The last few months may have had you spending lots of time on the couch of your Royal Athena apartment, but with spring soon turning into summer, there’s no better time to get out and about and enjoy sunshine in the city. While getting back to normal is going to take some time, a simple stroll in the park can still be a safe and healthy way to get a change of scenery and some exercise. And with all of the green spaces in Philadelphia, there are plenty of spots to choose from.

One of the best places to take in the greenery is at West Laurel Hill cemetery, just one block from your Royal Athena apartment. Throughout the year, the sprawling cemetery is one of the area’s most popular spots for walkers, joggers, bird watchers, nature lovers and everyone in between—and it has remained open and welcoming to all visitors these last few months, as long as everyone practices safe social distancing.

The cemetery is also a great way to get in touch with local history. It dates to the early 1800s and is the final resting place for some of the city’s earliest leaders. A walk through the hilly, winding pathways will take you past names you may now see on street signs and elaborately ordained mausoleums, statues and memorials.

Even in its early days, the cemetery was a haven for those who came to admire its natural beauty. Today, the more than 200 acres of green space are filled with hundreds of different types of trees, plants, flowers and more, all of which are tagged so you can learn about their history and origin.

So if you’re looking for a change of scenery along with a dose of education about local history, lace up the sneakers, leash up the dog and head out of your Royal Athena apartment to get a little fresh air, stretch your legs and get a taste of springtime in the city.

West Laurel Hill Cemetery

225 Belmont Ave.

Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004

610-668-9900