It’s no secret that some of our greatest memories come from spending time with friends. Friends keep us laughing and smiling, help us develop new ideas and skills, and provide us with an irreplaceable support system.
If you’re looking for fun things to do with your friends that will keep everyone entertained, make lasting memories, and bring out the best in each other, look no further! This ultimate list of things to do with friends has all the ideas you need to make the most of your time together.
We’ve organized our list into 10 categories (catch up, hang out at home, get creative, play games, learn something new, relax and unwind, enjoy music together, have fun outdoors, take a trip, and make a difference) so you can easily find ideas that fit your interests and what you want to do with the time you have with your friends. Enjoy!
1. Catch Up
If you last saw or spoke with your friend a while ago, it’s important to make time for catching up. A good conversation can be incredibly meaningful and help you cultivate your relationship and stay connected.
Phone Call
Call and catch up with your friend without the distractions of everyday life. Step into a private room and give yourself 20 minutes to talk. Ask questions about what’s going on in their lives and share your own stories.
If you need some help thinking of questions to ask, especially during subsequent calls, check out these happy questions to ask your friends.
Virtual Meeting
Even better than a phone call is a virtual meet-up. With the vast array of technology available, you can now connect with friends from anywhere in the world and see their smiling faces as you would if you were in the same room. Go on a walk together with video chat, or set up a virtual game or movie night to make the most of your time together.
Coffee or Lunch Date
If possible, meet up to grab a bite to eat or get some coffee. Pick a favorite local spot or a place you haven’t been to before so you can try something new together. Make this an ongoing tradition to solidify your friendship.
2. Hang Out At Home
You don’t need to go anywhere to have a great time with friends. Plan an evening with your friends at home and make it special!
Dinner Party
Invite your friend(s) for a home-cooked meal and some good conversation. You can supply the whole meal or have your friends each bring their favorite dish, drinks, or dessert. Consider hosting a themed dinner party for different holidays or special occasions.
Movie Night
Movie night is an easy way to relax after a long week while still spending quality time with your friends. Nothing beats curling up on the couch with popcorn and watching movies together as a guys or girls night in.
There’s something for everyone during a movie night, whether it’s old classics or new releases. Pick out some snacks beforehand, so all you have left to do is sit back and enjoy the show. You can even have a movie or TV show marathon and make it a whole day affair.
Murder Mystery Party
For a memorable evening, gather your friends for a murder mystery party. Whether you buy a pre-made kit or make up your own game, this is an interactive way to spend time with your friends. Everyone will get a chance to solve the mystery and have a blast in the process.
3. Get Creative
Creative activities are an excellent way for everyone to express themselves, laugh, and have a great time. Here are some ideas that will allow everyone to show off their crafty side.
Arts and Crafts
Set up an arts and crafts session with your friends. The possibilities are endless: painting, drawing, sculpting, scrapbooking, or even something more complicated like woodworking or jewelry-making. You and your friends will enjoy the process of creating and have keepsakes to show for it afterward.
Cook or Bake Together
Cooking and baking are enjoyable activities for many people – why not make them even more enjoyable by doing them with your friends? You can have fun experimenting with different recipes or trying out new ingredients. It’s also a great way to bond over food and learn about each other’s cultures and traditions. Plus, you can enjoy the delicious outcome of your hard work!
DIY Projects
If you’re feeling more adventurous, why not roll up your sleeves and tackle a DIY project together? Involve your friends in the entire process, from planning to building, and come up with something awesome. It’s fun to use your imagination and be creative as a team.
Vision Boards
If you’re looking for something more relaxing, why not make vision boards with your friends? Vision boards are a great way to imagine and plan for the future. You can spend time reflecting on your goals and dreams while also taking some time to appreciate the present. Doing this is a great way to bond with your friends and motivate each other.
4. Play Games
What better way to bond with friends than by playing a good game? Whether you’re looking for something competitive or fun, there’s a game out there to suit everyone.
Indoor Games
When the weather is lousy outside or if you want to spend a cozy night at home, you can enjoy plenty of indoor games with your friends.
Board Game Night
Board games are an excellent choice for those looking for some friendly competition. From classic favorites like Monopoly, Scrabble, or Clue to more modern offerings such as Cards Against Humanity or Exploding Kittens, there’s a board game for everyone.
Card Games
All you need is a pack of cards, and you can have hours of fun with your friends. Whether it’s Poker, Euchre, Go Fish, or even War, card games are a great way to have some harmless fun. Learn a new card game or brush up on an old favorite with your friends – you’re sure to have a blast.
If you have a group of four, try out the Vietnamese card game Tien Len (also known as 13)! It’s addictive – you and your friends have been warned!
Video Games
Video games can provide hours of digital entertainment with others in multiplayer mode. Get everyone together for a few rounds of Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros, or an interactive game on Nintendo Switch.
Trivia Night
Another great option for some fun competition is a trivia night. Gather your friends and test each other’s knowledge of sports, music, movies, and more. With a wide variety of topics available, everyone will have the opportunity to show off their expertise!
Outdoor Games
For those who want to get out of the house and enjoy the fresh air, there are plenty of options for outdoor activities. Sports competitions like basketball, volleyball, or soccer can bring out your competitive side, while leisurely activities such as frisbee or bocce ball offer a more relaxed approach.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try geocaching? It combines elements of hiking and treasure hunting into one exciting activity that keeps everyone entertained.
No matter what game you play with your friends, ensure everyone has a good time. Games should be enjoyable experiences where no one feels left out, so if someone isn’t enjoying themselves, take a break from playing until they feel better again. Remember that it’s all about having fun together.
5. Learn Something New
Challenge yourself and your friends to learn something new together. Not only will you get the chance to explore something that interests you, but it’s also an opportunity to bond with and learn more about each other. Learning a new skill also gives you something to celebrate together! No matter what you learn with your friends, it will be a memorable experience.
Book Club
If you’re a bookworm, why not gather your friends and start a book club? Everyone can read the same title each month and come together to discuss their thoughts and opinions. It’s a great way to explore new ideas and gain insights into different perspectives.
Cooking Class
If you’re looking for a fun and useful activity, a cooking class could be the perfect choice. Everyone can learn new recipes and techniques while enjoying delicious food and each other’s company. You can take a virtual cooking class together if you can’t be in the same physical space.
Dance Class
Dance classes are such a fun way to stay active and learn something new. They can be tailored to any skill level, so don’t be intimidated to give them a try. Whether tackling the tango or mastering the mambo, it’s an unforgettable experience full of laughter and joy.
Language Class
If you’re looking to brush up on your language skills or learn a new language altogether, there’s no better way than with the help of your friends. Taking a language class with your pals can be an incredible opportunity to bond while also challenging yourself mentally and immersing yourself in a new culture.
6. Relax and Unwind
With the hectic pace of life, it’s more important than ever to take a moment for you and your friends to relax. Plan an activity that allows everyone to forget the stresses of life and have a good time.
Spa Day
Enjoy a day of pampering and relaxation with friends at a spa. From facials to massages, spas offer many services that help you unwind. Spend some time in the sauna or steam room for an extra dose of relaxation. You can also enjoy treatments like body wraps, mud baths, and aromatherapy sessions together for an unforgettable experience.
Manicure/Pedicure
Pamper yourself and your friends with a manicure or pedicure. It’s a great way to relax, chat with your friends, and look fabulous at the same time! You can either go for a professional service or do it at home.
Yoga Class
Take your friendship to new heights by practicing yoga together. Yoga classes are great for physical and mental health benefits such as improved flexibility, increased strength, better posture, and reduced stress levels. Plus, it’s fun to do poses with your friends while laughing along the way. Look up local studios or online videos if you need access to a class near you.
Meditation
Meditation is one of the best ways to relax and find inner peace while connecting with others at the same time. Join a guided meditation session where everyone sits in silence together or try out mindful activities like walking meditations or breathwork exercises. Whatever type of meditation practice you choose will surely leave everyone feeling refreshed afterward.
7. Enjoy Music Together
Music has a unique power to bring people together. Here are some activities you can enjoy with your friends to make the most of your musical connection.
Virtual Dance Party
Set up a virtual dance party! Gather your friends and choose an upbeat, happy music playlist to get the party started. Take turns picking songs, then have a blast as you all dance along together from the comfort of your own homes.
Karaoke Night
Karaoke nights are another great way to enjoy music together with friends. Singing along to your favorite songs is always fun and makes for some hilarious memories. If you don’t feel comfortable singing in front of others, karaoke nights can also be enjoyed as spectators—cheering on your friends while they take center stage.
Open Mic Night
Attend an open mic night where local musicians and aspiring performers showcase their talents in front of an audience. Open mics provide a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can come out, have a few drinks, and support up-and-coming talent while having fun listening to different styles of music from all genres.
Live Concert
Whether you’re attending an outdoor music festival or an intimate venue for a single artist, there’s something special about experiencing live music with people you care about. From the crowd’s energy to the beat of the music, concerts can be a fun and memorable experience. So grab your friends and get ready to rock out!
8. Have Fun Outdoors
It’s a scientific fact that being outside makes you happy. Combine the great outdoors with your friends, and you’ve got the recipe for a fantastic day!
Picnic in the Park
A picnic in the park is an easy, inexpensive activity everyone can enjoy. Pack some snacks and drinks, find a spot under a tree or near a body of water, and relax together while you chat about your day.
Bike Ride
Get active by going on a bike ride around town or at nearby trails. Biking is an enjoyable way to explore new places and exercise without feeling too much of a workout. Plus, it’s always more fun when you ride with friends. Don’t forget to wear helmets for safety reasons!
Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts are a great way to explore your city and have some friendly competition along the way! Get creative and organize a scavenger hunt for your friends. Plan the route, hide items around town, and write out clues to help people find the hidden objects.
Explore Nature
Hiking
Whether in the mountains, forests or just around your local park, hiking can be a great way to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty. There are many local hiking trails to explore and enjoy with friends, so grab your backpacks and hit the trail.
Beach Trip
Taking a trip to the beach allows you and your friends to soak up some sun while enjoying the sound of waves crashing against the shoreline. Don’t forget to pack a beach ball, chairs, and plenty of sunscreen!
Camping
Camping adventures provide an opportunity for more intense exploration of nature and time spent bonding with friends over campfires and shared experiences in beautiful outdoor settings.
9. Take A Trip
Sometimes the best way to spend time with friends is by taking a mini-vacation together. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, traveling with friends is a great way to explore new places and create lasting memories.
Explore Your City
Exploring your own city can be the perfect solution if you’re looking for a low-cost way to travel with friends. Visit a botanical garden, go to a local museum, or tour the city’s historical sites. You’ll be surprised by the hidden gems you will discover in your city. You’ll also enjoy thinking about your time there with your friends whenever you pass by.
Sightseeing Tour
Sightseeing tours are a great option if you’re looking for a more structured trip. You can find sightseeing tours in cities worldwide that offer everything from walking tours to boat cruises. Take in all the sights while learning about local history and culture from experienced tour guides.
Weekend Getaway
Weekend getaways are perfect if you don’t have much time but still want to escape with your friends for a few days. Explore nearby towns or plan an overnight camping trip – whatever suits your fancy. Weekend getaways allow everyone to relax and recharge without taking too much time off work or school.
Road Trip
Road trips are a great way to explore the world with friends. Whether planning a cross-country adventure or simply driving to see all the major sites within your state, road trips can be an exciting and memorable experience. Pack your car with snacks, drinks, and music, and get ready for an unforgettable ride.
10. Make A Difference
Kindness matters. Taking action to bring positive change to your community is a great way to bond with your friends as you work together to make a difference. You might even make new friends in the process!
Volunteering
Volunteering is one of the most rewarding activities you can do with friends. Help out at a local animal shelter, serve meals to the homeless, or pick up trash at a nearby park – there are many ways to be kind and give back.
Fundraising
Organizing a fundraising event or charity drive is another great way to do good in your community. Find an organization that aligns with your values, and then get together with friends to plan a fundraiser. You can arrange a bake sale, car wash, or even an online donation drive to raise money for a good cause.
Final Thoughts
Spending time with friends is a great way to bond and make lasting memories. With so many different activities to choose from, it’s easy to find something that everyone will enjoy!
The fact is, friends are the key to good health and happiness, especially as we age. Making time to keep in touch with friends and plan activities together is essential for maintaining strong relationships. The time you spend with friends is well worth it, as it will make you happier, healthier, and more connected.
So, great job reading through this article and planning some fun activities with your friends. We hope you found lots of great ideas and can’t wait for you to create some amazing memories with your friends!
Happy planning and happy memories! 🙂
Want a simple system for keeping track of your friends and the fun moments you share with them? Check out the Do Happy App! The app helps you organize your friends and store memories and photos from your adventures. The app also helps you remember your friends’ birthdays and important dates so that you stay connected all year long. Download the Do Happy App today!
