The 15 Best Mother-daughter Getaways in the U.S.

Whether you’re planning a surprise for a special occasion like Mother’s Day or you simply want to reconnect with your mom, a mother-daughter getaway can be a great way to spend dedicated time together without the distractions of daily life. Need some inspiration? We’ve selected 15 of the best destinations for mother-daughter trips across the U.S., with plenty of opportunities for bonding and fun, from hiking and gallery-hopping to wine-tasting and spa sessions.

• Best tourist destination: Charleston
• Underrated hidden gem: Hudson, New York
• Best for wellness: Sedona, Arizona
• Best for wine and food: Healdsburg, California
• All-inclusive getaway: Granby, Colorado

Read on to discover the rest of our recommendations.

Charleston

Consistently named the best city in the United States by Travel + Leisure readers, Charleston knows how to charm visitors. Its historic downtown is filled with storied buildings, museums, and walking tours, and you don’t have to go far to find world-class beaches, shopping, golf courses, and culinary experiences. Whether you want to chow down on Southern fare or peruse antique shops and high-end boutiques, the Holy City offers plenty of fun things to do. There are numerous noteworthy hotels to make your stay extra comfortable, from historic mansions to upscale boutique hotels with chic rooftop lounges. 

Hudson, New York

New York's Hudson Valley is dotted with quaint towns, and Hudson is among the most popular. Warren Street spans about a mile and is chock-full of eclectic stores, boutiques, eateries, and galleries. Go antiquing at Finch Hudson, grab a few beauty products at Face Stockholm, find unique wardrobe additions at vintage collective Proprietors, or snag some home goods at Fig & Bella. After shopping to your heart's content, sit down for a bite at Swoon Kitchenbar or Lil Deb's Oasis. Additionally, the Hudson Farmers' Market offers more than 30 local vendors every Saturday from late April through November. Stay in the center of all the action at The Maker, an effortlessly chic boutique hotel on Warren Street.

Sedona, Arizona

Wellness-seekers of all ages will appreciate a trip to Sedona. The Arizona destination is known for its stunning red rocks and energy vortexes, where travelers go to reflect and meditate. After hiking Cathedral Rock or Bell Rock (both known for their spiritual energy), grab a bite at the popular Elote Cafe, which serves up regionally inspired Mexican cuisine like the namesake elote (grilled corn on the cob) and carne asada (grilled and sliced beef). Following an adventure-filled day, retreat to your room at Amara Resort and Spa, beloved for its heated outdoor infinity pool, holistic spa treatments, and contemporary accommodations complete with private balconies.

Healdsburg, California

Escape to California's wine country for a fun vino-filled vacation. The charming Sonoma County town of Healdsburg makes the perfect home base for touring acclaimed wineries like Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery, J Vineyards & Winery, and Dry Creek Vineyard. You'll even find tasting rooms around the picturesque town square, Healdsburg Plaza. In between tastings, indulge in the finest farm-to-table fare at Michelin-starred restaurants such as SingleThread and Barndiva.

Granby, Colorado

Situated about a 25-minute drive from Rocky Mountain National Park, Granby is the gateway to Colorado’s incredible wilderness. And for a mother-daughter getaway, C Lazy U Ranch offers the perfect balance of luxury and adventure. One of the best all-inclusive resorts in the country, the family-owned dude ranch is set on 8,500 acres and blends upscale lodging with down-home hospitality. Whether you and your mom are in the mood for fly-fishing, horseback riding, or massages in a creekside canvas tent, there are endless ways to bond and recharge in nature (note that some activities, such as spa treatments, cost extra).

San Antonio, Texas

Sure, Austin is cool, but for a more laid-back escape that's just as enticing, consider a trip to San Antonio. The city is full of sights, sounds, and attractions that will entertain history lovers. Whether you and your mom want to tour The Alamo or stroll the River Walk, you'll find plenty of cultural highlights to fill a weekend. San Antonio is one of two U.S. cities named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, meaning mouthwatering eats abound.

Clearwater, Florida

Treat Mom to an idyllic oceanfront vacation in Clearwater, Florida. The dynamic city is famous for its white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters. Its namesake Clearwater Beach is a stellar place for sailing, fishing, and water sports. Alternatively, visitors can simply kick back or walk along the shore. Across Clearwater Bay, you'll find several restaurants and shops downtown along palm tree-lined Cleveland Street. When it comes time to refuel, don't miss the margaritas at Tequila's Mexican Grill & Cantina.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is best known for its starring role in early U.S. history (think: the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Museum of the American Revolution, and Betsy Ross House, among others), but there's a lot more to this vibrant destination. The City of Brotherly Love is experiencing a culinary resurgence, thanks to innovative eateries like acclaimed Israeli skewer spot Laser Wolf and elegant Mediterranean-inspired Lark. You can also explore the city's eccentric art scene by wandering through Philadelphia's Magic Gardens.

Asheville, North Carolina

A trip to Asheville gives you and your mom some quality time in nature. The city, flanked by the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a magnet for hiking and biking enthusiasts. There are plenty of moderate trails in the area offering stunning mountain scenery, such as the Lookout Trail in Montreat or the Mount Pisgah Trail. Afterward, head to the massive Biltmore Estate for a tour or wine tasting. Or, hit the 43,000-square-foot spa at the Omni Grove Park Inn, where you can relax in several pools, including a low-lit lap pool with underwater music, before heading to one of three lounges for a cozy fireside chat.

Palm Beaches, Florida

Palm Beach County encompasses 47 miles of Florida’s stunning coastline and 39 vibrant towns and cities. Base yourself in one area or plan a fun mother-daughter road trip along the coast. Start in the North Region with a stay at PGA National Resort, which boasts world-class golf courses, tennis courts, pools, and charming cottages. Then, head to the Central Region to explore West Palm Beach, brimming with chic boutiques, weekly markets, and hip cafes. Cap off your adventure in the South Region with a stay at The Boca Raton, a sprawling resort where you and your mom can enjoy beach time, spa treatments, and poolside relaxation.

New Orleans

With eye-catching historical architecture, soulful live jazz, and the aromas of Creole and Cajun cuisines, New Orleans is a treat for the senses. While the city is famous for its Mardi Gras celebrations, you don’t necessarily have to visit during Fat Tuesday to feel its lively energy. Whether you’re in the mood for a culinary trip that includes beignets and muffuletta sandwiches or a culture-filled getaway spent visiting museums and art galleries, you'll find it year-round in the Big Easy. Immerse yourself in the city's history with a stay at The Celestine, a 10-room boutique hotel in the French Quarter with a secluded courtyard.

Savannah

Southern hospitality is on full display in Savannah. The picturesque riverfront city boasts beautiful centuries-old architecture and green spaces — the largest is Forsyth Park, shaded by live oaks hung with Spanish moss. Savannah's Historic Landmark District — the largest in the U.S. — is home to nearly two dozen quaint squares lined with mansions, churches, and other distinctive buildings. If you're up for some thrills, taking a ghost tour is one of the best things to do in the city. In between sightseeing, indulge in Southern comfort classics like fried green tomatoes at The Olde Pink House, which occupies an 18th-century mansion, or Vic's on the River, located in a 19th-century warehouse.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

Offering waterfall hikes, mountain biking trails, and more than 700 wineries, the Willamette Valley is a dream destination for lovers of wine and the outdoors. With so much to see and do, a road trip can be an exciting way to discover this Oregon region. The valley is famous for its Pinot Noir wines, but you can also find craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and official food trails. Spend at least one night at the Tributary Hotel, which offers a micro-seasonal tasting menu at its on-site restaurant. Start your journey in Portland, Bend, or further north in Washington state for the ultimate Pacific Northwest girls trip.

Santa Fe

With its pueblo-style architecture and world-renowned art scene, it's no surprise that Santa Fe draws visitors from all over the country. The namesake plaza is considered the heart of the city, and the surrounding downtown area is walkable, so pack some comfortable sneakers. From there, sip your way along the city's Margarita Trail, go gallery hopping on Canyon Road, or wander through exhibits at the Palace of the Governors, Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, New Mexico Museum of Art, or Museum of International Folk Art. Whatever itinerary you choose, don't forgo a bowl of the city's famous chili at The Shed, a local favorite.

Newport, Rhode Island

This coastal New England city is dotted with Gilded Age mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House. After touring the expansive grounds, enjoy an oceanfront stroll along the nearby Cliff Walk before stopping at The Chanler at Cliff Walk for lunch (cocktails recommended). If the weather's nice, hop aboard a sunset or sightseeing boat tour — Newport is considered the sailing capital of the world, after all. Otherwise, shop along Thames Street or hit the spa at The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection, a 1909 mansion converted into a luxury hotel. Brunch at The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn is also highly recommended. Pro tip: Order the lobster roll.