Many of us have been cooped up for months. We’ve watched every movie, series, and documentary on Netflix and read everything in the house, including the backs of cereal boxes. Some of us passed stir crazy status a long time ago. The good news is you’re not alone. The bad news? This pandemic ain’t over ‘til it’s over. And who knows just when that might be?

What we do know is that we will survive and we will thrive. It’s just going to take some time before the world returns to its pre-pandemic nature. In the meantime, our “new normal” should include opening ourselves up to the great outdoors where you can have fun safely in wide-open spaces.

That’s right. The venues/businesses/activities that have always been there for us but may not have been fully appreciated and often taken for granted are now becoming essential, not only for when we need to let our hair down and have some fun but for our mental and physical well-being too. That’s why those businesses should be shifting their marketing plans into high gear, if they haven’t already.

Recreational vehicle sales, for example, have surged over the last couple of months as Americans are tired of staying put and are desperate to escape their homes and hit the road. Now is the time for those businesses to expand their footprint, highlighting the many benefits of camping and traveling, one of which is how easy it is to self-isolate and practice social distancing in an RV.

Boating sales are also on the rise, giving local lake and river lovers a wonderful opportunity to get outside and enjoy the sun and water, as well as do a little fishing. Many local and national parks have reopened and businesses associated with hunting, biking, hiking, and running are also seeing an increase in public interest, while there’s been a large uptick in the previously near-extinct drive-in movie industry.

Garden centers are having a moment right now too. Fruit and vegetable seed sales have jumped considerably as people are also turning to gardening, not only as a fun, family-friendly activity but also as a way to increase their food supplies. And reworking your landscaping with new plants, shrubs, and trees is a great way to get outside, get some exercise, and beautify your property.

As we try to climb out of this crisis demand for outdoor experiences is on the rise. People continue to crave fun, wide-open spaces where they can enjoy time with friends and family. The question is, do you have a solid marketing and strategy plan so that your business or venue can take full advantage of these new opportunities?

As trusted marketing experts, we are here for you, relishing the opportunity to help our partners and friends move forward and grow while exceeding their expectations at every turn.