When I first started going to Silverwood, I was still drinking alcohol. The moment we arrived at the park, I couldn’t wait to reward myself with a drink at the swim-up bar in the lazy river. My kids would be whining, frustrated that we had to wait in line instead of just hopping in and enjoying the river—but I didn’t care. I deserved that drink.
I want to be clear: I’m not sharing this in a judgmental way toward other parents who stop at the lazy river bar. The concerning part for me during that season of my life was how much my thoughts revolved around when I’d get my next drink. It didn’t really feel like we were having fun until I had that buzz and a drink in my hand.
I quit drinking in 2018, but our annual Silverwood trips were non-negotiable. So, I had to figure out how I was going to navigate the park without all my buzz-filled stops.
The First Sober Year (and a Surprising Discovery)
That first year sober was the hardest. But it was also the year I fully realized something that changed everything: Silverwood has refillable cups.
Maybe I had noticed them before, but this was the year I truly capitalized on them. Holy moly—unlimited soda refills for free! I saved so much money by skipping the expensive beers and mixed drinks and just refilling my cup.
I’ll be honest: I probably drank an excessive (and slightly unhealthy 😅) amount of soda that first year or two. But it gave me something I didn’t realize I was craving just as much as alcohol—the comfort of having a drink in my hand. That familiar ritual helped me stay present without feeling like I was missing out.
Silverwood Keeps Getting Better for Alcohol-Free Fun
As the years have gone on, Silverwood has become more and more alcohol-free friendly. This past year, they added delicious frozen mocktails—which you can also get with a refillable cup and enjoy cheap refills all day long.
They’re refreshing, fun, and add a little extra pizzazz to an afternoon break. Best of all? None of the negative side effects I used to deal with.
I stay present.
I don’t get a stomachache or headache that keeps me from riding rides.
I can safely drive my kids home at the end of the night without tracking when I had my last drink.
And I save a ton of money by skipping alcohol while still enjoying the refillable, reusable cups that I bring back visit after visit throughout the season.
Why I’ll Never Go Back
I wouldn’t trade sober park days for those old days of constantly searching for my next drink. I connect with my kids more now. I remember the moments better. I’m fully there for the laughs, the rides, the tired legs, and the drive home.
And I still get that “drink in my hand” feeling—just in a healthier, safer way that actually adds to our experience instead of taking away from it.
Silverwood didn’t lose its magic when I quit drinking.
If anything, it finally became even better.
MEET THE CONDUCTOR
I’m Gentry, a mom of four boys, engaged to a wonderful man with two kids, making us a busy and adventurous blended family. We have a deep love for travel, outdoor adventures, and creating lifelong traditions together—one of our biggest being our annual trips to Silverwood. For the past ten years, we’ve spent every summer at the park, making memories from open to close. Beyond being a theme park enthusiast, I’m a life and recovery coach, podcast host, and the founder of a new non-profit dedicated to encouraging people to get out and explore the Pacific Northwest.
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