As winter comes to an end and spring comes into bloom, why not take a break from homework and exams by immersing yourself into the outdoors? The best part about it is you do not have to look or go very far to do just that. Often you can find plenty of leisurely activities to enjoy either on your own or with friends, right outside your doorstep. In case you are in need of a little inspiration or ideas to get you going, below I have listed five things you can do right outside of Manhattan College!
1. Picnic with Friends
Whether you live on or off campus, a picnic in the park is a fun and relaxing activity just about anyone can do. Grab yourself a picnic blanket and some friends to enjoy a packed lunch or a bagel from the Deli on the open fields of Van Cortlandt Park. Better yet, you could enjoy a nice picnic right on the Quad if you do not want to leave campus. Try bringing a book, a journal, or a frisbee to make the afternoon that much better. It does not have to be anything fancy or complicated; all that matters is you have some good company and food to enjoy an afternoon outside.
2. Participate in a Game of Golf, Basketball, or Tennis
As Manhattan College students, we have the luxury of being located right next to one of the largest parks in New York that is filled with various recreational amenities and features. Van Cortlandt has free tennis and basketball courts available for anyone to use. All you need is a friend, some racquets, a ball, and you’re good to go. If you are not one for tennis or basketball but would not mind investing in a game of golf, Van Cortlandt golf course offers various tee times on the weekends and throughout the week. It is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors and the sports we know and love.
3. Go for Hike
If you are not one for sports but would still like to take advantage of all Van Cortlandt has to offer, why not explore the different hiking trails that run throughout the park? There are too many trails to count on one hand, therefore, everytime you visit the park you can explore and find something new. Put aside some time in your day to allow yourself to explore and get lost with a friend in the hills and trails. It is a great way to clear your mind of all that has been stressing you out and push the reset button.
4. Visit the Bronx Zoo
Going to the zoo is an activity people of all ages find to love and enjoy. Why not spend an afternoon with friends or your significant other exploring various enclosures and getting to see your favorite animals? Plus, is park food not a guilty pleasure we all find joy in indulging in from time to time? It is another great nostalgic activity you can participate in that gives you an excuse to let go and feel like a kid again. Who would turn that down?
5. New York Botanical Gardens
Last, but not least, spend an afternoon getting lost in the millions of flowers on display at the New York Botanical Gardens. No worries, even if you do not have much of a green thumb, all you have to do is take in the beauty of others work. The Gardens offer various exhibits that display a multitude of species of flowers from all over the world as well as right from the Bronx. It may not be the best place for those who are allergic to pollen, but when the flowers are in full bloom, it truly is a stunning and mesmerizing sight to see.