Ahh, Spring Break. A time for RV road trips across the country, lounging on the beaches, or taking time to travel abroad. A time for students to take a break from their studies, celebrate Spring finally being here and the school semester almost ending. However, with the current COVID-19 situation happening across the entire world, Spring Break will be a bit different this year.
With social distancing guidelines set in place, and many states requiring mandatory stay-at-home orders, schools across the nation are already closed and will remain that way for weeks to come. So, how do you successfully Spring Break during these difficult times? We’ve put together a few ideas that will make this year’s Spring Break just as magical and memorable – just in a more virtual way.
Virtual Theme Parks
- Disney World – There’s nothing like the magic of Disney, and now you don’t even need to leave your house to experience it. Gather the kids around and let them take virtual rides on Space Mountain The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure attraction or on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.
- Legoland- Legoland has created a virtual experience for the whole family. When you visit their site you can now “walk” through the Great Lego Race and Miniland USA taking in all of the colorful Lego creations. This virtual tour will brighten anyone’s mood.
- SeaWorld – You can almost feel the sunshine on your back as you tour sunny Sea World virtually. SeaWorld offers virtual tours of attractions such as Discovery Cove, Empire of the Penguin, and so much more.
Virtual Zoos/Aquariums Across America
- Oakland Zoo – Zoos might be empty across the country, but the animals are still there. The Oakland Zoo has created a 30-minute live show that will air on the zoo’s website every Monday-Friday and give viewers a behind the scenes look at the zoo and all of its exhibits. While watching you can send in live questions for the hosts to answer and learn the ins and outs of the zoo itself!
- Houston Zoo Live Cam – If you’re looking for more on-demand excitement, the Houston Zoo has seven different live cameras set up across different exhibits. You can check in from 7AM-7PM to see gorillas, elephants, flamingos, giraffes, and more.
- Monterey Bay Aquarium – If under the sea is more your vibe, Monterey Bay Aquarium also has a variety of live webcams rolling. You’ll be able to see coral reefs, jellyfish, sharks, turtles, and more of your favorite sea life.
- Atlanta Zoo – Who doesn’t love pandas? These cuddly creatures are so fun to watch and now you can see them up close on your screens. The Atlanta Zoo has a live panda cam where you can watch them play and roll around all day. They will surely bring a smile to your face during these unusual times.
Virtual National Park Tours
- Yellowstone – Our nation’s national parks are incredible to see in person, but they are equally as impressive online. Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous in the country and is offering virtual tours on their website. You can see the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, their Mud Volcano, and more. We definitely think it’s worth checking out.
- Google Earth National Parks – We have never been more grateful to Google Earth as we are right now. This platform has SO many of our nation’s parks in their platform including Acadia, Arches, Great Smoky Mountain, Yosemite, Zion, and many more. Just drag your mouse in different directions and you can explore the entire park of your choosing.
Explore Another Country
- The Great Wall of China – Visit China’s most famous attraction – no passport required. The Great Wall of China is one of the Wonders of the World and is truly magical, and now you can now tour this magnificent structure all online.
- The Louvre – Paris, France – The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world and now you can visit some of its exhibits from your computer. The Louvre has set up four virtual exhibits including Egyptian artifacts, and an exhibition titled ‘The Advent of the Artist’ where you can discover the works of Delacroix, Rembrandt or Tintoretto, and more.
- The British Museum – London – Grab some tea and enjoy The British Museum’s online “History of the World” where you’ll see The Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies – just to name a few.
- Africam – This is just about as close as you’re going to get to a live African safari experience. With Africam, you can watch wild animals in the beautiful African bush live and unscripted. You’ll be able to view different animals such as elephants, giraffes, lions, and tons more.
Visit Classic American Museums
- Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – It’s a great time to catch up on your history and the Smithsonian is the perfect place to do just that. You can explore each room of the museum and access every exhibit. Travel back in time to see the dinosaurs or see the stunning collection of some of the world’s most famous jewels.
- Metropolitan Museum of Art – Access the institution’s 26 online exhibits just the click of a button. You’ll see works by some of your favorite artists as well as Egyptian artifacts galore.
- Museum of Fine Arts – This Boston museum hosts 16 virtual exhibitions where you’ll have access to fashion, modern art, stunning photography, and more.
With all of these virtual options, you’re guaranteed to have a fun indoor Spring Break. We hope visiting these destinations online will inspire you to plan a road trip of your own in the future. Ready to start planning your next adventure now? Try renting an RV with RV Trader’s new rental platform.We can’t wait to get back on the road, but in the meantime, we hope these virtual experiences provide a much needed escape. Which of these virtual tours was your favorite? Let us know in the comments below. Have fun exploring!