10 Best Places To Meet People

By: Britt Baker

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Sometimes it may seem difficult to meet new people, but these 10 best places to meet people should make the task a whole lot easier. Whether you're looking for new friends, people to network with, or perhaps dating prospects, you can be sure to find interesting people at these ten best places to meet people. So, get ready to meet and greet while out and about at these locations:

  1. Social Gatherings. One of the best places to meet people is out at social gatherings. It's very likely that people in your circle of friends, acquaintances, and family members have social gatherings from time to time, whether it be holiday parties, group dinners, or just random parties for fun. Don't be shy and strike up a conversation with a new girl or guy the next time you're at a social gathering.
  2. The Gym. Gyms are great places to meet new people. You can strike up a conversation with the person next to you on the treadmill about the news on the television, with someone in your weekly spinning or kick boxing class, or with that awesome basketball or tennis player you always see on the court.
  3. Bookstores. Another awesome place to meet new people is at a bookstore. Many people enjoy conversing about a topic or author of interest. So, strike up a conversation with someone you see reading a book you've read or are interested in.
  4. Festivals. Music festivals, art festivals, food festivals - there are all sorts of festivals where people gather to explore their interests, and oftentimes, people at these events love finding people with similar interests at these events. If you are an artist, of any form, festivals are also great places to network, too.
  5. Volunteering. One of the best places to meet people is a place where people volunteer. So, consider bettering yourself as a person by volunteering at a local soup kitchen, special event, or animal shelter, and in the process, meet new people, as well.
  6. Special Interest Groups. Another awesome place to meet new people is at a meeting for a special interest group. Search online for local groups of people who share a similar interest with you, and attend their meetings. Meeting people with a common interest makes starting conversations with new people much easier, too!
  7. Coffee Shops. Coffee shops are one of the best places to meet new people, and perhaps one of the easiest ones, too. So, the next time you're alone at a coffee shop, sit near another person who came alone and strike up a conversation about some local news, an article you just read, or simply the new flavor of latte available in the shop.
  8. Classes. Classes, whether they be art classes, dance classes, cooking classes, self defense classes, you name it, are one of the best places to meet people. So, if you've been wanting to try out glassblowing, watercolor painting, or yoga, sign up for a class and interact with the other members.
  9. Sports Events. Sports events are very popular and bring in a variety of people, so find a seat next to some friendly folks and talk about the game, your favorite teams, and your favorite sports moments.
  10. Business Conventions. Business conventions are one of the best places to meet people if you're looking to network, but they're also great places to meet people, in general. So, while you have some free time at your next business convention, go out and meet some other participants, and feel free to talk about more than just business!
Posted on: Oct. 19, 2010