New York City · Friendship & social connection
How to Make Friends in New York City
Meet people in NYC through book discussions, game nights, reading parties, and community activities. Find something you enjoy in a neighborhood you can get to easily.
Meet people through shared interests.
Find a local group or activityChoosing an activity
Choose something you enjoy
A book discussion, class, or game night gives you something to talk about. Compare the activity, location, and cost to find a good fit. The listings are independently selected, with no paid placements.
9 listings
Upcoming dates
Upcoming Events
Leonard Library Science Fiction Book Club – Market Forces
6:30 PM – 7:45 PM · New York time
Williamsburg · BrooklynLeonard Library, 81 Devoe St
Join other readers for a book discussion.
Check the event page for ticket prices.
Adults; all welcome; no registration required
Organizer: Brooklyn Public Library
View Event DetailsBoard Games for Adults – New Lots Library
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM · New York time
East New York · BrooklynNew Lots Library, 818 Schenck Avenue
Play board games with other adults at the library.
Check the event page for ticket prices.
Adults 18+
Organizer: Brooklyn Public Library
View Event DetailsClever Glow Party for Singles & Socialites
7:30 PM · New York time
Chelsea / NoMad · ManhattanThe Wilson, 132 W 27th St
Meet people at a glow-themed party for singles and socializing.
21+; open to anyone seeking social connections, not just singles
Organizer: NYC Brightest
View Event DetailsWriting Rhythms at Hotel Alameda
6:30 PM – 9:00 PM · New York time
Chelsea · ManhattanHotel Alameda, 518 W 27th St
Bring a writing project to work on alongside other writers.
Writers and aspiring writers; bring a writing project
Organizer: Reading Rhythms
View Event DetailsReading Rhythms Harlem Reading Party
6:45 PM – 9:00 PM · New York time
Hamilton Heights · ManhattanWinnie Said, 1624 Amsterdam Ave
Bring a book and spend time reading alongside other readers.
Organizer: Reading Rhythms
View Event DetailsReading Rhythms Greenpoint Reading Party
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM · New York time
Greenpoint · BrooklynSoft Bar + Cafe, 202 Banker St
Bring a book and spend time reading alongside other readers.
Organizer: Reading Rhythms
View Event DetailsMeet again
Regular Groups and Activities
Find groups and activities you can return to. Check each organizer’s calendar for upcoming dates and registration details.
Reading Rhythms NYC reading parties
Reading parties at locations around NYC. Check the calendar for dates and tickets.
Find reading parties around NYC and check the dates for your neighborhood.
Organizer: Reading Rhythms
View Group DetailsBrooklyn Public Library adult board games
Friday afternoon sessions listed for October 16 and 23. Check the library calendar for later dates.
Look for adult board game sessions at New Lots Library.
Organizer: Brooklyn Public Library
View Group DetailsCentral Park Conservancy community volunteering
Community volunteer days for adults 18 and older. Register in advance; some dates may be full.
Join a community volunteer day in Central Park. Advance registration is required; some dates may be full.
Organizer: Central Park Conservancy
View Group DetailsStart with an interest you already have
A book discussion or game night gives you something to talk about. Choose an activity you enjoy and a location you would be willing to visit again.
Check the cost before you sign up
Follow the event link for admission details. If no price is shown here, check with the organizer; it does not necessarily mean the event is free.
Keep in touch after a good conversation
If you enjoyed meeting someone, ask whether they are coming next time or would like to get coffee afterward. A regular group makes it easier to see the same people again.
Before you go
Frequently asked questions
How can I make friends in NYC if I’m new here?
Try an activity you enjoy and can attend again. Introduce yourself and take time to get to know people over a few visits.
What can I try besides running or volunteering?
Browse book discussions, reading parties, game nights, and writing sessions. Use the filters to find an activity you like.
Are all these events just for making friends?
No. Some social events also welcome people looking to date. Check the event description and audience details before signing up.
Can I attend alone?
Check the organizer’s event page for attendance rules and registration details. If you are unsure how the activity works, ask the host before you go.
How do I find a regular group near me?
Start with the Regular Groups and Activities section. Check the neighborhood and the organizer’s calendar for the next meeting.
About these listings
Dates, prices, and availability can change. Check the organizer’s website before you register or head out. For regular groups, check the calendar for the next meeting. This page highlights selected activities and does not cover every NYC event.
Read practical guidance on building friendships