Looking for a new spot to hang out with friends? Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and catch up or somewhere with a bit more excitement, there are plenty of options to choose from. From cozy cafes to lively bars, there’s something for everyone.
For those who enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, a cozy cafe is the perfect spot to catch up with friends over a cup of coffee or tea. Many cafes offer comfortable seating and a relaxing ambiance, making them a great spot to unwind and chat. Some cafes even offer board games or books to enjoy while you sip your drink.
If you’re looking for something a bit more lively, a bar or pub might be more your style. With a variety of drinks and often live music or events, bars can be a fun spot to hang out with friends and let loose. Some bars even offer games like pool or darts to keep things interesting.
Outdoor Activities
When it comes to hanging out with friends, outdoor activities are always a great option. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a road trip adventure, spending time outside can be a fun and refreshing way to socialize. Here are a few ideas for outdoor activities that are perfect for groups of friends.
Parks and Picnics
Local parks are a great place to spend time with friends. Many parks have picnic areas where you can bring your own food and enjoy a meal together. Some parks even have grills available for public use.
If you’re looking for something more active, many parks also have hiking trails, bike paths, and sports fields. Playing frisbee or softball with friends can be a fun way to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors.
Frisbee and Softball
Frisbee and softball are classic outdoor activities that are perfect for groups of friends. All you need is a frisbee or softball and a field to play on. Many parks have open fields that are perfect for these types of games.
If you want to make things more interesting, you can even organize a tournament with multiple teams. This can be a fun way to get everyone involved and add a bit of friendly competition to the mix.
Road Trip Adventures
For a more adventurous outdoor activity, consider planning a road trip with friends. There are plenty of scenic routes and destinations to explore, whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer adventure.
Some popular road trip destinations include national parks, beaches, and mountain ranges. Just be sure to plan ahead and bring along all the necessary supplies, such as food, water, and camping gear.
Overall, there are plenty of outdoor activities that are perfect for hanging out with friends. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing picnic in the park or an adventurous road trip, spending time outside can be a great way to bond with friends and create lasting memories.
Indoor Activities
When the weather is not ideal or when your group prefers indoor activities, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas for indoor activities that are perfect for hanging out with friends.
Museums and Galleries
Museums and galleries are great places to spend time with friends while learning something new. Most cities have a wide variety of museums and galleries to choose from, ranging from art museums to science museums. Some popular options include:
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- The American Museum of Natural History
- The Museum of Modern Art
- The Smithsonian American Art Museum
Many museums and galleries offer free admission or discounted rates for students, making them an affordable option for a day out with friends.
Arcades and Bowling
If you’re looking for a more active indoor activity, arcades and bowling alleys are a great option. These places are perfect for groups of friends who want to have some fun and let loose. Some popular options include:
- Dave & Buster’s
- Lucky Strike
- Round1 Bowling & Amusement
Most arcades and bowling alleys offer food and drink options, making them a great location for a night out with friends.
Movie Theaters
Going to the movies is a classic indoor activity that never gets old. Whether you’re looking to catch the latest blockbuster or an indie film, there is a movie theater for everyone. Some popular options include:
- AMC Theatres
- Regal Cinemas
- Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Many movie theaters offer matinee prices or student discounts, making it an affordable option for a day or night out with friends.
Board Games Night
Board games are a great way to spend time with friends while staying indoors. Hosting a board game night at home is a fun way to bring everyone together. Some popular board games include:
- Settlers of Catan
- Cards Against Humanity
- Monopoly
- Risk
Hosting a board game night is a great way to save money while still having fun with friends.
Book Club Meetings
If you and your friends are book lovers, starting a book club is a great way to spend time together while staying indoors. Book clubs can meet at home or at a local coffee shop or bookstore. Some popular book club picks include:
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
- 1984 by George Orwell
Starting a book club is a great way to read more and spend time with friends who share your interests.
Food and Drink
When it comes to hanging out with friends, food and drink are essential. Whether you’re looking for a cozy coffee shop or a lively bar, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to grab a bite or a drink with your friends.
Coffee Shops
Coffee shops are a great place to catch up with friends over a warm cup of coffee or tea. They offer a cozy atmosphere and a wide range of beverages and snacks. Some of the best coffee shops to hang out with friends include:
- Starbucks: This popular chain offers a comfortable environment with plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi. They also have a wide range of coffee, tea, and snacks to choose from.
- Peet’s Coffee: Another popular chain, Peet’s Coffee offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide range of coffee, tea, and pastries. They also have outdoor seating in some locations.
- Local Coffee Shops: Local coffee shops are a great way to support small businesses while enjoying a unique and cozy atmosphere. Some of the best local coffee shops include Blue Bottle Coffee, Intelligentsia Coffee, and Stumptown Coffee.
Restaurants and Bars
Restaurants and bars are perfect for a night out with friends. They offer a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide range of drinks. Some of the best restaurants and bars to hang out with friends include:
- The Cheesecake Factory: This popular chain offers a wide range of dishes and desserts, as well as a full bar. They also have a lively atmosphere with plenty of seating.
- Chili’s Grill & Bar: Another popular chain, Chili’s offers a casual atmosphere and a wide range of dishes and drinks. They also have a happy hour menu with discounted drinks and appetizers.
- Local Restaurants and Bars: Local restaurants and bars are a great way to experience the local culture while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Some of the best local restaurants and bars include The Spotted Pig, The Dead Rabbit, and The Smith.
Dinner Parties
If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, hosting a dinner party is a great way to hang out with friends. You can cook together, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. Some tips for hosting a successful dinner party include:
- Plan ahead: Decide on the menu, guest list, and decorations ahead of time to ensure a smooth and stress-free evening.
- Keep it simple: Stick to easy-to-make dishes and simple decorations to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Offer mocktails: Not everyone drinks alcohol, so offering mocktails is a great way to make everyone feel included.
Overall, there are plenty of places to hang out with friends and enjoy delicious food and drinks. Whether you prefer a cozy coffee shop or a lively bar, there’s something for everyone.
Add color to party night with lights
With just a few props and creative thinking, you can turn a casual dinner party into an unforgettable evening for your friends and family. Custom neon signs are hands down one of the best options, all of our neon signs are handcrafted using your custom design. If you’re looking for unique party favors or to decorate your party venue, consider your own custom sign. Personalize it with nicknames and inside jokes to add to the party atmosphere.
Special Events
Looking for something out of the ordinary to do with friends? Consider attending one of the many special events hosted in the area. From festivals to open mic nights, there’s something for everyone.
Festivals
Festivals are a great way to experience local culture and have a good time with friends. Check out the following festivals:
- Fall Festival: Held annually in October, the Fall Festival features live music, food vendors, and a variety of activities for all ages.
- Art Festival: This festival showcases the work of local artists and includes live music, food, and craft vendors.
Open Mic Nights
Open mic nights are a great way to showcase your talents or simply enjoy the talents of others. Here are some open mic nights to check out:
- Coffeehouse Open Mic Night: Held every Thursday at the local coffeehouse, this event features a variety of performers, including musicians, poets, and comedians.
- Comedy Open Mic Night: Held monthly at the local comedy club, this event is a great way to see up-and-coming comedians.
Poetry Readings
For those who love poetry, attending a poetry reading can be a great way to connect with others who share the same passion. Here are some poetry readings to consider:
- Poetry Slam: Held monthly at the local bookstore, this event features local poets competing against each other in a friendly competition.
- Poetry Open Mic Night: Held weekly at the local library, this event is open to anyone who wants to share their poetry with others.
Fun at Home
When it comes to hanging out with friends, staying at home can be just as fun as going out. Here are a few ideas for having a good time with friends without leaving the house.
Movie Marathon
One of the best things about staying at home is the ability to have a movie marathon. With streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, it’s easy to find a variety of movies to watch. Grab some snacks, cozy up on the couch, and enjoy a day of binge-watching with friends. Some movie marathon ideas include:
- Marvel Cinematic Universe
- Harry Potter series
- Star Wars saga
- Classic ’80s movies
Truth or Dare
Another fun activity to do at home with friends is playing truth or dare. This classic game can be tailored to fit any group, and can be as tame or wild as you want. Some ideas for truth or dare include:
- Singing a song in public
- Eating something spicy
- Telling a funny story
Online Shopping
Shopping with friends can be a fun activity, but it doesn’t have to involve leaving the house. With online shopping, you can browse and buy items from the comfort of your own home. Some popular online shopping sites include:
- Amazon
- Etsy
- Sephora
- Zara
Zoom
If you can’t physically be with your friends, Zoom is a great way to hang out virtually. You can catch up, play games, and even watch movies together using the screen sharing feature. Some ideas for Zoom activities include:
- Virtual game night
- Book club discussion
- Movie watch party
Overall, there are plenty of fun things to do with friends at home. Whether you’re having a movie marathon, playing truth or dare, online shopping, or hanging out virtually on Zoom, you’re sure to have a great time.
Wellness Activities
Looking to spend quality time with your friends while also taking care of your health? Look no further than these wellness activities.
Spa Days
Relax and rejuvenate with a spa day. Many spas offer group packages, making it the perfect activity for a girls’ day out. Enjoy massages, facials, and other treatments to help you unwind and de-stress.
Gym Sessions
Get fit with your friends by hitting the gym together. Many health clubs offer group classes, such as yoga or Pilates, that are perfect for a fun and challenging workout. Plus, having a workout buddy can help keep you motivated and accountable.
Dance Classes
Get your groove on with a dance class. Whether you’re into salsa, hip hop, or ballroom dancing, there’s a class out there for you and your friends. Not only is dancing a great workout, but it’s also a fun way to bond with your pals.
Pottery Classes
Unleash your creativity with a pottery class. Many studios offer group classes where you can learn to make pottery while enjoying the company of your friends. Plus, you’ll have a unique and personalized souvenir to take home with you.
No matter which wellness activity you choose, spending time with your friends while taking care of your health is always a good idea.
Unique Experiences
Looking for something out of the ordinary to do with your friends? Check out these unique experiences that are sure to provide a memorable time.
Escape Rooms
Escape rooms have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These interactive experiences challenge you and your friends to solve puzzles and clues in order to escape a themed room before time runs out. Some popular escape rooms include Escapology, The Escape Game San Francisco, and Escape Games.
Scavenger Hunts
Scavenger hunts are a great way to explore a new city or neighborhood while having fun with your friends. These hunts typically involve a list of clues or tasks that you must complete in order to move on to the next one. Some companies offer pre-made scavenger hunts, while others allow you to create your own. Check out local event companies or websites like Eventbrite for scavenger hunt options in your area.
Immersive Gamebox
Immersive gameboxes are a newer trend that combines elements of escape rooms and scavenger hunts. These experiences typically involve a portable gamebox that you must use to solve puzzles and complete challenges in order to progress through the game. Some popular immersive gamebox companies include The Game Box and The Amazing Chase.
No matter which unique experience you choose, you’re sure to have a great time with your friends. Just make sure to check the age and group size requirements before booking.
Reviews and Recommendations
Looking for a place to hang out with friends? Here are some reviews and recommendations to help you find the perfect spot.
The Coffee House
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to catch up with friends over a cup of coffee, The Coffee House is a great option. With its comfortable seating and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax and chat. The coffee is also consistently good, and they offer a variety of snacks and baked goods to enjoy with your drink.
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
The Sports Bar
If you and your friends are sports fans, The Sports Bar is a great place to hang out and catch a game. With multiple TVs and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to cheer on your favorite team. The food and drinks are also reasonably priced, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Review rating: 4 stars
The Rooftop Lounge
For a more upscale hangout spot, The Rooftop Lounge is a great choice. With its stunning views and chic decor, it’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a night out with friends. The drinks are on the pricier side, but they’re well-crafted and delicious. Be sure to dress up a bit, as the dress code is smart casual.
Yelp rating: 4 stars
The Brewery
If you’re a beer lover, The Brewery is a must-visit spot. With its extensive selection of craft beers and cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening with friends. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about beer, and they’re always happy to make recommendations based on your taste preferences.
Review rating: 4.5 stars
Safety Measures
When hanging out with friends, safety should always be a top priority. Whether it’s meeting up at a park, grabbing a bite to eat, or hitting up a local bar, there are several measures that can be taken to ensure everyone’s well-being.
One of the most important safety measures to consider is adhering to local COVID rules. It’s important to stay up-to-date on any restrictions or guidelines in your area, and to follow them accordingly. This may include wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and limiting group sizes.
Another important safety measure is to always have a plan in case of an emergency. This may include having a designated driver, knowing the location of the nearest hospital, and having a way to contact emergency services if needed.
When meeting up at a public place, it’s also important to be aware of your surroundings. This may include choosing well-lit areas, avoiding secluded spots, and being mindful of any suspicious behavior.
Additionally, it’s important to be responsible when consuming alcohol or other substances. This may include setting limits, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding driving or operating heavy machinery.
By taking these safety measures into consideration, you can ensure a fun and enjoyable hangout with friends while also prioritizing everyone’s well-being.