As quarantine continues to slow the spread of COVID-19, it is easy to feel disconnected from the rest of the world. Luckily, that doesn’t have to be the case!
Around the globe, various museums, amusement parks, zoos, theaters, and even NASA are offering free virtual experiences online. Dreaming of marveling at the timeless artwork in the Paris’ Louvre? Or always wanted to walk around the Vatican in Rome?
Well now, you can!
Plus, you’ll be doing your part in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by having these awe-inspiring experiences from the comfort of your own home.
For the Adventurer
Fly along with the Blue Angels on the US Navy Youtube channel.
For the Outdoor Enthusiast
Oh, nature. How you always make things seem less stressful and bring life to us humans. If you’re an outdoor lover, being stuck inside can probably be a bit of a downer. So why not experience some trails and viewpoints beyond your own backyard?
Google Earth has officially launched virtual tours of some of America’s most beloved National Parks
Now you can watch the famous Old Faithful geysers in Yellowstone erupt which taking in the gorgeous luminous bacteria blooms. Or, perhaps you’d rather head down to Yosemite and explore the iconic granite monoliths like El Capitan and Half Dome.
For Fans of Cultural Arts
Dying to go see live theatre? Check out The New York Metropolitan Opera, or “the Met”, for free streaming of their past performances! Check out their calendar for upcoming shows.
For International Hoppers
Borders might be closed and flights canceled, but some of the most world renowned attractions are keeping their doors virtually open!
Perhaps make yourself an espresso, indulge in a croissant, and take a tour of the Louvre Museum in Paris, France. Currently, the institution is offering three different virtual tours in English including Egyptian Antiques, Remains of the Louvre’s Moat, and the Galerie d’Apollon.
Maybe you’d rather soak in the beauty of the Vatican in Rome! For this experience, you have the ability to interact with 360-degree views of seven different rooms and exhibits, including the Sistine Chapel.
Why not finish your Euro trip with a quick stop at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum in Spain? Currently, this institution is offering an interactive experience on their full Rembrandt and Amsterdam Portraiture exhibition.
For Animal Lovers
If you’re missing your friends at the Seattle Aquarium, tune in for a live look at the harbor seals and sea otters.
Visiting a zoo in real life won’t even compare after getting to watch how the cute, exotic creatures behave on live cameras! Forget the crowds, screaming kids, and shy animals; instead, tune-in to San Diego Zoo’s live viewings which allow you to switch in real-time between cuddly koalas, terrific tigers, powerful polar bears, and so many more. Get up close and personal with these beautiful mammals!
Maybe you’re not that into the furry four-legged animals? Well then, take a trip below the deep blue with the Monterey Bay Aquarium! Now, every week can be Shark Week thanks to their live online footage of the Habitat exhibits! Check out their website to participate in fun, free educational programs and choose between a wide selection of habitat cameras. Perhaps you want to watch African Penguins waddling around, or be hypnotized by the Moon Jelly cam, or, of course, stare at graceful predators on the shark cam!
For Child-like Imaginations
With school closures happening across the country, you may need to get creative with entertaining the kids. So why not take them on a magical tour of Disney World without the lines and crowds in your own home!
Be sure to set some time aside because there is plenty to see here! Take a stroll through the Magic Kingdom, marvel at the Animal Kingdom, or behold the beauty of Epcot! You can even find unofficial YouTube videos that feel like you’re actually riding the ups-and-downs of famous attractions like the Frozen Ever After ride, It’s a Small World, and Pirates of the Caribbean
For Aspiring Astronauts
Speaking of magic, why not live the childhood dream of becoming an astronaut by blasting off into space with NASA
Both Viriginia’s Langley Research Center and Ohio’s Glenn Research Center are opening their doors to offer free online tours!
If you’d rather play around with “augmented reality” experiences, download The Space Center Houston’s app on your phone and hold the power to explore the universe in your own fingertips.
Image by 400tmax
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