Has all this extra time at home got you searching for new ideas for staying busy? We’ve discovered some great ways to continue enjoying your favorite interests and activities via the virtual world. (Most are free, except where otherwise noted.) Keep boredom at bay by checking out the websites below.
Art and Soul
We know how much you appreciate the arts. Certainly now, more than ever, we all can benefit from a bit of beauty. You still can be a museum maven by exploring some of the world’s most celebrated collections and exhibits, taking video and audio tours, and reading behind-the-scenes blogs from curators. Here are a few of our favorites:
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- The Musée du Louvre
- The National Gallery of Art
- The Smithsonian American Art Museum and Renwick Gallery
Head of the Class
Could your brain use a boost? Take advantage of this time to learn something new. From mastering a second language or expanding your culinary skills to auditing nearly 500 free online courses offered by such prestigious Ivy League Schools as Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and more, school is now in session anytime you wish to attend.
- Duolingo Language-Learning Platform
- “Kitchen Quarantine,” hosted by Michelin-starred chef Massimo Bottura, of the famed Italian restaurant Osteria Francescana
- Publix Supermarket Aprons Online Cooking School
- Online Ivy League Courses
Culture Club
Just because Broadway is currently dark doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a multitude of acclaimed theatre productions and musical performances. (Best of all, you can control curtain time and enjoy a snack while you watch.) Movie buffs can also quell their craving for cinema by viewing comforting classics or newer films.
- BroadwayHD (free seven-day trial, then $8.99 per month)
- Kanopy Free Movie Streaming Service
- Living Room Concert Series (Broadway performers sing selections from their shows.)
- Popcornflix Free Movie and TV Streaming Service
Call of the Wild
Animal—and fish—lovers can still commune with their favorite creatures by venturing to the websites of popular zoos and aquariums throughout the country. Taking a peek at the antics of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians can brighten your day, while gazing at serene aquatic scenes can actually help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your heart rate.
On the Move
Getting your body in motion will make your mind feel better, too. Of course, talking a walk in the fresh air is a go-to way to get some exercise these days. But if you’re looking to switch up your fitness routine, go online to participate in a variety of workouts guaranteed to boost your energy and raise mood-enhancing endorphin levels. Our Zenergy® collection of comfortable, breathable pieces will keep you feeling and looking great, whatever you’re doing.
- Planet Fitness Live Streaming “Work-Ins”
- Orangetheory 30-Minute Daily Workout
- YMCA 360: On-Demand Videos
- Forge Pre-Recorded Hot Yoga Classes
Kid Stuff
As difficult as it is for adults to cope with the challenges posed by self-quarantine, it’s even harder for little ones to be housebound. The following websites provide engaging, kid-friendly content that ranges from learning math-based card games or listening to audio books to doing art projects and going on virtual field trips.
