How is it almost Labor Day Weekend? They say time flies when you are having fun, and while fun may be marked by different activities during social distancing versus a normal year, one trend that we see persisting is taking the time to enjoy the outdoors.
We enjoy staples like camping and hiking, but keep in mind that outdoor activity doesn’t necessarily mean sweating and foregoing a shower. A day on the water or strolling through gardens are among the diverse options.
We’re kicking off our recommendations with 5 sites in the South Atlantic where you can enjoy a little fresh air over the holiday. Follow our blog to see similar options in other regions…next up Mid Atlantic.
The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium (Virginia Beach, VA)
Enjoy a tour through the treetops of the aquarium’s nature paths while challenging yourself on multiple zip lines and aerial rope courses. The course has heights of up to 150 feet above the ground and offers six levels from beginner to expert. Trails are self-guided and you are welcome to explore at your own pace. The park is open 9am to 11pm but a trip after sundown will allow you to experience an enchanted forest with lights strung throughout the trees. If you are in town through the week, check out Glow in the Park featuring live music on Tuesday or Thursday night. General admission is $57.
Maymont Historic Estate and Park (Richmond, VA)
Visit the 100-acre historic property featuring a mansion, gardens, and a nature center. See native wildlife like river otters at play, feed and pet the goats, or enjoy a picnic on the lawn. Mobile tours are offered on site and you can preview your trip with these online resources featuring native plants, animals, and virtual property tours. Access to the gardens is FREE and admission is $8 adult / $6 children for the nature center.
The Quarry at Carrigan Farms Open Swim (Charlotte, NC)
Take a swim in a deep, refreshing natural quarry located on a 5th generation, family-owned farm. Added safety measures including capacity limitations, advance reservations, and social distancing protocol have been implemented for Open Swim. Reservations require a $5 deposit + $15 per person.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens (Miami, FL)
Marvel at this National Historic Landmark on Biscayne Bay that was built between 1914 and 1922. The Gilded Age estate features Mediterranean-style architecture and an artifact collection dating all the way back to Pompeii. The property is surrounded by 10 acres of formal Italianate gardens and a mangrove shoreline. Admission is $18 adult / $8 children.
Sunset Sail Key West (Key West, FL)
See the pristine waters of the Florida Keys from one of three beautiful vintage sailboats. The custom charter features great local captains and crew. You can choose from an a-la-carte menu for a daysail, a romantic sunset cruise, or a swim adventure. For a teaser of the experience, enjoy some sailing footage on the company’s Facebook page here. Rates are $295 – $695 based on group size and charter duration.
License to Drift - Why You Trippin? 