Whether you’re a nature lover, sports buff, or foodie, outdoor activities are great ways to get some fresh air and bond as a family. Getting outdoors can also help you feel calm and grounded amidst the busyness of life.
The benefits of outdoor activities extend to more than just your physical health, too. Studies show that time spent in nature is linked to lower blood pressure, less stress, better eyesight, and improved moods.
While outdoor adventures may feel like they’re best saved for vacations, it’s not impossible to incorporate them into your day-to-day. Whether you live in a lake city, a forest town, or a metropolis, there are tons of amazing things to do outside that will help you reconnect with nature and have some fun while doing it.
Outdoor activities can include anything from hiking a new trail to playing a round of golf, but they can also be as simple as walking around your neighborhood or visiting a local park. There’s a lot of beauty to be found in your own backyard, so why not take advantage of it? It’s a good idea to bring something along that will keep everyone entertained, such as a board game or a book.
It’s also a good idea to plan ahead for any possible weather conditions. If you know it will be raining, pack a jacket and a change of shoes, and if the sun is out, make sure to have plenty of sunscreen on hand.
The Highline is one of the most unique outdoor activities in NYC. It’s a 1.5-mile-long elevated walkway that runs from the Javits Center near Hudson Yards all the way to the Whitney Museum in Chelsea/The Meatpacking District. It offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and nearby Central Park, plus a rooftop bar and quirky art installations by Pierre Huyghe.
Hiking is a popular activity that can be suited to any age or skill level, and it’s a great way to work up a sweat while exploring new territory. For beginners, a stroll along a well-paved trail with low-traffic is a good option to start. Then, you can progress to more difficult hikes once you’re comfortable with your ability.
Other outdoor activities that are becoming increasingly popular include cycling, kayaking and canoeing, golf, bird-watching and camping, and even skateboarding. These activities are not only fun to do with your family, but they can help you stay active and learn something new.
Getting out and exploring the world is a great way to have fun, get some exercise, and create memories that will last a lifetime. However, it’s important to remember that not everyone has access to parks and other outdoor spaces due to systemic inequities and a history of exclusive and discriminatory outdoor culture. That’s why it is vital to continue to fight for equitable and inclusive access to outdoor recreation. To do so, it’s important to have a diverse voice in all aspects of the outdoors, including leadership roles and representation in design, planning, and operations of outdoor recreation spaces.