Preparing For Sober Travel In Massachusetts? Start Here!

Traveling is a fun way to broaden the mind and experience something new. If you are looking forward to making memories in Massachusetts but are committed to a sober lifestyle, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve curated a sober travel guide to our beautiful area to help eliminate the stress and fear from the planning process.

Let’s Make A Plan For Safe & Successful Sober Travel In Massachusetts!

Any vacation requires detailed planning and organization before starting your adventure. This is especially important for sober travel in Massachusetts. Being prepared is the best way to ensure you avoid potential triggers or pitfalls along the way without sacrificing fun or memory-making opportunities.

• Make a list of all the towns and cities you’ll hit as you travel through Massachusetts.
• Pack all your favorite snacks and drinks, or find local spots where you can easily get them while you travel.
• Look up the best local attractions and sights to see while you’re here, and ask friends and family members familiar with the area for ideas.
• Make space in your schedule for meetings, support groups, or virtual sessions so you can stay grounded.

Where Do You Want To Avoid?

When organizing a sober trip, planning where you don’t want to go is almost as important as planning where you do. If you can safely attend events in places that are familiar to old habits, it’s important to use discretion. You are your best advocate in this situation. Think of your potential triggers and mentally prepare for how you would navigate them in the moment.

Fun Activities to Do In Massachusetts Without Alcohol or Substances

We’re excited you’re planning to visit the beautiful New England region! Massachusetts is known for its rich early U.S. history, which includes several historical landmarks for the Revolutionary War and the home of the Boston Tea Party, as well as modern icons like Harvard University, Cape Cod and clam chowder. Check out these local activities and add them to your list:

• Visit the Salem Witch Museum: Located in downtown Salem, this museum explores the tainted history of the infamous Salem witch trials.
• See the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: Get a peek back into history and enjoy a cuppa cheeky tea on the harbor.
• Take the seafood lovers tour: Experience all the best that the Eastern Seaboard has to offer with delicious seafood restaurants and a plethora of signature dishes. Bonus points if you also try the pizza tour!
• Explore the Plimoth Patuxet Museums: An immersive re-creation of a 17th-century village that was home to the Pilgrims is staffed by costumed actors and offers demonstrations, activities, and more.
• Tour Paul Revere’s House: The starting place of the “one if by land, two if by sea” ride of the iconic colonial hero, the home of Paul Revere still holds his family belongings.
• Visit Martha’s Vineyard: Explore the oak bluffs and lighthouses dotted with exquisite Victorian architecture famous for Martha’s Vineyard Island.
• See the New England Aquarium: This coastal aquarium is located in the center of the South Boston Waterfront and is home to countless sea creatures of all types and sizes.
• Taste the best seafood from the East Coast: Some popular spots include The Barking Crab, Lobster Trap Restaurant & Fish Market, Captain Parker’s Pub, and The Canteen. Some restaurants are seasonal, so be sure to check if they’re open before going.

Local Establishments That Offer Zero-Proof Alcohol

Don’t miss out on the social scene, and stick to your sober journey at these alcohol-free establishments or bars that serve mocktails and zero-proof alcohol.

• Dray Drinks Non-Alcoholic Bottle Shop: Tucked away in the heart of Boston is an all-alcohol-free location that serves up some of the finest mocktails, zero-proof beers and wines, and sober-curious swag.
• Boston Bottle: Easily order from the app and choose from a wide selection of alcohol-free wine, spirits, mocktails, beer, and pilsner.
• Backbar Speakeasy: Though not widely advertised, this mixology destination with a quirky theme excels in specialty mocktails.
• Alden & Harlow: Get all the finesse of an elevated gastro pub without the hangover when you ask for a signature mocktail at this subtly high-class establishment.

Exciting Outdoor Adventures and Sober Fun

The Bay State has so much to offer in terms of outdoor activities, from sporting activities and hiking to experiences and more. Add these adventures to your list.

• Go on a whale-watching cruise: Our coastal state is the ideal spot to experience some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures.
• Walk the Public Garden in Boston: Paddle the lake, meet the squirrels, and smell the tulips at this massive city park with a peaceful atmosphere.
• See a game at Fenway Park: The iconic baseball diamond is a must-see attraction, even if you’re here out of season.
• Bike the Manhan Rail Trail: Take the 6 miles of paved, non-motorized trail that connects the Connecticut River area to Southhampton.
• Take a sunset sail: Board one of the tall ships in the Boston harbor fleet and see the sunset as you’ve never seen it before.
• Hike or camp along the Freedom Trail: Reconnect with nature as you hike along the 2.5-mile trail that leads you through a history lesson with 16 different important sites to see along the way.

Take A Break For Self-Care

Self-care is always a good idea, but self-care while you travel? It’s the best way to rest, attend to your mental health, and elevate your relaxation. Try these local spots for the best of self-care:

• Crowne Pointe Hotel & Spa: A traditional coastal home, now a hotel and spa on Cape Cod with a full range of spa, body, and healing services.
• Yoga & meditation: Find a class at any local yoga studio and take a break for yourself.
• Beauport Hotel Gloucester: A massive colonial structure right on the beach in Gloucester Bay with luxury suites and relaxing spa services.
• Find the best local cup of tea or coffee: Enjoy a sip and a good read at a local eatery or cafe.
• Red light therapy or tanning bed: Find a local restorative wellness facility and book an appointment in advance for red light therapy or a tan.

Check For Local Sober Events

Annual or monthly events may change over time, but here are some sober events to look for in the Boston area and surrounding New England Region.

• Check local message boards at treatment centers or community hubs
• See what’s going on at Namaste Sober Yoga
• Search Meetup.com or EventBrite.com to see privately-hosted events
• Browse local sober events on ThePhoenix.com

Attend Local Meetings and Support Groups

If you need extra support while traveling, check the local meeting schedules for support groups and 12-step meetings.

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in Massachusetts: Find a meeting
• Narcotics Anonymous (NA) in Massachusetts: Find a meeting
• SMART Recovery in Massachusetts: Find a meeting
• Celebrate Recovery in Massachusetts: Find a meeting

Enjoy Your Sober Travel In Massachusetts

Traveling while sober can add an additional layer of complexity to the whole experience. If you’re heading to Massachusetts, we hope you find this sober travel guide helpful and enjoy all New England has to offer.

Looking For A Sober Community?

Navigating life without substance or alcohol use is inherently challenging, and it requires a lifetime investment in your own well-being. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse or alcohol use, we can help. Reach out today for support and professional guidance, even if you’re traveling.