With the arrival of Spring, COVID-19 numbers headed toward double digits, and most new arrivals banished to quarantine hotels, our lovely city is slowly coming back to life.
As the panic fades many of us are wondering how we can support our favorite local businesses in hopes that they will survive this season of self-isolation. Our family lives near the 798 Art District and we were delighted to discover that our favorite spots for a sunny glass of wine or ice cream cone are open! Although almost all galleries and museums are closed, the quirky little shops are reopening their doors. It’s the perfect season for a wander about.
If you’ve been utterly overwhelmed at the expanse of 798 previously, it’s a great time to discover the places that are open and not feel like you’re missing out on a ton of shows along the way.
The Gleadow family at 798
In hopes of breathing new life into our little corner of Beijing, we’ve created a 798 Art Zone Spring Break Family Scavenger Hunt. This hunt stays within 798 and the alleys to the South in an attempt to keep it walking friendly for even our littlest of Picassos. The hunt is great for all ages and is simple enough for pre-readers with a little help from mom and dad.
While you’re in the neighborhood enjoy the sunshine on the patio of At Cafe with a pint of Jing-A and made to order brick oven pizza. The coffee shops are aplenty as are the ice cream stands, which make a great reward for finishing the scavenger hunt. On your way home don’t forget to place a take-out order with Time-Zone 8.
As you wear your masks, wash your hands, sit two or three to a table and follow all the regulations there is still fun to be had! Jiayou Wuhan! Jiayou China! Jiayou Beijing businesses! Jiayou!
Getting to 798 Art District
Enter by car or bike through the South Gate: prepare for a 10-15 minute wait as you stop to scan two QR codes to show your health status, register, and of course take your temp. There is a parking garage to your left as you enter.
Enter by foot through the West Gate (Gate 1) on Jiuxianqiao Road where you will also have to register and get your temp checked.
Shelby Gleadow is a trainer, teacher, smitten wife of artist Stephen Gleadow, and proud mom of two wild boys. She has lived in Beijing for 17 years working in the arts, education, and development. She is passionate about fun, practicality, gratitude, and getting the pengyou price.
Photos: airfrance.com.cn, Shelby Gleadow
