Spend a Chic Weekend in Detroit with Mom

Kick off your stylish getaway as soon as you arrive in Detroit by checking into the chic Shinola Hotel.

Nestled right in the heart of the Woodward District, this boutique spot isn't just a place to stay- it's your ticket to a weekend of plush comfort.

The Shinola Hotel opened its doors to guests in 2019 with 129 guest rooms, each featuring beds dressed in Italian cotton sheets, polished wood floors, and mid-century modern furnishings. Guests will enjoy amenities like the fitness center, plush Shinola bathrobes, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and retail shops on the ground floor. The hotel also offers room service and a 24-hour front desk to assist with any needs during the stay. But my favorite part- you can bring your dog.

Once you're all settled in, take a short walk downstairs to your first culinary stop- San Morello. This elegant Italian eatery inside the Shinola Hotel serves up wood-fired dishes and hand-made pastas. The warm setting and satisfying meal will set the mood for your weekend. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and toast to the weekend ahead.

Finish the evening with an after-dinner drink from Shinola’s evening bar while exploring the hotel’s art gallery. It’s home to the work of notable Detroit artists like Tiff Massey and Alan Bean.

Start your Saturday morning in the sweetest way. Make a quick stop at For the Love of Sugar (100 Erskine Street). Grab a coffee and pastry (or a slice of cake!)- because, hey, calories totally don't count on vacation, right?

Next, it's off to Belle Isle Park. Spend your morning wandering through the lush Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory within the conservatory, visiting the quaint aquarium (the oldest in the country), and soaking in views of the Detroit River.

For lunch, head on over to Greektown. This will be hard, but you will have to choose between t Pegasus Taverna or the Golden Fleece. Both spots are perfect for a taste of the Mediterranean right in the middle of Detroit. They are also just a hop away from your next treat- a spa session.

Book an afternoon at Woodhouse Spa Detroit for some pampering. The Woodhouse Spa in Detroit is an ideal choice for a Mother's Day weekend celebration due to its extensive menu of spa services and its focus on providing an entire experience from the moment you step foot in the door.

The Woodhouse Spa offers over 70 treatments, including massages, facials, body scrubs, and wraps, catering to a wide range of relaxation needs. It features 14 private treatment rooms, allowing for personal attention and a quiet, calming environment. The spa is well-known for its signature Minkyti facial, which uses organic seaweed. For guests looking to extend their relaxation, the spa also offers a quiet room for post-treatment relaxation. During Mother’s Day weekend, the post-treatment room is usually stocked with drinks and treats.

Wrap up your day with dinner and live jazz at Cliff Bell’s, a Motor City staple since 1935. Nothing says "classic Detroit," like a night of smooth tunes and great food. You will get both here.

What's a city trip without a splash of culture? Start your Sunday at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA).

The DIA has a comprehensive and diverse collection, including over 65,000 works spanning the globe from ancient to modern times. The museum is renowned for its collection of Diego Rivera's Detroit Industry Murals, vividly depicting the city's manufacturing base and labor force during the 1930s. In addition to its permanent collections, the DIA frequently features special exhibitions.

The museum also has a gorgeous cafe. Enjoy a soup or salad in the middle of the art museum. The setting can’t be beat.

Finally, spend your afternoon strolling along the Detroit International Riverwalk. Then, indulge in some retail therapy in the adorable Midtown's boutiques.

There is only one way to conclude your fabulous weekend—an early dinner at The Whitney. This historic mansion was built by a lumber baron in the 1890s. Today, it serves scrumptious American cuisine and offers ghost tours daily.

From chic dining spots to cultural gems, this city is ready to make your Mother’s Day memorable. So what are you waiting for? Grab your mom or best mom-friend, and get ready for a weekend filled with charm and fun.