If you’re in recovery and planning a trip to the sunshine state, don’t worry—you can still have fun without succumbing to temptation! Tampa and St. Petersburg are two of the most exciting cities in Florida, offering plenty of things to do without alcohol or drugs. Let’s explore some of them! And not to bury the lead, I’m going to tell you I spent more time in St Pete’s than I did in Tampa, and I’m not mad about it.
Be a Party Animal!
The ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the best places to visit while sober in Tampa. The zoo offers a wide variety of activities like camel rides and kayak tours over their natural wetlands, as well as interactive experiences with some of their animals. They also provide guided tours that take you through their habitats and gardens showcasing unique wildlife.
Sparkman Wharf in Tampa
Sparkman Wharf in Tampa, Florida is the perfect sober destination for those looking for a fun and exciting night out without alcohol. Located on the waterfront of downtown Tampa, Sparkman Wharf features outdoor dining options with locally-sourced ingredients and plenty of shopping opportunities. Whether you’re looking to soak up some sunshine while enjoying lunch outdoors or pick up souvenirs from local stores, Sparkman Wharf has something for everyone.
Enjoy Nature!
When it comes to outdoor activities, head over to Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg. This beautiful nature preserve provides plenty of adventure opportunities like bird watching, fishing, kayaking and hiking trails that will take you through mangrove forests, scrubland and salt marshes. There are also educational programs available such as guided walks with a park ranger who will explain about the local flora and fauna found throughout the preserve.
Visit the Dali Museum
If you’re looking for more cultural activities during your sober trip to Florida, consider visiting The Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg. This world-renowned museum is home to one of the most comprehensive collections of works by Salvador Dalí outside Europe featuring his iconic surrealist masterpieces alongside other works from his contemporaries like Joan Miró and René Magritte. You can also join a virtual tour online or book a private tour with an expert guide if you prefer an interactive experience while exploring this amazing museum!
Click HERE to watch my IG Reel of the museum
Go Hunting for Street Art!
If you’re looking for a sober activity while in St Petersburg, Florida, hunting for street art is an excellent option. This vibrant city boasts some of the best street art in the country and can be enjoyed soberly by exploring its many neighborhoods. From colorful murals to intricate graffiti pieces, there’s something to captivate everyone’s attention as they wander through this artistic city. Whether you’re looking for a unique way to experience local culture or just want to take in some beautiful artwork, hunting for street art in St Petersburg is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Click HERE to watch my IG Reel of my street art hunting treasures
Because you’re sober not boring – get weird!
Fairgrounds St. Pete is an arts destination where everyone is invited to explore an immersive world of playful art and technology exhibits based on original Florida stories. Fairgrounds St. Pete showcases the creative innovations of artists and makers working in all mediums through various exhibits, events, and workshops. Fairgrounds St. Pete showcases the creative innovations of artists and makers working in all mediums. Their mission is to become a cultural hub for immersive art experiences and an economic engine for local artists and craftspeople. They believe in art for all, joy for all, and play for all.
Click HERE to see my IG Reel of the Fairgrounds art experience
Visit Daddy Kool Records
Shopping at Daddy Kool Records in St. Petersburg is an experience like no other – a sober fun adventure that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or just want to browse the shelves, this independent record store has something for everyone. From rare vinyls to new releases, there’s always something interesting and unique to take home with you. Plus, if you happen to be traveling sober, Daddy Kool Records also offers a variety of sober-friendly activities such as live music events and workshops tailored specifically for sober travelers.
Sober Curator Pro Tip: Daddy Kool Records is adjacent to the Fairgrounds mentioned above.
Get Caffeinated!
Black Crow Coffee is the perfect place to go. Located on Central Avenue in downtown St. Petersburg, Black Crow Coffee offers a unique experience that combines the best of coffee culture with sober activities and travel sober options. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a night out with friends, this cafe has something for everyone who wants to enjoy life without alcohol or drugs. As we took a rest from shopping and street art hunting, we sipped iced coffees and listened to the local’s read poetry. Feeling artsy? They have an old refrigerator full of art supplies to keep your hands busy and there’s a charming, little bookstore right next door.
Shop ’til you drop! (FREE BRITNEY!)
Shopping at local stores in St. Pete offers sober fun for travelers looking to explore the city without alcohol or drugs. From antique shops and vintage boutiques to gift stores and specialty retailers, there’s something for everyone here. Whether looking for a unique item to take home as a souvenir or just browsing around, shopping sober is an enjoyable way to get out and experience all St. Pete has to offer. With its vibrant downtown area full of art galleries and independent businesses, it’s easy to find exciting items that will indeed become treasured mementos of your time in the Sunshine City!
Sober Curator Pro Tip: The Saturday morning market is awesome and also … FYI I have regrets because I did not in fact purchase this piece of Britney art.
A guide to mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks around Tampa Bay
The Tampa Bay Times recently posted this great article (January 2023) on all of the best places to get a booze-free beverage.
Make sure to get your toes in the sand!
Living and traveling sober can be one of your most empowering experiences. No matter what kind of vacation experience you’re looking for on your sober trip to Tampa and St Petersburg, plenty of options are available that don’t involve drinking or drug use! From visiting animal sanctuaries and nature preserves to exploring art galleries and museums—there’s something for everyone looking for family-friendly activities or ones tailored towards adults only. So, pack your bags and get ready for a memorable sober staycation in Florida!
SOBRIETY IN THE CITY: Tell us how to have a perfect sober day in your city!
SOBERSCRIBE NOW!
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
