Serving the GW Community since 1904

The GW Hatchet

AN INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SERVING THE GW COMMUNITY SINCE 1904

The GW Hatchet

Serving the GW Community since 1904

The GW Hatchet

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Officials name senior vice president, chief of staff
By Fiona Riley, Assistant News Editor • March 26, 2024

Outdoor activities offer chance to have fun and procrastinate

It’s your last week of school and face it, you want to procrastinate. You have piles of reading stacked on your desk. Your computer screen is an empty page that you need to fill, and when you’re done with that, you need to fill nine more. But outside the sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the blue sky is rolling. Next thing you know, you’ve abandoned your work and succumb to the seduction of spring.

So now what do you do? There are a ton of things to do in the city that allow you to enjoy the warm weather and take in a few last minute D.C.-esque things.

Obviously, head down to the National Mall and the monuments. It’s fun just to sit down there and people-watch. There are tourists, protesters, students and lunatics, just to name a few types of people you’ll see. You also can play pick-up games of Frisbee or football or anything else. Don’t forget about the volleyball courts located by the Potomac River.

Another choice for a fabulous adventure is paddle boating in the Tidal Basin. For a few dollars, you paddle around the Tidal Basin and take advantage of the historical surroundings and the nice weather. Just don’t look at the water.

While you’re down by the Mall, don’t forget the Sculpture Garden. While the sculptures are intriguing, it’s also nice just to hang out in the garden. You can bring a picnic or grab a bite to eat down by the Mall. The huge fountain in the middle at least creates the illusion that you’re by the water.

Arlington Cemetery is another good option. Even if it might sound a bit boring, the changing of the guard is interesting to watch. There also are a number of famous people buried in the cemetery. But the bottom line is that it’s outside.

If you’re feeling mighty adventurous, consider hauling your way (via car, your legs, a bicycle or rollerblades) to the park near Reagan National Airport. The airplanes fly overhead, and there’s always a slew of people milling around or playing games.

But, if you’re just into relaxing and taking in the weather, you can head to Old Town Alexandria. The ships down by the Torpedo Factory are fun to watch. Little restaurants provide places where you can eat outside. Plus, if it’s a grueling hot day (and they are coming), the cool shops offer a bit of refuge.

In addition to these activities, D.C. abounds with outdoor activities – from lounging around at a rooftop restaurant to renting bikes for a ride. There’s something for everyone if you just look. And there’s not a better way to get a tan, have some fun and avoid doing work.

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