A Pittsburgher’s Guide To Staying Entertained While Social Distancing

APR 6, 2020 BY KEATLEY, AVERY

Avery Keatley, WESA

You’ve scrolled through countless of videos of puppies, you’ve binged your shows, and you haven’t changed out of your pajamas since yesterday. (Or was it the day before?)
If you’re self-isolating and need to shake up your routine, here are some virtual offerings in the region to help you battle the doldrums.

Get Moving
Pittsburgh parks remain open for walking, biking, or letting furry friends out to play. With plenty of trails, there’s room to roam while also practicing social distancing. However, be advised that all parks facilities are closed, including public restrooms.
The JCC Pittsburgh is also offering online workout classes, and virtual meet ups and activities for teens and children.
Stay Centered
Local yoga studios have begun offering online classes to practice at home. Studios including 1.1 yogaInhale PittsburghBloomfield Yoga and Yoga Factory all have online classes to keep your blood moving and your mind grounded.
Tour a Mansion
The Frick Pittsburgh is offering virtual tours of its gardens, exhibitions, and the first floor of the Clayton home. Visitors can move through the ground level of the mansion home of Henry Clay Frick, and explore the wardrobes, art collections, and cars in the Frick museum. The museum also offers online children’s activities, and will post new activities daily.
Get an Earful
The Carnegie Library system is closed, but their online archives serve up a wide array of digital and streaming content. Cardholders can access audiobooks, magazines, music, movies and more. All books currently out on loan will be automatically renewed, and overdue fines are temporarily suspended.
Explore the Past
Heinz History Center has a variety of online exhibits. From videos to podcasts, the center’s virtual offerings cover topics that range from Mr. Rogers to the moon landing. Dive in and learn more about the city’s vibrant past.
Go Wild
The Pittsburgh Zoo has temporarily closed its gates, but the animals inside don’t seem to mind. The zoo has two live webcams that stream video of the zoo’s penguins and cheetahs. You can listen to their podcast, One Wild Place, and watch videos of their veterinarians at work.

Catch a Concert
Though many venues and artists have postponed or cancelled shows, you can still stream live concerts through platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook. Whether you’re in the mood for Willie Nelson or Toscathis list will help you find what you’re looking for, and where to stream it.
Can’t get enough music? NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts feature short performances by well-known and up-and-coming artists. Get up and groove with Lizzo, whistle along with Andrew Bird, or get happy with the Sesame Street gang.
Drive Thru
What pairs better than popcorn and a Netflix binge? Row House Cinema and Bierport are offering curbside pick up of movie theater popcorn, candy, and six packs. Place your order, pull up, and take your at-home movie marathon to the next level.
The Show Must Go On
Pittsburgh Public Theater has announced a new initiative, PlayTime, where performers will read excerpts from famous plays on a live stream. The show begins at 7 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays beginning on March 19.
Support Local Artists
Two nonprofits, 25 Carrick Ave and Hear Corp, have teamed up to help local musicians and performers who lost gigs due to COVID-19. Every day through March 30, a local artist or band will live stream a show on YouTube. The Live at 25 series hopes to raise $25,000 by the end of its run to split between the performers.