4 Mom Getaways You Deserve

Refresh, recharge, reset without traveling far from home

- Vanessa Infanzon

Everyone needs to connect with friends, and a getaway without kids can energize a busy mom. Planning a distant trip can be difficult with varying family schedules, but a weekend trip not far from home may be put together quickly and still provide the time away moms need. Here are four local destinations that offer the perfect escape for moms and their friends.

Lake Norman: LAKESIDE LIVING

The towns of Davidson, Cornelius and Mooresville are a quick drive north on Interstate 77 and offer art galleries, theater, hiking and biking. Book a sightseeing or dinner cruise on Lake Norman at Queens Landing in Mooresville. See a performance at Davidson Community Players. Browse the exhibits at Davidson College Art Galleries and shop for handmade art at Wooden Stone Gallery, then plan on a massage or facial at Ahlara International Day Spa and Boutique.

Jetton Park on Lake Norman in Cornelius is a 104-acre park with 1.5 miles of walking and biking trails, and picnic decks overlooking the water. Lake Norman State Park in Troutman rents kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, canoes and pedal boats for use on Park Lake.

WHERE TO EAT: Window-shop, see a movie or grab dinner at one of the restaurants, including Midwood Smokehouse or Dressler’s Restaurant at Birkdale Village. Check out Hello, Sailor for casual lakeside dining, or Kindred in downtown Davidson for something a bit more upscale. Plan lunch at The Pickled Peach and brunch on Sunday at Fork!