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Alternative Mother’s Day ideas

Everyone loves to take their mom to brunch, but then what? Extend mom’s special day by adding in a fun outing for the whole family.

By Editorial May 7, 2018 at 10:27 am

© cristina_conti, Adobe Stock

See brunch specials for Mother’s Day 2019 here, and find Mother’s Day 2019 events here.

Visit a Garden: Mother’s Day is oft associated with flowers, but rather than stocking up on store bought ones, consider treating mom to some colorful blossoms by perusing one of Northern Virginia’s gardens. Explore the vast array of native plants and tropical varieties at Meadowlark Botanical Garden in Vienna, or take a stroll at Green Spring Garden in Alexandria, where experts offer education and inspiration for the home gardener. Visit Burnside Farms in Haymarket to pick your own colorful tulips or create your own vibrant floral arrangement at Fields of Flowers in Purcellville.

Go on a Boat Ride: Though you may not be able to afford an expensive trip across the seven seas, you can still take mom out to enjoy a fresh air boat ride without having to travel very far. The Potomac River Boat Company in Old Town Alexandria offers narrated sightseeing cruises to Washington, D.C. monuments, Mount Vernon and the National Harbor. For something a little more scenic than touristy, hop on board Rivershore Charters in Occoquan for a serene wildlife-viewing cruise.

Take a Hike: Burn off those brunch calories in the great outdoors. The easy boardwalk trail through the marshlands at Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria is spotted with animals such as birds, beavers, frogs, snakes, turtles and ducks. The grounds of Mason Neck State Park in Lorton include unsurpassed views of Belmont Bay and many miles of both paved and unpaved multi-use trails. And of course there is always the majestic beauty of Great Falls Park. Besides wandering the path to see the iconic falls, the park has miles and miles of hiking trails with everything from short circuits to challenging climbs.

Get Your Game On: There’s nothing wrong with a little family-friendly competition. The Zone in Ashburn features multi-level adventure themed laser tag, boutique cosmic bowling, virtual reality games and dozens of new and old school arcade games. Throw a skeeball, start a dance revolution, play billiards and more at Dave and Buster’s in Springfield. After enjoying a scratch Italian Sunday brunch, play some games of bocce and bowling at Pinstripes in Georgetown. Bonus points if you let mom win.

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