5 last-minute Mother’s Day adventures in Dayton your mom will love

If you’re still stuck on what to get your mom this Mother’s Day, consider planning an adventure instead of purchasing a gift.

>> Your guide to the best Mother's Day brunches this weekend

The Dayton region boasts a wealth of outdoor destinations and opportunities, and planning a special day in the great outdoors is easy and often affordable.

>> 5 things to do with mom for Mother's Day in Dayton

Get creative and plan your own outing or view some suggestions below:

  • PICTURE PERFECT: Tell mom you're heading to Hills & Dales MetroPark to hit the kid-friendly playgrounds and to take a stroll along the wetlands boardwalk. Before playtime begins, surprise mom with a family photo session at the Adirondack-style shelter overlooking Dogwood Pond. Professional photographers are required to have a permit and may acquire one at org/permits.
  • GARDENING INSPIRATION: Instead of gifting flowers that have a shelf life of a week, opt to create a small garden for your mom, so she can enjoy fresh blooms all season long. Visit Wegerzyn Gardens or Aullwood Garden MetroPark for some inspiration, and then sit down for lunch and plan your garden. After creating your mom's garden, take her one of MetroParks' gardening programs to learn new tips and tricks.
  • PLAN A PICNIC: Pack a basket filled with your mom's favorite goodies and head to Possum Creek MetroPark for an outdoor picnic. Hike the purple trail loop to see traces of the former Argonne Forest amusement park before you sit down for lunch at the nearby picnic tables. Visit the Edible Farm for some farm-to-table inspiration, and then snap a family selfie in front of the beautiful Argonne Lake.

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