Philadelphia
#The Lowdown

Spend This Mother's Day in Philly

By Travel Savvy

What better way to celebrate Mother's Day than in the place with it's strongest ties? In 1908 -- three years after her mother's death --Philadelphian resident Anna Jarvis founded the annual holiday that celebrates motherhood. Since then, Philly's restaurants and cultural institutions have embraced Mother's Day as a time to celebrate the most special women in your life.

Click through to check out some of our top picks for things to do in Philadelphia on this special day, and don't forget to check out our guide  showing you the best way to spend a weekend in the city of brotherly love

Mother's Day Brunch in Franklin Square 1

Photo Credit: Mother's Day Brunch in Franklin Square | Photo Credit: R. Kennedy

Mother's Day Brunch in Franklin Square

200 6th St

www.HistoricPhiladelphia.org

Sunday, May 14

11:00AM - 1:00PM

When William Penn laid out the blueprint of Philadelphia in 1682, he included Franklin Square as one of the original parks! This year, this historic Philadelphia park and the celebration of Mother's Day will come together as families are invited to brunch in the park's pavilion. Additional activities include craft-making, carousel rides, and mini-golf. Purchase your tickets for the Mother's Day Brunch in Franklin Square here!   

The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden 2

Photo Credit: The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden | Photo Credit: VisitPhiladelphia.com

The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden

West Fairmount Park, Lansdowne Dr & Horticultural Dr

www.JapaneseHouse.org

Sunday, May 14 

First Session 1:00PM - 2:00PM | Second Session 2:30PM - 3:30PM

Looking for a unique Mother's Day experience? The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is offering you just that. This traditionally styled Japanese house sits on a 1.2 acre lot comprised of traditional Japanese gardens, all of which are nationally ranked. In honor of mothers everywhere, guests are invited to explore the history of Japanese culture in Philadelphia, as well as partake in one of the two Mother's Day Tea Ceremony sessions offered that day.

Spirit of Philadelphia 3

Photo Credit: Spirit of Philadelphia Cruise | Photo Credit: SpiritCruises.com

Spirit of Philadelphia

401 S Christopher Columbus Blvd

www.SpiritCruises.com

Sunday, May 14

Brunch Cruise 10:00AM - 12:00PM | Early Dinner Cruise 2:30PM - 4:30PM | Dinner Cruise 7:00PM - 9:30PM

This Mother's Day, why not take the celebration off shore this year on the Spirit of Philadelphia! Depart from Penn's Landing and cruise along the Delaware River while taking in the breathtaking skyline of Philadelphia. On top of the incredible views, guests will enjoy a delicious buffet-style menu, a live DJ and dance floor, plus other interactive games. Whether you choose to join the crew for brunch, an early dinner, or a late night cruise, each mother will receive a complimentary flower. Book your cruise here

R2L 4

Photo Credit: R2L | Photo Credit: r2lrestaurant.com

R2L

50 S 16th St, Philadelphia

www.R2Lrestaurant.com

Sunday, May 14

Brunch 11:00AM - 2:00PM | Dinner 4:30PM - 8:00PM

Take it to the sky (sort of) this year at one of Philadelphia's most spectacular culinary experiences! The sophisticated bar and lounge R2L sits 500 feet above the city streets, offering guests stellar panoramic views that span 40 miles. Check out the restaurant's special brunch and dinner menus here before celebrating Mother's Day in this soaring dining room.

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