With social distancing practices putting the kibosh on the normal slate of early spring activities, parents who have spent the past week as a homeschooler/school nurse/short-order cook sure could use a break. Thanks to our Coronavirus Guide for Parents, families have turned to some terrific online options like virtual museum tours and concerts or clever podcasts to keep kids entertained. However, many of us would love some new ideas for getting fresh air or connecting with our community without screens.

We scouted the area and found some great local activities that families can still do safely, from a coastal birdwatching walk to take-out craft projects from some of our favorite local art studios. Please check in with these spots and local restrictions before heading out to make sure visits are still allowed, and remember to observe social distancing guidelines of keeping yourself (and kids) at least 6 feet away from non-family members. Have fun—and hang in there.