5 Ways to Leave Home Without Actually Leaving the Couch
Normally, our goal is to bring you the most exciting events and happenings around DC every weekend. In these extraordinary times, this guide is going to look a little different. The global pandemic means stringent restrictions on gatherings and a region-wide directive to self-isolate at home and practice social distancing when it’s necessary to be in public.
In short, we’re "physically" not going anywhere, and for good reason. But even as we hunker down and try to be responsible citizens to help #flattenthecurve, there are still places we can travel to and see through our screens. Here's how to enjoy an afternoon at the museum, the zoo, or theme park all without leaving your couch.
1. Take a Guided Virtual Walking Tour Through One of Five National Parks
Google's online Arts & Culture activation includes a program called "The Hidden Worlds of the National Parks" in partnership with the National Parks Services, and it quite literally brings the outdoors inside. The digital exhibit features five national parks, including Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico, Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska, and Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida.
2. Be delighted by the antics of the sea otters or mellow out to the hypnotic drifting of jellies at The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California
The Monterey, California, aquarium is giving visitors a virtual look at its colorful sea creatures via free live camera streaming. Animal lovers can zen out to jellyfish or watch penguins waddling in their habitat. With ten live cams to choose from, you can experience the wonder of the ocean no matter where you are.
3. Transport yourself to a world landmark, like the Taj Mahal
Google's Arts & Culture section has crystal-clear views of the Taj Mahal in New Delhi, India, as well as several other renowned spots around the world. For example, you can look down from the top of the Eiffel Tower or relax with a view of the Sydney Opera House, all while not actually traveling.
4. Relax during golden hour by viewing the sunset off the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland.
Take a virtual tour of one of Ireland’s most famous sights, the Cliffs of Moher. On a clear day the views are tremendous, with the Aran Islands etched on the waters of Galway Bay.
5. Virtually roam the magical Disney World and Disneyland theme parks.
Disney previously launched Google Street View imagery of Disney World in Orlando, Florida, and Disneyland in Anaheim, California. So fans dreaming of a day spent in the lovable theme parks can virtually enjoy Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and even Disney World's global Epcot "countries."