On Sunday, March 8 we'll "spring forward" an hour for
Daylight Saving Time, meaning we'll lost an hour of sleep (boo) and gain an hour of sunlight (yay!). The extra sun will make it feel like spring in no time, so it's time to start getting outdoors again. Check out these regional outdoor and nature-inspired activities to remember what warmth used to feel like.
Head to Center City's sole mini-golf course, which opened up for the season as of March 1, for 18 holes of Philly-themed fun.
Now through December 31
10 a.m.-5 p.m. until March 21, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. March 21-May 21 | $7-9
Franklin Square200 N. 6th St.
(215) 629-4026
Bring the little ones of all ages to Sister Cities Cafe for some nature-inspired crafts and stories. If the weather is pleasant, make sure to play in the park with your new friends afterward.
Tuesday, March 10
2:30-3 p.m. | Free admission
Sister Cities Park210 N. 18th St.
(215) 440-5500
This exercise group meets weekly to go for a three-mile run. Runners (or non-runners, as the case may be) of all levels are welcome. There are only a few rules: be safe, no headphones or pets, stick to the route, and finish!
Every Wednesday, weather permitting
6:30 p.m. | Free admission
Dilworth Park, Information Center
15th & Market St.
Teen idol and British singer-songwriter Olly Murs will perform at the Zoo for Utz Chip Day. Seating for the concert will be festival-style on the Impala Lawn. Before you go, check out Murs' hit single
"Wrapped Up."
Saturday, March 14
1-1:30 p.m. | $35, includes admission to the zoo
Philadelphia Zoo3400 W. Girard Ave.
(215) 243-1100
Kids of all ages can get down and dirty with different types of mud, soil and clay while learning about its scientific importance. Attendees will hike through the forest and plant seeds, too.
Saturday, March 14
1 p.m.| Free, but registration is required
300 W. Northwestern Ave.
(215) 685-9285
Optimal Sport Health Clubs will host this free workshop called "The Real Secrets to Losing Weight" thanks to the Rothman Institute. Bring your lunch along and hear expert advice on being healthy.
Tuesday, March 17
1-2 p.m. | Free admission
Dilworth Park15th & Market St.(215) 440-5500
You know what Zumba is, right? It's that booty-shaking dance party with poppin' music that is secretly exercise. Be brave and Zumba your butt off (literally) in the middle of Center City. We believe in you.
Thursday, March 19
6-7 p.m. | Free admission
Dilworth Park15th & Market St.
(215) 440-5500
Help maintain local plant life by cleaning up forests and trails and clearing harmful plants. No experience is necessary, but you should wear long pants and boots and bring a water bottle - it'll be a work out. Gloves, tools, snacks and instructions will be provided.
Saturday, March 21
10 a.m.-noon | Free admission
8480 Hagy's Mill Rd.
(215) 482-7300, 110
All levels are welcome to spend the afternoon sketching Bartram's Garden. Teaching artists Heather Rinehart and Alina Josan will help you with techniques for creating art on the go.
Sunday, March 22
1-3 p.m. | $18, Free for members
Bartram's Garden54th St. & Lindbergh Blvd.
(215) 729-5281