It may be a new year, but the pandemic problems of 2020 aren’t yet a thing of our past. The good news? There’s still ample socially distanced opportunity to make the most of winter in DC. So, from icy, outdoor hikes to online cocktail classes, here are some (actually) cool things to do in DC right now.

#1: Stroll the grounds of the National Cathedral

While the cathedral itself is still closed for public safety reasons, the 59 gorgeous acres surrounding it are now reopened to the public from dawn until dusk each day.

#2: Learn about history the fun way with Profs and Pints

Profs and Pints brings renowned college faculty members online to give fascinating talks and instructive workshops on topics like the treason of Benedict Arnold or the history of witches and witch hunts.

#3: Watch local comedy online or take a class

Local comedy club, DC Improv, has a packed line-up of virtual shows, from their popular pun competition to discussions about relationships and single strife. You can even sharpen your own comedic skills by signing up for one-on-one coaching from their stand-up comedy instructors, which are all conducted via video conferencing.

#4: Hike to an icy waterfall for magical winter views

Looking to get outdoors? Great Falls is already one of the most stunning hikes in the area, and it gets even more magical once winter rolls around.

#5: Hone your cocktail-mixing skills

Level up your cocktail game complements of Carlie Steiner, the restaurateur and cocktail savant behind Himitsu, Pom Pom, and Dos Mamis. Sign up for her online classes that’ll help guide you around your bar cart and give you the cocktail mixing skills you need to impress your pod this winter season.

#6: Paint and sip from the comfort of your home

Craving creativity? Check out local Dupont studio ArtJamz, which offers a full roster of live virtual painting experiences taught by talented artists. All you need to do is order one of their At-Home Paint Kits and sign up for a class that sounds fun to you.

#7: Go winter bird watching at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens

Check out the River Trail or the boardwalk, where you can find a variety of feathered friends such as great blue herons, Canada geese, kingfishers, woodpeckers, and bluebirds.

#8: Get educated with think tank discussions

Think tanks like the Brookings Institution and the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace have plenty of upcoming online talks and informative discussions scheduled, helping to keep you educated on topics big and small.

#9: Watch famous artists take the Kennedy Center’s digital stage 

Check out some of the most extraordinary performances from the Kennedy Center, which is releasing new videos daily.

#10: Find a new (stack of) books to read

Capitol Hill Books is now mailing out “Grab Bags” of books daily during the pandemic. Just fill out their form, name your budget, list some authors or genres you like, and they’ll send over a proposed stack of books you can cozy up to in style.