Celebrate mom this Mother's Day in Chicago: 5 local gift ideas

From animal-loving moms to foodie moms, we've got you covered.

Photo byt.tomsickova/Depositphotos.com

(CHICAGO) Mother's Day is fast approaching. This year that special day falls on Sunday, May 14, 2023.

It's the time of year we honor our moms for everything they've done for us. Are you hung up on what to do this year?

Read on for some ideas on how to make your mom feel special.

#1: Take her on an afternoon brunch cruise on Lake Michigan

Photo byrabbit75_dep/Depositphotos.com

Combine a Mother's Day brunch with incredible views of the lake on a City Cruise.

Departing from Navy Pier, the Mother's Day Signature Afternoon Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan includes a two-hour cruise on the lake with a brunch buffet, amazing views, and live DJ entertainment.

Tickets are on sale for Sunday, May 14, 2023, ranging from $79.90 to $109.90. Get the details and buy tickets online here.

#2 Go the traditional route and buy her flowers

There are a lot of choices on where to buy flowers online. But if you're looking for a local option, Flowers for Dreams is a unique flower shop in Chicago.

Forget the usual roses and baby's breath. Flowers for Dreams offer artisan bouquets sourced from local wholesalers and farmers. And what's more, the company reinvests 25% of its net profits into local Chicago charities.

Located at 1812 West Hubbard Street, in Chicago, you can order online and have your flowers delivered, or just walk in and pick up flowers during normal business hours. Check online for the details.

#3: Treat her to a heart-shaped chocolate cake from Portillo's

For the chocolate lover in your life, get your mom a heart-shaped chocolate cake from Portillo's.

Portillo's famous chocolate cakes are baked fresh each day and include a single layer of chocolate cake topped with decadent chocolate frosting. Order yours online today. Portillo's is taking orders until May 10th for the heart-shaped cakes.

#4: Name a Brookfield Zoo Parakeet after your mom

Photo byfouroaks/Depositphotos.com

For the animal-loving moms, honor her by naming a parakeet at Brookfield Zoo.

A $10 donation will get you a Certificate of Naming and placement on the Mother's Day Parakeet Naming Board outside Hamill Family Wild Encounters. You still have time to get your name on the naming board if you purchase by May 4.

#5: Mother's Day brunch ideas

If you'd like to take Mom out for brunch on the town, many Chicago restaurants have specials on Sunday, May 14th.

For fine dining, Michelin-starred stalwart Sepia in the West Loop offers brunch for $79 per adult and $40 for children 12 and under with entree options including croque madame, shakshouka, short rib hash, and eggs Benedict.

Or, if your mom is a mimosa fan, Adalina is offering a mimosa bar for $12. She can order off the brunch menu or build a waffle at the waffle bar ($15).

Check out Time Out Chicago's list of 13 best Mother's Day brunches for more brunch ideas.

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