Mother’s Day is perfect for a picnic. Here’s a round up of 7 local places to pack up and visit to be surrounded by beauty, just as mothers deserve on this special day.

The clouds and rain should roll out of Central PA by Saturday, just in time for a weekend spent soaking up sun and nature, celebrating Mom. So go ahead and pick two spots to visit on Saturday and Sunday!

1.Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

Milton Hershey’s gardens are famous for their summer roses, but lots of other plants are in bloom this time of year on the gorgeous grounds beneath the stoic Hotel Hershey. We spent my first Mother’s Day here for an easy trip close to home with a stop at Hershey Pantry for brunch and Troegs Brewery for a beer and a snack on the way home, it was absolutely perfect!
*Moms are free on Mother’s Day!

2. Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA

We spent one Mother’s Day here as well. There is a nice wooded picnic area that was perfect to relax after touring the expansive gardens and grounds. Don’t miss the conservatory if you go. Read more about this iconic spot here.

3. Gardner of the Owl Valley, Wrightsville, PA

It’s been a while since we’ve visited, but I just spoke to owner Judy Bono who says the native plants on her property are in spring splendor, so I can’t wait to visit here again. This is my top pick as one of Central PA’s best kept secrets where you can take a leisurely half mile or so stroll through native woodlands.  A rare hidden gem where you’ll find a gift shop full of terrariums and fairy gardens too!
*Free

4. Winterthur, Wilmington, DE

A stately staple of local garden grandeur to visit.

5. Cylburn Arboretum, Baltimore, MD

Market Day Saturday brings gardeners and growers from all over Maryland and beyond to Cylburn Arboretum for a festival of crafts, plants, music, and fun. See more on this city secret garden here.
*Free

6. Rawlings Conservatory, Baltimore, MD

Another hidden city garden worth discovering. Read more here.
*Suggested $5 donation admission

7. Sherwood Gardens, Baltimore, MD
Two words: Tulips galore! *Free

Plus, how to plan and pack the perfect picnic here.