How To *Actually* Meet People IRL This Summer

It’s no secret at all that we’re all collectively sick of dating apps. I deleted all of mine almost a year ago and have never looked back. Aside from the thought of having to read yet another person put something about The Office or “pineapples on pizza” on their profile, which made me actually want to vomit, I just never had a successful experience on a dating app. Sure, I’ve gone on dates with people I’ve met on Tinder and Hinge, but were they quality? Not even close. And I’m not alone. Younger generations are steering away from dating apps entirely, and I don’t blame them at all.

While I think it’s great that we’re mostly all leaving dating apps behind, it does leave the question: Where the fuck do I meet people then?

A little context here: I go out with my friends a lot. We brunch, we club, we hike — we’re pretty well-rounded when it comes to outside activities. And yet, we have such a hard time meeting people. And when we do meet people, let’s just say I wouldn’t bring any of them to meet my mom… or even the friends that are with me.

So we decided to be really intentional about doing activities where we can meet other people. Listen, I already know it’s a hot girl summer, but hot girls go on dates, too. And if we all want to live out our Sex and the City fantasies (without Big, of course), then we have got to start meeting and mingling with people.

Here are ways you can actually meet people this summer. So delete that app and get outside, girl.

Image Credit: Photo by cottonbro studio via Pexels

Look Confused At A Home Depot

If you want someone who knows how to build things, I suggest going to Home Depot with some sort of basic project in mind and going from aisle to aisle looking flustered and confused until someone beautiful and handy comes and saves the day.

Join A Run Club

Okay, I know. I’d rather eat jeans than run. But if you’re someone who doesn’t mind running (aka, you’re better than everyone else), there are so many city-wide run clubs you can join. And hello, an attractive person who cares about their health? You’re welcome. Oh, and yeah, you know, it’s good for your health, too, or whatever.

Do Work At A Cafe

I love trying out new cafes because it just makes me feel like I’m doing something positive with my day. Plus, I’m a total slut for an iced caramel latte. I suggest bringing your laptop or a book with you and just spending the day at a cafe. You’ll either hit it off with the really hot barista or have a beautiful stranger ask you what you’re reading.

Try A New Workout Class

If run club isn’t your thing (because you’re normal), it can be fun to try out a new workout class. Something about communal exercise really makes people horny. Whether you want to try yoga or spin, you’re bound to meet someone else who’s also into trying new things (aka you).

Dating Events

I know this may sound dreadful, but hear me out for a second! Just because dating apps weren’t your thing doesn’t mean all dating-related things are bad. Sometimes, it’s helpful to be in an environment where people are actively looking to date. Speed dating, mixers, even alumni events — you can meet like-minded people who are all there for the same reason.

Let Your Dog Loose At A Dog Park

Put your sluttiest outfit on and take your dog to the dog park. You’ll have fun with your dog and just try to stick around until your dog happens upon a super attractive stranger’s dog.

Try An Improv 101 Class

Hear me out: Apparently, an improv class is the best way to meet someone. I have a friend who lost their virginity to someone they met at Improv. You can find someone who is quick on their feet and probably funny, and based on what type of things they improvise, you can learn a lot about the way they think.

Join Some Kind Of Intramural Sport

Especially volleyball, apparently. Like I said, exercise makes people horny. So, when you’re working with a teammate, you might find someone you really mesh well with.

Attend IRL Events Thrown By Your Fave Content Creators

If you have a favorite social media account or podcast, odds are that they’re hosting things catered to their audience like mixers and other live events. For example, our very own U Up? hosts tons of mixers that you can sign up for. See you there!