Finding activities that are fulfilling, fun, and recovery-friendly can be a challenge if you’re sober. Luckily, summer in Maryland is a great time to find hobbies or rediscover old ones while socializing with like-minded people. There are plenty of summer activities that don’t involve alcohol. Here’s a guide to some of Maryland’s best sober summer activities.
Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor activities can also improve stamina, mood, and overall health. Here are some ideas for you to enjoy this summer.
1. Hiking and Nature Trails
For hikers and nature lovers, the Appalachian Trail passes through the western part of the state, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking views.
For a more leisurely experience, visit Patapsco Valley State Park, which features miles of scenic trails and picturesque waterfalls. The Billy Goat Trail along the Potomac River offers rugged terrain and stunning vistas, perfect for adventurous hikers.
If you’re new to hiking or want more accessible paths, the C&O Canal Towpath has a flat, scenic route along the Potomac River, ideal for walking, biking, and bird-watching.
2. Beach Outings
Ocean City is one of the most popular destinations, with its sandy shores, lively boardwalk, and various beachside activities, such as amusement parks, mini-golf, and plenty of fresh seafood.
For a more serene experience, visit Assateague Island, famous for its wild horses. There, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and nature walks. The island also offers camping opportunities if you want to extend your stay.
For a quieter alternative, visit Sandy Point State Park near Annapolis, where you and your loved ones can relax on the Chesapeake Bay’s shores, fish, or even rent a kayak for some sober summer fun.
3. Parks and Picnics
There are over 60 state parks in Maryland, all full of history and beauty. Visit Great Falls Park for a picnic with a view of the stunning waterfalls. Alternatively, you can head to Cunningham Falls State Park to enjoy an outdoorsy lunch by the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland.
If you’d like to take a scenic walk after the picnic, try Rock Creek Park. It offers ample green space, playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails for hiking and biking.
Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis also features lovely gardens and a dog park. Your furry friends can also participate in sober summer events; just ensure they stay hydrated. The park also offers paddleboat rentals, making it a versatile location for a day out.
Community Events
You might not know this yet, but Maryland hosts many sober activities yearly.
4. Sober Festivals and Fairs
Maryland has many sober-friendly festivals and fairs throughout the summer. The Maryland Renaissance Festival is a unique experience that transports you back in time with performances, artisan crafts, and delicious food.
The Maryland State Fair offers agricultural exhibits, competitions, and live entertainment. On top of that, you’ll find other attractions like the carnival, various contests, and even horse racing.
For those interested in the arts, there’s the Baltimore Artscape. America’s largest free arts festival showcases visual and performing arts, crafts, and interactive activities suitable for all ages – all held outdoors.
5. Farmers’ Markets
Visiting farmers’ markets is a great way to spend a sober day out while supporting local farmers and artisans – with the bonus of getting fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables to spice up your cooking.
The Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar, one of the largest in the state, brings a wide range of fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious food.
It’s not all about food, however. These markets often feature live music, cooking demonstrations, and kid-friendly activities, so it’s a chance for the whole family to get out and have fun.
Other notable markets include the Silver Spring Farmers’ Market and the Greenbelt Farmers’ Market, each offering unique local products and community vibes.
Cultural and Educational Activities in MD
Why not use summer to learn something new? You might discover a newfound interest in arts, music, or history.
6. Museums and Art Galleries
Maryland has plenty of educational activities. One such facility is the National Museum of American History in Baltimore, a Smithsonian-affiliated facility that offers fascinating exhibits on American culture and history.
Then there’s the Walters Art Museum, also in Baltimore. It has a diverse collection of art from around the world, spanning centuries of history.
The Baltimore Museum of Art features modern and contemporary pieces for contemporary art lovers, including the most extensive collection of works by Henri Matisse.
7. Historical Sites
Take a deep dive into Maryland’s rich history by visiting its historical sites. In Annapolis, the state capital, you will find the United States Naval Academy and several historic buildings from the colonial era, where you can take a guided tour to learn about the city’s significant role in American history.
In western Maryland, the Antietam National Battlefield offers a poignant look at one of the most significant battles of the Civil War. At the same time, the Monocacy National Battlefield, near Frederick, also provides historical insights and beautiful landscapes.
Wellness and Fitness Activities
Summer activities don’t have to be expensive either. Take a moment to participate in wellness activities that also focus on self-care.
8. Yoga and Meditation Classes
Sign up for any of Maryland’s numerous yoga and meditation classes, many of which are outdoors. Try a beach yoga session in Ocean City or a peaceful meditation class in one of Baltimore’s beautiful parks.
These activities provide a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate without the need for alcohol, and you can invite as many or as few people as you like.
Even better, many community centers and parks host free or low-cost yoga and meditation sessions during the summer months, making it an excellent opportunity to exercise without the commitment or fees of gyms. Perfect for dipping your toes into a new sober activity!
9. Group Sports and Recreational Activities
Join a local sports league to stay active and social during the summer! Many communities offer amateur leagues for sports like soccer, softball, and ultimate frisbee.
Additionally, recreational activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and rock climbing are available at various locations throughout the state. The Potomac Paddlesports Center offers kayaking and paddleboarding lessons, while Earth Treks Climbing Centers in Columbia and Timonium provide excellent indoor rock climbing facilities.
For a unique experience, try dragon boat racing on Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. This activity combines fitness, teamwork, and fun.
Family-Friendly Sober Activities in Maryland
Spending time with family and friends is an excellent way to support your sobriety journey.
10. Amusement Parks and Zoos
Visit one of Maryland’s amusement parks or zoos for a fun day with the family. Six Flags America in Bowie has thrilling rides and attractions that amaze all ages, including roller coasters, water slides, and family-friendly rides.
On the other hand, the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is home to various animals and provides educational programs and interactive exhibits.
Finally, The National Aquarium in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor features an impressive array of marine life and interactive exhibits, making it a fantastic educational experience for children and adults alike.
11. Outdoor Movie Nights
Many towns and cities in Maryland host outdoor movie nights during the summer months. These events are perfect for families and groups of friends looking to enjoy a movie under the stars. Pack a picnic, bring some blankets, and settle in for a fun and relaxing evening.
Popular venues include the National Harbor’s Movies on the Potomac and Baltimore’s Flicks from the Hill, held in the American Visionary Art Museum’s sculpture garden. These events often feature classic films, family-friendly movies, and recent blockbusters.
Sober Social Events and Supportive Activities in Maryland
Finally, sober curiosity and events are becoming increasingly popular in Maryland. Look for these activities to discover new ways to have fun and meet sober-minded people.
12. Support Group Outings
Connecting with others who share your commitment to sobriety can be incredibly rewarding. Many support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and SMART Recovery, organize outings and social events that provide a supportive environment for making new friends and enjoying sober activities together.
These outings can include hikes, picnics, and cultural excursions, offering a chance to build connections and solidarity in shared experiences.
Additionally, some groups host sober retreats and workshops focused on wellness, mindfulness, and personal growth.
Exploring these outings can be a great way to enjoy the sober pleasures of life while connecting with people who understand what you’re going through.
13. Volunteering Opportunities
Giving back to the community is a fulfilling way to spend your time. Maryland has numerous volunteering opportunities, from helping at local shelters and food banks to participating in environmental clean-up projects.
Organizations like the Maryland Food Bank, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and Habitat for Humanity offer various opportunities to get involved.
Volunteering can be a great way to meet new people, develop new skills, and contribute to causes you care about. Having a sense of purpose and connecting with others is crucial during recovery, and volunteering during the summer can help you achieve both.
Maryland Provides Many Summer Activities for Recovery
Maryland offers many enjoyable and fulfilling activities without the need for alcohol. Their lack of alcohol and other substances is the main reason we’re highlighting them.
As you work through your recovery journey, it’s essential to experience fun activities where substances are nowhere to be found as a way of realizing that there is much more to life than addiction.
Luckily, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful state. From outdoor adventures and community events to cultural experiences and family-friendly outings, Maryland will help you embrace the sober lifestyle and maximize your summer.
Sober Summer Starts Here: Talk to an Addiction Counselor Today
As you explore these exciting sober summer activities in Maryland, remember, that The Freedom Center’s addiction counselors are always here to support your recovery journey. If you or someone you love needs help, don’t hesitate to reach out for confidential guidance from a qualified addiction counselor.
