GREAT ESCAPE: Watercourse Way Spa and Bathhouse

More than anybody, moms deserve some down-time, preferably in a beautiful environment that's not at home, but not too far from home. A gift certificate to the Watercourse Way Spa and Bathhouse means giving her some pampered time alone or a great surprise date night. (The rooms for two mean both mom and dad get to relax and enjoy some time without the kids. Speaking only for ourselves, this beats a fancy dinner hands down.)

What to do there: Hot tub with multi-jets, steam, and the cold plunge pool, perfect for two. Book for one hour or 90 minutes. In the Nine Bats room, turn down the lights, lean back in your tub, and gaze at the constellation of stars set in the ceiling. The Eight Stars room also has a hot tub and cold plunge but includes a sauna instead of steam.

Why we like it: The high-end spa details: Nicely appointed private rooms, spotlessly clean spaces, lush, thick towels. It's just a short drive from home but it puts you in a long-weekend kind of a mood. 

Nice plus: You can also book spa appointments such as a couples massage with aromatherapy ($280 for two), a Moor mud treatment ($135), or a body scrub or body wrap (each $55).

Be sure to: Book at least two weeks ahead to reserve the room with the most amenities, the Nine Bats room.