Your stoop, yard, and porch are the new social spots. Here’s how to make the most of them.

You know how we do in the Northeast.

This is the time of year we cover up our outdoor patio set with a heavy piece tarp or put the whole thing the garage until next May. Sure we participated in the requisite outdoor fall activities: trick-or-treating, apple picking, tailgating or frying up a turkey on Thanksgiving.

But hanging out on the stoop, on our porches

But this summer, the stoop is where it’s at. It’s where it’s safe. With a few minor tweaks, we can turn our stoops — and our porches and backyards — into outdoor oases. If we are careful, we can even have two or three friends over. Just remember, please maintain a distance of six-feet-apart from the people who don’t live with you.

Check out these decorating tips for any outdoor space, whether you’ve got a stoop, roof top, fire escape, porch or full backyard:

What your stoop — or fire escape — lacks in square footage, it makes up in classic, city charm.

Make sure you have a comfortable place to rest your bottom on that top step, says Rasheeda Gray, of Jenkintown’s Gray Space Interior Design. Pick up seat cushions in more fall hues shades of hot pink, orange, Kelly green, or turquoise. If you don’t want to lay out the cash, use some old pillows or cushions to stay comfy, just make sure they have a washable cover.

» READ MORE: How to summer in Philly: Our 2020 summer guide

Potted plants will bring joy to your stoop, too. “The key is choosing the right size containers for the space,” Joseph Crescenzo, store manager of the Northeast Philadelphia Lowe’s, wrote in an email. Pots that are too big can be a tripping hazard. Too small, your plants will go unnoticed. Try bright blooms like yellow daylilies or a flowering vine, like sweet pea. “These can withstand the summer heat or even the occasional drought,” Crescenzo said.

Swap old house numbers to improve stoop appeal. “It’s a small change,” Crescenzo said. “But you will be surprised how much a new set will change the overall look and feel of your front door.” Pro tip: Consider coordinating your mailbox numbers, too.

Other extras can help, too: Gray suggests adding a tiny water fountain because even on a bustling, busy street, the sound of water can be calming. Monique Greenwood, owner of Akwaaba Philadelphia, is pro wind chimes as “the sounds are welcoming,” she says (though be careful if they annoy neighbors). Pro tip: Keep cushions, magazines, chalk, jump ropes, and citronella candles in a storage bin near the front door so you can get your hands on everything quickly.

Your porch is an extension of your living room, says Jaimi Blackburn, a Villanova-based certified interior decorator. “It’s the first thing that people see, so you want it to be welcoming and reflect your style.” So, Blackburn said, give it some color. “Pick a color that makes you happy,” she said. “I love pink and have pink flowers on my porch with all pink accents.”

If you can afford it, pick up some good lawn chairs in a material that can withstand the elements, like wicker, stainless steel, or teak, Gray said. (And, of course: don’t forget the cushions.) And find a rug to match. “It’s a nice way to bring the indoors, outdoors,” Gray said.

Think about comfort and utility. If you have the space, add end tables for drinks and reading material. Be mindful of the space. You don’t want so much clutter that you can’t walk around. But leave room for plants. “Greenery is everything,” Blackburn said.

Think about installing a swing or hanging chair, to catch a breeze, a swing, or a nap, Greenwood said. Pro tip: Keep a rolling bar cart near the door stacked with disposable cups, plates, stirrers, napkins, and coasters.

This is the perfect summer to turn your backyard into your favorite vacation destination.

Landscape, landscape, landscape. You don’t want your yard to be marred by weeds and overgrown grass, Greenwood said. Fill your garden with your favorite flowers and herbs like thyme, , cilantro, and dill. Pro tip: If you have a wall, attach greenery wall panels. “It’s like an accent wall for the outside,” Gray said.

Hook up your outdoor dining area. With indoor dining at restaurants still off limits , your backyard can fill the void. Set up whatever table and chairs you have space for. If you can, make it fancy: Find a beautiful gingham table cloth and matching napkins. Put all of your disposable serving utensils, dishes, silverware, and cups in a storage bin that you can keep outside for easy access. Try battery-operated candles and string lights for ambience: “This can quickly transform the look and feel of the yard,” Crescenzo said.

Think of your grill as your outdoor kitchen. Your grill area should be well-organized and functional, Greenwood said. Pro tip: Get a cooler or an outdoor refrigerator to keep your beverages cold and maximize your relaxation.

Glamp it up, Greenwood said. Erect tents. Install a hammock. Install a cozy fire pit for making s’mores and a little bit of cuddling. Your backyard has the privacy for rest, relaxation, and even overnight camping.

Most importantly, don’t let bugs get the best of you this summer. Be prepared with citronella candles and bug spray. If the bugs are really bad, talk to a professional. Your ankles — shoot, your whole body — will thank you.