6 Fun Things To Do on Your Sober Vacation

When I first made the decision to stop drinking in college, I thought, “Now what? Fun is cancelled. I’m going to have such a boring existence.” My entire life revolved around alcohol. I soon realized that if I just subtract booze from a lot of the activities I liked to do–concerts, comedy shows, football games–they are just as enjoyable, if not more so. With those past-times, drinking is not the main event.

I also learned how to be creative in discovering fun things to do. Instead of hanging out in the same drinking establishments every weekend, I would scour the entertainment listings of the local alternative weekly newspaper for art shows, flea markets, live music, and festivals. These days, there are plenty of location-specific blogs that include a “things to do” section. Time Out is a great one, with regularly updated listings for cities worldwide.

This creativity translated well when it came to traveling, so I’d like to share some alternative activities that we do while on vacation!

Relevant Reading: Alcohol-Free Vacations-How to Join the Sober Travel Trend

Instead of…a craft brewery or wine tour

Try…a local independent coffee shop

Instead of…a cruise or all-inclusive

Try…a music festival

Instead of…going out at night to a bar

Try…a concert, comedy show or sporting event

Instead of…drinking by the campfire, pool or beach

Try…exploring your new surroundings

Instead of…spending money on fancy wine and mixed drinks

Try…discovering the best dessert in town

Instead of…nursing a hangover all morning

Try…waking up early for the sunrise

First-timer to the sober travel scene? Check out our 5 Tips for Traveling Sober!