4 Atlanta places to hang out if you’ve just stopped drinking
Being sober doesn't have to be boring. There are lots of activities and events in metro Atlanta that support the early efforts of people who are in recovery from alcohol use disorder. They're also suitable for those who have just stopped drinking for a short while to reap rewards like reduced blood glucose levels, improved sleep and weight loss. At the same time, these "dry" spots are a refuge for those who don't want to be tempted while their favorite adult beverages are off-limits on a sugar detox or ketogenic diet.
Now, before you start feeling deprived or gloomy that you're "on the wagon," note this: Lots of stuff to do in the Atlanta area is fun first and alcohol-free only as an afterthought. These could be the places you find people who can support you, whether you're attempting recovery or just trying to stick to Whole30 for an entire month. Here are four places it's fun to be sober in metro Atlanta:
1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407.
It's good to stay active when you're pursuing sobriety. Not only does it help keep your mind off the cravings, but it's also great stress relief. From hiking to a wild amusement park, Stone Mountain has lots of amenities that will help with this early recovery process. And it's bound to be far from your usual party spots, so no temptation there.
309 E College Ave., Decatur. 404-330-0119.
If you've ever been sober as an adult, you know that coffee is your friend. This spot is one of the most indulgent places to enjoy a cup of joe, along with entertaining cultural and arts events.
» Atlanta ranked one of America's top coffee cities
TreeTop Adventure and Ziplines
Callaway Resort & Gardens
17800 US Highway 27, Pine Mountain. 800-852-3810.
A fondness for sensation-seeking is sometimes an early indicator of alcohol addiction risk, according to the Preventure program developed by Patricia Conrod, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Montreal. If you've quit drinking but are still a thrill-seeker, some of Callaway Gardens' high-flying forest obstacle courses will pump the old adrenalin without a drop of alcohol. Before or after, you may also want to take advantage of the nearby Robin Lake. Water is oh-so-soothing.
Snap Fitness 24-7 Atlanta Inman Park
245 N Highland Ave. NE. 404-584-9669.
Late-night partying may have been a bad habit, but the time slot is still one that needs filling if you stop drinking. In your early recovery days, scratch that late-night itch by getting out of the house and into the gym. Snap Fitness gives you a key card to hit the gym when the need arises.
» Physical activity at any intensity will help you live longer, study finds
