Mother's Day Weekend Adventures & Getaways

     Can't decide what to get Mom for Mother's Day? There's nothing wrong with flowers and chocolate, but why not give her something a little different? Here are some suggestions for great Mother's day adventures and getaways that are sure to put a smile on her face.

• At the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, Mom's will be treated to a complimentary photo and a flower exclusively on Mother's Day, May 14. Also, families can celebrate mom at 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. the Mother's Day Brunch at World ShowPlace and children can create the perfect Mother's Day card. Moms and festival-goers can top off the day with a Flower Power concert featuring the dynamic Davy Jones.
• Mom's can take a cruise back in time on the Delta Lady Riverboat. The paddle wheeler, reminiscent of the late 1800s, churns the waters of the Caloosahatchee River and Okeechobee Waterway in Fort Myers. The two-hour Mother's Day Cruise is $29.95 (plus tax) per person and will depart at 1:00 p.m., May 14. Reservations are required.
• If you're looking to give Mom a well-deserved getaway, the Gaylord Palms Resort is offering "Mothers of the Year" resort packages that include a special ceremony to honor mom for her hard work and dedication. At the Sunday-morning cremony, all mothers will be introduced and given a commemorative "Mother's of the Year" certificate, a flower and a souvenir photo. The one- two- or three-night packages include a Florida-view guest room, daily breakfast and a special Mother's Day Brunch. Make reservations by calling 407-586-2000.
• Mom's get in FREE on May 13 & 14 to Weeki Wachee & Buccaneer Bay with a paid child's admission.

• Celebrate Mother's Day at the Florida Aquarium, where Mom's get in FREE with another paid admission.
• Pay for your own admission and your mother will be admitted FREE to Flamingo Gardens from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 14. Mom's will enjoy strolling South Florida's quiet botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuary and afterwards you can treat her to lunch and maybe even buy her a special trinket at the gift shop.
• Moms that like gardens and music would enjoy the Mother's Day Concert and Reception at Pinewood Estate. The estate is located at Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales. The romantic concert will feature Soprano, Agnes Klander, and pianist, Bonita Wyke. Also included is a guided tour of the estate and a reception of delectable sweets and sparkling cider. This event is limited to 60, so make your reservations now by calling 863-676-1408, ext. 2216.
• Families can hop aboard the rolling Florida Railroad Museum on Mother's Day. Mom's ride FREE with a paid admission. Departures are 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults; $6 for children 3-11; Mom's and children under age 3 ride free. Seating is limited, so reservations are required.