Are you single? Want to meet other singles? Are you tired of going out with friends, only to feel like a third wheel?
If so, you need to know where to meet singles. If you’re feeling lonely and left out, don’t worry! You can meet your perfect match in no time at all! In this article, you’ll learn:
- Where to meet singles without a whole lot of effort
- The easiest way to meet single who share your interests
- How to find a date and stop feeling like a third wheel
Ready to meet your match? Here are the 16 best places to meet singles!
1. Online dating sites
This one’s pretty much a no-brainer! Online dating sites play host to millions of people, just like you, who aren’t sure where to meet singles. There are hundreds of dating sites, and there are even many “specialized” ones. You’ll find sites tailored to you based on your interests, your ethnicity and more.
Play around with one or two of the free sites and see if there’s anything that seems interesting. Hold off on paying for a site until you’re sure you’re familiar with how the site works. Then, have fun! Swipe and click as much as you like – there are thousands of matches who are waiting for you!
- There are millions of singles on dating websites
- Many dating websites are specialized based on interest and more
- Hundreds of online dating sites are free, so don’t be afraid to play around!
2. The bar
Another no-brainer, but it’s not for everyone. Meeting singles at the bar is a crapshoot. You might either find singles who are lonely like you are, or you might find people who are just out to find a one night stand. At the worst end of it, you might find someone who’s just there to get sloppy drunk and will have no interest in you anyway.
The bar isn’t really one of the top places we recommend for you to find singles, but it certainly is an option. If you’re not necessarily looking for a love at first sight, long-term thing, you might be able to get a date at the bar.
- When you meet singles at the bar, you might run into any number of types
- Many barfly singles are just looking for a fling
- Meeting singles at the bar isn’t our first choice, but it’s an option
3. Singles groups
Yes! They do exist! There are many singles groups, both online and in real life, that play host to people looking for their ideal match. Some of these groups are based on interest like, say, mountain climbing. Others are just location based. For example, there may be a group called London Singles.
These groups are a great way to meet singles, and they’re also a terrific way to meet friends. When you meet people at a singles group, there’s a very high probability that they’re single, too. So going out to eat with a group of them means you’ll never be a third wheel!
- Singles groups are out there for groups of single people to get together
- These groups are both online and in person
- Singles groups are great for finding a partner… and for finding friends!
4. The health club
There’s a good chance that, if you’re a member of a health club, you’ve been “hit on” before. No one likes that, so don’t stalk an attractive person at the gym. It’s pretty much a sure bet you’re going to be shot down from go.
However, the health club is definitely a great way to meet singles like yourself. Obviously they’re either fit or they want to be, just like you. They’re interested in taking care of themselves, just like you. Why not introduce yourself to that guy over there in your spin class, or the girl you’re doing Zumba with? You never know, you might hit it off.
- Health clubs are a good way for fitness-minded people to meet
- Take it easy, though. Don’t be stalky about it.
- Join a class at your gym and see who you meet!
5. The dog park
You know how mommy groups and daddy groups often meet at playdates and at the park? Well, if you’ve got a furry friend you can do the same thing. You don’t have to have kids to meet other people. Instead, take Rover out to the local dog park and play the day away.
Single people who are at the dog park have something in common with you: they love dogs, too. That means you’re not going to accidentally begin dating a cat person, which is a bonus for dog lovers. See someone who catches your eye? There’s nothing saying you can’t invite him or her over so that your dogs can have a playdate! Go for it!
- You’ll meet singles who love dogs at the dog park – cat people need not apply!
- You don’t have to have kids yet – furry people are like children, too
- Dogs can have playdates, so why not ask?
6. At the football game
Or baseball, or rugby, or whatever sport you’re interested in. If you’re into sports, the Big Game is a great way to meet singles who are, too. And that’s not just limited to professional sports, either! Little League counts, as do university athletics events.
There’s something you should keep in mind, though. If you’re not interested in sports, it’s best not to take this route. You may find yourself trapped in a relationship where you have very few interests in common. That’s not helpful to anyone.
- Sporting events attract singles – just look for the guy/girl who came alone
- If you’re not interested in sports, this trick won’t work for you
- The game you attend doesn’t have to be expensive – junior sports are just as good a venue
7. At speed dating events
We have a love/hate relationship with speed dating. On the one hand, you’ll get to meet a great many people in a short amount of time. On the other hand, you’ll only have a few minutes to vet whether they’re the type of person you’re interested in seeing again.
If you choose to attend speed dating events, bring a stack of little “business cards” with your name and phone number. When you chat with someone who may be interesting, just slip the card across the table. It’s a time saver, and it’ll be memorable.
- Speed dating events offer an opportunity to talk with many singles
- You won’t have a long time to get to know them
- Be prepared: bring calling cards with you to speed up the number exchange
8. Through your friends
There’s a pretty good chance your friends already know you’re single. But they may not realize that you don’t want to be. Get the word out that you’re looking to meet someone, and they can help you meet singles. The good news is that they know you well, and probably won’t recommend anyone who’s not compatible with you.
There’s a downside to this, though. The bad news is that when your friends introduce you to their friends, you’ll feel obligated to your friend. For example, if Sally hooks you up with Jonathan, who smells like body odor and has spinach in his teeth, you won’t want to immediately reject him. Just bear that in mind when you meet your friends’ single friends.
- Your friends may know you’re single, but may not know you’re looking
- Let your buddies know you’re looking for a match
- Be careful when meeting your friends’ friends as you’ll feel added obligation to date someone you may not be attracted to
9. At hobby-centric events
No idea what we’re talking about? Well, there are a few events out there that are good options for meeting singles, and they’re based on hobbies. Some may be based on learning new skills. For instance, in some places in the world there are get togethers where people will sip beer and throw axes. Yes, you heard right. In other places, there are Sip and Paint events, where you’ll taste wine and paint pictures.
Not all of these events are centered around alcohol, don’t worry! You can go gem-mining, wall climbing, trampoline jumping… you name it, it’s out there. So if you want to know where to meet singles, look no further than your next new hobby!
- Many communities around the world host events that are centered on hobbies
- You can choose from a wide variety – athletic, food based or just plain bizarre
- Have fun and try a few – if you don’t meet a mate at least you’ve got a new hobby!
10. Through social media
There are thousands of people out there who have met their spouses via social media. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram… whatever your favorite platform, it can be a good place to meet singles. Of course, there are always precautions you should take, whether you’re meeting singles online or in person.
Don’t forget that not everyone on the web is who they say they are. Always meet in a public place and never give out your home address on the first (or second or third) date.
Also be mindful that this person is, in some way, in your circle of friends. If things go pear-shaped, that could impact friendships around you.
The plus side of sites like Facebook is that it will say right there in black and white: single. There’s no beating around the bush and having to ask.
- Social media is an easy and convenient way to meet singles
- Be mindful of who you’re really talking to – check him or out fully first
- Also be wary of dating people within your social circle
11. At the laundromat
Oh, yes. This is a commonly overlooked place, but it’s actually an awesome way to meet singles. Picture it: you’ve just thrown your towels into the washer and realize you’ve forgotten your book. Rather than run home, you decide just to sit down with one of the magazines on the shelf.
Suddenly, you’re approached by a single who, as luck would have it, has also forgotten their book. You strike up a conversation and the rest is history!
Laundromats are more frequently visited by single folk than by people who are married. Once you throw that load in, you’ve got nothing to do for 30 minutes. Why not strike up a conversation with that hot guy sitting across the room? Just be careful when you take that load of underthings out of the dryer.
- Single people are more likely to go to the laundromat than married people
- Laundromats offer the benefit of idle time
- Idle time is a great excuse to strike up a conversation
12. At company functions
It’s really never a good idea to get involved with someone at the workplace – but that’s not what we mean. What we mean is, for instance, joining the company’s softball team. Or going to networking events. Even corporate sponsored trainings can offer up possibilities for meeting singles.
Be sure that your socializing doesn’t get in the way of your official business, but don’t be afraid to have fun! If it’s allowed, invite a few people out for drinks or lunch, and just see where the day leads you!
- It’s not a good idea to date someone you work with
- You can meet people in similar industries at company functions
- Be professional, but do have fun!
13. At volunteering events
If there’s a cause that’s near and dear to your heart, keep a look out for singles while you volunteer! You may regularly do roadside trash pickup. Maybe you volunteer at the animal shelter. You might even be the type to volunteer as an usher at a concert or other event.
Other people do, too! If there’s a cause you’re interested in, why not match up with someone who’s passionate about the same thing. Don’t be pushy, of course. No one likes their volunteer experience to turn into an episode of The Bachelor. But do introduce yourself and make small talk. Be subtle, but don’t be afraid to invite him or her out for drinks after the event.
- If you’re passionate about a case, why not find a partner who is, too?
- Don’t turn the volunteer experience into drama
- Introduce yourself, then see where the conversation leads
14. Within your religious group
Whether you’re Jewish, Muslim, Catholic or atheist, there are events you can participate in. We don’t just mean your regular religious service, either. It’s time to break away from seeing the same faces week after week and meet others who share your religious beliefs.
You can do this online, easily! There are online dating sites for people of all faiths. You can also check local community events in the newspaper or on the bulletin board of your place of worship.
Please be respectful, though. If you’re not Jewish, don’t go to an event in the hopes of meeting a Jewish girl. That goes for all religions. Be real and be honest when you meet singles through religious groups.
- There are many ways you can meet singles who share your faith
- Step outside your place of worship and meet some new faces!
- Be respectful: don’t pretend to be something you’re not.
15. At your college campus
If you’re a university student, it’s so easy to meet singles! All you have to do is not go home after classes. Many students make the mistake of immediately returning home after a lecture is dismissed. Don’t do that! Instead, stop by the food court or the coffee shop. Join a group that reflects your personal interests.
Of course, it’s important to study. But if your lecture lasts 90 minutes, what’s another 30 to stick around school and see who you can meet! Better yet, why not ask that hot guy over there if he’d help you with your calc homework?
- Spend time on campus to meet plenty of singles
- Consider joining a group that you’re interested in, whether it’s basketweaving or physics club
- Don’t hesitate to approach someone who’s in the same class as you to be your study buddy
16. While you travel
This one is for those of you who may not love being single, but aren’t really looking for a long-term relationship, either. You can always find someone to hang out with while you’re on vacation.
Vacation tends to bring out the adventure in all of us. Whether you’re travelling to the next town over or across the ocean, people on holiday tend to be a bit more open to doing things they normally wouldn’t. That doesn’t mean anything lecherous, either! We just mean you’re more likely to get a “yes” when you ask someone for drinks while on vacation than while at home.
- Vacation dates aren’t “forever relationships” but they’re a good way to get company
- People who are on vacation are happier and more adventurous
- Don’t be afraid to ask … and don’t be afraid to say yes, either!
Conclusion
Sometimes, being single is tough. You may feel like you have no one to share with, or may feel like a third wheel when you’re out with friends. Don’t worry! It doesn’t have to be that way! There are plenty of places you can meet singles like yourself. Think outside the box and don’t be afraid to explore new hobbies!
