With month seven of quarantine fast approaching, and it’s safe to say that by now, most of us feel quite bored of our surroundings. How many more times can we grab food at the same places, hike the same hikes, and rewatch the same shows? Here’s a fine-tuned a list of the best (and hopefully new) activities to do in the DMV area.

Watch the sunrise – Most of us have seen a couple of sunsets these past few months, so why not switch it up? Wake up early, pack breakfast and blankets, hop in the car, and make your way to DC. There are a bunch of places to go, but some of the best include the Lincoln Memorial, the Tidal Basin, and the Reflecting Pool.

Go kayaking on the Potomac – Bodies of water nearby are limited, but why not make the best of the ones accessible to us? Key Bridge Boathouse, located in Georgetown, offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals at a reasonable price. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of life.

Take a day-trip to Annapolis – Maryland’s capital city is known for its picturesque architecture and exceptional seafood. It’s a perfect day trip destination if you’re in the mood for strolling and eating. The main street is crammed with charming boutiques that are near-impossible to stay out of.

Eat! – By now, most of us have tried the food offered in our close vicinity. Why not branch out and find some new places to eat, while supporting the Black-owned businesses in our area? Pleasant Pops, a cafe in Adams Morgan, is the perfect place for a cozy brunch or a quick afternoon ice-cream. Though they are most famous for their popsicles and strawberry ginger lemonade, you’ll find all kinds of tasty food to satisfy your cravings. If you’re looking for hearty food, Matchbox is a great option. They offer Italian-style pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a variety of barbecue meats. Matchbox has a bunch of locations, but the one closest to us is Mosaic District.

Hike, hike, and hike some more – Now I know that we’ve all been on a couple of these, but hiking is so re-energizing that it just had to be included. The Billy Goat Trail, located near Great Falls, is a great option for a 2-hour excursion after school or even on the weekend (although it might be a bit crowded). It is a fairly rocky but gorgeous hike along the Potomac river. If you’re looking for something more challenging, a hike up Blue Ridge Mountain in West Virginia is perfect for a half-day activity. It’s about a one-hour drive, and a 2-3 hour hike up the mountain. You’ll emerge from the forest onto Raven Rocks lookout, a cliff with a stunning view of the Shenandoah valley.

Get in the fall spirit – While some hold on to summer for dear life, others embrace fall with open arms. If you are one of those people, here are some of our best tips. Though our local farmers market offers delicious donuts, going to the Apple House is more of an excursion. They offer freshly made apple cider donuts unlike any other and are a must during the fall months. While out in the Virginia countryside, why not have a picnic as well? There are plenty of spots that offer a beautiful view of crimson colored trees, such as Sky Meadows State Park. And if picnicking doesn’t entice you, how about apple picking? Is there anything that screams fall more than that?