areas and playgrounds nearby if you want to make a day of it.

    2. A leopard at Beardsley Zoo

  2. Beardsley Zoo

    For animal-loving moms, take a trip to the Beardsley Zoo! Home over 300 animals from North and South America – you and Mom can see a wide variety of animals and learn about conservation efforts through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

    3. A front shot of the DIA:Beacon

  3. Dia:Beacon

    If your mom is a fan of contemporary art, Dia:Beacon is a great option. This museum features an impressive collection of contemporary art, including works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Dan Flavin and Richard Serra. The museum is housed in a former Nabisco box-printing factory and offers a unique setting for art lovers.

    4. Lots of small airplanes at the Rhinebeck Aerodrome

  4. Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome

    For moms who love aviation, a visit to the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is a must. This museum features a collection of vintage airplanes and offers airshows on weekends. You can watch planes take off and land, and even take a ride in a biplane if you're feeling adventurous.

    5. A Photo of the FDR Library

  5. Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum

    For history-loving moms, a visit to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum is a great option. This museum features exhibits on the life and presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt, including his leadership during World War II and his New Deal policies. You can also take a tour of the nearby home of the Roosevelts, which is preserved as it was during their time there.

    6. A clown fish at maritime aquarium

  6. The Maritime Aquarium

    A must-see destination for families in Western Connecticut, this aquarium offers unique and educational experiences showcasing the diversity of marine life found in the Long Island Sound. You can also enjoy interactive exhibits, a giant IMAX theater, and hands-on activities.

    7. A Photo of a lake at Lake Waramaug State Park.

  7. Lake Waramaug State Park

    For moms who love the outdoors, a visit to Lake Waramaug State Park is a great option. This park features a beautiful lake and surrounding forests, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. You can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the lake, or take a leisurely hike and enjoy the scenery.

    8. A gigantic piece of metal art in the middle of a field at the Storm King Art Center

  8. Storm King Art Center

    For art-loving moms, a visit to the Storm King Art Center is a must. This outdoor museum features a collection of large-scale sculptures and installations set in a beautiful landscape. You can walk through the grounds and admire the art, or take a guided tour to learn more about the artists and their works.

    9. Aerial Photo of Bear Mountain

  9. Bear Mountain State Park

    For moms who love hiking and outdoor activities, a visit to Bear Mountain State Park is a great option. This park features miles of hiking trails, as well as a lake for fishing and boating, picnic areas, and scenic drives. The park also has a zoo and a pool, so there's something for everyone to enjoy.

    10. Two women in a cooking class, looking at the camera.

  10. The Culinary Institute of America

    If your mom is a foodie, a visit to The Culinary Institute of America is a must. This prestigious culinary school offers tours of their facilities, as well as cooking classes and tastings. You can learn about the culinary arts and sample some of the delicious food prepared by the school's students and instructors.

    11. A couple looking out over a mountain range.

  11. Mohonk Mountain House

    For moms who love luxury and relaxation, a visit to the Mohonk Mountain House is a great option. This historic resort features a spa, hiking trails, boating on the lake, and other activities. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at one of the resort's restaurants and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

    12. A picnic with many people outside the Olana State Historic Site

  12. Olana State Historic Site

    For art and history-loving moms, a visit to the Olana State Historic Site is a great option. This former home of Hudson River School artist Frederic Edwin Church features a beautiful mansion and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can take a tour of the house and learn about the life and work of Church, as well as the history of the Hudson Valley.

    13. People looking at art on a white wall.

  13. Basilica Hudson

    For artsy moms, a visit to Basilica Hudson is a great option. This former factory space in Hudson, New York has been converted into an arts and performance space. You can attend concerts, art exhibits and other events, and enjoy the unique and creative atmosphere of this historic building.

    14. A photo of flowers at Weir Farm

  14. Pack a Picnic and Go to Weir Farm

    The US’s only National Park dedicated to American Painting – tour historic studios, and take a stroll around the more than 60 acres of painterly woods and fields. 

No matter what your mom's interests are, there are plenty of great options for Mother's Day in the Hudson Valley New York/Western Connecticut regions. Whether you choose to take her on an outdoor adventure, explore the arts and culture of the area, or simply relax and enjoy some good food and drink, she's sure to appreciate the effort you put into making this day special for her.