Celebrate Mother's Day in Pittsburgh!

If there's one thing Pittsburgh's got a lot of, it's a love for its family scene. And, while moms are celebrated everyday, it's fun to amp up the revelry on Mother's Day.

May is a great month in Pittsburgh. Warm weather, outdoor activities and, of course, Mother’s Day. Plan a special day or weekend with your mom, wife, grandmother, mother-in-law, aunt, sister or friend. There is no shortage of fun, family-friendly things to do to show the mothers in your life a good time.

Breakfast & Brunch

Treat her to breakfast at Pamela’s Diner in the Strip District. Their crepes and pancakes are scrumptious, and the old photos that line the walls give it a cozy, family atmosphere. Or visit The Speckled Egg located inside the Union Trust Building, and enjoy a delicious refined diner experience in the heart of Downtown.

For brunch, treat mom to an unforgettable Mother's Day experience at Fairmont Pittsburgh's Grand Ballroom. Savory brunch classics and decadent desserts will help you raise a toast to mom with a meal she'll never forget.

Relax at the Spa

Pamper mom on her special day by purchasing a gift certificate or scheduling an appointment for a relaxing and rejuvenating spa session at one of Pittsburgh's top wellness centers.

Izzazu Salon & Spa has two area locations, one in Downtown and another in Warrendale, with services including haircuts, massages, facials and more. Also in Downtown, Spa Jema is a chic salon and spa offering a range of wellness experiences, including a sauna, deep tissue massages, nail services, and more.

For a truly luxurious Mother's Day treat, consider booking an appointment for mom at one of several serene resorts just a short drive from Downtown Pittsburgh, such as Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Seven Springs Mountain Resort.

Travel Back in Time

Join mom for an art and history lesson at The Frick Pittsburgh, home of industrialist Henry Clay Frick from 1882–1905. This meticulously restored 22-room mansion (Clayton) features an impressive array of fine and decorative art. Tours are available by appointment. While on the museum grounds, be sure to make time to visit the Car & Carriage Museum, greenhouse and café, then swing by the gift shop for a unique Mother's Day souvenir.

Cruise the Three Rivers

Set sail with mom aboard one of the Mother's Day Cruises being offered by the Gateway Clipper Fleet. The special cruises have two different sailing times on Sunday, May 11, 2025 — 11 a.m., and 4 p.m. — and include a buffet, specialty cocktails, live DJ, and some of the most spectacular views of Downtown Pittsburgh and the city's iconic bridges.

Sip Afternoon Tea

Mom will feel pampered and relaxed having High Tea in the grand and historical atmosphere of the Omni William Penn Hotel. Sample delicious pastries, finger sandwiches, scones and a selection of premium teas. Whether you choose the Victorian, The Royal or the Mad Hatter Tea, you’ll enjoy the indulgence. Afternoon tea service is available Saturday–Sunday from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Advance reservations are recommended.

Take Mom on a Shopping Spree

A little retail therapy never hurt anybody. That's why your mom deserves to run wild at everything from our quaint boutiques to posh neighborhoods and upscale shopping malls.

If you need a recommendation, check out the Mother's Day edition of the Neighborhood Flea May 11 for great finds on vintage clothing, art, bath & beauty and so much more.

Craft Unique Gifts

Create a beautiful memory with mom at Mix Candle Co. in Lawrenceville, which allows you to pour your own scented soy candle by selecting your choice of jar, customizing your unique labeland mixing and matching more than 120 fragrances until you discover the perfect aroma.

As you wait for your candle to cool — approximately two hours — spend time exploring the surrounding neighborhood, shop from local boutiques or grab a quick bite at one of the area restaurants.

Looking for my crafty, hands-on activities? We have lots of options. Book a private floral arrangement workshop with the experts at Farmer's Daughter. Or get down and dirty with the Soil Sisters and find an expertly cultivated plant to grow together all summer long.

Enjoy Dinner with a View

Experience spectacular views of the city from Mt. Washington. Take the Duquesne Incline, a historic cable car and one of the only remaining funiculars in the country, up the mountain and snap a selfie of you and mom with Pittsburgh’s gorgeous skyline in the background. It’s almost as beautiful as mom!

Have dinner at one of the restaurants along Grandview Avenue, known as “Restaurant Row," such as Altius or LeMont Restaurant. Then take the Incline back down and get great nighttime photos. Parking is available at the lot on West Carson Street where you can take the stairs to board the Incline (cash only, $5 round trip for adults).

Immerse Mom in the Arts

End the day with arts, culture and entertainment as you and mom explore Pittsburgh’s vibrant Cultural District, a 14-square block encompassing more than 90 retail shops, 50 dining establishments, seven world-class theaters, eight public parks and art installations and a dozen art galleries.

Mother's Day 2025 performances that weekend include:

For the Sporty Moms

The Pittsburgh Steelers are hosting their second annual SteelHERS Social, presented by UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, on Saturday, May 10 from 5 to 9 p.m.

The event is open to fans of all ages and is part of the team's Women of Steel platform, which was created to celebrate, connect, develop, and empower the team's female fanbase, which is among the largest in the NFL.

Attendees can anticipate:

  • A tailgate-like atmosphere in the FedEx Great Hall with Steely McBeam, a D.J., party games, face painting, a photobooth, and special appearances by current players
  • A yoga session
  • X's & O's with current players and coaches
  • Bingo
  • Photo opportunities with current Steelers players
  • Steelers locker room access
  • Raffles and giveaways
  • A friendship bracelet station

Attendees will also be eligible for a 20% Steelers Pro Shop discount during the event, including on an exclusive line of Women of Steel merchandise which will only be available during the event.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Happy Mother’s Day!

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