Conquering the Mile High City: Your Guide to Befriending Denver's Denizens
Ah, Denver. Land of epic mountain views, craft beer that would make Zeus jealous, and...a nagging sense of solitude if you're new in town. Fear not, fellow adventurer! Carving out your social circle in the Mile High City is an achievable feat, even if those mountains seem to mock your friend-finding efforts from afar. Here's your survival guide, Denver newbie:
How To Make Friends In Denver |
Step 1: Ditch the Isolation Station
First things first, shed the hermit crab persona. Denver boasts a thriving social scene, you just gotta shimmy on in there! Hit the pavement: Explore your neighborhood! Local coffee shops are prime people-watching grounds. Strike up a conversation about the barista's questionable mustache or that dog in a sweater – Denverites love their furry friends (and a good laugh at a questionable 'stache).
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
Step 2: Embrace Your Inner Nerd (or Jock, or Bookworm)
Who says making friends can't involve learning a new skill or indulging in your passions? Denver has a Meetup group for everything from underwater basket weaving (probably) to competitive cheese-rolling (cheese not included, but definitely encouraged).
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.
Finding Your Tribe:
- The Thrill Seekers: Hiking clubs, rock climbing gyms, or that cult that worships squirrels at Washington Park – Denver caters to the adventurous.
- The Creative Souls: Unleash your inner Picasso at a painting and wine night, or join a pottery class and bond over misshapen mugs.
- The Brainiacs: Book clubs, science cafes, or that same squirrel-worshipping cult (they're surprisingly intellectual) – cerebral connections can blossom too!
Step 3: Adulting Doesn't Mean No Fun
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
Remember dodgeball in gym class? Recapture that magic (minus the dodgeball-induced injuries) with Denver's many adult sports leagues. You'll score points on the field and with potential BFFs who share your questionable athletic abilities.
Step 4: Cheers to New Friends!
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
Denver's craft beer scene is legendary. Hit up a brewery with a friend (or go solo, someone's bound to strike up a conversation over an IPA). Breweries often host trivia nights, board game gatherings, or live music – all perfect opportunities to meet people in a fun, social setting. Just remember, while Denverites are friendly, don't be that person who mistakes the bartender for your new therapist.
Bonus Tip: Don't Be a Flake
Making friends takes effort. Show up, be present, and reciprocate invitations. Building friendships is a two-way street, and nobody likes the person who cancels plans more times than you can count on your non-existent mountain goat herd.
FAQ:
- How to find Meetups in Denver? Easy! Head to
and search for groups that tickle your fancy.Meetup - How about those adult sports leagues? A quick Google search for "Denver Adult Sports Leagues" should get you started.
- What are some good conversation starters at a brewery? Compliment their taste in beer, ask about their favorite local hike, or simply remark on the questionable mustache of the guy two stools down (see Step 1).
- Is it weird to go to an event alone? Absolutely not! Tons of people do it. Plus, it shows you're proactive and open to meeting new people.
- I'm still nervous, any words of encouragement? Denver is full of friendly faces (some with questionable mustaches, but friendly nonetheless). Just put yourself out there, embrace the adventure, and remember – the worst that happens is you make a new "avoid at all costs" story for future parties.