While the idea of moms getting a break may not seem controversial, women spending Mother’s Day away from their children remains a polarizing topic on social media. On one side are mothers who believe quiet time alone is the ultimate gift. On the other are those who feel the day should center on celebrating the bond between mother and child, making time together the ideal way to spend the holiday.

I fall into the first category and find joy in a Mother’s Day away. But over the last few years, I’ve crafted a compromise that feels satisfying for both schools of thought.

Since my son was born in 2023, I’ve spent the days leading up to Mother’s Day taking much-needed time for myself. During his first two years, I checked into a hotel the Saturday before Mother’s Day, watched movies, ordered room service and simply relaxed. By Sunday, I felt refreshed and ready to spend the day with my family.

This year, as my son has gotten older, I decided to turn my annual staycation into a girls’ getaway with a close friend. We left our husbands and children behind the Thursday before Mother’s Day and flew home late Saturday night, giving us time away while still allowing us to wake up with our little ones and celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday.

Nashville Was the Right Call

As two Southern girls, we decided on Nashville, Tennessee as the destination for our getaway. The city’s manageable size, vibrant attractions and growing food scene made it an easy choice. Traveling from Georgia and North Carolina, respectively, the short flights made the trip even more appealing.

We found the city charming, welcoming and ready for a good time. While the trip was partly about rest and relaxation, we also wanted to let loose a little. Nashville offers plenty of ways to do both, from upscale spas to lively bars and clubs.

A Hotel That Got It

Caption by Hyatt Downtown Nashville courtesy of Arielle Poteau

Located in the walkable Gulch neighborhood, Caption by Hyatt Downtown Nashville served as our home base. Just off Broadway, the chic hotel felt close enough to the action while still tucked away from the chaos.

The property offered the right mix of style and comfort, and we especially enjoyed the live music and happy hour offerings. The hotel also features a “Mom and Me Weekend” package centered on connection and relaxation for Mother’s Day travelers like us. For girls’ trips, the hotel’s modern design also makes it ideal for Instagram-worthy photos.

Broadway, Hip-Hop and Everything In Between

If live music is your thing, 1865 Club is worth a visit. Other must-see stops include the National Museum of African American Music and The Spot by Dre and Snoop, a nightlife venue tucked inside the restored catacombs beneath the historic building that houses Nashville Live!

Honky Tonk Central courtesy of Arielle Poteau

Broadway remains the center of Nashville nightlife, so we made sure to spend time on the iconic strip known for its bars and live music venues. While the area is not the most diverse, the places we visited, including Honky Tonk Central, felt welcoming, energetic and fun.

Vibes Bar & Lounge courtesy of Arielle Poteau

Still, it wouldn’t be a girls night out for us without some hip-hop. Living up to its name, we found that at Vibes Bar & Lounge, where a live DJ and strong cocktails kept the energy high. It was the perfect place to dance until our feet were sore and cap off our night out on the town.

The Spa Was Non-Negotiable and Well Earned

No Mother’s Day getaway feels complete without a spa visit.

We spent part of our trip at R+R Wellness at Grand Hyatt Nashville, located inside Caption’s sister property. It was the perfect place to unplug and recharge before returning to reality at home.

My friend and I chose the Body & Face Music City Ritual, a head-to-toe treatment designed to leave guests feeling refreshed and glowing. The experience began with a full-body scrub and ended with a Swedish massage that made it difficult to leave the spa afterward.

Where to Eat in Nashville

Nashville’s food scene continues to grow, and we managed to hit several standout spots during our stay.

At 888 Nashville, a Japanese restaurant and vinyl lounge, the moody aesthetic and inventive menu made it one of the most memorable stops of the trip.

For something more low-key, the wings at Café Between inside Caption by Hyatt hit the spot, and the sausage pizza at Ophelia’s Pizza + Bar was worth every bite.

Ready For Sunday

By the time Saturday rolled around it was time to say goodbye to Nashville. From music and food to culture and a comfortable bed, the city delivered everything we had hoped for from our girls getaway. With bags packed and new memories to cherish, we were ready to head home and celebrate the beauty of motherhood with our families. Whatever Sunday looks like, I am already ready for it. That, afterall, is the whole point of the trip.

girls' trip