Socially distanced outdoor activities to enjoy this weekend and beyond

Wondering what to do this weekend that's outside and socially distanced? We've got you covered!

Discover a new trail

Riverwalk Piedmont Medical Center Trail - Walk the paved 2.5-mile trail along the Catawba River, then grab a bite or drink at The Pump House rooftop, Grapevine's patio, or The Brass Tap patio. Have your dog? He'll love Dog Bites Munchery & More for homemade treats, toys, and accessories.

Mason's Bend Trail - This is a natural 1.9-mile trail running along the Masons Bend neighborhood.

Baxter Village Trail - This is a 3.3 mile trail that's a mix of natural, boardwalk, sidewalk, and pavement. Afterward, pop over to Grapevine in Baxter Village for a glass of bubbly on their patio, head up to the rooftop of The Lucky Duck for drinks and appetizers, or check out the popular Maui Acai food truck by the Baxter YMCA dishing up acai bowls, acai cakes, and acai base by the quart to-go.

Kayak or tube the Catawba river

The ramps are open. The company we used to rent tubes from has closed (there's a new one coming soon) but check out our tips on how to tube the Catawba yourself!

Enjoy a family fun day at Mr. Putty's

We love their mini-golf and axe throwing, but they also have a park of attractions that will entertain the kids. And those 21+ can enjoy a beverage at the 19th Hole Beer & Wine Garden. They're sanitizing all equipment but you're more than welcome to bring your own putter and balls.

Spend the day on Lake Wylie

Rent a pontoon boat from Lake Wylie Boat Rental! Grab lunch at Papa Docs or get a sandwich to go (before you launch) from the Bagel Boat.

Explore the Anne Springs Close Greenway

There's so much to do! Head to the Dairy Barn entrance to walk among the horses, cows, and donkeys on to the swinging bridge, or head to the Lake Haigler entrance for a hike around the lake, then grab a drink or food to-go from the Gateway Canteen to enjoy on the Domtar Forest Porch. Check out their Sunset Sessions, a relaxing evening of live music that kicks off this Friday.

Mountain biking, kayaking, and horseback riding are all open, too!

Drive through Springs Farm Market

Pick up peaches, strawberries, soft-serve ice cream, slushy, or cream slush (cherry lemon slushy with vanilla ice cream is our new favorite!). If you'd rather go in, they've limited the number of customers inside, but grab your treat and head to their picnic tables under the pavilion.

Set up a picnic in Walter Elisha Park

Walk the trail toward The Peach Stand (grab some ice cream while you're there!) and peek into the peach tree orchards along the way.

Outside of Fort Mill but worth the short drive:

Check out the White Water Center

In Charlotte, but a close getaway! Whether you're participating in activities like mountain biking or hiking, just going to sit and hang is a nice change of scenery and fun to watch the rafters rush down the river.

Take a dip in a natural quarry

The Quarry at Carrigan Farms in Mooresville, NC has a beautiful, natural quarry for you to take a refreshing swim in. Open Swim was announced this week, but you must make reservations before visiting.

Find your space at Benford Brewing

Spend your day outside at Benford Brewing in Lancaster, SC. It's a family-friendly environment with a ton of outdoor space to spread out. On Saturdays enjoy live music, vendors, and food trucks.