Running late on Mother’s Day plans this year? Not to worry, The Epoch Times has compiled a list of last-minute ideas to give mom a special day, with plenty of budget-friendly options as well!
Orange County Zoo
For the animal-loving moms in your life, take her on a trip to the Orange County Zoo. Located in Irvine Park in Orange, this site is ideal for those looking to see woodland creatures and reptiles, including bobcats, jaguars, cheetahs, armadillos, rare snakes and lizards, and much more.At just $2 admission per person, this leaves plenty of room in the budget for a nice dinner following your visit, or even a scenic picnic at the zoo’s surrounding park.
1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange. For more information, visit ocparks.com
Picnic By The Sea
You don’t need fancy reservations to enjoy a beautiful view of the ocean with your loved ones. With plenty of options to choose from along the sunny California coast, turn your picnic into a day trip by cruising along Pacific Coast Highway until you see a spot that suits your fancy.Finish the day off strolling on the sand with an ice cream cone of mom’s choice in hand, or stretch the evening further with a cozy bonfire and blankets.
Flowers bloom along the trails of Irvine Regional Park in Tustin, Calif., on March 27, 2023. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times
Scenic Bike or Hiking Trip
For the active mom on the go, take a winding trip among the many public parks and trails in Orange County and the surrounding area. Options for vibrant views include Black Star Canyon Trail in Silverado, Pacific Ridge Trail along the Newport Coast, Irvine Park in Orange, and much more.Drive-In Movie Night
Grab your favorite snacks and drinks and drive out to a tried-and-true romantic classic: the drive-in movie theater. This idea is also great for young children, with the added benefit of fresh air underneath the stars. Bring plenty of blankets and chairs for an extra cozy night.Some classic Southern California locations include Paramount Drive-In Theatres in Paramount, the Rubidoux Drive-In Theatre in Riverside, and the Van Buren Drive-In Theatre, also in Riverside.
A drive-in cinema event at Fashion Island, Newport Beach, Calif., on August 13, 2020. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times
Home Movie Night
Relive some of your favorite memories with mom and the whole family by having a family home video night while enjoying some of mom’s favorite drinks or snacks. For an extra meaningful touch, you can make your own short film with some of your favorite photos of mom and family members. Reliving fond memories brings the whole family closer while creating new memories and laughter for a night that she will cherish forever.Shopping Spree With Mom
Not sure what to buy for mom this year? Make a day of it by shopping at all her favorite stores with her, guaranteeing an array of gifts–small or large–that any mom would enjoy. From clothes, shoes, arts and crafts, and more, this day of fun boasts endless options to treat mom to something she’ll love, without the guesswork!
Customers enter the South Coast Plaza shopping mall in Costa Mesa, Calif., on Aug. 31, 2020. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times
Spa Day With Mom
For moms in need of some TLC, take her in for a day at her favorite local spa or massage parlor. With plenty of soothing options to choose from, including saunas, face masks, a bubbly hot tub, or even getting her nails done, this option guarantees she will feel loved and pampered.Not able to make it to a local spa? Not to worry. A home spa day can be just as relaxing by turning on some of mom’s favorite tunes accompanied by store-bought face and hair masks, some new nail polish, and a warm cozy bubble bath alongside her favorite beverage and scented candle.
Home-Cooked Candlelight Dinner
Not able to score a spot at mom’s favorite restaurant? Grab ingredients for her favorite meal and spend the evening cooking together.This would give culinary moms a break from the kitchen or the chance for her to share her love of cooking with the whole family. Not only does this option allow for flexibility, but families can use this opportunity to try out new recipes like homemade sushi, or stick to old classics like mom’s favorite pasta.
