2025 Mother's Day in Chicago: Events, Activities, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Things to Do for an Unforgettable Mother's Day in Chicago

​​​​

Here are some fantastic things to do in Chicago, IL, on Mother’s Day to celebrate and make the day truly special:

 

1. Treat Mom to a Mother’s Day Brunch

​

Start the day with a delicious brunch at one of Chicago’s top spots:

​

• The Signature Room at the 95th: Enjoy brunch with breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline from atop the John Hancock Center.

• The Drake Hotel’s Palm Court: Indulge in their famous Mother’s Day brunch in a historic and elegant setting.

• Beatrix: A trendy spot offering a wide selection of fresh, seasonal dishes and craft cocktails.

• Summer House Santa Monica: A bright, airy restaurant with a California-inspired menu and fresh pastries.

 

2. Stroll Through Millennium Park

​

Spend time outdoors in one of Chicago’s most iconic locations:

​

• Visit Cloud Gate (The Bean) and take family photos in front of its reflective surface.

• Walk along the Lurie Garden, a tranquil urban garden filled with spring blooms.

• Catch live music or art installations at Jay Pritzker Pavilion, if events are scheduled.

 

3. Cruise Along the Chicago River

​

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a scenic boat ride:

​

• Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise: Learn about the city’s iconic buildings while cruising along the river.

• Odyssey Chicago River: Enjoy a luxurious dining cruise with brunch, lunch, or dinner options.

• Shoreline Sightseeing: Choose a classic lakefront or river tour to soak in the beauty of Chicago’s skyline.

 

4. Explore Museums and Cultural Attractions

​

Spend the day discovering Chicago’s rich history and art scene:

​

• The Art Institute of Chicago: Marvel at world-class collections, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Grant Wood.

• Museum of Science and Industry: Perfect for families, featuring interactive exhibits and fascinating displays.

• Field Museum: Visit Sue the T. rex and explore natural history exhibits.

• Chicago History Museum: Dive into the city’s rich history with engaging exhibits.

 

5. Take a Walk Along the Lakefront

​

Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Michigan:

​

• Navy Pier: Take a stroll, ride the Centennial Wheel, or enjoy dining with waterfront views.

• Chicago Lakefront Trail: Walk or bike along this scenic path offering stunning views of the lake and skyline.

• Lincoln Park: Explore the park’s trails, gardens, and the free Lincoln Park Zoo.

 

6. Pamper Mom with a Spa Day

​

Give Mom the gift of relaxation at one of Chicago’s luxurious spas:

​

• The Peninsula Spa: A serene sanctuary offering massages, facials, and more.

• AIRE Ancient Baths Chicago: Relax in candlelit thermal baths inspired by ancient traditions.

• Allyu Spa: A tranquil experience with holistic spa treatments in a calming environment.

 

7. Dine Out for Lunch or Dinner

​

End the day with a memorable meal at one of Chicago’s best restaurants:

​

• Girl & the Goat: Chef Stephanie Izard’s award-winning restaurant with bold, flavorful dishes.

• RPM Italian: An upscale spot offering modern Italian cuisine in a sleek setting.

• The Signature Room: Perfect for dinner with stunning city views from the 95th floor.

• Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: A Chicago classic known for its exceptional steaks and old-school charm.

 

8. Visit Chicago’s Gardens and Outdoor Spaces

​

Spend a peaceful afternoon in one of the city’s beautiful green spaces:

​

• Chicago Botanic Garden: Located just outside the city, this lush garden is perfect for a family outing.

• Garfield Park Conservatory: Explore exotic plants and flowers in a historic greenhouse.

• Lincoln Park Conservatory: A peaceful oasis featuring rare plants and colorful blooms.

 

9. Treat Mom to Afternoon Tea

​

Enjoy a classic Mother’s Day tradition with tea, pastries, and finger sandwiches:

​

• The Langham, Chicago: An elegant afternoon tea service in a sophisticated setting.

• The Drake Hotel: A Chicago tradition with tea served in the historic Palm Court.

• Vanille Patisserie: A charming bakery offering tea service and French-inspired treats.

 

10. Attend a Special Mother’s Day Event

​

Check out special events happening on Mother’s Day:

​

• Broadway in Chicago: Treat Mom to a matinee performance of a popular musical or play.

• Live Jazz at Green Mill Cocktail Lounge: Enjoy live music in one of Chicago’s most famous jazz clubs.

• Mother’s Day Wine Tastings: Visit local wineries or wine bars for tastings and pairings.

 

11. Take a Scenic Helicopter Tour

​

For a truly unforgettable experience, surprise Mom with a helicopter tour:

​

• Chicago Helicopter Experience: Soar above the city and enjoy stunning aerial views of the skyline, Lake Michigan, and iconic landmarks.

 

12. Shop at Chicago’s Best Spots

​

Treat Mom to a shopping spree or explore unique boutiques:

​

• The Magnificent Mile: Explore luxury shops, department stores, and charming cafes.

• Oak Street: A fashion-forward district with high-end boutiques.

• Andersonville: A charming neighborhood with unique local shops and artisanal goods.

 

13. Indulge in Sweet Treats

​

End the day with dessert from one of Chicago’s best bakeries or ice cream shops:

​

• Magnolia Bakery: Famous for its cupcakes and banana pudding.

• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams: Known for its creative and delicious ice cream flavors.

• Sweet Mandy B’s: A cozy spot offering decadent cakes, cookies, and cupcakes.

 

Chicago offers a wide variety of activities and experiences to make Mother’s Day 2025 unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day at the spa, a luxurious brunch, or an adventurous outing, the Windy City has everything you need to celebrate the amazing moms in your life!