If you’re tired of meeting your friends in the same malls and coffee shops, then you’re not alone. Now it’s time to be out with the old spots and in with the new (and awesome) places you’ll actually wanna show up for. Let’s admit it, we want to enjoy many memorable memories, not just passive entertainment. Luckily, a lot of cool hangout spots have appeared in many states where you can do something fun, not just sit, eat, and talk about life. Get ready to find your next favorite spot as we share these nine cool new places to enjoy your time with friends.
1. Board Game Cafes
You can now put down your phone and pick up any game you like. Board game cafes are popular places that offer a wide range of games, from simple social games to complex strategic ones, so there’s surely something for everyone. There’ll be no awkward silences because the games will spark conversations, laughter, and even quiet competition. They also serve drinks and snacks, so you won’t need to bring anything. Just you and your new gossip to share. These cafes offer a relaxed and easy setting for you to spend time reconnecting with people in person.
2. Creative Workshops & DIY Studios
If you and your friends are artsy people who love doing crafts, you’d definitely enjoy creating something cool in DIY workshops or studios. These places let you try different activities like pottery, painting, or candlemaking. You don’t need to bring materials anymore or check out YouTube videos to make beautiful crafts because they will already give you what you need. It’s not just about the finished items; it’s about laughing, learning, and enjoying the great company. You’ll leave with a personalized item and good memories with your loved ones.
3. Arcades/Barcades
If you’re looking for nostalgia while getting drunk and enjoying your time with friends, barcades may be for you. They are literally bars (places to buy liquor and mixed cocktails) combined with classic arcades like Pac-Man and pinball. These places are full of energy and fun, where you can challenge your friends to play old-school games while sipping on leveled-up beers and cocktails. When typical bars no longer excite you, you may need to visit these kinds of places. You’ll enjoy the night buzzing and full of adrenaline rush with friendly rivalry and unforgettable memories; just make sure to avoid a bad hangover!
4. Axe Throwing Venues
Up for something a little wild? You should go see what the hype is about and give axe throwing a shot. Learning to safely and accurately throw axes is definitely a skill you’d want to pass on. It’s also a great way to release stress and have friendly competition. Not only for a simple hangout, this is also perfect for different social events like bachelor parties, reunions, and team-building events. Some venues offer craft beers or wines to enjoy while you play. It’s different, but it’ll get your groups laughing and cheering.
5. Urban Green Spaces
Cities are now investing in creating and maintaining urban parks and green areas, so you don’t need to worry if you want to take a break from your busy city life. These are parks that act like community hubs with walking paths, cafes that offer al fresco dining, stages for live performances, and pop-up markets. If you want to exercise or just simply relax in nature without being away from home, these parks are perfect for you. It’s a great escape from having cabin fever and an opportunity to connect with nature.
6. Immersive Art Installations
Time to get your senses amazed and your cameras filled with colorful memories. These installations are temporary, so they’re offering a unique experience for a limited time. Entering these kinds of places feels like stepping into a whole new world with interactive light shows. A lot of people are dying to check these out since they don’t last forever. They’re perfect for a memorable, fun trip with friends who love exploring new art. They’re also made for you to take a lot of “Instagrammable” photos. It may be temporary, but for sure, your memories in these places will be kept for a long time.
7. Specialty Food Halls & Marketplaces
Food and friends make good memories. And no more boring food courts with these leveled-up, stylish food halls that bring together many different foods all under one roof. Local chefs offer gourmet tacos, pizzas, and special desserts, which are perfect to try with a group of friends with different food tastes. It’s a great opportunity to get to know your friends better and create a lively and social dining experience. These spots provide shared tables perfect for groups and even live music to enjoy.
8. Upscale Bowling Alleys & Entertainment Centers
Bowling isn’t just pins and balls. A lot of entertainment centers have upgraded their bowling alleys into a fancy social event. They improved the bowling lanes, offering standard and kiddie ones to be played across generations. They also have comfy seating and updated menus that cater to almost all taste buds. Some of them even include other activities like billiards, private KTVs, or even virtual reality games for a complete night out in one spot. They proved that old favorites can become something new.
9. Co-working Spaces with Social Events
Pulling a long shift? We got you! If you’re in a work-from-home setup, co-working spaces can be your new office. Co-working spaces are not just a quiet place to help you get some tasks done; they’re also a new spot to meet people and share ideas outside your traditional office setting. These spaces bring people together through social events and network meet-ups. No matter how much of an introvert you are, we’re still social creatures at heart, and places like these are perfect if you’re looking to grow in your career while building good connections.