If you are a recovering addict, one of the hardest things about staying sober can be the notion that alcohol is always around you. However, especially in a city like Philadelphia, there are plenty of fun activities that you can partake in without drinking. Here are 11 to get you started:
1) Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art and see one of their many exhibits
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-see if you’re in Philadelphia. The building itself is beautiful and it has one of the largest collections of art in the country, including everything from Renaissance to modern artists. There are also exhibits that change with some regularity so there’s always something new for visitors to see here.
2) Go to an outdoor music festival
Throughout the year, Philly hosts an abundance of music festivals. One of its biggest is the Made in America festival, which takes place over Labor Day weekend each year on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Founded in 2012 by Jay-Z, it is a huge event that takes up the majority of the parkway and is known for having legendary artists like Kanye West and Pearl Jam perform. Last year, its headliners were Justin Bieber and Lil Baby.
3) Watch movies at Row House Cinema (they have great specials!)
Row House Cinema is an independent theater that offers a unique movie-going experience. It’s got great deals on concessions, there are couches in the lobby to hang out in before and after the show, they often have themed events like ’80s night or sing-a-long screenings of classics, and best of all it has reclining seats.
4) Find a new hobby like painting ceramics at The Clay Studio
The Clay Studio is a nonprofit organization that offers classes in ceramics, jewelry making, and other crafts. It’s also home to the largest publicly accessible collection of contemporary ceramic art in the country. If you’re looking for a fun hobby or want to check out some new art, this is a great place to do it.
5) Take an improv class at The Adrienne Theater
The Adrienne Theater is home to Philly Improv Theater, one of the best improv comedy clubs in Philadelphia. The club offers workshops and classes for anyone interested in learning how to improvise, including both kids’ theater programs and adult courses.
6) Visit the Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country and it’s home to a wide variety of animals, from lions and tigers to gorillas and monkeys. There are also plenty of activities for kids, including an interactive carousel, a petting zoo, and a train ride around the zoo.
7) Go to a comedy show at Helium Comedy Club
The Helium Comedy Club is one of the most popular places in Philadelphia to catch a stand-up show. However, it’s also home to improv and sketch shows as well as trivia night on Mondays. It has some great special events too like an open mic night for aspiring comics on Tuesdays and comedy showcase nights every other Wednesday where you can see up-and-coming talent.
8) Indulge your sweet tooth with cake and coffee at Little Baby’s Ice Cream
Little Baby’s Ice Cream is a vegan ice cream shop that specializes in unique flavors like chocolate jalapeno, cinnamon toast crunch, and blueberry basil. They also have some great specialty sundaes worth trying out if you’re looking for something extra decadent to satisfy your sweet tooth. And don’t forget: they also serve up delicious coffee!
9) Go to a midnight movie screening at The Trocadero Theater
The Trocadero Theater is a historic theater in Philadelphia that’s been showing movies since 1912. It still has its original facade and it’s home to the largest organ in the world used for movie screenings. The theater often hosts midnight screenings of classic films as well as other special events.
10) Take a stroll through one of the city’s many beautiful parks
Philadelphia has dozens of great parks all over the city, including one in almost every neighborhood. There are several iconic Philly spots like Rittenhouse Square and Penn Treaty Park but there are plenty more that offer their own unique experience for visitors. You can check them out while enjoying a nice sunny day or just taking an afternoon stroll to clear your head.
11) Shop for unique finds on Fabric Row and East Passyunk Avenue
Fabric Row is a street in South Philly where you’ll find most of the fabric stores in Philadelphia. It’s also home to plenty of other shops, including furniture and rug dealers as well as antique shops that are worth checking out if you’re looking for some unique finds.
There’s always something to do in Philadelphia even if you are sober, whether you’re looking for a fun night out or something more laid back. No matter what kind of mood you’re in, there’s sure to be an activity that will appeal to you. So if you’re visiting Philly or just living here and want to find something exciting to do, check out these fun activities and enjoy yourself!
If you are suffering from a substance abuse disorder and are looking for resources, there are many options for rehab in Pennsylvania to choose from. Don’t hesitate to find help if you feel as though you can’t do it on your own.
