If you live in or are visiting Pennsylvania, you probably know about plenty of different activities which involve drinking. People who drink regularly often can’t fathom having a good time without some booze. However, if you’re trying to get sober, you may want to find out what options of sober fun activities you have in Pennsylvania.
This article will give you inspiration, practical tips, and ideas on how to party, tour, and have fun, all while staying sober. You may discover that sober fun is more enjoyable than you thought it was!
At Avenues Recovery, we encourage you to read on and discover how you can have fun without alcohol. If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance addiction, feel free to reach out to find out more about our two rehab centers in Pennsylvania- whether Lake Ariel or Bucks.
Why sober activities in Pennsylvania?
According to America’s Health Ranking: the percentage of adults who reported binge drinking (four or more drinks on one occasion in the past 30 days for females or five or more for males) or heavy drinking (eight or more drinks per week for females or 15 or more for males), is 18.3%. Pennsylvania ranks as the 25th in regard to most reported binge drinking and heavy drinking of all 52 states.
Excessive alcohol consumption is an issue across the United States, affecting millions of men, women, and children negatively. When adults drink alcohol irresponsibly on a regular basis, they create a culture of drinking that encourages those around them to drink, too. This is especially true for children, who perceive it as cool, fun, or exciting.
Socializing without alcohol:
If you’re a person who enjoys partying or drinking while spending time with people, it may be hard to believe that you can have a good time without drinking alcohol at all. You may be surprised to discover that there are many activities you can try, places you can tour, and people you can hang out with, without feeling compelled to drink. Remember, it’s important to find sober group activities so you can continue to hang out with your friends and have fun, all while staying sober.
Here are some ideas:
- Explore nature- Go on a hike. Discover the local lakes, rivers, and nature resorts. Pick some fruits on a farm, explore a vineyard, or spend some time with animals.
- Learn a new skill- You can learn to play an instrument, sew or knit, climb a mountain, fishing, cook or bake, or learn a new language. Think of any skill or talent you wish you had, and pursue your dream!
- Pursue your hobbies- Whether it’s painting, cycling, football, sailing, reading, dancing, singing, acting, or gardening, tap into your hobbies and practice them.
- Volunteer- Find a cause that is meaningful to you and discover how you can get involved. You can volunteer at a local homeless center, soup kitchen, or a local Samaritan hotline.
- Exercise- Whether you enjoy Pilates, yoga, or a good cardio workout, find a local gym or exercise instructor and get moving. Exercising allows you to release endorphins, dopamine, and other feel-good hormones that can make up for the lack of hormonal release when abstaining from alcohol.
- Chill with sober people- Call over some sober friends to watch a movie, play a fun game, or eat lunch or dinner together.
- Visit a non-alcoholic bar- You can still drink and socialize, except you’ll be drinking delicious mocktails that allow you to remain sober. Although the vibe in a non-alcoholic bar is definitely more inhibited, you may realize that it’s a very enjoyable way to spend your time.
Fun sober activities in Pennsylvania:
Here’s a list of fun things you can do in Pennsylvania while retaining your sobriety. In the list below, you’re sure to find several things that will interest you so you can enjoy a wonderful sober summer in Pennsylvania:
- Gateway Clipper- Located on Pittsburgh’s beautiful three rivers, the Gateway Clipper is a fleet of ships that you can hire or join for a cruise or sightseeing tour. You can relax while you float along the river, soak in the local sights, or rent the whole ship and host a (non-alcoholic) party.
- Independence Hall- Visit this historic building in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed. There are daily guided and self-guided tours and, best of all, it’s free.
- Steel City Jet Skis- If you’re up for an adventure, head to downtown Pittsburgh for some serious, high-adrenaline fun. Don’t worry if you have no boating experience- the staff will teach you everything you need to know about jet skiing so you can have the time of your life!
- Longwood Gardens- This beautiful park hosts countless breath-taking greenery, beautiful fountain performances, and youth workshops and classes. You can connect with nature, learn about many different plants, and enjoy the events and programs they run daily.
- North and South Park Golf Course- These two golf courses are both USGA-ranked 18-hole, par 72 golf courses. You can rent the balls, clubs, and other equipment on site. Whether you’re a pro or would like to give golf a try, visit one of these two parks while you’re in Pennsylvania.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art- This wonderful museum is host to art from all over the world, including America, Europe, and Asia. They have an extensive selection of art books, beautiful architectural spaces, and delicious food at their cafes.
Conclusion:
If you live in or near Pennsylvania and are looking for sober activities, you’ve probably struggled with alcohol addiction. The journey from alcoholism to recovery starts with the admission that alcohol is no longer serving you well, and that you need to stop drinking.
The good news is that Avenues Recovery Center operates two beautiful, professional rehab facilities right here in Pennsylvania, so you don’t have to travel far to get the help you need. One facility is located in Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania, while the other is in Bucks, Pennsylvania.
If you think you may need help getting sober, reach out today to take advantage of our professional staff, variety of therapies and 12-step groups, supportive community, and, best of all, a rehab center close to your home that can get you back on your feet and sober. Reach out today!