“Antsy” is just one word to describe how many of us have been feeling lately. After spending time away from work, school, and loved ones for so long, many are itching to plan their next day trip or family outing. Unfortunately, much of this planning is often put on hold due to concerns over health and safety in our current world.

Though the phrase “new normal” may be overused, it certainly explains how the foreseeable future will play out: masks, social distancing, and some lingering anxieties as we navigate social spheres. Luckily, the following list provides five great ideas for fun that will make you feel safe and secure, all around the area of Berlin, MA. It’s time to put some plans in motion!

Broken Creek Vineyard – Shrewsbury, MA

For those 21 and older, look no further than Broken Creek Vineyard and Winery in Shrewsbury. This winery features a rustic charm, and you and your friends can purchase wine by the bottle or glass.

Here you will find your typical reds and whites on the menu, in addition to a special rosé, blush, and the infamous Raspberry Frost dry raspberry wine. There are currently no tastings due to the pandemic, but you can enjoy regular public winery hours on the weekends. Make your outdoor dining reservations ahead of time, and don’t forget to bring your own face mask!

Boundless Adventures – Berlin, MA

For those children and adults looking for an exhilarating thrill, head on over to Boundless Adventures in Berlin, only seventeen minutes down the road from Broken Creek. This aerial adventure park features four different difficulty levels of rope and zip line courses, and the more daring you are, the higher you can climb.

Children as young as seven can start with the Beginner obstacle courses ten feet in the air, and at ten years of age they can tackle the Motivation Courses at fifteen feet high. Older and more advanced adrenaline junkies can tackle the 22-26 feet high Strength Courses or the expert level Conqueror courses which sit amongst the trees at heights between thirty and forty feet. These rope courses feature ladders, rolling elements, bridges, and ziplines.

Those who simply wish to watch can take advantage of walking paths and benches throughout the park. Boundless Adventures has committed to making you feel safe with strictly enforced social distancing, a reservations-only policy, and a current 

capacity limit of thirty percent, among other precautions.

Wachusett Reservoir – Clinton, MA

Another seventeen minutes down the road from Boundless Adventures, those with slightly slower paced plans in mind can amble through the Wachusett Reservoir in Clinton. Here, guests can partake in numerous activities such as fishing, biking, running, walking, and even hunting and snowshoeing in the proper season.

This location known for its scenic views does follow state park guidelines for Covid-19, which encourage social distancing and discourage gatherings of ten or more people. These guidelines also suggest the best practices of handwashing, avoiding contact recreational sports, and of course staying home if you are not feeling well or if you are in the high risk population, but a safe family outing is yours for the taking at this peaceful and nature inspired location. 

Maple Hill Disc Golf – Leicester, MA

Within a half-hour of the Reservoir you can start making memories with friends at Maple Hill Disc Golf in Leicester. For only eight dollars per round (and access to the game room), you and your small group can reserve a tee time online as far as 32 days in advance to play some disc golf! The grounds at Maple Hill feature five different configurations: reds, whites, blues, diamonds, and golds.

The “reds” are the recommended course for beginners, where holes are between 250 to 300 feet in length. Those looking for more of a challenge can attempt the “whites” and “blues” which feature a much longer range and eventually shots over water. The diamonds configuration is for players with serious skills, and this course is even slated to be featured during the MVP open this fall for professional disc golfers.

The “golds” are the host course for this event, and require the most skill. Those looking for a taste of different difficulties can try their hand at the “Old Glory” course, which alternates between reds, whites, and blues. The maximum group size is five and capacity at the pro shop is currently limited, but you can safely work up an appetite with friends and order some well deserved pizza at the conclusion of your course. 

Breezy Picnic Grounds and Waterslides – Douglas, MA

Our final stop is 33 minutes from Maple Hill: Breezy Picnic Grounds and Waterslides in Douglas. Breezy is similar to the Reservoir in the sense that guests can enjoy a picnic packed lunch, but here they can also swim in the Whitins Reservoir in addition to gliding down one of three 300 foot waterslides.

There is even a mini slide for children 42” and under and the grounds boast certified lifeguards for safety. Kids and adults alike will enjoy these thrills, and they can also take advantage of the vast picnic grounds and large tables for seating. Check their website in the morning before heading over; they will make an announcement when the capacity for the day has been reached.

You can purchase all-day passes for waterslides, the park, and swimming, or a reduced price pass for the park and swimming only. Due to Covid-19 about half of the picnic tables are currently available, but you can be happy knowing that when you secure your spot at this location, you will have access to hand sanitizing stations and new line protocols for the waterslides. There are no large group bookings this summer, but you can pack up your own gas grill (no charcoal, please), barbecue the day away, and enjoy free parking.

COVID Safe Days Near Berlin, MA

Lock-down be gone! Look no further than Berlin and its surrounding areas this summer for your next fun and safe adventure. With a little something for everyone, these five options will guarantee an unforgettable experience.