It can be hard making friends as an adult — and even more so with how hectic San Jose life can be.

But whether you’re new to the great 408, or have been a local all your life — there are so many ways to meet new people, and we’ve gathered a few places where you can start.

Step up your selfie game by joining a hiking group. | Photo by SJtoday staff

Get active

Looking for bike-minded people? The Silicon Valley Biking Coalition organizes social rides around town and educational workshops.

Wanna go the distance? This South Bay Hiking Meetup is not afraid of a challenge. Have kiddos? No problem — there’s a hiking group for that too.

Feeling young at heart? Join San Jose’s adult dodgeball league, the San Jose Pickleball Club, an ultimate frisbee meetup group, or bust out your roller skates with SJ Roll Call.

Find a hobby

According to this survey, San Jose was ranked the ninth most creative city in the US. If you want to join in the creativity, consider art classes at the School of Visual Philosophy or Art Boutiki’s weekly Drink & Draw.

Make friends by showing off your fighting game skills at one of Guildhouse's many competitive events. | Photo by SJtoday staff

Game on

Wanna find your Player Two? We’ve got you covered whether you prefer "Super Smash Bros." or board games. There is also Guildhouse for board + video games, and Miniboss for arcade games.

LGBTQ+ folks should check out Oddizens, and the Billy DeFrank LGBTQ+ Community Center's various events — which welcome geeks, gamers, and crafters of all identities.

Get cooking

Sharpen your knife skills, or get cracking on a new recipe at Cultivate Culinary Gatherings.

Your kids will also enjoy classes at Cucina Bambini + TasteBuds — which also offers classes for adults.

Learn about sustainability through Veggielution and Garden To Table Silicon Valley.

Karaoke at 7 Bamboo Lounge is a great way to *show your musical chops* and meet new people. | Photo courtesy @doritapcbh

Express yourself

Not afraid of the spotlight? O’ Flaherty’s Pub, 7Bamboo + Renegades Bar host regular karaoke nights where you can duet with your future best friend.

Hone your comedy and poetry chops at Nirvana Soul After Dark and San Jose Improv’s Open Mic — and meet other creatives at the San Jose Poetry Slam.

Get groovin’ with the San Jose pod of the Dance Church, which offers a safe space for people to celebrate each other through the medium of movement.

Rock on

Find like-minded music fans when you rock out to local acts with weekly concerts at Mama Kin, The Caravan Lounge, Art Boutiki, and The Ritz.

Or, if you’re into the more experimental fare, SJZ Breakroom features intimate performances, too.

For more opportunities to get out and meet new people, head to our events page, with 100+ San Jose events to check out every month.