By Samantha Ruenzi, Bella Ghile, Brennan Hartigan, Lucas-Hassel Menendez, and Hibah Altaleb
With the weather finally beginning to warm up, more opportunities are becoming available to have some bright moments in the fresh air, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Amphora Bakery
Samantha
Amphora Bakery is one of my family's favorite places to get elegant and quality desserts. Ranging from macaroons to tiramisus, there's bound to be something everyone can find delicious. Masks are required in the store, but you can easily pick up your desserts and take them to a nearby park to eat with your family or friends. When the COVID-19 pandemic improves, Amphora Bakery has a seating area where you can order coffee and whatever dessert you would like. Amphora Bakery is located in Herndon, and they are open everyday, except for Sundays, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Image by Amphora Group
W&OD Trail
Bella
There are multiple trails around the Herndon area. They stretch out for miles and venture through beautiful scenic routes. Through taking the W&OD Trail, which is the largest trail that passes through Herndon and Reston, you can easily commute to places, or create a fun adventure. There are also bench stops and stretching posts to take a quick break or stop for a workout.
Image by Reston Now
Reston Town Center
Lucas
Reston Town Center is a hangout spot for lots of kids our age. You can order food at a restaurant of choice, and bring it to a secluded spot, for instance by the fountain. If you are looking to eat somewhere a bit nicer, and don’t want the hassle of moving around, you can eat somewhere like Clyde’s. Ted’s Bulletin provides a few pods that make eating outside still possible! You can finish off the night by getting an ice cream at Pitango Gelato or Ben & Jerry's.
Image by TripAdvisor
Escape Room Herndon
Bella
The Escape Room has officially reopened with the implementation of COVID-19 protocols. The open hours have decreased, and the business is no longer open on Monday and Tuesday. You’re given an array of Escape Rooms to choose from that fit your wants and needs. It’s a great place to hang out on a Friday night, and afterwards there are restaurants nearby to eat out at, like MOD Pizza, IHOP, or Panera.
Image by Escape Room Herndon
La Ong Thai Bistro
Samantha
Another one of my personal favorites, La Ong is a great Thai restaurant in Fox Mill Shopping Center in Herndon. They have amazing appetizers, main courses, and beverages. My family’s go-to, “Drunken Noodles,” is very customizable. For those who are vegetarian, they can order the vegetables they like, and for those who can’t tolerate spiciness, have the option to order without spice. They have a spacious outdoor area, which will be great to dine in during the springtime. On the weekdays, La Ong Thai Bistro is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on the weekends, they are open from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Image by La Ong Thai Bistro
Green Lizard Cycling
Bella
Looking for a bike or looking to get back to riding your bike? Green Lizard Cycling is the place to go. They offer multiple high quality bikes, as well as used ones. Even more, they have a coffee shop and outdoor seating. It’s a great place to take a break during a bike ride. You’ll be able to chat with other bikers, and share tips and tricks while getting your bike fixed!
Image by Green Lizard Cycling
Hanging Out at Local Parks with Friends
Lucas
Going to an old elementary school park with a friend could be a great way to pass some time outdoors. The other day, my friend and I were sitting on a school blacktop, while eating some fries from Chick-fil-A. We were just sitting there eating and talking, having a very chill time. With the weather getting nicer, sitting outside under the sun is fun, cheap, and relaxing. When you are there you can bring some snacks, or even order some take out!
Image by Herndon Patch
Basketball
Brennan
While COVID-19 has restricted many outside activities, some are proving to keep the youth and adults in our community active and having a good time. Some places around the Herndon and Reston area have public basketball courts that kids of all ages could go to participate in some exercise. Adults and kids both want to stay busy, have fun, and play sports. Several schools feature courts and outdoor fields, that are typically usable once school hours are finished, as long as there's no interference with school sports. Aldrin Elementary, Armstrong, Dranesville, and fields at any location, if not occupied, are perfect choices. People of all ages are available to show up and if busy, wait or go to another location in your area that is convenient.
Image by Redfin
AMC Theater Worldgate and Tysons Corner
Bella
AMC theaters are open again! Though they have reduced their auditorium capacities to allow for social distancing, and you must wear a mask during the movie unless you are eating, the magic of the movies has begun its return. There won’t be as many movies screened as usual, but AMC has done a great job at retaining the authenticity of watching a movie in person.
Image By DestiMap