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Mama, you’re exhausted. End-of-the-year fatigue has been your life since you found yourself standing in a dimly lit nursery changing diapers at 3 a.m.
Imagine giving yourself the time and space just to be. Sounds like an impossible dream? Well, we live in an impossibly possible world. And anyway, we all know that adage, “You can’t pour from an empty cup”. It’s you. You are the empty cup.
So, plant the seed in your group chat and get your gal pals excited about your next mom break. In the meantime, we’ve come up with a list of getaways that don’t require a passport; just pack a bag and sunscreen.
#1. Sedona, Arizona
Sometimes, all you need to recalibrate your energy is to visit a destination that’s as inspiring as it is beautiful. Sedona is that place.
The best time to visit is in spring, from March to May. Don’t let that deter your travel plans, because Sedona is breathtaking all year long. Surrounded by red rocky canyons and pine forests, many come in search of spiritual growth and leave with a sense of belonging.
Travel + Leisure names Mii Amo on its Top 15 U.S. Wellness Retreats list. The adults-only resort is nestled in the Boynton Canyon. Following renovations in 2023 by Gluckman Tang Architects, Mii Amo has exceeded its reputation. Indulge in sound baths, spa treatments, and walking meditations. Now, that’s downtown with a capital D.
#2. San Diego, California
San Diego has it all: the ocean, culture, delicious food, and a lively nightlife. You’ve probably visited the city as a family, but have you done it Moms Gone Wild style? Just joking!
Petite Suitcase put together a local’s weekend guide to San Diego, with some cool suggestions. If you want to go big, Hotel del Coronado is home to celebrities and royals when in this area code. Instead of renting a car, use an e-hailing service. Mind you, most places, like Little Italy and North Park, are pedestrian-friendly.
While there, you must do a San Diego harbor cruise. Look at it as a rite of passage: living your life vicariously, even if only for a few days. These San Diego Bay boat cruises are legendary for their mimosas, sea lion spotting, and downtown San Diego views.
Tiki Time Bay Tours advises choosing an experience based on the vibe you’re after.
#3. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Don’t worry, Michigan moms, we’ve got something a little closer to home. Step back into time on Mackinac Island.
Here, it feels like the clock has stopped as horse-drawn carriages clip-clop down the main street. The historic architecture makes you feel like you’re in your own Wuthering Heights. Except your Heathcliff is miles away, wiping breadcrumbs from the kitchen counter and hushing fussy toddlers to sleep.
Midwest Living reports that a centuries-old ban on motorized transport on Mackinac Island means the only way around is on foot, by bike, or by horse. And that adds to the place’s charm.
The biggest attraction on Mackinac is the Grand Hotel. The national historic landmark boasts a 660-foot-long front porch, recognized as the longest in the world. Recent renovations undertaken by Dorothy Draper & Company stayed true to the hotel’s whimsical charm as a historic summer cottage.
#4. New York City, New York
Think Sex In The City, but a more subdued version. You know we moms have to get our seven hours of sleep. Don’t let that stop you from visiting the city that never sleeps. New York City can still be a ball of a time as long as you’re in bed by 11 p.m.
Mamamia’s Charlotte Begg recently wrote about a solo trip to NYC, and says it’s the best thing she’s ever done. Whether you choose to sit on a bench in Central Park, eating a bagel with your besties, or solo, there’s something liberating about being in the moment. This is also your opportunity to step out of your comfort zone.
Head to off-Broadway shows at fringe theaters like Saint Anne’s Warehouse. Visit the Museum, a teeny little gallery housed in a freight elevator. Join a secret NYC tour that takes you behind the tourist trappings, such as the ruins of a smallpox hospital.
#5. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is a refreshing escape for moms looking to recharge with a mix of adventure and relaxation. Nestled at the foot of Pikes Peak, the city offers stunning mountain views, scenic hiking trails, and peaceful spots perfect for reflection or quality time with friends.
Spend your mornings exploring the iconic Garden of the Gods, where towering red rock formations create a dramatic and unforgettable landscape. In the afternoon, treat yourself to a spa session or a leisurely café visit in the charming downtown area.
For a stay that blends comfort with conscious travel, consider booking at SCP Colorado Springs Hotel, known for its wellness-focused approach and laid-back, community-driven atmosphere.
All Shook Up
The point of these getaways is to refuel your engine and give you a moment just to be. Not a mom. Not a partner. Not a busy bee.
As mothers, we wear so many hats that it’s hard to distinguish one from another, and we run the risk of losing ourselves. They say self-care is the best care. Yet, sometimes all you need is a break from reality that’s far away from yours.
The tribe has spoken. Go forth and have yourself a good time.
*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.