You prefer texting over calling, and she doesn’t fully get TikTok. However, despite the age divide, you and your mother have more characteristics than you may realize (and those differences feel like opportunities for bonding anyhow). You two make excellent traveling partners, whether it’s encouraging one another to keep climbing the mountain or always being willing to try a new wine variety. Do you need some ideas for your upcoming trip together? For a vacation that will undoubtedly strengthen your bond, scroll down for 19 mother-daughter travel suggestions in the United States and abroad.
1. Outdoor Adventures in Cancun
- Best For: activity-packed, all-inclusive stays; beach retreats
- Best Time to Visit: winter to early spring (dry season)
- Best Time to Save: May to June, September to November (shoulder season)
- How to Get There: fly into CUN
- Where to Stay: Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe, El Cielo Private Villa, Marina Vista Retreat
I actually took a mother-daughter trip to Cancun this past November to bond with my tween daughter and enjoy some QT. After four days and three nights together on the beach, in the pool and on exciting outdoor excursions, I can say that our relationship felt stronger than ever.
In conclusion, you would be completely wrong if you believe that Cancun is just a place where girls go crazy for spring break. Actually, it’s really simple to steer clear of that atmosphere and focus on the area’s abundant natural beauty. Our schedule included an exhilarating ATV ride through a lush jungle (be ready to see tarantulas), a boating trip with snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, and, most importantly, a ziplining experience over and into a limestone sinkhole with a virtually bottomless pool of water known as a cenote, one of the Yucatan Peninsula’s most fascinating geological features.
While there are plenty of upscale resorts in Cancun, we stayed at the Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe and were really pleased with our accommodations. Our all-inclusive vacation included the finest ceviche I’ve ever had, private pools with expansive views, and direct access to a spotless and fortunately empty beaches. To put it mildly, it would be difficult to find a nicer place to call home for your trip to Mexico.
2. 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, , Luxurious Wine Country Retreat
After the wine starts to flow, some of the most hilarious conversations between mothers and daughters occur. Despite the giggles, wine tasting is a really enjoyable pastime. Cherish those unfettered conversations and the opportunity to gaze out at stunning vine-covered scenery in between sips of terroir-driven red, white, and rosé. Aperture Cellars, Flowers Vineyards & Winery, Truett Hurst, and Quivira Vineyards are some of our favorite places to swirl in Healdsburg. In the neighboring town of Windsor, we also adore Bricoleur Vineyards. After attending a wedding in downtown Healdsburg, executive editor Dara Katz said that she is eager to return: “This wine-country town has an absurdly high number of amazing restaurants per capita. I want to go back with my mother to sip wine, eat, and buy.
3. Do 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, Blue Heron Beach Resort Apartment
“I have a special place in my heart for Walt Disney World because I grew up in a Disney family,” explains Catrina Yohay, Executive Managing Editor of PureWow. Now that I’m a grownup, I love going with my mom because we can make new experiences while remembering old ones, like sipping beverages from around the globe in Epcot or dining at any of Disney’s fine dining establishments.”For Disney fans, a trip wouldn’t be complete without yelling on the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and taking pictures with characters in costume. That’s about as much conflict as is likely to occur at the Happiest Place on Earth, even if you and your mother can’t agree on whether to wait in the long 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.
4. An All-You-Can-Do Culture Crawl Through New York City
- Best For: a weekend getaway
- Best Time to Visit: fall
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into JFK or LGA
- Where to Stay: The Standard, East Village, Moxy NYC,
- Park Slope Rooftop Loft
With more museums, iconic structures, parks, Broadway productions, and unusual pop-up events than you could reasonably visit in a single trip, New York City is the ideal cultural destination. Thus, making the most of your time is essential. You may reserve a VIP pass via Get Your Guide to get in front of the crowds and see the biggest shows in New York City. Because your mother is the best person to see the Empire State Building, the Van Gogh exhibit, and a box office-smash-hit musical all in one weekend.I can still clearly recall my mother and daughter’s vacation to New York City.Dara Katz, editor of PureWow, recalls, “I was sixteen and I still can’t believe how much we got in—by foot, no less.” Similar recollections are shared by SEO Editor Marissa Wu: “In eighth grade, my parents and I traveled to New York City and did everything! went to Central Park, ate soup dumplings at Joe’s Shanghai, played the enormous piano at FAO Schwartz (RIP), walked up (and down) Fifth Avenue, and, her favorite, anything chocolate at Max Brenner.”
5. A Breezy Island Escape in Montego Bay
- Best For: rest and relaxation
- Best Time to Visit: winter to early spring (dry season)
- Best Time to Save: summer (rainy season)
- How to Get There: fly into MBJ
- Where to Stay: Excellence Oyster Bay, The Jewel at Dream 36, Soleil Residences Condo
I’ve already visited Montego Bay once, on my way to Negril, and I’ll be returning this month for my honeymoon. I can assure you that the atmosphere in Jamaica is tremendously upbeat. Although it may sound cliché, it is true that Jamaicans are the most gregarious, hospitable, and humorous people I have ever encountered in my travels. I can’t think of a finer place for a mother-daughter bonding experience if that’s what you’re searching for. Indeed, there are other areas of the island to see, but since Montego Bay is home to one of the island’s international airports, a stay there guarantees little time lost on transit.
Although I can’t personally attest to it yet, I was enthralled by Excellence Oyster Bay’s stunning setting—it’s located directly next to the Caribbean’s only bioluminescent lagoon—as well as its opulent accommodations and Victorian architecture. My husband and I will be staying there. Regarding other suggestions, I highly recommend dining at Rick’s Cafe, where daredevils can leap from a cliff into the bay’s blue seas (while less daring types can enjoy the scene while sipping margaritas).
6. 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, Serene Retreat in Woodstock
In addition to being a great destination for mother-daughter pairs traveling to the Empire State, the Hudson Valley is a true respite for New York City residents seeking to get away from the bustle of the Big Apple. The area is full of breathtaking natural beauty, but our favorite spot to relax and take in the picturesque surroundings is Mohonk Mountain House, a magnificent Victorian castle and Historic National Landmark perched atop a mountain near Lake Mohonk and encircled by forest. The resort provides visitors with an all-inclusive experience that includes enough activities to complete a whole schedule, in addition to the property’s stunning natural setting.Swimming, hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and many more seasonal activities are available. Special occasions like the Mother’s Day weekend, the Tulip Festival, and the Spring Wellness Weekend create the ideal atmosphere for bonding, and the chance to pamper mother and daughter at the excellent spa should not be missed.
7. Hiking in Sedona
- Best For: hikers
- Best Time to Visit: spring
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into PHX and drive 2 hours
- Where to Stay: Casita De Los Santos, The Wilde Resort and Spa, Juniper Ranch Main House
Sedona has so incredibly gorgeous landscape that simply going outside is a scenic reward. The best way to see all the formations and the most beautiful views, however, is undoubtedly to hike across red-rock country. You won’t have to argue over whether the route is too simple or too difficult because there are paths for every skill level. Choose a path that passes an energy vortex to cultivate an even deeper spiritual connection.Last year, my entire family and I traveled to Sedona, and it was breathtakingly gorgeous.You must climb Cathedral Rock if you’re feeling daring! Although it can be challenging in some spots, many amateurs were climbing and descending; all you need is a little perseverance to enjoy the view of the canyon.
8. Eating Your Way Through Chicago
- Best For: foodies
- Best Time to Visit: summer
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into ORD
- Where to Stay: Viceroy Chicago, Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile, Lincoln Park Guest House
Do you and your mother enjoy eating a lot? Why not make your meals the focal point of your entire trip? Chicago has long established itself as a major gourmet capital in addition to being well-known for its deep dish pizza, beef sandwiches, and hot dogs. Choose a few locations and conduct a do-it-yourself gastronomic crawl, or take an organized tour and plan your trip one mouthful at a time. To bring your newly acquired talents back home, consider enrolling in a cooking class to learn how to prepare deep dish pizza.
9. Glamping in the Great Smoky Mountains
- Best For: nature lovers
- Best Time to Visit: summer
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into TYS and drive 1 hour
- Where to Stay: Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains,
- Bear Mountain Overlook, Heaven’s Edge Cabin
Do you and your mother enjoy eating a lot? Why not make your meals the focal point of your entire trip? Chicago has long established itself as a major gourmet capital in addition to being well-known for its deep dish pizza, beef sandwiches, and hot dogs. Choose a few locations and conduct a do-it-yourself gastronomic crawl, or take an organized tour and plan your trip one mouthful at a time. To bring your newly acquired talents back home, consider enrolling in a cooking class to learn how to prepare deep dish pizza.
10. Living Your Best Cowboy Life on a Dude Ranch
- Best For: aspiring cowboys and guided activities
- Best Time to Visit: summer
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into MSO and drive 1.5 hours
- Where to Stay: The Ranch at Rock Creek, Triple Creek Ranch, Willow Ridge Lodge
The prospect of a Western-themed dude ranch vacation sounds so alluring, whether it’s because everyone is binge-watching Yellowstone or because we’ve all been stuck inside for too long. With your original ride-or-die, you may experience a variety of activities, such as horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, authentic cowboy food, singing campfire songs, sleeping to cricket sounds, and unleashing your inner Annie Oakley.
11. Celeb Spotting in Los Angeles
11. Celeb Spotting in Los Angeles
- Best For: celeb sightings and good weather
- Best Time to Visit: spring
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into LAX
- Where to Stay: Moxy Downtown LA, Rodeo Drive King Bed Apartment, Architectural Wonder Above Sunset Strip
Enjoy meeting celebrities in person and following the latest rumors in Hollywood? There’s a reason why Los Angeles is known as Tinseltown. As long as you’re in the correct spots, it’s one of the few venues where you have a better chance than not of sighting a celebrity. A-list hangout Craig’s is frequented by Kim Kardashian and Kate Upton. Everyone has been seen trekking in Runyon Canyon, including Channing Tatum and Justin Bieber. Nothing compares to a rental in the Hollywood Hills for relaxation and seclusion. Pendry West Hollywood is not only a luxurious place to stay, but it’s also well-liked by the red carpet crowd if you’re looking for celebrity sightings.
12. Tour New Orleans
- Best For: exploring the South
- Best Time to Visit: summer
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into MSY
- Where to Stay: Hotel Monteleone, Modern Studio House, Upscale Apartment on Streetcar
The reason New Orleans is such a vibrant, enjoyable city to visit is because of its rich culture and alluring Southern charm. Numerous museums may be found there, and the food scene is not to be missed. A food crawl is unquestionably necessary, and you should definitely take a few Po’boys to the Mississippi River’s banks for a picturesque riverboat ride. For a genuinely unique experience that blends stunning river views with lively music and a genuine taste of New Orleans culture, I heartily recommend the wildly popular Natchez jazz cruise (seen above).
13. Catching Some Rays in Grand Cayman
- Best For: sun worshippers
- Best Time to Visit: winter
- 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,
- Kaibo Kai Hacienda
Sometimes all you need is a little natural vitamin D, the ocean, and your mother to make all of your worries seem so far away. This is what happens when you’re enjoying pina coladas, eating fresh seafood, sunbathing, snorkeling, and staying in a five-star resort suite with an ocean view. We would suggest Palm Heights, a luxurious and incredibly stylish home situated on Seven Mile Beach’s beautiful dunes.
14. Escaping to a Holistic Wellness Sanctuary
- Best For: 360 wellness
- Best Time to Visit: spring
- Best Time to Save: summer
- How to Get There: fly into TUS
- Where to Stay: Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa
If you’ve already experienced (and enjoyed) a spa weekend, consider taking your relationship and overall well-being to the next level with a holistic retreat at Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa that broadens your horizons, strengthens your bonds with others, and cleanses your mind, body, and soul. With tranquil desert surroundings, unique wellness experiences, spa treatments, and a full daily program of activities, the 400-acre resort is a well-being-focused paradise where you can choose what wellbeing means to you (and your mother) and adjust your vacation accordingly.
15. Cozying Up in a Cabin Near Lake Tahoe
- Best For: peace and quiet
- Best Time to Visit: winter
- 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, Vista Azul
Perhaps you are best friends who simply enjoy spending time alone, or perhaps you live far away from your mother and don’t get to see each other very frequently. Hunkering down in a quiet and comfortable cottage in Carnelian Bay is ideal for couples who want nothing more than to give each other their full attention. You can’t just contact Postmates to get any last-minute supplies, so make sure to have the house packed with plenty of food, alcohol, and board games.
16. A Bucket List Safari Expedition in Hoedspruit
- Best For: wildlife lovers
- Best Time to Visit: summer (dry season)
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into CPT, transfer to HDS and drive 15 minutes
- Where to Stay: Saseka Tented Camp, Mohlabetsi Lodge,
- Ubuntu Luxury Villa
Your mother won’t hesitate to take a long-haul flight to Cape Town (and then a smaller plane to Hoedspruit) to spend a few days walking through the bush if she has an adventurous spirit and a strong desire to see elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, wildebeests, and rhinos in their natural habitat. Additionally, the thrill of game drives and sunset G&Ts at Saseka Tented Camp is unmatched by jet lag. Moreover, you will have plenty time to relax in your opulent tent, which comes with a private deck, outdoor shower, and swimming pool.
17. Tackling Emory Peak
- Best For: adventurers
- Best Time to Visit: spring
- Best Time to Save: summer
- How to Get There: fly into MAF and drive 4 hours
- Where to Stay: Chisos Mountains Lodge, Terlingua Ranch Lodge, Estrella at Willow Mountain
Sometimes all you need to keep moving forward is a few words of encouragement. And your mother is the ideal person to be your hype woman (and, of course, you’ll reciprocate). The tallest peak in the Chisos Mountains and Big Bend National Park, which we rank as one of Texas’ most picturesque tourist destinations, is Emory Peak. The breathtaking vistas, the incredible summit selfies, the stories of strength you’ll be sharing for years to come, and the fact that you did this incredible thing with your mother make the difficult hike to the top worthwhile.
18. A Laid-Back Beach Vacation in San Diego
- Best For: beach bums
- Best Time to Visit: summer
- Best Time to Save: winter
- How to Get There: fly into SAN
- Where to Stay: Mission Pacific Beach Resort, San Diego Mission Bay Resort, Cardiff Beach Cottage
What’s not to love about San Diego? Its year-round warm weather, immaculate beaches, and the (relatively) warm Pacific Ocean. In addition to its well-known family-friendly attractions (such as Sea World, the World Famous San Diego Zoo, and Belmont Park), this Southern California city has a ton of other things to offer mothers and daughters. The best places to enjoy some sand and surf are Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and the ocean. Hiking in Torrey Pines State Preserve and taking in the breathtaking views of the ocean is a great idea. In addition, there’s a great culinary scene with outstanding seafood restaurants, real Mexican restaurants, and everything Little Italy has to offer. (Our favorites in each category include Point Loma Seafoods, Roberto’s Taco Shop and Barbusa.)
19. 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, Charming Beachfront Apartment
When you visit Punta Cana, a town in the Dominican Republic famous for its vast stretches of immaculate beach that border both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find lagoons, waterfalls, woods, crystal blue open waters, and plenty of adventure. When you vacation on this stunning island, you may go snorkeling, ziplining safaris, horseback riding, and there are plenty of chances to simply relax on the beach with a cocktail. Our first choice for accommodations for a mother-daughter trip is the Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, a luxurious establishment with stunning views of the ocean and a wealth of wellness-focused features, such as excellent spa services and fantastic yoga sessions.
