How to make friends in Boston, MA

Build local community with these social groups and events.

Mural wall at Aeronaut brewery in Somerville

Discuss books with a side of brews at Aeronaut in Somerville.

Photo by @ajlandau

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Whether you’re new to Boston or have lived in the city for decades, it’s never too late to make new friends while picking up a new hobby or two.

Here are 10 ways to branch out + meet fellow Bostonians.

Embrace the competitive spirit 🏓

PKL
The South Boston indoor pickleball court hosts leagues, trivia, beginner’s mixers + more events for experience picklers and newbies alike.

Volo Sports
The Boston chapter of the Baltimore-based company has coed leagues for kickball, volleyball, and basically every sport you can think of.

Walk the walk 👟

Hike Boston
Join the new weekday hiking series, taking at Boston’s parks and urban wilds throughout October.

Boston Girls Who Walk
The group hosts regular walking events everywhere from Somerville to Southie.

Group at a drink-making class.

We’re eyeing the Cambridge Center for Adult Education’s craft cocktail + pasta making classes.

Photo via Cambridge Center for Adult Education

Be with the bookworms 📚

Books & Brews
Sip and discuss books with the Somerville Public Library at Aeronaut Brewery, or check out Lamplighter’s Brewery Book Club through the Cambridge Public Library.

Trident Booksellers & Cafe events
The bookstore has a slew of programming for bookish Bostonians — we recommend the Silent Book Club or themed trivia (previous iterations include Twilight + Glee).

Lend a helping hand 👋

Main Streets
See if your neighborhood has a chapter and get involved at an upcoming event.

The Greater Boston Food Bank
Register online 24 hours in advance of your shift and make a difference for your hungry neighbors.

Try something new 💡

Cambridge Center for Adult Education
The Harvard Square center offers cooking, performance arts + business classes.

Improv Asylum classes
Take a beginner’s improv class at the Asylum CoLab in Faneuil Hall — City Editor Sara can confirm it’s a fun + friendly environment.

Another great way to make friends? Joining local Facebook groups. Let us know if you’d like a guide to Boston’s (many) social media groups.

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