8 Family-Friendly Summer Activities You Can Do While Social Distancing

For many of us, summer hasn’t exactly looked the way we thought it might several months ago before the coronavirus began its global spread and we found ourselves either isolating at home or masked up to go to the grocery store. The good news is, summer means warmer weather, which means the chance to get outside and enjoy some of your favorite activities while still social distancing. Here are eight activities you and your family can safely enjoy before the summer is over:

Go for a Hike

Nothing says safe, fun and even educational like the great outdoors! Take your family to a state park and enjoy a beautiful hike surrounded by nature. Pack a cooler with lunch and make a day of it. Worried about other hikers? Try visiting the park in the off hours. Sometimes all it takes is a quick Google search to show you when a location is least frequented.

Pick Produce and Seasonal Goodies

Blueberry picking, lavender picking -- do your research and see what’s in season near you! Most farms have been able to remain open this summer, with farm owners following strict safety guidelines. The good news for you and your children - who may not be so fond of wearing masks - is that most places assign you a time and picking area so that you don’t have to remain masked during the outing.

 

Go Camping

Whether it's at a local campground or in backyard, a night under the stars could be just what you and the family need to take your mind off things and create some fun summer memories. Be sure to check out our guide for a successful summer camping trip here.

Have a Bonfire

If you have a backyard, consider buying or building a fire pit so that you and the family can enjoy an evening around the campfire, singing songs and eating s’mores. If you have friends who live nearby, encourage them to join you - at a safe social distance of course. For campfire safety tips, click here.

Go Swimming

Some local pools are now open! Just be sure to follow the safety protocols they have in place. If you don’t feel comfortable visiting a public pool, consider asking friends with pools if you and your family might come over and enjoy the water when they aren’t using it. You may also consider checking out local beaches, which may allow for more room to spread out and enjoy the water within your own family unit.

Visit a Botanical Garden

Is there anything more relaxing than traipsing through a perfectly manicured garden? Enjoying nature and foliage is one of the best parts of living in New York. Click here to learn more about eight great botanical gardens across New York State that are open to the public this summer.

Have a Picnic

Make your next meal a fun experience by bringing it outside. Pack a blanket, a picnic basket and maybe a yard game or two and visit your local park. You can even get the kids more involved by asking them to help you prep the meal in advance.

Attend a Drive-In Movie

In the midst of COVID-19, drive-ins are making a comeback. Look for drive-in theaters or fair grounds that have converted to summer theaters near you. Grab some blankets, pillows and snacks (don’t forget the popcorn!) for the car and enjoy a night of American nostalgia under the stars with a favorite flick.

In need of even more outdoor inspiration for this summer and fall? Click on the button below!