Practice social distancing with these safe forms of entertainment in Washington, D.C.

With the whirlwind of closures happening in response to COVID-19, many people are suddenly finding themselves at home with restless kids and a heightened sense of uncertainty. Luckily for us, D.C. has plenty of fun, affordable, and most importantly, safe things to do that don't risk other people's health. So wash your hands, drink some water, and get inspired by these close-to-home activities you can enjoy at a distance.

Courtesy of Politics and Prose's Facebook

Support Local Businesses

As stores close, it will be our neighborhood cafes and stores that struggle the most. You can still support your favorite businesses with takeout or delivery options. Order your brunch to-go from Bullfrog Bagels or have Baked & Wired "cakecups" delivered right to your door (hello, Chocolate Doom!). Politics and Prose is offering free shipping through March 31 so readers can stock up on books for their ever-growing TBR list. If you'd rather stay indoors as much as possible—which we totally understand—you can always purchase a gift card to spend at a later time.

Constitution Gardens courtesy of Facebook

Explore Nature

Put down the remote and seek out tranquility in one of the many gorgeous parks in and around D.C. Walk along 650 acres of trails at Rachel Carson Conservation Park or soak in the sight of the National Mall at Constitution Gardens. Take the kiddos on a hike at Scott's Run Nature Preserve, complete with walking trails and a beautiful waterfall at the end. And if you're in the area, you may catch the tranquil sight of cherry blossoms in bloom. It's a great cure to the indoor jitters while getting exercise in the process—always a plus for your health.

Courtesy of Bluebird Sky Yoga's Facebook page

Learn Something New

Ever wanted to learn a new language? How about sewing or embroidery? Just because we're practicing social distancing doesn't mean we have to give up our hobbies! The internet is your oyster with YouTube tutorials and demos on every possible subject you could ever want to discover. Need to keep up your daily routines? D.C. studios like Bluebird Sky Yoga and HAUS Yoga are offering online classes you can stream from your computer for little to no cost. For kids stuck at home, Scholastic is offering free and fun courses for all grade-levels to continue learning while schools remain closed.

Courtesy of Pixabay

Chill Out

When the going gets tough, there's always a good book or movie to keep us company. If you use the library, use your library card to access over 15 million e-books, movies, music, and more from D.C. Public Library—just download the necessary apps, plug in your card info, and stream away.

Bummed the museums are closed? Access the immense treasure trove of the Smithsonian's digital collections and exhibitions, from America's First Ladies to Superheroes right from your couch. Plus the National Zoo's adorable Panda Cam is always available to view 24/7 wherever you are.

Courtesy of Pexels

Go on a Drive

Practice some social distancing while enjoying the sights of D.C. with a family drive. Take in the grand views of the Appalachian Highlands on Blue Ridge Parkway, or soak in American history with Route 20's "Road of the Presidents," a 90-mile trek through Virginia. Better yet, you can take a sight-seeing tour through D.C. proper and experience the nation's capital in all its glory from the convenience of your car—the Washington Monument never looked so good.

How are you entertaining yourself during this time? Share your suggestions with us in the comments—We would love to hear them!