Let’s be honest, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a lot from us. It has taken birthday celebrations, anniversaries, baby showers and so much more. But with this being said, it hasn’t taken everything. There are so many things you can still do with friends and family: the key is you just have to get creative! Especially in New York City, there is still an endless amount of options, whether you know it or not. From trying a new restaurant, to having a socially distant picnic with friends, there is always something to do: even when it feels like there isn’t.
So, what can I do?
Personal Sightseeing
As many people know, tourism is at an all time low in NYC. The pandemic has really taken a toll on the hospitality industry, leaving tourists who are still willing to travel at a loss of what to do. Tourists would come from all parts of the world to take a guided tour of NYC: whether it be on a bus or walking. These have since come to a halt due to the pandemic, but nobody ever said you can’t give yourself a tour! One of the coolest things I have seen blossom out of this pandemic is people’s creativity. Don’t be afraid to be your own guide and create your own walking tour around the city! I have heard of people taking the time to design their own route, pretend to be an official guide and walk their own families all around NYC until their feet ache. Although it seems daunting, sometimes the best person to do the job is yourself!
Don’t know where to start? Take a look at NYC tour guide websites and see where they would take you!
Water Taxi
I’m ashamed to say that I took my first ever water taxi ride this year, during the pandemic. It was one of the first things I did after attempting to enter back into the “real world” after quarantining in my house for the past 6 months. And although I was nervous at first, this journey couldn’t have gone better.
The NYC water taxi is one of the most efficient ways to get around the city, and stops everywhere from the Financial District to the Lower East Side. Along with this, a round trip is just around $5 dollars: so for the price of a subway ticket, you can get better views and cleaner seats!
Eating Outside
In my opinion, one of the best things that has come out of his pandemic is the amount of restaurants that are now offering outdoor seating. There is nothing more spectacular than eating outside in New York City and watching the sun go down, with good company. And now, you can practically do this everywhere!
There are so many restaurants in the city that are doing everything they can to ensure that their patrons are getting the same experience they would’ve pre-COVID. One of my personal favorites is Jack’s Wife Freda in the West Village. From the ideal location, to the exceptional food and service, eating there is a whole experience!
Outdoor Cocktail Bars
Now we all know the bar scene in NYC is usually the place to go. Whether it is a quick drink with coworkers after a long Friday at work, or a Saturday GNO, bars have always been a staple of NYC nightlife. And although it may look a little different now, it still is very much an option! Similar to restaurants, bars everywhere are taking the necessary precautions to ensure that all patrons feel safe and welcomed at their establishment. Going into the winter months, it may seem a little less appealing to go and sit outside at a bar. But don’t let that put you off from going! Between the heaters, quick service, and exceptional company, you can still have just as much fun!
Picnic in the Park
Picnicking in the park has always been a tradition for New York natives and tourists alike, but I feel like people tend to forget about it nowadays when looking for something to do. Don’t underestimate the power of sitting outside on a brisk, fall day, while enjoying the sunshine! NYC has so many different parks, so you will never get bored by going to the same one! Each park has something different to offer, and if you bring along some good friends the experience will instantly be elevated. (Also, I hear charcuterie boards are ALL the rage, so whip one together and treat yourself!)
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
To me, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most stunning places in New York City. Besides simply being a stunning piece of art, it connects Brooklyn and Manhattan: two of the coolest cities in the world! Along with this, the bridge has a dedicated walking path for people who want to go for a stroll. I have personally done this, and it was one of the neatest experiences of my life. I remember being so in awe over the fact that I started in Manhattan, walked a mile, and then ended up in Brooklyn. How cool??
Even though it may sound lame, don’t push it aside! It can be a great way to get outside and explore the city!
Is the city exactly what it used to be? No. Can you do everything you used to be able to? No. But, that can be a good thing! This pandemic has definitely changed the way we look at outings and experiences. But it doesn’t have to ruin them. So, whenever you are bored or feel like you are stuck in a rut, try out one of the things on this list! And I guarantee your boredom will quickly come to a halt.
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