How to Make Friends in Boise

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Just moved to Boise and looking to make friends? Luckily, Boise is one of the friendliest places on earth. People are drawn to Boise for its neighborly feel, where folks will wave hello as they pass, making you feel at home and find meaningful connections. Here are some ways to meet like-minded people and build community in Boise and beyond!

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• Idaho Adventure Women. This group is a community of adventurous women who share a love for nature, self-love, and genuine connections. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a nature enthusiast, or new to adventure, this group is your space to share experiences, seek advice, and connect with like-minded ladies. They host outdoor trips, post tips, and most importantly, create community. You can join their Facebook group here.

• Cycling Groups. There is a wide variety of cycling groups in Boise, from clubs for experienced riders looking to push themselves to group rides for any level. Check out this site for info on a few popular cycling clubs. 

• Walking/Hiking Groups. With the beautiful foothills and Greenbelt, there is no shortage of great walking and hiking trails in Boise. There are a few different groups that are focused on hiking and walking, such as the Idaho Hiking Club.

• Run Clubs. If you are a runner, one of the many Boise running groups is a great way to get out and meet fellow runners. This site has a list of the run groups in Boise, with something for everyone.

Downtown Nightlife:

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Downtown Boise comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene on evenings and the weekends and is a great place to meet people. From unique cocktail lounges like The Mode Lounge, to breweries like Barbarian, to lively bars such as Humpin’ Hannah’s, there's no shortage of places to embrace a night on the town. The streets of 6th and Main Street are lined with a variety of different bars, and it's the perfect place to meet new people, sip on locally crafted drinks, and experience the heart of Boise’s social scene.

Trivia Nights: 

Trivia nights are a great way to break the ice and connect with others. Local bars and breweries like Payette Brewing and Clairvoyant Brewing host trivia nights where teams are often formed on the spot, making it easy to join in the fun. The fun-focused, laid-back atmosphere encourages conversation and collaboration, helping you bond over shared knowledge (or hilarious wrong answers!). Check out this site for a list of the different trivia nights in Boise, and don’t be afraid to show up solo!

Community Events:

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Boise’s calendar is packed with events year round. From farmer’s markets and art walks to food festivals and live music at the iconic Treefort Music Fest, there’s always something happening. These events are perfect opportunities to strike up conversations with fellow attendees and meet people with similar interests. Check out this blog for a list of September events in Boise.

Volunteer:

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One of the best ways to meet new people while giving back to the community is through volunteering. Boise has numerous nonprofits and organizations that rely on volunteers. Whether you're interested in helping out at a local animal shelter such as the Idaho Humane Society, participating in river cleanups, or contributing to community gardens, volunteering is a great way to meet people who are passionate about making a difference.