7 Fun and Safe Social Distancing Outdoor Activities for NYC Families

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Things may not be quite back to normal, but there are still plenty of ways to have some summer fun with your family! This summer may be a bit more laid back in terms of big adventures, but there are plenty of little adventures around NYC that are perfect for families. Check out this list of 7 fun and safe social distancing outdoor activities for families.

Bike with the Fam

My girls love their bikes! Like most things, I have a feeling this is going to be something they eventually outgrow. So, we’re being intentional about going on bike rides as a family. Whether we bike around our neighborhood or hit up one of the off the road bike trails around NYC, it is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and spend time together.

Go to a Drive-In Movie

We sure are missing going to the movie theatre as a family, but COVID-19 has brought back the thrill of going to a drive-in movie! Drive-ins are excellent for social distancing. You stay in your own vehicle, control the volume, and enjoy new releases on the big screen. Check out Skyline Drive-In NYC to see what is playing.

Hunt for the Best Ice Cream

Eating in restaurants is still a little challenging, but finding ice cream is not. Spend the summer visiting different ice cream shops around NYC to hunt for the best one. Many of these ice cream shops offer outdoor or patio seating.

Pick Fruit

According to Mommy Poppins, “Juicy blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are usually in season from July through the end of August near NYC, and some farms even have a second crop of raspberries that ripen later in the summer.” And there are plenty of places to do some social-distance fruit picking near NYC.

Glamp Under the Stars

If your family is feeling bummed that you had to cancel your summer vacation, surprise them by taking them Glamping on Governors Island. Glamping is camping elevated for those families who like the finer things in life (like air conditioning). Even though Governor’s Island is still closed to the public, guests take a complimentary private water taxi to the campsite on the island. You’ll experience the city in a brand-new way while maintaining social distance.

Visit State Parks

If you are staying in the city throughout the summer, try to visit some of the nearby state parks. In addition to exploring a new park, many of the parks offer great activities for families, such as hiking and kayaking. Use TimeOut’s guide to the best hiking trails for NYC families to explore to help get you started on your outdoor adventures.

Drive Through a Zoo

We sure have missed seeing our favorite zoo animals, so I was thrilled to hear Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey has opened its wild safari to the public. Your family can see over 1200 wild animals from your car window!

Plus, many of the public pools in NYC will start reopening this month. Thankfully, there is no evidence that shows COVID-19 can spread through pools. Just be sure to practice social distancing around the pool areas!