1. Take a class with your local city
Looking to try something new and connect with others in your community? Sign up for a class through your local city! From art and fitness to sports and hobbies, there’s something for everyone. Explore beginner rock climbing, take tennis lessons or express your creativity through abstract painting. Whether you're starting a new hobby or honing a skill, city classes offer a fun and affordable way to grow and socialize.
2. Join a recreational sports league
Already play a sport? Many cities in the Valley offer adult sport leagues for basketball, soccer, volleyball, pickleball and more! There are also many independent businesses with similar programs. Here's where to sign up:
3. Go for a stroll with Phoenix Babes Who Walk
Looking for a fun, inclusive way to get outside and meet new people in Metro Phoenix? Join Phoenix Babes Who Walk, a local walking group that hosts weekly strolls through scenic Valley parks. Each walk typically covers 2–3 miles, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned walkers.
4. Make art with Sketch Club Cafe
Sketch Club Cafe is a vibrant gathering of artists and creatives from across the Valley who come together regularly to connect over art and coffee. Open to all skill levels and backgrounds, the group fosters a safe, inclusive space where people can make friends, share ideas and enjoy creativity.
5. Craft during "Stitch 'n Bitch Nights" at Pip and Clay
A pottery studio and cafe/bar all rolled into one, Pip and Clay, hosts regular “Stitch n Bitch" nights throughout the year. This means you can come knit, crotchet or work on textiles at their studio. You can meet new friends AND make progress on your personal projects! Did we mention it’s free!
6. Sign up for a course at Sunshine Craft Co.
Make crafty friends by taking a workshop at the Sunshine Craft Company. Sunshine Craft Co. offers small class sizes so you can easily make friends with your tablemates. They offer a range of workshops such as paint pouring, macrame, embroidery, printmaking and more!
7. Bike with BikeMesa
Join BikeMesa on select weekends throughout the year for social bike rides. If you're a beginner, BikeMesa's Friday rides are typically slower and under 6 miles, making it the perfect setting for new cyclists. On various Sunday's, rides are followed by brunch at local Mesa restaurants.
8. Volunteer with Clean Up Papago
Hike around the Papago Preserve while picking up trash with the local park cleanup group, Clean Up Papago. They host multiple events throughout the month. All you have to do is show up with closed toe shoes! They provide trash grabbers, buckets, gloves and refreshments. Their events are a great way to build community and meet other eco-conscious individuals.
Volunteering at local non-profits is a great way to meet people. Check out other volunteering options here.
9. Learn improv comedy at The Bridge Improv
Have you always wanted to learn the secrets behind improv comedy AND make new friends in the process? If yes, sign up for an improv comedy workshop with The Bridge Improv Theater. They offer a variety of classes from level one to three, along with fun "electives" such as The Art of Physicality and Intro to Short Form. If you love making people laugh and being in the spotlight, this clean and clever comedy club is perfect for you!
10. Join a local group
Our list wouldn't be complete if we didn't mention joining a MeetUp group to make friends. There are local groups for all walks of life, including yoga in the park, hiking, young professionals and more. One of our favorite groups is Phoenix Young Adults 23-35s. This group hosts a wide variey of activities like, tennis, volleyball, pool parties, hikes, trivia nights at local bars and more!
How and where to make friends in Metro Phoenix
That wraps up the top ways to meet people and make new friends in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe and Mesa. Whether you're looking for social groups, places to meet people or you just want new ways to meet friends in the city. Meeting up with new people in Arizona has never been easier!