What do you get for the woman who’s the reason you exist? Sure, it’s easy to fall back on the standard gifts — and really, it’s the thought that counts — but if you’re looking for inspiration beyond flowers and chocolates and perishables for Mother’s Day, read on. We thought we’d think outside the gift-box this year! Here are eight creative ideas that make memories the keepsake.

Take A Local Tour

Let’s cover the essentials first — who doesn’t love a tasty treat? But before you head for the nearest chocolate shop for Mother’s Day, how about taking a food tour? Karen B booked with Gourmet Walks and raves, “we went to the most exquisite shops that we otherwise wouldn’t have… Marie enriched the tour with her history of the city as well.” If your mom prefers treats of the sippable type, switch out the edibles and go straight for the libations. Wine tours like Green Dream Tours provide a “variety and something different”. Shane J shares he “learned a lot about each winery’s process and tasted some good wines.”

Activities For An Afternoon Out

Mother’s Day doesn’t all have to be about eating and drinking, though! If you and your mom are more the active types, Mother’s Day is a great excuse to rediscover your city… or to explore a new one. Tours like San Francisco Native Tours are great for those who want to see “more than the typical tourist highlights”, according to Karen S. Up for a challenge? Try an escape room like Real Escape Game! Melissa N shares “working together through all the clues was really fun.”

Getting Arts And Crafty For Mother’s Day

Sure, you could buy something unique, but what about making it yourself — and taking Mom with you? Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to take an evening out to catch up and create. Fancy painting and potables? Classes like Canvas & Cabernet will help you “pull out your inner Van Gogh” and “sell cute trinkets that are mostly handmade”, according to Melanie B. If there’s no limit to the creative flair you and Mom share, check out art hubs like Workshop. Christina S shares, “they offer so many different types of classes and at a variety of times” — that’s everything from terrarium classes to beer boot camp to macramé!

Feeling The Fitness?

If you’re self-confessed fitness freaks, you can find inspiration for out-of-the-box options right here. Forget spin class — aerial yoga and silks are where it’s at! Kathleen S says the workout at Aerial Artique is a “ton of fun” and she recommends that “anyone looking for a fun hobby and exercise” give it a go. Prefer to get out there? There’s no better way to exercise your mind, body, and soul than with a long hike. Douglas F hails the “views are amazing” from Hippy Tree, plus there’s a “rope swing and a small rock formation you can climb”.

Ready to celebrate an amazing Mother’s Day with Mom? Grab the Yelp app and search for all the inspiration you need!