These fun pursuits make connection feel easy.
Published on June 3, 2025
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Despite the hours you’ve spent in bed reading or working on a jigsaw puzzle at the kitchen table, hobbies don’t have to be solo affairs. Whether you're looking to expand your social circle, strengthen existing relationships, or just get out of the house more often, social hobbies offer built-in opportunities for connection. (Bonus: There’s no scrambling for small talk when you can trade sewing or gardening tips.)
Making space for hobbies pays off in spades, by the way, with research backing up the benefits. Harvard Health Publishing reports findings from a 2023 study where participants with hobbies reported better health and higher life satisfaction than those who didn’t. When paired with the opportunity for social connection, you're also reducing your risk of chronic disease (really), according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Here are some hobbies that double as social lifelines—and might just lead to your next great friendship.
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The communal setting of a ceramics studio offers the chance to connect and get creative, says professional artisan Christina Argonish, owner of Sister Trade City. "Many places have open studio hours and you can purchase supplies there, too," says Argonish.
Whether you're throwing on the wheel or hand-building, ask for advice and celebrate each other's wobbly masterpieces.
Book clubs are a classic for a reason—book discussions naturally lead to deeper conversations and connections. Can’t find a local club? Start one with neighbors, coworkers, or friends of friends, and choose books based on shared interests.
Expand your cooking prowess and meet people while you chop, sauté, and sample your creations. Look for themed nights—like pasta-making or sushi-rolling—that attract like-minded foodies. You'll leave with a full stomach, some new tricks, and (hopefully) new acquaintances.
For a weekly dose of friendly competition, look for local trivia leagues. Don't be share about asking to join a group at the bar. You'll surely become fast friends during high-stakes lightning rounds.
These shared green spaces allow neighbors to come together to grow flowers, fruits, and vegetables, often with a mission of beautifying the area or providing fresh produce for the community.
You’ll swap tips on tomato care, celebrate the first blooms of the season, and maybe even make a perennial friend or two. "Community gardens are great for the environment and can help cut down on food costs and waste," adds Argonish.
Organized sports aren’t just for gym class. Whether it’s kickball, softball, or a running group, recreational leagues are a fun way to get moving and meet new people. Many cities offer just-for-fun leagues for adults of all skill levels.
Also consider local hiking groups or fitness or dance classes—and don't be shy about trying a few different things to find what most interests you.
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If you already have a creative hobby, consider a craft circle, suggests Argonish. Knitters, quilters, and makers of all kinds often gather at community spaces, parks, or craft stores to create together.
These craft circles offer a low-pressure environment where conversation flows as easily as creativity. Look for open studio hours or weekly meetups. "Don't forget to bring your own project," says Argonish.
From creative writing to floral design to foreign languages, adult classes are prime places to meet people with similar interests. Many community centers and local colleges offer affordable recurring evening and weekend workshops, so you'll have plenty of chances to bond with your classmates over your shared pursuits.
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Starting a supper club is a delicious way to deepen existing friendships and meet friends-of-friends. Rotate hosts and themes, keep it low-pressure, and focus on fun rather than perfect presentation. (Breaking bread is one of the oldest ways to build community, after all.)
