Brunch is nice. So are flowers. But according to thousands of moms, what they’d really love this Mother’s Day is a break – a proper “momcation.”
Present.com surveyed 3,025 mothers to find out where they dream of escaping for some well-deserved R&R. The results revealed a strong preference for peaceful small towns, charming spots, and nature-filled retreats – places where mom can truly unwind, explore, and breathe.
Here are the top 3 Mississippi destinations, according to moms:
#1 Ocean Springs
For a quiet coastal retreat, Ocean Springs offers charming beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Moms can take a peaceful walk along the shoreline, visit the local art galleries, or enjoy a quiet afternoon by the Gulf Coast. The natural beauty and slower pace of Ocean Springs provide a perfect Mother’s Day escape.
#2 Natchez
For moms who appreciate history and Southern charm, Natchez offers a peaceful retreat. Known for its antebellum homes, lush gardens, and views of the Mississippi River, this town provides a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Moms can take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, enjoy the blooming flowers in the gardens, or simply relax by the river.
#3 Clark Creek Natural Area
For moms who love peaceful hikes and hidden natural beauty, Clark Creek Natural Area offers a serene escape in southwestern Mississippi. This 700-acre preserve is home to nearly 50 waterfalls, some cascading up to 30 feet, nestled among steep bluffs and lush hardwood forests. Moms can enjoy a gentle walk along improved trails or venture onto more rugged paths for a deeper connection with nature. The area’s rare plant species and tranquil ambiance make it an ideal spot for a rejuvenating Mother’s Day retreat.
But where moms want to go is only part of the story. The survey also pulled back the curtain on what modern motherhood really looks like – and why that elusive “day off” feels like gold.
When asked how they’d spend a full day to themselves, moms said:
- Watching TV or bingeing a show: 19%
- Sleeping in and relaxing at home: 16%
- Spending time in nature (hiking, beach, park): 15%
- Enjoying a hobby (reading, crafting, cooking): 13%
- Shopping or treating themselves: 13%
- Spa time or massage: 12%
- Catching up with friends/family: 8%
- Traveling or a day trip: 4%
So what’s holding moms back from taking more time for themselves? The biggest barrier by far was lack of time (27%), followed by guilt (19%) and financial constraints (18%). For many, it’s a constant juggling act that leaves little room for rest – and even less for recharging.
In fact, moms say they currently get just 5 hours and 55 minutes of alone time in a typical week – not even an hour a day. Ideally, they’d like closer to 8 hours and 27 minutes to feel fully recharged.
Even small gestures can make a big difference. When asked what gift or service would help lighten the mental load, here’s what topped the list:
- House cleaning: 26%
- A full day off with no obligations: 20%
- Meal delivery or home-cooked meals: 14%
- A monthly massage or spa treatment: 12%
- Grocery delivery, childcare help, therapy, and laundry service rounded out the rest.
And the emotional toll is undeniable. Nearly half of moms – 42% – admit they feel guilty taking time for themselves, even when they know it’s necessary. One in ten haven’t had a single uninterrupted break from family responsibilities in the past year. For most, the reality is grabbing just a few scattered hours here and there – hardly the kind of reset that truly restores energy or peace of mind.
When moms do get time, they recharge in different ways:
- Sleeping or napping: 16%
- Getting outside: 15%
- Watching movies/TV or doing nothing at all: 14% each
- Socializing, pampering, exercising, and reading all came in close behind.
“Mother’s Day is about more than gifts – it’s about giving moms a real moment to recharge,” says Sanjit Sandhu of Present.com. “Whether that means a peaceful beach, a cozy mountain town, or just somewhere without a to-do list, our survey shows that moms are craving experiences that let them slow down and feel appreciated.”
