The annual day of appreciation for moms everywhere, May 11, is fast approaching, so there’s no better time to plan a wonderful outing for the special woman in your life. Luckily, there are plenty of offerings around Charm City for everyone to enjoy, from train rides and live jazz shows to brunch buffets and mimosa specials. Browse our guide to see what you think might strike mom’s fancy.
B&O Railroad Museum: If your special lady is a bit of a history buff, Baltimore’s premiere railroad museum is hosting a Sunday-afternoon train ride on the historic Mile One Express—the first mile of commercial railroad built in the states. After the ride, you’ll be treated to afternoon tea in the museum’s historic Baldwin Roundhouse, with food and drink courtesy of Emma’s Tea Spot in Hamilton. Enjoy sandwiches, scones, and a Prosecco toast surrounded by trains from many different eras of Baltimore’s transportation system. 901 W Pratt St. 12:15 p.m. $65 for adults, $54 for children. Discounts available for museum members.
Cindy Lou’s Fish House: Snag a reservation for a spacious, scenic meal at Cindy Lou’s in Harbor Point. From Southern-inspired classics, like a cast-iron Maryland crab cake, to new favorites, like a truffled pot pie or cinnamon roll donut, there’s something for every palette. Enjoy all of the holiday specials paired with waterfront views overlooking the legendary Domino Sugars sign. 1215 Wills Street. Brunch runs 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Ellie’s Tavern: This Canton hangout is perfect for moms who love the O’s just as much as a good brunch. Ellie’s is offering an array of brunch classics alongside signature cocktails for the perfect pre-game meal. (The O’s take on the Angels in Anaheim at 4:05 on Sunday afternoon.) Opt for a classic chicken and waffles or French toast, or go bold with a breakfast burger topped with a fried egg and sausage links. Don’t forget to grab your mom some fan merch on the way out. 901 S. Clinton St. 11 a.m.
Four Seasons Baltimore: If an upscale buffet sounds more like mom’s style, head to this Harbor East hotel for a bottomless meal with waterfront views. The Blossom and Blooms brunch buffet will include made-to-order omelets, a grazing table, and an indulgent chocolate fountain to finish on a sweet note. Level up the experience with a Bottomless Bubbles package for $30 per person, or opt for the à la carte drink service. 200 International Dr. Seatings at 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. $135 for adults, $55 for children.
Gunther & Co.: This beautifully rustic Brewers Hill venue is great for a lovely brunch, whether you prefer to sit inside or enjoy the sunshine on the patio. Choose from a variety of all-new options on Gunther’s prix-fixe menu curated just for the occasion, from a whole-milk burrata with strawberry-rhubarb compote to a wood-oven flatbread topped with lobster. Kid’s menus are available, too, so bring the entire family along to celebrate. 3650 Toone St. 10:30 a.m. $48 for adults, $20 for children.
Ilusions VI Mother’s Day Extravaganza: Enjoy brunch and a show at this event hosted by Kayden Amore Chloe, celebrating legendary Black musicians with performances paying tribute to the likes of Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and Fantasia. Head to the Baltimore Comedy Factory to groove to the familiar tunes over a plate provided by local Black-owned business The French Toast Connection. Celebrating its sixth year this Mother’s Day, the experience is sure to please any mom who’s a fan of the classics. 5625 O’Donnell St. 12 p.m. $29/person.
Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch: Celebrate the special day while supporting struggling single mothers with the Jeremiah Program’s Saturday event, which will donate proceeds to the organization’s mission of disrupting poverty cycles. The brunch will feature a buffet complete with a made-to-order omelet station and complimentary mimosas, alongside a jazz performance by Baltimore mom and singer Ebony Imani. Roland Park Community Center. 5802 Roland Ave. 1:30 p.m. $75.
Little Havana: For some moms, a marg paired with a bottomless basket of chips and salsa is pure heaven. If this sounds fitting, head to the Key Highway fixture to enjoy Mother’s Day drink specials alongside the regular brunch menu from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Go the classic route with huevos rancheros, or try one of the chef’s specials of jambalaya or churrasco steak con chimichurri. The patio has unbeatable views of the waterfront to take in while sipping on a white sangria or strawberry margarita. 1325 Key Hwy. Specials 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Mama’s On The Half Shell: The name alone is reason enough to head to Mama’s on Mother’s Day, but if you’re a seafood-loving family, brunch here is a solid choice. For the special day, the restaurant is rolling out three new seafood tower tiers and other curated options to satisfy any crab, shrimp, or oyster lover. Canton: 2901 O’Donnell St. Brunch 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Owings Mills: 10080 Reisterstown Rd. Brunch 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Of Love and Regret: Join the chefs at this Canton craft kitchen for a Mother’s Day tea party and brunch buffet perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, with offerings ranging from blueberry scones to lemon poundcake to gluten free cheesecake. You can also opt for something savory, such as smoked salmon crackers and cream cheese or homemade focaccia and roasted tomato garlic bruschetta. 1028 S Conkling St. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $49/person.
Rec Pier Chop House: Expect a bounty of indulgent entrees and special brunch-themed cocktails if you make a reservation at this Sicilian rosticceria inside the Sagamore Pendry in Fells Point. The restaurant is known for its prime cuts of steak and its raw bar, but the Mother’s Day meal will also feature contemporary jazz and gospel music, as has become tradition for Rec Pier’s brunch events. 1715 Thames St. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
The Corner Pantry: Maybe your ideal Mother’s Day celebration is just spreading out a blanket at the closest park. The Corner Pantry still wants your day to be special with their holiday picnic basket, complete with savory treats like gravlax and cheddar biscuits, as well as a strawberry, mint, and orange juice, and a fresh flower bundle to set the scene. If reservations and dressing up aren’t your vibe, this package is perfect for a laid-back holiday that still makes for a great memory. Ready for pickup on May 10. $125 per basket.
Water For Chocolate: Treat Mom to a three-course meal curated by chef Sean Guy, with seasonal delights like parmesan spinach dip, salmon belly tacos, and sweet potato bread pudding. This intimate, laid-back Upper Fells Point cafe is great for anyone who wants a standout meal without having to get dressed up. There will also be free bubbly to toast to the women of the hour. 1841 E Lombard Ave. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $60.