Most of us are stuck inside during this strange time in our lives. It can be difficult to stay entertained and feel normal when there are so many uncertainties, especially around when we will be able to leave our homes and roam freely. However, there are many things we can either from the comfort of our homes or while maintaining social distancing that can help alleviate some of the stresses and anxieties that come with this pandemic, along with help us stay connected with one another and the outside world.
Photo credit: https://www.austintexas.org/austin-insider-blog/post/your-guide-to-paddling-lady-bird-lake/
HIKING OR KAYAKING ALONG LADY BIRD LAKE
This is a very popular attraction in the Austin area, and it’s perfect for times like these when we must remain 6ft apart at all times. With limitations on crowds at their hiking trails, and the openness of the water in the lake, Lady Bird Lake offers ways to get out, get some fresh air, and stay safe! This is a great way to still get outside and see the sun, and to get some exercise too! You can even kayak with some friends while remaining at a good distance apart! This will open up so many possibilities of in person interactions with people you’ve only been able to speak with through a phone screen.
CONGRESS AVENUE BATS
If you don’t want to go kayaking or hiking, but still want an excuse to get some fresh air, go out and see the bats on Congress Ave! You can maintain the proper guidelines set by officials to stay safe while enjoying a beautiful sunset followed by some incredible bats! You can also set up a picnic with some friends, again while remaining a good distance apart, to enjoy some company and good food before the attraction!
Photo credit: https://cordcutting.com/blog/home-theater-7-sites-stream-live-shows-concerts-free-online/
LIVE CONCERT STREAMING
If you don’t want to head out just yet and you’re a lover of ACL and other music festivals/concerts Austin has to offer, this is the perfect thing for you! Austin’s most iconic festivals are livestreaming their concerts throughout the pandemic. There are also several artists around the country that are now performing online and you can watch these concerts from the comfort of your home!
VIRTUAL CLASSES
If you’re looking for a way to be creative and grow some art skills during this pandemic, The Contemporary Austin has free online art classes due to this pandemic. You can tune into their Facebook and Instagram content to watch step-by-step tutorials to get creative and make art! Instead of art, if you’re more interested in getting active and moving, there are so many free online dance classes and workouts through different companies and individuals. Try out a new workout class or learn a new form of dance to keep your heart racing and to stay indoors!
VIRTUAL TOURS
Have you ever been to Blanton Museum of Art? No? Now is the perfect time to! Blanton is offering free virtual tours so you can explore the history and art that is stored inside this incredible museum while staying inside and safe. There are also so many online tours with several other museums throughout Austin and the country in general that are free to attend and all provide a unique virtual experience like never before.
Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/278519558186325104/
VISIT FAMOUS MURALS
There are so many iconic photo opportunities that are often crowded with people during the year. However, these crowds have been completely wiped due to the current situation, so why not take advantage of it? You can drive up to SoCo and get a photo in front of the “I love you so much” mural! The mornings and evenings are perfect timings for this since the sun isn’t too harsh so you’ll have some good lighting, you won’t be too hot, and you’ll avoid crowds!
There are so many other creative ways to have fun and stay active during quarantine! These are just a few ways to get some fresh air and also stay entertained! Although some of these are easily accessible from inside your home, stay safe when you choose the outdoor options and uphold the regulations and guidelines that have been set. Stay safe, and have fun!
