From Broadway to Planet Fitness: Free Virtual Alternatives During a Pandemic
Posted by : Admin
Americans are social people. We love to go out to eat, to see live music, and explore our great outdoors together. With social distancing, quarantining, and business closures left and right, that “together” part is becoming more and more of a challenge; and for good reason. Staying home, despite how boring it may get, is the best way to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19.
Being self-quarantined isn’t easy. How do you stay occupied? What about those tickets you had to the concert that was just cancelled? What about your upcoming vacation that’s been put on hold? Luckily, organizations from around the world have come together to go virtual. You can now experience museums, concerts, fitness programs, shows, and more – all from your couch.
Here’s a list of fun free virtual activities you can do during the pandemic:
1. Enjoy a Broadway Show
Seeing a Broadway show is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, and some never get the chance. Thanks to services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and PBS, many of Broadway’s most popular shows have been filmed and are ready for you to enjoy from the safety of your couch. And no one will care if you wear your sweatpants. Check out classics like Rent, Cats, Sweeney Todd and more here.
2. Explore the World’s Greatest Museums
Visiting the great museums of the world would take a lifetime and a lot of money. Fortunately, iconic museums like the Guggenheim, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, the Van Gogh Museum, and more are opening their virtual doors to the world. Skip the lines and take a look into the history of who we are, here.
3. Check Out Some Wildlife
Need a little cuteness in your life? Maybe the sea otters at the Monterey Bay Aquarium can help. The aquarium’s live webcams provide a front row seat to many of the spectacular aquatic species living in the facility. There are 10 webcams streaming everything from sharks to hypnotic moon jellies.
4. Take a Virtual Hike in a National Park
Referred to as “America’s Best Idea,” the U.S. national parks are looking a little different these days. After years of record-breaking visitation, nearly all the parks have closed to help fight the spread of COVID-19. Thankfully, Google had the foresight to create 360-degree virtual tours of many parks that you can enjoy from home. The featured parks include Bryce Canyon, Dry Tortugas, Hawaii Volcanoes, and Carlsbad Caverns. Perhaps this will help you plan your next family road trip.
5. Rock Out to Live Music
Musicians were on the front lines in creating content for those that are stuck indoors. From private shows in their living room to large-scale productions in empty venues, there’s still plenty of room for live music in these odd times. The Los Angeles Times has broken down seven places that you can take in some much-needed music from your favorite artists.
6. Bring the Gym to You
Gyms and fitness centers across the country are closing to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but that doesn’t mean you can’t work out. In fact, companies like Planet Fitness are offering free, at-home videos to keep you moving while you’re stuck indoors. Here’s a list of other services providing free fitness options. How are you staying active?
The best thing you can do during this time is to stay home and stay busy. How are you and your family making the most of the current situation?
