Summer’s longer days give you the chance to take a little time for YOU.

Enjoy your own company during the sunny months with a few tried and true activities that give you a little one-on-one time in between the stacked calendar of summer’s schedule. Whether you want to learn something new, get a little creative, or just beat the heat, these 5 solo ‘date’ suggestions will make nice days (or not so nice days—hello rain, will you ever stop falling?!) a little more fun. You deserve it!
Things to enjoy NOW:
1. Read in the Garden

No matter if you read on a Kindle, listen to an audio book or go old school with printed literature in hand, enjoying your latest edition outdoors (or in the dome) is like stepping into a magical world. Members can visit free daily and can enjoy all the Botanical Garden has to offer in every season. Want to learn something new? Join our Botany Book Club who meet the last Monday of each month over refreshments to talk about their latest read. Not really a reader? No worries. Do some reflective journaling, doodling, or finish a crossword. It’s all good.
2. Go to the Farmer’s Market

Fresher is always better. And if you want to enjoy food the way nature intended, then grab everything you can at local Farmer’s Markets when the harvest is rolling in—like right now. Get a little creative—treat yourself to a delicious meal or dessert from the bounty you’ve brought home. Or if you love farm-to-table freshness but only if someone else is doing the cooking, pop into Flora at the Botanical Garden to enjoy the delicious menu of fresh delights.
3. Work Out in an Outdoor Space

Working out can become repetitive, but there are ways to avoid that. While you know fitness is something you do for you and your wellness, change up your routine to make it more exciting. There are many options for fitness outside during the summer. From running to biking to walking to Yoga in the Garden (and in the Dome), It’s easy to find something that will keep you motivated to keep up the good work.
4. Amp up your Eco-Friendliness
If you ever wondered about how to be a little more ‘green’ without going overboard, try something simple. Sign up for a Botanical Garden workshop and learn how to make Beeswax Wraps. These reusable and eco-friendly food wraps replace single-use plastic wraps. The class provides hands-on instruction and all supplies needed including beeswax, fabric, and other natural ingredients. Space is limited. Sign up today!
5. Restock Your Home ‘Shop’
Are you the one who always has something thoughtful for the host or hostess when you visit? Are you the cool uncle or aunt who never forgets a family birthday? Beat the heat and shop in our cool Garden Shop. The end of summer gives you the chance to restock your own home ‘shop’ so that when you need something last minute, you’ll have it on hand. Come see what’s in store for you, from natural moisturizers to unique houseplants to one-of-a-kind kids’ toys, you’ll surely find something for everyone (and yourself—we firmly believe you should always get a little treat too!)
You don’t have to go it alone…

Everything happening at the Botanical Garden is something you can do on your own, or with a friend, or loved one. When you come to a place with an always friendly climate, it’s easy to have some fun in (and out of) the sun. We hope to see you soon!




