A GUIDE TO LIVING IN NYC DURING A PANDEMIC

By Ashley Lawson (Advertising, Marketing and Communications, ‘23)

As the streets have become barren and many businesses have shut down, what is there left to do for the COVID-conscious in New York City? Living in the city for the first time by myself, I’ve found the best ways to keep busy while supporting the city that is becoming my home.

Support Local Restaurants

Many restaurants in NYC are in danger of shutting down or have already shut down. Favorite restaurants of many New Yorkers are what make up the city’s identity, and any support for them is greatly appreciated. There are many options to support these restaurants, including takeout, socially distant indoor and outdoor dining. If you are in favor of food delivery, support events like Restaurant Week, which occurred between Jan. 25 and Feb. 28 of 2021 in favor of local restaurants. For those who feel comfortable going to restaurants in person, check out some of the coolest outdoor dining setups at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, Cafe Du Soleil and more posted on secretnyc.co or their instagram @secret_nyc. This company posts all different types of content, such as things to do, places to go and events happening in the city.

Go to Museums

For the majority of the pandemic, NYC has authorized museums to be open, and they are in need of support to avoid shutting down. Notable museums that have enhanced COVID guidelines include the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Met Cloisters, the Guggenheim, the MOMA, the Whitney Museum of Art and many more. This is a fun indoor activity, especially when it is cold outside, that can help nurture the mind. It is important to keep supporting these institutions as many of them, such as the Met, are in danger. Robin Pogrebin reported in The New York Times that “facing a potential shortfall of $150 million because of the pandemic, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has begun conversations with auction houses and its curators about selling some artworks to help pay for care of the collection.”

Museums are collectors of history, and sadly the pandemic has taken a great toll on them. That is why it’s necessary for us to support them during this time.

Picnic in the Park

When the weather is nice and allows for comfortable outdoor activities, having picnics in the parks across Manhattan is a good option. Central Park provides the most green space in places like the Great Lawn and Sheep’s Meadow. Grab a blanket, pre-made foods like sandwiches and salads and a friend or family member to have a socially distanced picnic. This is a great way to spend time with friends and family in a safe setting while enjoying the great nature and outdoor spaces that NYC has to offer.

Outdoor Exercise

It’s extremely important to remain physically active during these times and finding places to do that outdoors in NYC can sometimes be stressful, especially when indoor fitness classes are halted and gyms have strict regulations. Bryant Park frequently hosts outdoor classes that encompass things like HIIT, pilates and yoga. There’s also the option to take your own fitness journey and run in Central Park, Riverside Park and the piers by the Hudson River.

Outdoor Photoshoots

Take this time to perfect and grow your social media platforms. This can be through photoshoots in the many cool locations that NYC has to offer. Tourist locations like Edge NYC, Central Park and the Empire State Building are great places to showcase the beautiful city on your feed. For pictures that appear more local, head to SoHo where you can take socially distanced pictures in the cobblestone streets.

Of course there are other ways to stay busy in NYC during the pandemic, but these are a few great ideas to keep in mind the next time you’re in need of some mental rejuvenation. As a community, let’s make sure to continue to support small businesses and the city we love so that it doesn’t become an unrecognizable place without the culture and charm that brings it fame.