It’s time to give up the flower routine. Too often, we buy flowers or a gift for mom that has no sentimental value. Let’s make this year the one where we step outside of the box… literally. This is the year we make memories, we create moments and those moments are meant to be enjoyed outdoors.

 

 

5 ways to enjoy the outdoors with your mom:

 

5. Take a day trip

Whether you are looking to get out of town, or just get out of the house, jumping in the car is a good start. Remember, this day is not about you, it’s about your mom, so make plans accordingly.

Alabama has many small towns and out of the ordinary places that make for great day trips. Towns like Florence, Mountain Brook, Tuscaloosa, Greensboro, Tuscumbia, Greenville, Muscle Shoals, Huntsville, etc., have a little piece of Alabama all their own. To truly experience the different cultures and what each city has to offer, take a trip with your mom.

***Extra Credit: Don’t forget to check the map for antique shops and general stores along the way.

4. Farmer’s Markets

 

If you’re in Birmingham, Saturday’s at Pepper Place Market are a great place to be outdoors and shop. The market is full of vendors from all over the state of Alabama with everything from vegetables and cheeses to ceramics and art. Farmer’s markets all over Alabama are a great way to spend time with your mom and experience Local Alabama in a different way.

Here is a map by county all Farmer’s Markets in Alabama. Click on a County to find our more information on Farmer’s Markets in your area!

 

3. Go for a hike/bike

For the more adventurous types, get out on the trails. Red Mountain Park offers miles of hiking and biking trials for your mom and the rest of the family to enjoy. Along with the trails, don’t forget to check out the zip line tour or hit the Beanstalk Forest ropes course.

Don’t forget to pack a picnic and plenty of snacks so you can enjoy all the park has to offer!

Alabama Outdoors and Red Mountain Park team up each week for Tuesday Night Trail runs starting in May. Check out Alabama Outdoors for more details.

 

2. Run a race

Each weekend across the state of Alabama there are opportunities to get out and run a 5K, 10K, or even a marathon/half-marathon. This weekend is the Cahaba River Ramble, hosted by the Cahaba River Society and sponsored by Alabama Outdoors! Check out some of the races coming up and get more information on how to register by clicking here.

For the athletic family that loves being outdoors, a race is a great way to enjoy a beautiful weekend with the people you love.

1. Cookout and Bonfire

The perfect way to end a great day. After a day filled with hikes, runs, trips or farmer’s markets, a cookout is the icing on the cake. Moms love the opportunity to gather family and friends to spend quality time with one another.

Grab the hamburgers and put some wood on the fire. Great friends gathered around the fire, sharing stories and enjoying each others company. Sounds pretty good to us!