Everyone has different levels of comfort with how they want to spend their own free time right now. If you don’t feel comfortable doing something, then don’t. Whatever that comfort level is, please respect others’ boundaries. Here are a few ideas to consider:

· Walk, Walk, Walk! This has been my favorite socially distanced activity recently. I love walking to the lake front, through Grant and Millenium Park, and even just through the city. Although, walking on the weekends is more crowded than the weekdays, so just be aware of that.

· Support local restaurants in Chicago by ordering carryout! Here is a list of Black-Owned restaurants in Chicago organized by neighborhood: https://www.theinfatuation.com/features/support-black-owned-restaurants-in-chicago.

· Chicago Detours is offering virtual boat and architectural tours. Check out their website here: https://www.chicagodetours.com/virtual-tours/

· Zoom Cooking contest with your friends to see who can make the best dish. Friendly competition and voila! Dinner is served.

· Virtual Theatre! Many theatre companies are holding virtual events and performances. You can check it out here: https://www.theatreinchicago.com/streaming-shows.php.

· The Art Institute, which offers free admission for students! Make sure to bring your Student I.D. You can visit their website here for more information, including new guidelines to help keep visitors safe: https://www.artic.edu.

· Bake something new! I always get my recipe inspiration from Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.

· The Hyde Park Jazz Festival is streaming live concerts this year as well as having mobile stages and pop-up concerts. Check it out here: http://hydeparkjazzfestival.org.

· Netflix Party with your friends! It’s nice to know someone else is on the other side of the screen. Download Netflix Party here: https://www.netflixparty.com