Feeling like all you do these days is study, eat and sleep? Spice up your routine with one of The Chronicle’s suggestions for safe activities during this unprecedented semester.
Picnic on the quad
Previously unbeknownst to busy-bee Duke students, this is a college classic. Grab some snacks, picnic blankets and friends to soak in the sunshine for a few hours (six feet apart, of course). Bonus points if you use a checkered blanket, carry your food in a basket or wear a wide-brimmed hat.
Hike the Al Buehler trail
Whether you want to get your daily exercise fix or simply enjoy the outdoors, this 2.91-mile loop encircling the Washington Duke Golf Course is a perfect stress reliever. The trail features a bird-watching station and a pond where the patient observer can spot turtles, fish and the occasional egret.
Play interactive online games with your friends
Prefer the comfort of your bed? Invite your friends to a game of Scribble.io, Scattergories or trivia. Alternatively, watch your favorite movie together using Netflix Party.
Attend one of Duke’s Zoom or in-person fitness classes
Whether you want to break a sweat in the privacy of your bedroom or attend an outdoor class, Duke Recreation and Physical Education offers a host of free fitness class options. From hatha yoga to high-intensity interval training, there is sure to be a class for you.
Order takeout from a Durham restaurant
Bored of on-campus dining options? Support local businesses and check out this list of to-go and delivery options in Durham. Duke student favorites include Alpaca, Cucciolo Osteria, Goorsha and Heavenly Buffaloes, all of which offer a delivery service or can be ordered through a mobile delivery app. Alternatively, use your food points to order from any of the restaurants available through Merchants on Points to campus.
Hike, sunbathe or wade at Durham’s Eno River State Park
If you feel like venturing into Durham, heading to the Eno River is a fun and safe way to do so. This natural treasure features 30 miles of hiking trails and a shallow, winding stream. Be sure to check the website in case trail statuses change due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Register to vote
Have just a few minutes to spare in between classes? You only have until Oct. 9 to register in North Carolina, and some states have sooner deadlines. The DukeVotes website has voter registration instructions.
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Anna Zolotor is a Trinity senior and recruitment chair for The Chronicle's 118th volume. She was previously news editor for Volume 117.