By: Jordan Lancaster

When you're newly sober, it might feel like there are not many things you can do. Weekends can be especially tough; you may feel like there's nothing to do that doesn't involve partying. However, that's not the case with Detroit. There are plenty of sober things to do in Detroit that won't put you at risk of relapsing. To help you out, we compiled a list of activities for you! Whether you're planning on visiting, moving there, or you already live there - you're guaranteed to find something you like on this list.

#1 Put on your skates

In Detroit, roller skating is more than a hobby; it's a tradition. Moreover, it's a terrific opportunity for you to get some exercise and release endorphins while hanging out with friends in a sober environment. There are so many benefits of keeping active and exercising while in recovery! It can help you reduce stress, boost your mood and help keep your cravings at bay.

And, when you're in Detroit, there are also plenty of roller-skating choices to look out for. Rollercade and Royal Skate Land are viable options for you and your friends. Furthermore, there's also the famous 70s-themed Northland Roller Rink. Every Friday and Saturday night at Northland Roller Rink, there's an adults-only time slot so you can skate freely without worrying about accidentally colliding with a kid or two.

#2 Look at the stars and planets

When you're looking for sober things to do in Detroit that are also free - you can't go wrong with the Planetarium at Wayne State. It's just as cool and exciting as when you were a kid! And now, you can turn it into a date spot. How amazing does it sound to cuddle up with your date in the dark and contemplate the immensity of the cosmos? Well, if you get your tickets on time, you might be able to see that for yourself next Friday!

Mocktails: all the fun of cocktails but without the alcohol.

#3 Go out for mocktails

Staying abstinent in your recovery is essential, but what if you want to go out with your friends? Well, in that case, why not go to a mocktail bar? You can taste all the best cocktails without the alcohol at several different locations around the city. It can make for a pretty fun night! Because there's no booze, even your non-sober friends can try out all different kids of mocktails without worrying about getting tipsy. On the other hand, you can enjoy their company and the feel of a real bar without putting yourself at any risk. Win-win!

#4 Make a new feline friend

Are you a fan of cats? If the answer is yes, the next item on the list of best sober things to do in the Detroit area will thrill you - Cat Cafe! Have you ever wanted to hang out with cats while you sip your coffee? Well, now you can, at Catfe Lounge. The café provides a welcoming environment for guests to interact with shelter cats in a relaxing atmosphere. Customers can also adopt any of the kitties that wander freely throughout the cafe. If you're considering getting a pet during your recovery, this might be a fantastic opportunity to get to know some kittens before making the final decision. 

Being around animals can be very beneficial when you’re in recovery.

#5 Take a hike, literally

If rollerskating wasn't enough exercise for you, don't worry, there are other ways to get your steps in the Detroit area. For example, if you're a fan of the great outdoors, there's always hiking! Hiking is a great way to get your heart pumping and breathe in the fresh air. Just pick from one of many of Detroit's trails and get on your way. Or, if you'd rather try out biking, Kensington Metropark also features an 8.5-mile paved bike track around Kent Lake that offers a stunning view.

#6 Look at art

Looking for a sober activity to do during the day - why not visit an art gallery? Or, because you can, visit the greatest art gallery in Detroit, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and get lost in all the beautiful art. The Detroit Institute of Arts is home to one of the world's most significant art collections, with over 100 galleries and a gigantic mural by Diego Rivera. This is guaranteed to keep you entertained for several hours; you might even have to make an entire day out of it.

#7 Knock some pins down

Bowling is another fun, sober activity you can enjoy with your friends. Who doesn't love bowling? You'll get an opportunity to compete with your friends in a sport you probably haven't tried in a while. One of the most fantastic bowling places in Detroit is Garden Bowl. It is a great spot to play, but it's also cool to see the place. Garden Bowl describes itself as "America's oldest active bowling center" and "Detroit's original home of Rock'n'Bowl," with DJs blasting tunes while you take your turns on glowing blue lanes.

Movies are always a fun, safe way to kill a few hours.

#8 See a film

Cinemas are a great place to pass the time, whether you're looking for a date spot or want to kill some time on a random Thursday afternoon. If you're in the mood for classics, art house, or foreign films, The Maple Theater and Cinema Detroit should be among the top two choices. Or, if you want to see some Marvel heroes battle it out on the screen, what better place for that than one of the Emagine Theaters? The choice is all yours to make, and it's great either way!

Moving to Detroit, MI

For those in recovery and trying to pursue a sober living, cross-country moving to Michigan can be even more stressful. However, it would be best if you didn't take the whole burden onto yourself. There are plenty of ways you can make your relocation easier. For example, if you want to make Michigan your new home, you ask your family to help you pack and hire movers to help carry your stuff from point A to B. In the meantime, you can focus on adjusting to the new area and getting ready to start your new life.

In conclusion

Recovery is hard. And finding activities you can enjoy without putting yourself at risk can be challenging. However, we hope at least something from this list of sober things to do in Detroit caught your eye and will make its way to your calendar!

By: Jordan Lancaster