Mother's Day in NYC: Ideas & Experiences for the Discerning Mom

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching - have you made your plans? There are plenty of activities to indulge in and gifts to give that will make this Mother's Day unforgettable in NYC, so if you are looking for inspiration for how to spend the weekend with mom, you are in luck. We’ve rounded up a curated selection of activities outside of the usual brunch designed to pamper and spoil Mom in the luxurious style she deserves.

At The Victoria Shtainer Team, we understand the important of unique experiences. We're not just NYC real estate experts, we're lifestyle connoisseurs, always seeking out the best of what is happening around New York City. So, let's turn Mom's special day into an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the city.

Unique Mother’s Day Ideas in NYC

For the Music Lover: Surprise Mom with tickets to a special exhibit – "Paul McCartney Photographs 1963-2020" at the Brooklyn Museum. This immersive experience allows her to relive iconic moments in music history.

For the Flower Fanatic: Immerse Mom in a world of floral wonder at "Bloomtanica" by famed floral designer Jeff Leatham. This captivating walkthrough installation at Genesis House in the Meatpacking District is a feast for the senses, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

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For the Foodie: Treat Mom to a culinary experience at Tatiana, the hottest new restaurant at Lincoln Center by star chef Kwame Onwuachi which he calls his Love Letter to New York. Menu items include, Chinese take-out-inspired mushrooms, crab rangoon with oxtail, and shawarma roasted chicken. Those looking to splurge should order the tender short rib pastrami suya. Served with a pull-apart caraway bread, “melted” red cabbage, and a take on Russian dressing.

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Elevate the Experience

For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding these personalized details - sometimes the little touches and thoughtful gifts make the biggest impact.

• Floral Extravagance: Instead of a standard bouquet, create a custom floral arrangement with Mom's favorite blooms – imagine a stunning combination of lilacs and peonies for a truly springtime feel.

• In-Home Spa Day: Arrange for a private massage therapist or hairstylist to visit your home, transforming it into a personal spa sanctuary.

• The Gift of Time: Free up Mom's schedule by arranging for grocery delivery or a housecleaning service. This allows her to truly relax and enjoy her special day.

5 Best Mother's Day Activities in NYC and the Hamptons

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching, and it's time to start thinking about how you want to celebrate the special woman in your life. If you're a resident of Manhattan or The Hamptons, you're in luck as we are rounding up some ideas at the best spots in each locale. There are plenty of activities to indulge in and gifts to give that will make this Mother's Day unforgettable. Here are the top 5 things to do for Mother's Day in NYC and The Hamptons, along with gift ideas that your mom is sure to love.

Top 5 Things to Do for Mother's Day in NYC and The Hamptons

Indulge in a Mother's Day Brunch

Brunch is. a great option to enjoy the many fabulous restaurants in New York and The Hamptons and ease into the day

Treat your mom to a delicious brunch in one of NYC or The Hamptons' most luxurious spots. A few noteworthy options include The Plaza Hotel's Palm Court, Lindens, and Balthazar in SoHo.

In The Hamptons, check out Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House for a brunch experience she'll never forget. Additionally, the annual Mother’s Day brunch at Claude’s at the Southampton Inn is not to be missed! We’ve also curated a list of new Hamptons restaurants that opened last summer that come highly recommended as well.

Pamper Her with a Spa Day

If your mom loves to be pampered, book her a day at one of NYC or The Hamptons' most renowned spas. Some top-notch options include The Four Seasons Spa in Downtown Manhattan, The Mandarin Oriental Spa in Columbus Circle, and Naturopathica in East Hampton. There, she can enjoy treatments like massages, facials, and more.

Gift Her a Bouquet of Flowers

No Mother's Day is complete without a bouquet of flowers. If you're in NYC, head to Ode à la Rose in the West Village for a stunning arrangement. In The Hamptons, check out Sag Harbor Florist or The Garden at Water Mill for some of the most beautiful bouquets on the East End.

Treat Her to a Special Dinner

Give your mom a night off from cooking and take her out for a fancy dinner. Some of options in NYC include Le Bernardin in Midtown, Eleven Madison Park in Flatiron, and Carbone in Greenwich Village. In The Hamptons, don't miss out on Tutto il Giorno or The 1770 House.

Take a Mother's Day Getaway

If you really want to make Mother's Day special, plan a weekend getaway to The Hamptons or upstate New York. Rent a luxurious Airbnb or book a room at one of The Hamptons' most luxurious hotels, like The Maidstone or The Baker House 1650. There, you can spend the weekend enjoying the beach, hiking, or simply relaxing.

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

If you and your Mom are unable to spend quality time together - the ultimate gift - below are some elegant gift ideas centered around the Home and Lifestyle that she will love.

Shop the gallery below:

Best Flower Delivery Services to Shop For Mother's Day

Just as most everything looks different these days, so too, will the upcoming Mother’s Day holiday for many. Whether Mom is across town or in another Zip Code, there are still ways to show Mom some love this Mother’s Day. 

Fresh Flowers brighten up the home and are sure to put a smile on your face. Many of the top florists offer delivery so you can send get your gift to your mother’s day while practicing Social Distancing. 

Fresh air may seem but a distant memory, but the bright arrangements from these florist will bring a pick-me-up right to Mom’s front door.

H.Bloom

If you are seeking a high-end, luxurious arrangement, H.Bloom is a great choice. The company, founded in 2010, is centered around the philosophy that flowers are living art, and their arrangements look just like that! In addition to one time orders, H.Bloom also offers a subscription service to ensure beautiful flowers are always arriving to Mom’s door.

Shop H.Bloom

1-800 Flowers.com

One of the biggest players in the floral delivery space, 1-800 Flowers.com is sure to have an arrangement that Mom will love. In addition to floral arrangements, they also have a selection of gift baskets, fruits, and gourmet foods. We are pleased to be able to offer 20% off your order through May 10th. Click here to claim your Discount Code.

UrbanStems

UrbanStems prides themselves on sourcing on-trend flowers and creating one-of-kind arrangements. They have a team of designers that create stunning bouquets and curated plants for every occasion. Delivery is available across the country with same- day delivery available in NYC and DC.

Shop UrbanStems

FlowerBX

FlowerBX is a go-to for many in the fashion industry, and you can have the same delivered to your day. They are known for their freshness, sourcing flowers directly from growers where they are placed into a refrigerated van and delivered to your door.They have a Mother’s Day Collection which includes special arrangements of peonies, roses, and snapdragons.Delivery is available in NYC and across the northeastern United States.

Show FlowerBX

The Bouqs Co.

Here, all flowers are cut farm-fresh from eco-friendly farms across the country. The floral arrangement options are endless, and they also offer a variety of subscription services.Arrangement are available to anywhere in the United States.

Shop The Bouqs Co.

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Wishing All the Moms out there a Happy Mother’s Day!

Guide: 5 Things to Do for Mother's Day in New York City

Mother’s Day is Sunday May 12th. Whether spending the day with Mom in the city, or sending her a gift, we’ve rounded up 5 ideas for Mother’s Day in New York City as well as a few gift ideas. From Brunch to a Staycation, check out these fun things to do with Mom in New York City:

Brunch

Photo: Teddy Wolff

We could right an entire post just on Brunch places…it is New York City after all. Check out Simon & the Whale conveniently located in Gramercy in the Freehand Hotel. The restaurant is done by Gabriel Stulman who is also behind city favorites Fairfax, Charlie Bird, and Fedora.

Notable items for a Mother’s Day Brunch include griddles banana bread with date syrup, ricotta artichoke popovers, and sorrento lemon mascarpone danishes

New York Botanical Garden Party

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Enjoy the beautiful spring blooms at the weekend-long garden party at the New York Botanical Garden. This year is expected to be the biggest Garden Party yet! Stroll through the newly opened Lilac collection and enjoy live music and dancers on the garden’s main stage. There are a bunch of activities planned throughout the whole day, making it a great family event. Activities include putting on the green, croquet, guided walking tours throughout the gardens, face painting, and bouquet making demonstrations to name a few.

The event will take place during the entire weekend, from 10am-6pm on Saturday and Sunday.

All garden pass $28, $12 children // 2900 Southern Boulevard

 Mother’s Day at the MoMa

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Check out that exhibit you’ve been wanting to see at the MoMa with a special day planned for Mom. Before the Museum opens to the public, enjoy breakfast in the Terrace 5 Café which overlooks the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden.

After breakfast, you can participate in exclusive group tours of the MoMa collection, including special exhibitions.

Tickets: $120 Adults // $25 Children

Staycation at the Four Season New York Downtown

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Treat Mom to a special weekend Staycation at the new Four Seasons New York Downtown. They are offering a special promotion package for Mother’s Day called the Overnight Pamper Package. The package includes:

• Overnight accommodation

• In Room Dining Breakfast for Two

• 80 minute Soveral Facial

• Complimentary glass of Champagne or Wellness Elixir in The Spa

Rates starting at $795

Tea at Bergdorf Goodman

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BG at Bergdorf Goodman hosts afternoon tea daily from 3-5pm. If a full brunch isn’t your thing, this is a great way to pass the afternoon at a place that all women love, the famed Bergdorf Goodman department store.

Tea service comes with an assortment of tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, fruit preserves, Devonshire cream, and a variety of petite sweets. We recommend getting the option paired with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne. After tea, take mom downstairs to pick out a luxurious gift.

$45 per person or $62 with glass of Veuve // 58th Street at 5th Avenue

Gift Ideas:

Flowers: Flowers always make the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. What Mom doesn’t love a beautiful arrangement? One of our favorites in New York City is Ovando

Ovando takes a unique approach to floral arrangement, creating stunning displays both classic and modern. Quality and craftsmanship defines the brands beautiful arrangement. The store, dubbed the Botanical Gallery, is a experience not worth being passed up, and can also be rented for private events.

They have a special collection for Mother’s Day which you can shop directly here.

Fragrance: Replenish Mom’s favorite perfume, or buy her a new one. Byredo has some of the best scents available. For Mother’s Day, why not pick a scent thats grounded in floral notes?

Byredo Rose of No Man’s Land is an elegant floral fragrance that was created to pay homage to the nurses and heroines who served on the front lines of World War I. The fragrance has notes of pink pepper, Turkish rose petals, and raspberry blossom among others.

Available at Barneys

Dress - Looking to splurge on Mom? Treat her to an iconic Dolce & Gabbana dress that will be perfect for Spring and Summer whether in the City, The Hamptons, are the Almafi Coast. Dolce & Gabbana has beautiful prints inspired by the Italian scenery and Coast. They are known for the recognizable floral prints.

Dolce & Gabbana Cold Shoulder Anemoni Print Poplin Dress - Available at Bergdorf Goodman

Guide: Celebrate Mother's Day in New York City

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 13th. Whether you plan to spend the day with Mom, or you plan to send a gift because she is not in town, we have you covered with ideas for ways to make Mom feel special. From Brunch to gifts, check out our guide to Mother's Day in New York City. 

Wave Hill House Brunch & Gardens

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Wave Hill House, a 28 Acre estate in the Riverdale section of the Bronx, hosts an annual Mother’s Day brunch that garners a lot of attention. In fact, it often sells out! Feel like you escaped the city a bit on the 28 acres, and enjoy a brunch with Mom consisting of Belgian waffles, poached eggs, polenta, and zucchini bread. At least check, 10:30am and 1pm seating times were available.

After brunch, stroll through the beautiful gardens on the property. Birding is a very popular activity at Wave Hill House.

$50 per guest or $45 for Members // 675 West 252nd Street

Afternoon Tea at Bergdorf Goodman

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BG at Bergdorf Goodman hosts afternoon tea daily from 3-5pm. If a full brunch isn’t your thing, this is a great way to pass the afternoon at a place that all women love, the famed Bergdorf Goodman department store.

Tea service comes with an assortment of tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, fruit preserves, Devonshire cream, and a variety of petite sweets. We recommend getting the option paired with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne. After tea, take mom downstairs to pick out a luxurious gift.

$45 per person or $62 with glass of Veuve // 58th Street at 5th Avenue

Queens Botanical Garden Mother’s Day Brunch

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The blossoming Queens Botanical Garden will be hosting a farm-to-table brunch to celebrate Mom this year. Enjoy a selection from local caterers including omelets, bacon, muffins, scones, coffee, teas, and a complimentary glass of wine at the landmark setting.

After enjoying a delicious brunch, be sure to stroll throughout the gardens and take in the lush arrangement of greenery and plants.

Prices Range from $28 for children to $60 for adults // 43-50 Main Street, Flushings

New York Botanical Garden’s Annual Weekend Garden Party

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 njoy the beautiful spring blooms at the weekend-long garden party at the New York Botanical Garden. Stroll through the newly opened Lilac collection and enjoy live music and dancers on the garden’s main stage. There are a bunch activities planned throughout the whole day, making it a great family event. Activities include putting on the green, croquet, and guided walking tours throughout the gardens. Brunch, by reservation, will be served picnic-style.

All garden pass $28, $12 children // 2900 Southern Boulevard

Dinner at Majorelle

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 Majorelle is the newest restaurant on the Upper East Side located within the Lowell HoteCharles Masson, formerly from La Grenouille is running the restaurant in conjunction with four-star chef Christian Delouvrier. Similar to La Grenouille, Majorelle is decorated with fresh flowers throughout. The renovations in the Lowell to create Majorelle include a dining room designed by Michael S. Smith. Details include engaged columns and egg-and-dart moldings. The restaurant has approximately 75 seats with about 20 in a skylight garden. There is also a plush bar, Jacques, and a cozy library lounge with a fireplace adjacent to the dining room. The Chef has created a menu that mixes traditional French cuisine with Mediterranean and Moroccan influences. Highlights from the menu include a rich onion tart, warm sausage with potatoes, risotto of wild mushrooms, bass with Champagne and caviar, and steak au poivre.

28 East 63rd Street

Gift Ideas:

Fragrance: Hermes latest fragrance, name after the thin, silk scarves many women tie around the handle of their bags, has been receiving rave reviews. The maison crafted the new scent with Hermes girl in mind, a young, carefree one at that. Twilly has floral and spices with notes of ginger and sensual tuberose.

$130 – Hermes

Dress: Want to treat mom to a lavish dress that she will cherish season after season? The latest Dolce & Gabbana collection has striking floral prints that are sure to turn heads whether you are wearing it around the city or in the Almalfi Coast. We recommend the classic silhouette of the Sheath Cocktail Dress in the Rose print.

Elbow-Sleeve Scoop-Neck Rose-Print Sheath Cocktail Dress - $2,295 Neiman Marcus

Flowers: What goes better with Mother’s Day than flowers? Head to the New York Flower Market for the best selection. The district, which spans a full city block on 28th street between 6th and 7th Avenues, offers virtually any flower your heart can desire. Pick out Mom’s favorites and make a beautiful bouquet.

28th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues

Guide to Mother's Day in New York City

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 14th. Whether you plan to spend the day with Mom, or you plan to send a gift because she is not in town, we have you covered with ideas for ways to make Mom feel special. From Brunch to spas, check out our guide to Mother's Day in New York City. 

Aire Ancient Baths

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Situated in Tribeca among the neighborhood furniture stores, restaurants, and warehouses is the first American outpost of Aire Ancient Baths. The luxurious water spa has been widely popular since opening its doors on Franklin street as a destination to relax and detox.

Aire started in Seville, Spain in 2004 in a 16th century palace that had original Roman baths beneath it. The first location was followed by ones in Barcelona and Almeria.

The spa, located below ground in a cavern only lit by candles, combines soaking traditions from the Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Arab empires. Guests move between 4 pools ranging from 102 degrees to 46 degrees. There is also salt water as well as a jet tub. The space is done completely in stone imported from the South of Spain and only accommodates 20 people at a time.

Prices start at $75 for 2 hours of lounging- Aire Ancient Baths

New York Botanical Garden Garden Party

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Enjoy the beautiful spring blooms at the weekend-long garden party at the New York Botanical Garden. Stroll through the newly opened Lilac collection and enjoy live music and dancers on the garden’s main stage. There are a bunch activities planned throughout the whole day, making it a great family event. Activities include putting on the green, croquet, and guided walking tours throughout the gardens. Brunch, by reservation, will be served picnic-style.

Brunch at While We Were Young

A post shared by While we were Young (@whilewewereyoungnyc) on Apr 15, 2017 at 5:00pm PDT

 This new West Village restaurant and bar has been called the “ultimate ladies’ night out” spot because of its beautiful interior. The space is a bit more girly than your typical West Village restaurant, so it will be perfect for mom.

From the bar covered in petals to the rose colored banquet and chevron marble floor, the setting is sure to be beautiful for a Mother’s Day brunch. The cocktail creations are equally as beautiful, and we are confident the Kale Margarita will make for a great Instagram picture!

The space is quite small, and does not take reservations so we recommend getting there early! Looking for more Brunch recommendations? Don't forget to check out our list of The Best Places for Your Weekend Brunch.

Oysters and Champagne at Grand Banks

A post shared by GRAND BANKS (@grandbanksnyc) on May 6, 2017 at 5:02am PDT

 On Pier 25, situated on the historic schooner, Sherman Zwicker, Grand Banks offers a setting that feels as if you are transported away from the city. The setting gives guests panoramic views of the Hudson River, New York Skyline, and Freedom Tower in Lower Manhattan.

The floating vessel is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of champagne and a dozen (or two!) of oysters while taking in the New York skyline and the Hudson River. Additional menu items such a freshly crafted cocktails and lobsters. Grand Banks will also serve brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am- 2pm with menu items including French toast and Avocado toast and poached eggs.

If you can't spend the day with Mom, consider these gift ideas that she is sure to love!

Gifts:

Flowers: Beautiful flowers are always a great-go to gift to remind Mom you lover her. Favorites include peonies, orchids, and Lilacs. Check out Blanchet Flowers in Chelsea. .They are known for their orchids, including rare varieties. They incorporate them into all of their bouquets! Ordering is available online.

Fragrance: Gift Mom her favorite fragrance this Mother's Day. While scent preference varies, a favorite among many is Chanel No. 5. Available at Bergdorf Goodman

Salon: Treat Mom to an appointment at the salon so she can relax and look her best. We recommend a gift certificate to The Dry Bar. She will love getting a blowout while sipping champagne before a night out!

Massage: Another great gift selection is a massage so Mom can have some "me" time. Consider using Zeel, an on-demand massage service that will come directly to her home! Booking are available through their app.

4 Places to Take Mom this Mother's Day

Mother's Day is this Sunday, and if it slipped through the cracks of your busy schedule, The Victoria Shtainer Team has 3 recommendations for you to take Mom to this weekend. Forget breaking the ban on a typical, boring lunch or dinner, these events are cultural and will add some interest and surprise to your Mom's special day. 

America's Cup : The iconic event will return to lower Manhattan for the first time since 1920! The cup, presented by Louis Vuitton, is a preliminary competition among six countries for the 35th America's Cup next June. Head to the Brookfield Place Waterfront Plaza for the best experience and viewing. Brookfield Place Waterfront will be transformed into an event village featuring a gear shop where you can purchase event t-shirts and apparel, and, most notably, a Moet Champagne bar. No tickets necessary, and races will take place from 2-3:30pm both Saturday and Sunday. The event village will be open both days from 12-6pm so you can enjoy some champagne!

Looking for something to enjoy afterwards? Head to Grand Banks at Pier 25 to enjoy an oyster bar al fresco. The restaurant is on the historic wooden schooner, Sherman Zwicker. The setting is reminiscent of the oyster barges that were seen on the Manhattan waterfront in the 18th and 19th centuries. Great cocktails, rose, and beer on tap are also available. 

New York Botanical Garden Weekend Garden Party: Enjoy the spring time blooms and fragrant air at the New York Botanical Garden. The garden has restored and renovated some areas to have it looking the best this year. The weekend party will feature live music, dancers, games, food trucks, and casual picnicking. Tickets: $20 adults, $8 children. Saturday and Sunday from 10-6pm.

Frieze New York: Looking to give Mom a little dose of culture? In addition to all the art offerings the city has on a daily basis, the Frieze Art Fair is taking place May 5-8th on Randall's Island.  There will be a large array of art with more than 200 galleries showing. There will be food trucks and other beloved New York eateries on site such as Frankies Spuntino and Roberta's and Cosme. Tickets start at $49 and we recommend taking the East River Ferry to get to the island.  

CONTEXT New York: In conjunction with Art New York, CONTEXT New York is launching is inaugural New York edition with a fair running from May 3-8th. It is based of its successful counterpart, CONTEXT Miami. Art New York and CONTEXT create a welcoming atmosphere for both experienced and new art collectors. 60+ emerging and established galleries will be participating. The event will be held at Pier 94 located on the Hudson River at 12th Avenue and 55th Street. One Day passes are $40 and valid for both CONTEXT and Art New York.

We hope you can get out and enjoy the weekend with Mom. Wishing all mothers a Happy Mother's Day!

Victoria Shtainer with her Mother

Photos via: America's Cup, NYBG, Frieze , Art New York