Summer in Virginia is beautiful—blue skies, green mountains, and that delicious coastal breeze if you're lucky enough to be near the water. But if you're trying to stay sober, it might feel like every barbecue, beach day, or weekend getaway is soaked in booze.
But don’t stress! Virginia is packed with summer activities that don’t revolve around alcohol, from hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway to exploring charming small towns like Staunton or Cape Charles.
Want something a little more low-key? Hit up a farmer’s market, catch a drive-in movie, or try paddleboarding on the James River. There’s something incredibly empowering about enjoying summer fully alert and energized, especially when you’re not nursing a hangover the next day. If you or a loved one lives in Virginia and suffers from alcohol abuse, reach out to us at Avenues Norfolk so we can guide you on your road to recovery.
Sober Events Near Me in Virginia
Whether you’re in Northern Virginia, Richmond, or the Tidewater area, there are more fun sober group activities than you’d expect. Think alcohol-free dance parties, wellness retreats and yoga-in-the-park mornings. A quick Google search or scroll through local Facebook groups will usually bring up some great sober happenings.
There are also organizations throughout Virginia that host fun things to do without drinking. Don’t be shy. Showing up to your first event is the hardest part, but once you realize how much fun you can have without alcohol, you’ll be hooked.
Ten Sober Activities Near Me in Virginia
Here are 10 fun things to do while sober in Virginia:
- Join Free Life Sober Meetups in Hampton Roads or Norfolk
This vibrant community hosts wellness events, non-alcoholic happy hours like Happiest Hour at Pagoda & Oriental Garden in Norfolk, storytelling nights, booze-free dance parties, and more—all alcohol-free, just fun and connection. - Sip Mocktails in Norfolk’s Best Spots
Norfolk’s dining scene is mocktail‑friendly. Try Alkaline, Gershwins, or Orapax for crafted non-alcoholic drinks you’ll actually enjoy. - Explore Nauticus & USS Wisconsin on the Norfolk Waterfront
Dive into maritime history with interactive exhibits, naval tours, and the retired USS Wisconsin—all sober‑friendly and educational. - Walk or Bike Elizabeth River Trail in Norfolk
A scenic 10.5‑mile waterfront path dotted with mermaid art, murals, parks, and benches—perfect for reflection or movement. - Bike the Virginia Capital Trail (Jamestown-Richmond)
Cruise 51 miles of scenic paved trail, pausing at historic markers and picnic spots—ideal for active reflection. - Hike in Shenandoah National Park and Drive Skyline Drive
Discover waterfall trails like Dark Hollow Falls or panoramic Skyline overlooks along a peaceful 105‑mile drive. - Visit Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden (Richmond)
Wander themed landscapes, attend art exhibits or mindfulness classes, and sip tea in a serene greenhouse setting. - Take a Painting or Pottery Class
- Many studios offer wheel‑throwing, canvas painting, mosaics—and best of all, creative social time sans alcohol.
- Drive the Crooked Road and enjoy bluegrass live
Roll through Virginia’s Blue Ridge region, stopping for authentic bluegrass performances, dance sessions, local arts—and zero drink pressure. - Catch Some Rays on the Shores of Virginia Beach
Stretch out on the soft sand, let the ocean breeze wash over you, and enjoy some well-earned downtime by the waves.
When Sobriety Feels Hard, Avenues Virginia Can Help
Virginia is full of vibrant, sober-friendly experiences—whether you're hiking the Blue Ridge, catching live music alcohol-free, or joining a wellness retreat by the coast. These activities remind us that connection, joy, and meaning don’t have to come in a bottle.
But if you’re finding it hard to stay sober, you don’t have to do it alone. Avenues Recovery Center at Norfolk offers compassionate, professional help in a supportive setting. Reach out today—you deserve a life that feels good all the way through.