With all this time spent at home, there are a couple of things we find ourselves really craving: getting outside and entertainment. And if you’re the caregiver to a k-12 child, you may also be looking for ways to make learning fun, since you’re homeschooling now.

Well, we have some ideas for how you can get out, stay safe, learn something and have fun. All by just walking around downtown.

History walk – Downtown Waco is rich in history, from a killer tornado to infamous duels to sites marking the very first inhabitants of the area. You can find the stories behind many of these historic sites and happenings on the Waco History app. The app includes pictures, videos, audio and, maybe most importantly in this case, maps! Choose a “tour” on a specific topic and then pull up the map to visit the “stories” and sites on that tour. Or, just open the map up to downtown, set off on your own course and take in the sites marked on the map as you come to them. For instance, stop and read about the natatorium that used to be at the corner of 4^th and Mary. Call it a fun way to learn more about your city while getting some fresh air or, if you’re kids are with you, call it a history lesson. Download the free Waco History app, produced by Baylor University, and get started!

Sculpture Zoo walk – The city just finished installing this collection of 28 animal-based sculptures in early spring. Located all along University Parks Drive, these fun and impressive sculptures stretch about a mile from Baylor University to the Cameron Park Zoo. If you go to https://zoo.creativewaco.org/, you can read about every sculpture you come across, the artist who created it, the donors who made it possible and even some fun “did you know?” facts. Looking for a specific sculpture? There’s a map with its location included with the entry of each animal. Creative Waco went out of their way to make this sculpture zoo content-rich and we appreciate it!

Public Art walk – Of course, the Sculpture Zoo isn’t the only art you’ll find in the downtown area. And, lucky us, three local high school students – Callum Longenecker and Laith Altarabishi from Midway High School and Katherine Brooks from Waco High School – have created a Public Art map for us. You’ll find the map at https://www.creativewaco.org/public-art-map. It includes murals, sculptures and fountains all over downtown and down Elm Avenue. Click on each pin and you’ll find information about the art and the artist. Set off walking and let the map markers be your guide!

*** And please keep social distancing safety measures in mind! Keep six feet at least between yourself and anyone who isn’t part of your household. Waco Parks and Recreation social media channels are regularly sharing tips for being safe while out. Look them over. And have fun!