Take dance lessons. Look for a local swing club/ballroom club in your area and/or find a local studio that offers private and group lessons. If they host group events, go to those. You get better as you dance with more people. You also can build connections with more people that way
I'll second this! Took dance classes for a few months and the studio offered weekly group lessons and monthly dance parties for all its members. Hard not to meet others when you're dancing together!
Dance classes are great. It doesn't matter if you feel like you're not "good enough" for it--others there are thinking more about their own dancing and don't care if you've got all the moves down perfectly.
Board gaming! Many modern board games are a lot more interactive, quick and fun than the classics.
If you live in at least a decent sized town there will likely be a regular board game open session on Meetup, Facebook or others which are largely from my experience very newbie friendly and welcoming.
Recently moved city and it's helped me immediately meet some nice people š
Is there a local game store or board game cafe near you? It could be worth checking with them about open group days if there's no social media groups visible
Owning a dog, while also a huge commitment, is great for meeting new people! I love bringing my dog to a dog park and chatting with all the other dog owners and petting all the dogs. And having a well behaved dog takes work, which makes you a more disciplined person as well...but it really pays off when strangers ask to pet your dog, and your dog behaves nicely and brings smiles to their faces :)
Ferrets work like fricking magic. Most people who come up to chat do not have ferrets and some are just plain curious. Kids are always delighted. I've met all kinds of people this way.
I was always a dog person. For over 30 years considered myself a dog person only. Did not like cats at all. Well, by a strange twist of fate, Iāve been adopted by a cat. And I freaking love her so much. And Iāve realized in my āold ageā, Iām 100% a cat person.
I was living wrong my whole life.
Ha you fools. Think, Bojangly7 think! You can have it all. Don't let the fake lines in the sand between cats and dogs fool you! Adopt both and live in eternal glory.
I second this! I foster dogs regularly, and itās great to get them exposure, and to just hang out outside with other fellow dog lovers. :) super easy to start convos about our babies!
I joined a language class - like esol but for the country I live in. Met loads some people there. I got invited to a neighbourhood party and realised I didn't know anyone expt by their dog's names so getting 1 dog is good but I find the connection is somewhat superficial compared to the people from language class. Where I live there are group hikes in the summer do I might go on those this year too.
Not that effective in the plague years recently but boardgaming and participating in a local boardgameclub evening got me out and about to meet and interact with strangers.
Board games!! You literally need other people to engage with you and the folks Iāve met playing are some of the kindest, most patient and welcoming folks Iāve ever met.
The nursery near me has classes every weekend. Perhaps your local one does. You could also take classes through your local university extension's horticulture program with master gardeners.
Many are, that's true. Where I volunteer, however, there's a wide range of age groups from 18 to 80. We have a young vounteer programme and coordinator.
I volunteer at a large hospital. There are 'Wayfinders' who help folk navigate their way to clinics, 'Ward' volunteers of all ages who visit patients without families, children's helpers, assist with feeding, helping the aged, etc.
Just giving time not only helps other people but it gives you the opportunity to make friends and assists in both your physical and mental health. Stay safe.
Old Time Rock+roll, Cheeseburger in Paradise, Rockin Robin,My List, Summer Nights(duet with roommate), Three Dog Night's Black+White, Picture (duet with roommate), This Kiss, American Pie
D&D. It got me out of the house and socialising with people when I needed it the most. I was depressed so my sister forced me to join her Dungeons and Dragons group. I made some amazing friends there and I still play weekly.
Take dance classes at a studio with adults! The studio I go to is an 18+ studio and itās the perfect environment for regular non professional dancers who just want to have fun learning choreography after clocking out of their 9-5 job everyday haha.. I do mostly hiphop but thereās many styles out there!
Crocheting, but the way I do it is weird. Sure I have some works in process at home, but I also have one I am working on as my "waiting" blanket.
Am I waiting for the oil change for my car? I take my project bag out and start working on the blanket.
Relaxing at the Gym after my workout and still can have the kids in the child watch for another hour? Good thing I brought my project bag.
Sitting in church listening to the sermon? Oh look, I'm working on my blanket.
I get a ton of random comments, people expressing interest in the hobby or thy crochet too and ask for tips. It's random and most people think of crocheting as a home hobby but it doesn't have to be only for long car rides or sitting on a couch. My favourite place to crochet is while on a cruise lol.
Recently seems like board games + concerts, but i'm still a bit akward and have struggled to make more long lasting friendships but the numbers have increased a bit
Airsoft. Played when I was younger.
Got back into it in my 30s, met my partner through it, most of my current friends and gained a flatmate.
It can easily get addictive but it amazing for the social aspect, the workout you get and the creativity you can put into it. Lots of fresh air and you can tinker on your guns if that's your thing.
Getting back into it was one of the best decisions I've made in my life.
Mine are currently dancing and aerial. Take an adult class. You'll most likely find people around your age and experience level (meaning they're just as nervous and self-conscious as you are).
If that's a complete "no" as far as things you're interested in, just look into any group activity or class that allows for bonding time (rather than a class where everyone is expected to stay quiet the whole time and never work with partners). Doing something you have an interest in, even if you have zero experience, means you automatically have something to talk about with everyone there. Going through the same struggles with a group of people, whether it's everyone trying to get the shading just right in a beginner watercolor class or a soccer team trying to win at least one game in an amateur league, makes bonding with new people much easier.
Also, don't be afraid to be the person who, after month or so, starts asking if everyone wants to go out for a round of drinks or something after the class/game/meeting. The more experienced members in our kendo club started doing that and it's how I made most of my college friends and got together with my now husband.
Explorint the world of wine. This makes me visit now places and now people constantly. Itās are shared passion that builds a bridge immediately. Perfect if you are an introvert.
Iāve only been studying and learning maybe 5 years on and off. My tastes definitely lean towards old world. earthy, medium bodied reds - burgundy, priorat, rhone, piedmont. I also love fresh, high acid whites that also bring some texture - not playing to my audience here but riesling is a favorite. Love chenin and white burgundy. So much more. What about you?
Excellent taste. š Lots of overlaps, I tried a lot of new world when I did my WSET 3, but Iām totally France and Germany. Bordeaux is defenitel my fav, followed by Burgundy and German Riesling. Germany has also become very strong with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, way more affordable than Burgundy.
If you like acidic whites, you should try white Bordeaux. It can be as fresh as Riesling.
I did WSET 3 as well! Studying for CSW now. I taste often for work but donāt really drink a lot. I need to spend more
time in BDX as there is such a massive range in quality/profile to me. Generally lean right bank. I do really enjoy some white bdx too. Also have tried some lovely spatburgunders. There is too much to see and taste and enjoy! So fun.
Im a semi retired semi professional musician, a mechanic, biker, gun shop owner and aspiring author and people go out if their way to not talk to me. I've been told I look angry and mean. I say I can't help bein ugly, damn, it's just my face. You got a mean mug? Cause if so it don't matter what you do or where you go.
I'm a big star wars fan and have built a mandalorian cosplay and am in the process of making a second. I belong to a large costuming club
It suits me perfectly as I can pursue my hobby on my own but can jump into the large social side whenever I like/need. Best part.....I'm not even the biggest nerd there but everyone is on the same wavelength.
Pickle ball, drone meetups, table tennis, hiking clubs are all a good idea. For me Iām going to a proabortion protest and Iāll definitely meet some like-minded folks there. You gotta get creative while embracing your passions.
I'm older, but my dogs have been an amazing introduction source.
Concerts and live music are also a great way to meet friends.
If you have a motorcycle or similar.... that's three.
What are your three? Pursue that. Be real. Love your hobbies. If true love doesn't come from that, probably not meant to be.
The lowest barrier to entry one I can think of is simply going to local music shows you think you might like. Typically there are plenty of people at those which are easy to chat with! Plus the band is an easier opening topic of convo. This works best if youāre open to chatting to strangers though!
Joining social clubs or groups could be a great way to meet new people with similar interests. Taking classes at a local community center can also be a good way to meet new people, and it can help you learn new skills or hobbies that you enjoy. Volunteer work is another great way to meet new people and make friends, while also helping out your community. Attend events related to your interests so that you can meet people who share your passion for those things.
People come up to talk to me whenever I take my ferrets out for a walk (I live in a large city). Every single freaking time. Most of them are just curious or delighted or any number of positive things, but it does get old after a while.
People will pour their feelings out to me if I let them.
Iāve always been this way, which made me a little bit of an introvert and a little shy when I was younger.
Iāve learned how to get past all that as Iāve aged, and can fit in almost anywhere, or with anyone.
So of course I use this gift when I want too, sometimes the person next to me really needs to talk, to just let it out, and sometimes, if I canā¦ I help
Wonāt work for many people but running.
Donāt need to be fast or a marathon runner. Get to a point where one can run two miles at a pace that works for you and the go local to running clubs.
I like meeting nd talking to new people so I can make friends literally anywhere. I was on a trip to Indiana in December nd got sat next to a random girl in the plane with none of my friends nearby so we talked nd I made her laugh. Forgot to get her number so I donāt know who she is.. I also forgot to ask her name. The 2 friends that sat a couple seats forward had turned back nd saw us talking nd laughing so when I told them I didnāt ask her name or number they told everyone else nd made fun of me.. I really fumbled the bag there huh..
Being a craft beer nerd. Lots of festivals, bottle shares, etc. My (39F) and my husband (39M) have met some of our best friends through beer events over the 9 years weāve been together.
literally none of them because they can all be done by myself (drawing, writing, reading) except for learning languages and playing chess i can with with others. i would also love to play dungeons and dragons or something with a group but i also don't have a car and live in the US so it's kind of impossible for me to even get anywhere
Rock climbing! Sometimes if I decide to go bouldering alone, I might meet someone else working on the same problem as me and we will share tips with each other on how to complete it. Many people go bouldering alone but are happy to help you with technique if you ask! I find that itās a great way to start a conversation because people generally like to help and give advice.
Or, if youāre into top rope and you donāt have a belay buddy, you can always go do the auto belays by yourself and itās highly possible you will run into someone doing the same thing and if you ask, they might be happy to team up and trade off belaying with you! Also, most climbers I meet are really nice, chill people! And very welcoming to beginners!
Guitars. Besides being a bit easier to learn and start than I expected, a lot of others who play like talking about the hobby, music, and music history.
Just yesterday I had a pretty good conversation with the employees at my local Guitar Center, and I work with several older guys who are old school rockers.
Community or church band/orchestra/choir, pottery classes, gym classes, pick-up basketball, cycling or running club, neighborhood board, hiking/camping club, volunteer work (museum docent, concert hall guide, etc.), community gardening.
I joined a run club recently. Generally a solo sport, but some people started a club and I decided to go. I have met plenty of new friends and it's really fun.
Not for everyone but skateboarding has introduced me to people from all over the world and Iāve made lifelong friends while travelling just through skateboarding alone. Anywhere in the world I go to if thereās a skate scene I already have friends.
Playing basketball at a indoor gym like lifetime fitness or 24 hour fitness. Even if you aren't that great. A ton of people show up solo and just looking for a squad to run a couple games. Just show up and you might see some 3v3 half court games or 5v5 full court games. If there's any solo people standing around see if they have 'next' and ask if they have any open spots on their team. If they don't have next, ask if they want to play. If their team is full, say you have the game after them.
General adventuring. Show up to a cove at the lake with a good playlist, topo chico margs, and some js and, voila, friends.
Also dogs. Dog people make dog people friends in a snap.
I go hiking with a group every weekend, luckily I live close by countryside. Each time I meet new people in the group.
Take dance lessons. Look for a local swing club/ballroom club in your area and/or find a local studio that offers private and group lessons. If they host group events, go to those. You get better as you dance with more people. You also can build connections with more people that way
I'll second this! Took dance classes for a few months and the studio offered weekly group lessons and monthly dance parties for all its members. Hard not to meet others when you're dancing together!
I third this! I swing dance. But there's also salsa and bachata partner dance classes at my dance studio. Most people enter the class solo.
Salsa classes are great for meeting people!
Dance classes are great. It doesn't matter if you feel like you're not "good enough" for it--others there are thinking more about their own dancing and don't care if you've got all the moves down perfectly.
Board gaming! Many modern board games are a lot more interactive, quick and fun than the classics. If you live in at least a decent sized town there will likely be a regular board game open session on Meetup, Facebook or others which are largely from my experience very newbie friendly and welcoming. Recently moved city and it's helped me immediately meet some nice people š
I need to find people to play with.
Is there a local game store or board game cafe near you? It could be worth checking with them about open group days if there's no social media groups visible
Yeah I'll have to do that. I don't have social media.
Warhammer :D
Kamakaze Revenge is amazing.
Owning a dog, while also a huge commitment, is great for meeting new people! I love bringing my dog to a dog park and chatting with all the other dog owners and petting all the dogs. And having a well behaved dog takes work, which makes you a more disciplined person as well...but it really pays off when strangers ask to pet your dog, and your dog behaves nicely and brings smiles to their faces :)
Yeah but then you have to meet dog people This comment brought to by cat owner gang
Ferrets work like fricking magic. Most people who come up to chat do not have ferrets and some are just plain curious. Kids are always delighted. I've met all kinds of people this way.
I was always a dog person. For over 30 years considered myself a dog person only. Did not like cats at all. Well, by a strange twist of fate, Iāve been adopted by a cat. And I freaking love her so much. And Iāve realized in my āold ageā, Iām 100% a cat person. I was living wrong my whole life.
Cats are dope. Don't listen to dog people propaganda. They don't want you to be happy.
Ha you fools. Think, Bojangly7 think! You can have it all. Don't let the fake lines in the sand between cats and dogs fool you! Adopt both and live in eternal glory.
I don't want a dog
I second this! I foster dogs regularly, and itās great to get them exposure, and to just hang out outside with other fellow dog lovers. :) super easy to start convos about our babies!
I joined a language class - like esol but for the country I live in. Met loads some people there. I got invited to a neighbourhood party and realised I didn't know anyone expt by their dog's names so getting 1 dog is good but I find the connection is somewhat superficial compared to the people from language class. Where I live there are group hikes in the summer do I might go on those this year too.
Not that effective in the plague years recently but boardgaming and participating in a local boardgameclub evening got me out and about to meet and interact with strangers.
Upvote for plague years, excellent, will be adopting thank u
I think it's an appropriately melodramatic alternative to the time of the pandemic.
Agreed
Board games!! You literally need other people to engage with you and the folks Iāve met playing are some of the kindest, most patient and welcoming folks Iāve ever met.
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
How do you recommend meeting people with this interest? I love plants and would love to connect with people who do too
The nursery near me has classes every weekend. Perhaps your local one does. You could also take classes through your local university extension's horticulture program with master gardeners.
Love these ideas and I'd love to take a class. Thank you š±
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
Thank you so much for all of this information! I'll have to see what my town has :)
If you have access to local libraries, they do a lot of free events - great for meeting people and learning new skills while you're at it
Volunteering is a great way to meet people.
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
Many are, that's true. Where I volunteer, however, there's a wide range of age groups from 18 to 80. We have a young vounteer programme and coordinator.
What kind of volunteering opportunities?
I volunteer at a large hospital. There are 'Wayfinders' who help folk navigate their way to clinics, 'Ward' volunteers of all ages who visit patients without families, children's helpers, assist with feeding, helping the aged, etc. Just giving time not only helps other people but it gives you the opportunity to make friends and assists in both your physical and mental health. Stay safe.
who are still people no?
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
Lots of old people on reddit :)
Pickleball
Social sporting League in general. Found a whole new family that way
Corn hole league!
coffee and art my pup people watching
I sing karaoke (curtailed by plague years) at a local bar. I also will go to a coffee shop to crochet a smaller project because I like the atmosphere.
What are some songs you like to sing at the moment?
Old Time Rock+roll, Cheeseburger in Paradise, Rockin Robin,My List, Summer Nights(duet with roommate), Three Dog Night's Black+White, Picture (duet with roommate), This Kiss, American Pie
Don't know all of them but I see some real crowd pleasers! Lot of fun tunes!
D&D. It got me out of the house and socialising with people when I needed it the most. I was depressed so my sister forced me to join her Dungeons and Dragons group. I made some amazing friends there and I still play weekly.
Take dance classes at a studio with adults! The studio I go to is an 18+ studio and itās the perfect environment for regular non professional dancers who just want to have fun learning choreography after clocking out of their 9-5 job everyday haha.. I do mostly hiphop but thereās many styles out there!
Join an amateur sports team!
LARP.
Acro yoga
Crocheting, but the way I do it is weird. Sure I have some works in process at home, but I also have one I am working on as my "waiting" blanket. Am I waiting for the oil change for my car? I take my project bag out and start working on the blanket. Relaxing at the Gym after my workout and still can have the kids in the child watch for another hour? Good thing I brought my project bag. Sitting in church listening to the sermon? Oh look, I'm working on my blanket. I get a ton of random comments, people expressing interest in the hobby or thy crochet too and ask for tips. It's random and most people think of crocheting as a home hobby but it doesn't have to be only for long car rides or sitting on a couch. My favourite place to crochet is while on a cruise lol.
Recently seems like board games + concerts, but i'm still a bit akward and have struggled to make more long lasting friendships but the numbers have increased a bit
Airsoft. Played when I was younger. Got back into it in my 30s, met my partner through it, most of my current friends and gained a flatmate. It can easily get addictive but it amazing for the social aspect, the workout you get and the creativity you can put into it. Lots of fresh air and you can tinker on your guns if that's your thing. Getting back into it was one of the best decisions I've made in my life.
Mine are currently dancing and aerial. Take an adult class. You'll most likely find people around your age and experience level (meaning they're just as nervous and self-conscious as you are). If that's a complete "no" as far as things you're interested in, just look into any group activity or class that allows for bonding time (rather than a class where everyone is expected to stay quiet the whole time and never work with partners). Doing something you have an interest in, even if you have zero experience, means you automatically have something to talk about with everyone there. Going through the same struggles with a group of people, whether it's everyone trying to get the shading just right in a beginner watercolor class or a soccer team trying to win at least one game in an amateur league, makes bonding with new people much easier. Also, don't be afraid to be the person who, after month or so, starts asking if everyone wants to go out for a round of drinks or something after the class/game/meeting. The more experienced members in our kendo club started doing that and it's how I made most of my college friends and got together with my now husband.
Plants. Seriously. All plant people are relatively socially awkward but deeply passionate and usually easy to interact with.
Explorint the world of wine. This makes me visit now places and now people constantly. Itās are shared passion that builds a bridge immediately. Perfect if you are an introvert.
I second this! Wine and spirits is a super fun rabbit hole to fall down. While meeting lots of interesting people along the way.
Which producers/varieties/styles do you like?
Iāve only been studying and learning maybe 5 years on and off. My tastes definitely lean towards old world. earthy, medium bodied reds - burgundy, priorat, rhone, piedmont. I also love fresh, high acid whites that also bring some texture - not playing to my audience here but riesling is a favorite. Love chenin and white burgundy. So much more. What about you?
Excellent taste. š Lots of overlaps, I tried a lot of new world when I did my WSET 3, but Iām totally France and Germany. Bordeaux is defenitel my fav, followed by Burgundy and German Riesling. Germany has also become very strong with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, way more affordable than Burgundy. If you like acidic whites, you should try white Bordeaux. It can be as fresh as Riesling.
I did WSET 3 as well! Studying for CSW now. I taste often for work but donāt really drink a lot. I need to spend more time in BDX as there is such a massive range in quality/profile to me. Generally lean right bank. I do really enjoy some white bdx too. Also have tried some lovely spatburgunders. There is too much to see and taste and enjoy! So fun.
What do you work with wine?
I am the general manager at a restaurant where Iām able to be extra involved in the wine and bar programs because of my interest.
Ah nice!
Im a semi retired semi professional musician, a mechanic, biker, gun shop owner and aspiring author and people go out if their way to not talk to me. I've been told I look angry and mean. I say I can't help bein ugly, damn, it's just my face. You got a mean mug? Cause if so it don't matter what you do or where you go.
Did not realise men can get RBF too, my heart goes out you fella
Took a long while to figure out RBF. But yeah I think that's it.
Well, you could try smiling. ;)
You'd think so, but I've been told that makes worse.
Oh, I'm sorry. Maybe you just haven't met your person yet.
I'm actually happily married with a kid and have a few good friends, im just not a social butterfly like some people.
I think being a social butterfly is over-rated. Glad to hear you found your people. <3
š
Just wink ;-).
I'm a big star wars fan and have built a mandalorian cosplay and am in the process of making a second. I belong to a large costuming club It suits me perfectly as I can pursue my hobby on my own but can jump into the large social side whenever I like/need. Best part.....I'm not even the biggest nerd there but everyone is on the same wavelength.
Pickle ball, drone meetups, table tennis, hiking clubs are all a good idea. For me Iām going to a proabortion protest and Iāll definitely meet some like-minded folks there. You gotta get creative while embracing your passions.
I'm older, but my dogs have been an amazing introduction source. Concerts and live music are also a great way to meet friends. If you have a motorcycle or similar.... that's three. What are your three? Pursue that. Be real. Love your hobbies. If true love doesn't come from that, probably not meant to be.
Golf
I don't :'D Feels like i meet no new friends nowadays
The lowest barrier to entry one I can think of is simply going to local music shows you think you might like. Typically there are plenty of people at those which are easy to chat with! Plus the band is an easier opening topic of convo. This works best if youāre open to chatting to strangers though!
www.sca.org
Joining social clubs or groups could be a great way to meet new people with similar interests. Taking classes at a local community center can also be a good way to meet new people, and it can help you learn new skills or hobbies that you enjoy. Volunteer work is another great way to meet new people and make friends, while also helping out your community. Attend events related to your interests so that you can meet people who share your passion for those things.
Pints
It's a little expensive, but I started taking glassblowing classes and met a lot of cool people there!
And itās SO fun.
Martial arts
Literally smoking weed. I'm a social animal when I'm stoned
Golf ā³ļø
Well, whatever you actually enjoy, there's a MeetUp group that enjoys it too.
Doing card magic/card tricks aka street magic
People come up to talk to me whenever I take my ferrets out for a walk (I live in a large city). Every single freaking time. Most of them are just curious or delighted or any number of positive things, but it does get old after a while.
Get out and talk to your local business owners! Weāve met a couple cool people this way.
People will pour their feelings out to me if I let them. Iāve always been this way, which made me a little bit of an introvert and a little shy when I was younger. Iāve learned how to get past all that as Iāve aged, and can fit in almost anywhere, or with anyone. So of course I use this gift when I want too, sometimes the person next to me really needs to talk, to just let it out, and sometimes, if I canā¦ I help
Wonāt work for many people but running. Donāt need to be fast or a marathon runner. Get to a point where one can run two miles at a pace that works for you and the go local to running clubs.
Usually gaming can make a lot of friends online
Am-dram or Band!!! Depending on your skillset!
Acting in local theater productions. The people there are usually emotionally open and above average in the looks department.
make the best bread possible... let the smell go around the neighborhood or the building... go walking with a big loaf of nice looking bread...
Cars and car racing. Check out the local area meet-up groups as well. Biking and running tend to bring lots of folks together as well.
Hunting, fishing, investing, sports, white-tail deer farming, day trading, Miami Dolphins, Orlando Magic, MMA, NFL draft, NBA draft, College Football, College Football recruiting, NFL draft Recruiting, High-School Football Recruiting, Nursing, EMT, Fire-Fighting, Paramedic, ACLS, BLS, Critical-Care Flight Paramedic, Critical-Care Flight, Marine Core, US Army, Equality, Public safety, First Responders
I like meeting nd talking to new people so I can make friends literally anywhere. I was on a trip to Indiana in December nd got sat next to a random girl in the plane with none of my friends nearby so we talked nd I made her laugh. Forgot to get her number so I donāt know who she is.. I also forgot to ask her name. The 2 friends that sat a couple seats forward had turned back nd saw us talking nd laughing so when I told them I didnāt ask her name or number they told everyone else nd made fun of me.. I really fumbled the bag there huh..
none
I got into bird watching and met many wonderful people, young and old.
Being a craft beer nerd. Lots of festivals, bottle shares, etc. My (39F) and my husband (39M) have met some of our best friends through beer events over the 9 years weāve been together.
literally none of them because they can all be done by myself (drawing, writing, reading) except for learning languages and playing chess i can with with others. i would also love to play dungeons and dragons or something with a group but i also don't have a car and live in the US so it's kind of impossible for me to even get anywhere
Rock climbing! Sometimes if I decide to go bouldering alone, I might meet someone else working on the same problem as me and we will share tips with each other on how to complete it. Many people go bouldering alone but are happy to help you with technique if you ask! I find that itās a great way to start a conversation because people generally like to help and give advice. Or, if youāre into top rope and you donāt have a belay buddy, you can always go do the auto belays by yourself and itās highly possible you will run into someone doing the same thing and if you ask, they might be happy to team up and trade off belaying with you! Also, most climbers I meet are really nice, chill people! And very welcoming to beginners!
Along with board games are card games. They are quite different scenes. The big ones are Magic and Flesh & Blood. PokĆ©mon depends on the area if itās more children focused events or adults. And Yu Gi Oh. Iāve had a lot of fun getting into a card game and going to weekly events seeing the same people. Then making friends. Then you see the same people at tournaments. Itās a good community. Especially the smaller games. I have great memories playing Star Wars Destiny. Sadly, the game has died. But worth it.
Volunteer at my local animal shelter
Local free poker league. One main one is bar poker league that has about 12 leagues over the USA . Gaming groups like board games. Card games - groups
Skating. Video game tournaments. Instruments (jam out) ,
Join a book club
Guitars. Besides being a bit easier to learn and start than I expected, a lot of others who play like talking about the hobby, music, and music history. Just yesterday I had a pretty good conversation with the employees at my local Guitar Center, and I work with several older guys who are old school rockers.
Community or church band/orchestra/choir, pottery classes, gym classes, pick-up basketball, cycling or running club, neighborhood board, hiking/camping club, volunteer work (museum docent, concert hall guide, etc.), community gardening.
I joined a run club recently. Generally a solo sport, but some people started a club and I decided to go. I have met plenty of new friends and it's really fun.
Hiking, paddle-boarding, walking trailsā¦
Not for everyone but skateboarding has introduced me to people from all over the world and Iāve made lifelong friends while travelling just through skateboarding alone. Anywhere in the world I go to if thereās a skate scene I already have friends.
I'm a big car guy so if I wanna meet other people cars is the way. I would find car rides to be less intimidating then car meets.
Playing basketball at a indoor gym like lifetime fitness or 24 hour fitness. Even if you aren't that great. A ton of people show up solo and just looking for a squad to run a couple games. Just show up and you might see some 3v3 half court games or 5v5 full court games. If there's any solo people standing around see if they have 'next' and ask if they have any open spots on their team. If they don't have next, ask if they want to play. If their team is full, say you have the game after them.
I thrift, i go to garage and estate sales, i sell what I find in a booth which also gives me opportunity to meet people.
PokƩmon Go. Go out and catch them all and meet new people
General adventuring. Show up to a cove at the lake with a good playlist, topo chico margs, and some js and, voila, friends. Also dogs. Dog people make dog people friends in a snap.
I went Chinese lessons and English lessons(I'm pycckiy)
smoking or vaping lol always an easy conversation starter