Mother's Day in Seattle Southside

Mother's Day Ideas for Things to Do in Seattle Southside

Looking for some ideas for things to do for Mother's Day? Look no further!

There are plenty of Seattle Southside attractions to enjoy, no matter what your mom is into. Make her day with a fancy brunch, a walk in a botanical garden, a spa treatment, or a quirky microadventure.

Pictured: A mom and daughter celebrate together at Copperleaf Restaurant
Credit: @MissMinaOh on Instagram
Admire Rhododendrons
Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden
Copperleaf Restaurant & Cedarbrook Lodge Spa
Seattle Chocolate
Zenith Holland Nursery
Mother's Day Events
Lavender blossoms at Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden in Federal Way Washington.

Admire Rhododendron in Full Bloom

The Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden is in peak bloom for Mother's Day weekend, meaning the garden will be at its most spectacular. Explore 13 unique garden features while enjoying a live musical performance and browsing art from local and international artists (which is also available to buy). When you get hungry, grab a bite from the onsite food truck. And before you leave, pick up some rare and beautiful botanicals at the nursery. An outing and a gift all in one shot!

2025 Event Details:

Where: Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden

2525 S 336th St Federal Way, WA 98003

When: Saturday, May 10 - Sunday, May 11, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Cost:

$10 – General Admission

$7 – Seniors and Students

FREE – Kids 12 and under and Military with ID

Find more information on the event page.

Chinese Wisteria at the Pacific Bonsai Museum in Federal Way, Washington.
Credit: Pacific Bonsai Museum

Attend a Bonsai Festival

Right across from the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden is the Pacific Bonsai Museum. This year, on Mother’s Day Weekend, it will host its annual BonsaiFEST!, offering a vibrant celebration of the living art of bonsai for all ages. Admire flowering bonsai like azalea and wisteria in peak bloom, explore a Mame ("ma-may") display of the tiniest bonsai, and take in captivating exhibits, including miniature treehouses by Bob’s Burgers artist Dave Creek. The weekend features live bonsai-making demonstrations, docent-led tours, and family-friendly activities like games, a kids’ art station, and free bonsai coloring sheets. Guests can also shop for unique bonsai, pots, tools, and gifts, and enjoy delicious offerings from local food trucks—like MoMo’s Kebab, Sweet Wheels Ice Cream Sandwiches, Dippy’s Ice Cream, and Vulpine Espresso.

Event Details:

Where: Pacific Bonsai Museum, Federal Way, WA

2515 South 336th St, Federal Way, WA 98003

When: Saturday, May 10 (World Bonsai Day) & Sunday, May 11 (Mother’s Day), 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Admission: Free (suggested $12 donation for adults)

More info at pacificbonsaimuseum.org

Highline Botanical Gardens in SeaTac Washington

Stroll Through a Botanical Garden

Another outdoor option is the beautiful Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden. This local garden is in full display during in May. During spring, the garden changes every day, so you never know quite what you'll see. During Mother's Day Weekend, you'll likely see late-blooming rhododendrons, peonies, and more colorful blooms as you meander along the garden paths. There's also a serene Japanese garden, a trickling stream, and plenty of quiet spots to pause and take in the peaceful scene.

Copperleaf Restaurant & Cedarbrook Lodge Spa

For Mother's Day brunch, Copperleaf Restaurant inside Cedarbrook Lodge is offering a buffet with cooked to order eggs and omelets, fresh seafood and shellfish, hand-carved meats, plus a decadent array of desserts. Be sure to make a reservation to reserve your seating!

While you're at at this eco-friendly oasis, pamper her (and yourself) and book a spa package from the Spa at Cedarbrook. They've got everything from manicures and pedicures, to hot stone massages, and so much more. The spa is the place to be for a relaxing Mother's Day.

Plan a Shopping and Lunch Date

Treat the mother in your life to a memorable day out with a shopping date at Westfield Southcenter Mall, and buy her a gift while you're at it. Whether she’s into fashion, beauty, or cute Kawaii knickknacks, the mall offers a huge range of stores to explore together. After browsing the latest styles and snagging a few gifts, take a well-deserved lunch break at JOEY Southcenter, where the chic ambiance and delicious menu make every meal feel special. Or, choose from a range of other onsite dining spots to suit her cravings, like Mr. Dim Sum, Din Tai Fung, or Duke's Seafood. It’s a fun, easy way to celebrate the day and gives her many options to choose from when it comes to what to do and where to eat. When you're ready for a break, catch a movie at AMC Southcenter.

Des Moines Beach Park

If mom wants to take a leisurely stroll along the beach, take her to Des Moines Beach Park. Breathe in the crisp Puget Sound air, hunt for seashells, and enjoy the views at this hidden gem of a south sound beach. If you happen to be at the park around 8:30 or so, you'll also catch one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the Pacific Northwest. For refreshments, stop by the Quarterdeck at the Des Moines Marina where they're serving up local beer, wine, and coffee alongside the beautiful view.

The Museum of Flight

For a good time for the whole family (and a nice freebie) The Museum of Flight is offering free admission to all mothers this Mother's Day! Mom, dad, and kids will have a great time exploring the history of aviation and spaceflight. Plus, this Mother's Day is a great time to visit the museum to experience any new exhibits which have opened to the public since your last visit!

Seattle Chocolate

If mom has a sweet tooth, be sure to book a Seattle Chocolate Factory Tour! Experience chocolate as Seattle Southside's favorite chocolatier opens up their factory for an educational (and delectable) adventure. Mom will have a chance to learn about their sustainable sourcing, get a view of the chocolate making process from above, and sample a variety of unique chocolate creations. Be aware, tours fill up fast so you'll want to book your tour in advance!

Zenith Holland Nursery

Mom would definitely enjoy a visit to Zenith Holland Nursery, the oldest continually operating business in Des Moines which has been selling high quality plants to locals and visitors since 1907. If mom loves gardens and is a plant lover, then she's certain to find something special and to her liking from any one of the eleven green houses at Zenith Holland.

Mother's Day Events

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Author

Nick Tolley