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Denver may be known for its outdoorsy and fitness-focused culture, but the city’s identity is also inextricably linked with two legal, mind-altering substances: cannabis and alcohol. So, despite the plethora of exciting urban events and outdoor excursions on the Front Range, sometimes it can be difficult to find truly sober activities around town.
That’s where we come in. We scanned the city for the best booze-free activities and drummed up our 10 faves. Whether you’re looking to cut back, expecting a new bundle of joy, or want to go totally sober in 2026, here are the best ways to have fun in the Mile High City, sans IPAs.
Read More: The Pandemic Only Amplified Colorado’s Drinking Problem
1. Build Strength (and Community) at the Phoenix
If you’d rather break a sweat than break open a tab, the Phoenix might be what you’re looking for. This nonprofit gym offers free fitness classes for those who are sober or “sober-curious,” creating a space where you can practice cycling or CrossFit with booze-free buddies. Whether you’ve wanted to try rock climbing, yoga, disc golf, or even sewing, all of the gear is provided. The only requirement? Showing up with at least 48 hours of sobriety and an open mind. Free, locations vary
2. Test Your Heist Skills at EscapeWorks
Have you ever thought about which friend would be the best co-conspirator for a casino heist? Put all your potential partners in crime to the test at EscapeWorks, where each hourlong scenario challenges you and your teammates’ logic and clue-finding abilities. Like a board game come to life, each themed chamber has a different storyline and asks the players to uncover clues and solve a series of riddles within a set amount of time. Visit EscapeWorks’ recently opened LoDo location and try out the newest games (including the spooky exorcism room or the family-friendly Wizard’s Alley experience). Are you up for the challenge? $38 per person; 1529 Champa St., Denver (Downtown); 1925 Blake St., Denver (Union Station)
3. Find a New Community with Sober Meetups
Meetups are a great resource for anyone who is looking to meet like-minded individuals. Though finding other non-drinkers can be hard in day-to-day life—asking strangers about their drinking habits isn’t exactly small-talk fodder—organized dry events, and even a sober category on meetup.com, makes it just a little easier. Local sober groups include book clubs, supper clubs, happy hours, and more. Don’t know where to start? Try Clear Minds, a group of 3,000 individuals who meet monthly for workouts, dance parties, and comedy nights. Prices and locations vary
4. Take a Class at Denver Tool Library
If you’re a DIYer who didn’t get that circular saw you wanted for Christmas, don’t run to Lowe’s. Instead, join the Denver Tool Library, a nonprofit that lets members ($150 annually) borrow any of the 5,000 tools in stock, ranging from lawn mowers to soldering guns. But if you still find yourself calling your dad whenever your car breaks down or you don’t know the difference between a screwdriver and a wrench, take one of the 30-plus classes on the schedule. From automotive basics to a power tool course specifically for women and LGBTQ individuals, the classes empower you to make 2026 your most productive year yet. Tim Taylor would be so proud. Prices vary; 555 Santa Fe Dr., Denver
5. Imbibe a Delicious Nonalcoholic Beverage
Move over mezcal, Denver’s mocktail scene is on the rise. We’ve scouted out 15 places in the Mile High City where you can get an exceptional mocktail, but if you don’t have time for a bevvy at every watering hole, we’re partial to the drinks at downtown’s Honey Elixir Bar. Linger over the Love Spell—a hibiscus-forward mixture of star anise, blueberry, rose, damiana, shatavari, and violette—in the calming, sensory-friendly space.
6. Rock Out at D3 Arts
If going to a concert tempts you to crack open a Coors, catch a live show at D3 Arts instead. This Westwood music venue/art gallery/skate hub hosts a slew of free and low-cost sober social activities throughout the month. Co-founded by longtime neighborhood skater and artist Santiago Jaramillo, D3 uses art, cultural celebration, and music to build community and help people recover from addiction. Whether you catch a local punk rock band performance, rollerblade during an open skate, or attend a 12-step recovery meeting, D3 Arts proves you don’t need substances to socialize. 3614 Morrison Road, Denver
7. Find Your Zen at Denver Botanic Gardens
The view from Yoga on the Rocks never gets old, but switch up your routine by rolling out your yoga mat at Denver Botanic Gardens instead. On various days throughout the week, the gardens play host to classes like sunrise vinyasa yoga, evening hatha yoga, and chi kung (a Chinese practice of stances and stretches to balance your energy). While the class locations within the gardens vary, sign up on a sunny day for a chance to perfect your downward dog amidst the flora. $14; 1007 York St., Denver
8. Stargaze at the Chamberlin Observatory
At least twice a week, the Denver Astronomical Society hosts public nights at Chamberlin Observatory in the University Park neighborhood. After the evening’s lecturer schools you on the skies, you’ll get a chance to peek through the 26-foot-long telescope yourself to catch a glimpse of the moon, planets, and neighboring galaxies. Even if you find yourself at the observatory on a cloudy night, you’ll still get a tour of the building, which is usually only reserved for established astronomers. A number of slots open 60 days before the event, and any leftover spots open up the first of the month. But you’ll need to be fast—these nights sell out fast. $10; 2930 E. Warren Ave., Denver
Read More: Inside the University of Denver’s 130-Year-Old Chamberlin Observatory
9. Enjoy a Light Show at the International Church of Cannabis
Despite the International Church of Cannabis serving as a sanctuary for weed, the daily Beyond Laser Light Experience is strictly cannabis-free and (surprisingly) family friendly. Instead of lighting up a joint, you’ll be treated to a guided meditation and laser light show that illuminates the church’s psychedelic interior. Plus, you won’t have to worry about securing a ticket: The show is held every single day of the year at 20 minutes past the hour, every hour the church is open. If you select the pricier VIP ticket option ($40), you’ll be gifted a swag bag and enjoy priority seating. $25; 400 S. Logan St., Denver
10. Catch a Show With Sofar Sounds
Has Noah Kahan been your top Spotify artist for the last three years? Branch out from your usual beats with the help of Sofar Sounds, a company that brings Denverites unique musical acts in secret venues around the city. Events usually occur a few times per week in neighborhoods throughout the metro region, so there’s always an opportunity to catch a gig. And while alcohol is available for sale at certain events, most of Sofar’s shows are BYOB, so you and your friends can share in your favorite homemade mocktail. Tickets start at $29; locations vary
