Moving to a new city as an adult can be both exciting and daunting. While the prospect of new adventures and experiences is thrilling, the thought of leaving behind familiar faces and having to make a new friend group can be intimidating. This is especially true in a city like Los Angeles, where the hustle and bustle can make it difficult to forge meaningful connections.

But fear not! With a little effort and some insider tips, you can unlock the secret to making friends in Los Angeles as an adult. In this guide, we'll share some tried and true strategies for meeting new people, as well as some of our favorite spots for socializing in the City of Angels. Whether you're new to town or simply looking for the best way to expand your social circle, this guide will help you make the connections you need to thrive in Los Angeles.

The Challenge of Making Friends as an Adult

Making friends as an adult can be challenging. Unlike school or university, where you're surrounded by people your own age and with similar interests, adult life can be isolating. Many people find themselves working long hours, leaving little time for socializing. Others may be hesitant to put themselves out there and meet new people.

In Los Angeles, the challenge of making friends is compounded by the city's sprawling size and diverse population. With so many people from different walks of life, it can be difficult to find those with whom you share a connection. However, it is possible to find your tribe in some great local places in Los Angeles.

Understanding the Social Scene in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and vibe. From the trendy bars of Silver Lake to the laid-back beaches of Santa Monica, there is something for everyone in this city. To make the most of your social life in Los Angeles, it's important to understand the social scene in your particular neighborhood.

One of the best ways to get a sense of the social scene in your neighborhood is to attend local events and festivals. These can be a great way to meet new people and get a feel for the local culture. Many neighborhoods in Los Angeles also have their own online communities, which can be a great resource for finding out about events and meeting new people.

Join a Cooking Class

Cooking classes are a great way to meet new people and learn a new skill at the same time. Los Angeles has a thriving food scene, with a variety of cooking classes available for every taste and budget. Whether you're interested in learning to cook Thai cuisine or perfecting your baking skills, there is a class for you in Los Angeles.

One of the best things about cooking classes is that they provide a natural opportunity for conversation and connection. As you work together with your fellow students to prepare a meal, you'll have plenty of time to chat and get to know one another. And if you happen to hit it off with someone in the class, you can always plan to cook together again in the future.

Online Resources for Making Friends

The internet has revolutionized the way we meet people, and Los Angeles is no exception. There are a variety of online resources available for making friends in the city. One of the most popular is Meetup, a platform that connects people with similar interests in their local area.

Meetup groups in Los Angeles cover a wide range of interests, from hiking and fitness to book clubs and board games. Whatever your interests, chances are there is a Meetup group for you in Los Angeles. And if you can't find a group that suits your interests, you can always start your own.

Join an Online Community

In addition to Meetup, Los Angeles has a variety of online communities dedicated to connecting people with similar interests. These communities can be a great resource for finding out about local networking events and meeting new people, who knows you might bump into your childhood friends!

One of the most popular online communities in Los Angeles is Nextdoor, a neighborhood-based social network. Nextdoor allows you to connect with your neighbors, ask for recommendations, and stay informed about local news and events. It can be a great way to meet new people in your neighborhood and stay connected with the local community.

Get Social with a Sports Club

Los Angeles is a city of sports fans, and joining a sports club can be a great way to meet new people. Whether you're a fan of basketball, soccer, or volleyball, there are plenty of sports clubs in Los Angeles that cater to adults.

Sports clubs are a great way to not only improve your social life but also your social skills. Who knows, you might even meet your new best friend through the club. So why wait? Find a local sports club and start making new connections today!

Joining Events and Festivals

One of the best ways to meet new people in Los Angeles is to attend local events and festivals. Los Angeles is home to a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, from music festivals and food fairs to art shows and cultural celebrations.

Attending these events can be a great way to get out and find a decent sized group of like minded people. Participating in beach volleyball or soccer leagues or going to Coachella, FYF Fest, the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival, or the Taste of LA will offer many chances to meet locals and tourists who share a common interest.

Whether you are an art person or fitness enthusiast, there are festivals and groups that cater to your interests. For example, if you happen to like art, the LA Art Show, Downtown Art Walk, or LA Film Festival might interest you.

Similarly, marathons, triathlons, outdoor yoga, and hiking groups are also a great way to connect with people who share the same interests throughout the year.

Volunteering and Community Service

Volunteering is a classic and effective way to make friends in L.A. It's a great way for meeting people with common interests, such as your favorite band or a book club. By connecting with individuals who share your passions, you can expand your circle of friends.

Whether you're volunteering for organizations that focus on the environment, animals, education or homelessness, these often offer social gatherings and activities that are perfect for inviting people and making new connections.

Volunteering can enhance your well-being by creating meaningful connections and providing a sense of purpose, all while making a positive impact on the world. So, for those looking for the best way to make new friends in L.A and give back to the community, check out VolunteerMatch, Idealist, and Taproot Foundation, as they offer a wealth of information on opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who want to make a difference.

And if you hit it off with someone while volunteering, you can always plan to volunteer together again in the future.

Learn a New Subject with New People

As you learn together, you'll have plenty of opportunities to chat and get to know one person after another. With this approach, you can improve your abilities and meet new people in Los Angeles.

Joining a language, culinary, or yoga class can help you find friends who share your interests. In a language class, for example, you embark on a journey of linguistic exploration alongside fellow language enthusiasts. As you overcome challenges and engage in interactive exercises, conversations naturally flow, which builds friendship between strangers.

Similarly, culinary classes offer a collaborative and creative environment where you can bond with other food lovers. By sharing tips, recipes, and stories, you form strong bonds based on a shared passion for food.

If you prefer a more serene path, yoga classes provide a space for physical and mental well-being. As you flow through the different postures and breathe together, a sense of calmness comes over you. This makes it possible to get to know each other better and have more meaningful conversations.

The shared pursuit of knowledge brings people together, fostering a sense of belonging and support. Together, you can navigate challenges, celebrate wins, and make lasting connections that will make your time in Los Angeles more enjoyable.

Hone Your Culinary Skills and Win Over New Friends

Attending nearby cooking workshops is a great way to immerse yourself in Los Angeles' vibrant culinary scene and meet people. These workshops provide excellent networking opportunities as you engage with fellow food lovers who share your passion for exploring the culinary world.

To meet more people, consider exploring local food markets and specialty stores. As you move from one store to another, you get to engage in conversations with other foodies, exchange tips, and share your favorite recipes with them. Sharing a love of and excitement about food is a great way to make new friendships and start a new bond.

Organizing shared meals or cooking gatherings with people you just met can help you get to know them better. Host a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish they've cooked to show off their cooking skills. As you enjoy the tastes and exchange stories around the table, you'll discover commonalities and shared experiences that you've had together.

During your culinary adventures, you may meet people who would make valuable additions to your group. Approach them with an open mind and embrace their unique personalities and backgrounds. You never know where a friendship might take you! Sometimes, it can go beyond the initial connection over a shared interest in food and lead to exciting new experiences and ideas within your social circle.

Attend Trivia Night at a Local Bar

Trivia night at a local bar is a fun social experience and a great way to test your knowledge. Los Angeles is home to numerous bars hosting weekly trivia nights, making it an excellent option to unwind after work.

Picture yourself walking into a lively bar, where the air is charged with the excitement of fellow trivia lovers. As soon as people form or become part of a team, they feel a sense of belonging. Together, your team sets out to find answers to a wide range of questions about history, pop culture, science, and sports. When participating in friendly competition, discuss answers, respectfully debate viewpoints, and work on winning strategies.

Between breaks, conversations flow effortlessly. You have ample time to chat, share ideas, and get to know your teammates. Laughter and friendly conversation creates an inviting atmosphere, that makes it easy for people to get to know each other. Regardless of your trivia expertise, everyone has their own unique knowledge and experiences to contribute, creating an environment where everyone can learn and find something new.

Trivia night is more than just a display of intelligence, it provides insight into people's diverse backgrounds. Engaging conversations can go beyond trivia and get into shared passions, personal stories, and common experiences. These deep conversations can lead to long-lasting bonds that go beyond just trivia nights.

Also, Trivia nights lets you explore various bars and places in Los Angeles, each of which has its own vibe. Whether you prefer cozy neighborhood bars or chic popular spots, the trivia tour will take you to new places and connect you with people, who share your love for friendly competition and intellectual challenges.

All in All

Although it may seem like a challenge, with unwavering determination, it's possible to make genuine connections as an adult in Los Angeles. Whether you're joining a cooking class, attending local events and festivals, or volunteering in your community, there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make lasting friendships in this city of angels. So get out there, explore your neighborhood, and make some new friends!