It’s easy to get lost in the everyday hustle of working life in the city. Responsibilities pile up, and it’s tempting to let accountability fall to the wayside in finding ways to enjoy the outdoors. But you don’t need to be on the edge of adventure to stay moving and get outside. Here are some urban options to help get outside and get active.

Find a local park

Nearby public parks provide much needed natural respite in the heart of bustling urban areas. Open spaces and public facilities provide a multitude of options to help stay active, whether you’re an individual or with a group of friends or family. Check out this great resource to Find Your Park.

Go on a walking tour

Walking is surprisingly effective exercise. The tour helps keep the mind focused on the subject of the tour and away from thinking about the vast amount of ground you’re covering. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a recent transfer, it’s also a great way to get to know the city or town you call home and learn a thing or two about the history and culture of the area.

Attend an outdoor concert

Whether you live in a big city or a small town, there's always local music to be found. There's nothing better than a warm evening and live music with friends. Support local artists and enjoy the fresh air while you're at it. 

Join a community sports team

Break the ice and get to know the residents of your local area better by joining a local club or sport league. There are leagues for sports like kickball, softball, or ultimate frisbee are all over, and community teams will often help provide the necessary equipment to get you started. Regardless of the level of competitiveness, keeping with the commitment is motivating, and it’s a great opportunity to make some new connections.

Plan a more active commute

Making little changes to your trip to and from work goes a long way in accumulating extra miles over time. Take some time to get off the bus or train early and walk the last 10 minutes of your commute in the morning, or choose less busy days of the week to take a more leisurely route home. Find unexpected places in the city you call home, and get your steps in at the same time!