Exclusively PoCo: 4 booze-free drinks and venues worth talking about

Who’s going sober in 2026? Whether you’re taking a break, cutting back, or living a sober lifestyle, NA drinkers are usually looking for two things: great flavor and the feeling of having a drink with friends.

And in Wisconsin, that experience matters. Drinking culture here has always been about togetherness, not just alcohol. So grab your girlfriends or football buddies — these four Portage County spots prove you can skip the booze without missing the fun or flavor.

PJ’s at SentryWorld

PJ’s at SentryWorld gives you golf course views without the stuffiness — relaxed, welcoming, and genuinely thoughtful about what goes into the glass, including its non-alcoholic options.

The Cranberry Smash is what happens when bright cranberry meets a crisp citrus snap. This refreshing $9 mocktail starts with Seedlip Spice 94, a non-alcoholic spirit with warm botanicals and subtle spice. Tart cranberry brings bold, vibrant flavor, evened out by fresh lime and a touch of agave for just enough natural sweetness. Finished with soda for lift and served over ice in a stemless wine glass, garnished with a lime, it’s crisp, lightly spiced, and perfectly balanced — so you can stay sober and still keep your balance.

Website: www.sentryworld.com/dining

Father Fats Public House

After a short two-week winter break, Father Fats in downtown Stevens Point is officially back open as of Jan. 15. Effortlessly tucked away yet impossible to forget, the cozy pub continues to stand out for one simple reason: its unapologetic devotion to ingredients. And mocktails are very much part of the experience.

One drink that truly lives up to the hype is the Lemon With Attitude. It should probably be served with a leather jacket and a cool pair of sunglasses, but the sugar rim will have to do. This mocktail features Seedlip Spice 94, bringing warm allspice notes layered with hints of citrus, oak, and nutmeg.

That depth pairs beautifully with the crisp, aromatic brightness of Perfect Purée’s Yuzu Luxe Sour. A touch of cinnamon simple syrup and house-made sour adds balance and warmth, while NA sparkling wine finishes the drink with lift and elegance. Served in a cocktail glass with a sugar rim, it’s bold, sweet, and sophisticated.

This mocktail is $9, but the sober experience that comes with it? Priceless.

Website: www.fatherfatssp.com

Muse at SentryWorld

Muse is where you go when you want the night to feel intentional — and maybe earn some bonus points along the way.

The moment you step inside, Muse feels classic and sophisticated, and the Rose City Gin and Tonic fits right in. Built with Lyre’s London Dry, a NA gin option, this mocktail delivers familiar hints of juniper and botanicals without the alcohol.

Paired with Portland Rose City tonic, it adds a subtle floral bitterness balanced by crisp bubbles, fresh lime, and sparkling water. Garnished with rose petals, it feels like an accessory that completes the outfit.

At $10, it’s less expensive than most accessories — and far more refreshing.

Website: sentryworld.com/dining/muse

Point Brewery

Beer lovers need NA options too, and Stevens Point delivers. With more than 150 years of brewing history, Point Brewery proves that going alcohol-free doesn’t mean giving up the flavors Portage County beer fans love.

A fan favorite is Point Amber NA, a brew that stays true to the classic amber style. There’s no loss of character here — just a smooth, medium-bodied beer with bold malt aromas of caramel and to

asted bread, balanced by just enough hop bitterness to keep things crisp. With an IBU of 14, it leans on the smoother side of the bitterness scale, making it a great choice for drinkers who enjoy a bold start and a clean, satisfying finish without anything sharp or overpowering.

While Point’s taproom opened in Stevens Point in 2024, NA options aren’t currently available on tap. The good news? The brewery makes its non-alcoholic beers easy to track down with an online locator tool available on its website. This is perfect for bringing a local favorite home for a sober date night, a Sunday Funday, or any occasion that calls for good beer and good company. Keep an eye out for their seasonal NA offerings, too.

No matter the occasion, or the reason you’re skipping alcohol, Portage County proves you don’t have to sacrifice quality, creativity, or experience. Being booze-free here still means ordering drinks worth talking about.

Website: www.pointbeer.com/na-beer

Got a tip on what makes Portage County unique? Send it to Wage at [email protected]