50 Creative Places to Hang Out With Friends

We all want a vibrant social life and enjoy time with friends. But let's face it, constant outings that involve spending a lot of money can get overwhelming. While occasional splurges are fun, budgeting becomes tricky when every weekend involves water parks, shopping sprees, or movie nights. This pressure on our wallets can even lead to frustration when kids resort to texting instead of seeking out free activities.

Here's where a little help comes in. Students often face deadlines and heavy workloads that can interrupt their free time. That’s where essay writing services can be a lifesaver. By delegating essay writing tasks, students can free up valuable hours to explore the amazing (and free!) hangout options with their friends, fostering those crucial social connections without worrying about deadlines.

50 Creative Hang-Out Places

1. Kick a ball at the park

Let’s start with the basics. Just because you've aged doesn't mean activities have become less enjoyable. Tossing or kicking a ball around in the park presents a great opportunity for conversation while enjoying the fresh air outside.

2. Take a picnic somewhere

Continue embracing the outdoor motif by bringing your lunch to a park, on a hike through the woods, to the shoreline, or simply enjoy it in your backyard if that's your only option. Spending time outdoors and having access to areas with greenery is essential for maintaining good health. Therefore, it's logical to maximize the amount of time spent outdoors. Additionally, organizing a picnic with your friends can be very enjoyable – it's a great idea for everyone to contribute by bringing something to share.

3. Make something

As you're preparing lunch, take a moment to ponder other activities you could do with your pals. Gather your companions and combine the talents and abilities you all possess (or even acquire new ones as a group). You might think about activities such as:

• Knit trauma teddies for the Red Cross to disseminate among children hospitalized;
• Nothing fosters camaraderie quite like the shared experience of baking classic biscuits;
• Restore an old piece of furniture you find on the side of the road;
• Create, develop, and refine a video on a topic significant to your team;
• Build a garden bed;
• Feed the birds.

4. Have a spa day

Facial treatments and massages can cost a lot when professionally done, yet they are incredibly affordable when you do them yourself. A gathering of female friends might be more inclined to pamper each other with facials and hair makeovers.

5. Play tennis

Even if you're not great at tennis, don't worry. You're bound to improve if you keep practicing. Renting tennis courts can be quite affordable when split among a group, and you might even find some options at no cost. Inquire with your local government to see what facilities can be used in your vicinity, or reach out to your school to find out if you can use the tennis courts when they're not in use for regular activities. Consider organizing a tournament.

6. Go to free concerts

While you may not be attending live performances from acts like Hilltop Hoods or Eminem, seeking out complimentary musical events is undoubtedly advantageous and forms the perfect method for an enjoyable time with acquaintances. Take, for example, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney. You can enjoy complimentary admission to the museum every three months, where live music, food, and workshops are available. Everything is offered at no cost. Alternatively, explore the forthcoming events in your local area (remember, not every event may cater exclusively to those under 18).

7. Get into board games

There's a justification for the continued existence of board games despite the allure of video games: they're equally fantastic! Many excellent options are available for older children. Consider giving one of these a go:

• Catan. It is a tactical game designed for 3 to 4 participants, where every player must strategically manage their assets to construct the most productive and expansive colony on the island of Catan. It's an entertaining, lively game that can be completed within one to two hours.

• Risk. The objective is to conquer the globe. You must use your military forces to claim land and fend off enemy attacks. Victory depends on both your tactical skills and the favorable outcome of dice rolls. This game can be extensive and drawn out, potentially lasting several days. Alternatively, it can be played swiftly, allowing you to achieve global supremacy before the evening meal.

• Dungeons and Dragons. Due to the popularity of the show "Stranger Things," Dungeons and Dragons has made a significant comeback. It's quite astonishing to consider that this game has been around for over 45 years and has a player base that includes individuals who have been engaged with it since the beginning. This endeavor certainly has a formula for success. Essentially, it's a group storytelling experience similar to "Choose Your Own Adventure," but the sense of fellowship among the participants sustains their engagement over time. Be advised, however, that it can become highly captivating for some individuals.

• Cards Against Humanity. Occasionally, engaging in this activity might be considered impolite, scandalous, and utterly repulsive. Make sure to get permission from your parents before diving into this imaginative and witty game. The official age guideline suggests it suits those aged 18 and over.

8. Volunteer your time

Every neighborhood, irrespective of its location, benefits from the involvement of older children to maintain its vitality, and it becomes an enjoyable experience when you offer your time to help alongside your peers. This could include activities such as filling boxes for charitable causes. Whether flipping sausages at Bunnings for Rotary or engaging in other activities, plenty of opportunities are available. Explore additional volunteering possibilities for those aged 14 to 18 and beyond.

9. Binge-watch a new show

Certainly, it might just be a television or computer display, but it is an incredibly entertaining experience. Enjoying a series you and your friends mutually invest in can be communal entertainment. You'll often find yourselves stopping the show to discuss the storyline or to express frustrations about a particular character. Organize these viewing sessions as a recurring event (perhaps every Tuesday afternoon for a few hours), and you'll appreciate the regular opportunity to hang out with friends away from the school environment.

10. Cook together

Although that's an option, you don't need to turn your baking into a competitive event like on MasterChef. Instead, simply preparing some muffins or a tasty treat for your school lunches can be a delightful weekend activity to enjoy together. Consider preparing multiple dishes at once to increase the options. Invite your friends to contribute by bringing their preferred recipes. Below are a few favorites of ours:

• Crispy date slice;
• Easy apple muffins;
• Blueberry and yogurt loaf;
• Zucchini and carrot slice;
• Date loaf;
• Lemon and coconut muffins.

11. Take a beach trip

Certainly, living close to the beach makes this easier, but it's still a worthwhile endeavor even if you're farther away. You may have to dedicate an entire day to a train ride to reach the seaside, but it's a decision you'll never regret. Visiting the beach is essential in any season.?

Ensure you bring a beach umbrella or tent, extra towels, snacks, and a good water supply and set up your spot. Fill your day with swimming, exploring tidal pools, playing beach cricket (remembering that being in the water means you're out), and building in the sand. And if you end up dozing off on your way back home, that's a sign you've spent your day well.

12. Hang by the fire pit

Ensure you consult fire advisories before igniting a fire pit in your backyard or elsewhere. If the fire authorities give you the green light, gather wood. Preparing a sausage meal over the burning embers is also possible. Next, indulge in a bag of sticky, toasted marshmallows for a sweet treat. Naturally, you should also prepare your most engaging tales, as the long conversations by the fire highlight the experience.

13. Play cards

In the past, people used to play card games to enjoy themselves with their peers. Poker, Rummy, and the complex game of Bridge were all popular options. Card games provided an engaging opportunity to forge stronger connections with friends. Why not pick one of these card games to play this upcoming weekend??

14. Host a dinner party

How sophisticated! Go for it! Flaunt your culinary talents (even if they're not quite there yet) by inviting your friends for a formal dinner gathering. Encourage them to dress nicely, lower the light settings, get your music playlist going, and relish the experience of eating together. Hopefully, they'll pitch in with the tidying up afterward. And let's not forget the amusement that can come from playful dishcloth battles...

15. Make Spotify playlists

Gather before your evening gathering (as mentioned previously) and engage in this activity. Begin by sharing the top three song selections of all time, and everyone is welcome to contribute without criticism. Then, explore various music periods, styles, and specially curated playlists for different events.

16. Make YouTube playlists

Similarly, with YouTube, post your favorite channels to follow or even quirky videos you've stumbled upon. Broaden your viewing habits and push yourself to learn new information, tackle everyday issues, or explore unfamiliar destinations.

17. Play ‘Would You Rather’

This timeless game is popular because it's an incredibly enjoyable way to be curious with friends. Your intimate knowledge of your school friends is unique, and this traditional game elevates that experience. It offers a great selection of question prompts to enhance the fun.

18. Ride the trains

Grab a local train network map, and randomly pick a location by pointing at it with your eyes shut. That random spot is your next train stop. While on route, use Google to look up activities and delve into the local history of that place. Once you get there, go on an adventure, enjoy food, and discover new aspects of your town. Repeat the process for another spontaneous trip. Just remember to be courteous and avoid causing any disturbances!

19. Try new hairstyles

TikTok videos can teach you various skills, including styling trendy bangs. You and your friends can alternate styling each other's hair into sophisticated updos. Play around with different hair tools by straightening, curling, and adding fun with colorful hair spray and embellishments. Don't forget to create some 'practical' hairstyles appropriate for school. While girls might typically enjoy devoting a day to this activity, it would be great for boys to join in on the fun.

20. Go camping

Many of us have a nearby camping spot we can retreat to with relative ease. Organize your weekend, pitch a tent, and relish the time spent outside, free of worries, with your favorite people. If you don't own camping equipment, chances are someone in your circle of friends or neighborhood does. Create a simple meal prep and cleanup schedule, but keep the vibe relaxed and effortless to ensure the most fun. Should any of your friends be guitarists, don't forget to ask them to bring their instruments. Singing your favorite songs loudly and out of tune under the night sky, with no one to critique you, is an unparalleled pleasure.?

21. Go on a long bike ride

When was the last time you went cycling? We're guessing it's been some time, but ideally it hasn't. Persuade an agreeable parent to drive you to a picturesque location hospitable to bicyclists and set off on a ride. Bring along some food and a good amount of water, and let the day's adventure unfold. For those in good shape and daring, mountain biking can be exciting to enjoy with pals. Keep in mind to pace yourselves according to the least quick rider in the group.?

22. Eat brunch

Organizing a dinner that suits everyone's schedule can be challenging, but Sunday brunch is a good time for most children to join. Brunch is often considered the most delicious meal. It can be quite affordable if you prepare it at home – cooking eggs and bacon on the grill alongside roasted tomatoes and oven-heated hash browns can make for a tasty meal.

23. Visit a gallery

The numerous museums and art galleries you were reluctantly taken to as a child are quite interesting. Consider giving them another shot. Get a bunch of friends together and act like you're an art experts while touring the displays. Keep an eye out for events specifically tailored to the interests of older children and teenagers. Sydney's Museum of Contemporary Art offers a remarkable experience.?

24. Interview each other

Install the camera and act like a famous personality giving interviews. You may either adopt a humorous persona or remain true to yourself and respond sincerely. It's both enlightening and entertaining.?

25. Go for a run

If there’s a park run in your area, you should try it with your companions. Consider getting together once a week, engaging in an activity that boosts your health while you all enjoy yourselves – sounds great, doesn't it? If there isn’t a parkrun nearby, why not create your own??

Choose a route around where you live and agree to meet simultaneously every week. When you begin, start the timer on your iPhone to set a benchmark time you can strive to beat during the next run. Motivate and support one another to enhance your physical fitness and to achieve faster times.

26. Get into slam poetry

Slam poetry offers a fiery and enjoyable experience. It's a fantastic activity to enjoy with pals, whether participating in a workshop, attending a performance, or competing. It provides a creative and sophisticated outlet to voice the frustrations and pains of life. Participation isn't mandatory—you can be an audience member and watch others perform.?

27. Join or start a book club

When you create a book club, selecting the books for discussion is up to you. Many online materials are available to assist with discussion questions and ideas to kick off the book conversations. Search for the book's name and 'book club' online, and you'll be on the right track. It's an excellent method for encouraging you to set aside your phone and engage with a book instead. Consider forming a little reading circle with some friends to discuss the novels you're required to read for English class.?

28. Write a bucket list

Construct compilations detailing your aspirations, activities you aim to undertake, characteristics you wish to adopt, or experiences you hope to encounter, whether these are long-term life ambitions or objectives for the forthcoming week. Lists can also help map potential professional paths or even catalog video games you're excited to explore. Setting targets for the year or outlining broader life milestones is also facilitated by lists. The beauty of lists lies in their ability to stimulate thought, imagination, and optimism. Sharing and refining these lists with friends can enhance their value, offering a delightful and profound method to engage with one another.

29. Go bush-walking

Hopefully, there's a stretch of wilderness close to your home that's perfect for trekking. Planning your outing together beforehand can be enjoyable. If you're up for it, you can even turn it into an overnight journey if you're willing to bring your tent and any other necessary gear. Sharing the burden makes it much easier to handle.?

Before departing, inform you about any fire alerts and the predicted weather. It's essential to always have your phone with you, along with plenty of water. Aim to hike with two or more companions and consistently inform someone of your destination, the duration of your trip, and when you're expected to return. If you're uncertain about navigating on your own, there's always the option to join a group.?

30. Learn a language

Learning a language, like any aspect of life, becomes significantly simpler when you have a companion to do it with. You can hone your abilities through mutual listening and refinement by working as a team. Additionally, you both can offer motivation to persist in learning when the process seems tedious, or you struggle to make time for it. This principle applies to mastering anything, whether playing an instrument or acquiring a new expertise.

31. Explore the city

Similar to the previously mentioned concept of a train journey, this approach is far more organized. Push yourselves to learn as much as possible about the closest city. You could explore by navigating through the suburbs in alphabetical order. Alternatively, you might commit to touring every park in each suburb. Or perhaps fully immerse yourselves in one district before proceeding to the next. Regardless of the method, venturing into neighborhoods that you typically wouldn't go to can be exceptionally enjoyable to spend time with friends.

32. Take your dogs for a walk

You take your canine companion, while others take theirs, and you all gather at the park where dogs can freely roam without a leash. Both the dogs and their owners thoroughly enjoy the experience. What is typically a mundane task becomes something exciting and rejuvenating.

33. Start a lawn mowing business

Spending time with your buddy while earning cash is an excellent plan. Cutting grass is fairly simple; however, numerous people lack the time or the desire to do it themselves. Given how much landscaping firms often charge for trimming lawns and edges, you'll likely attract a steady stream of clients by offering the service at a slightly lower rate.?

Not only will you be able to get in shape and refine a few skills, but you'll also earn enough to enjoy some leisure activities. Just be very clear on the division of labor and scheduling. It's wise to agree on a casual (or formal, if you prefer) agreement before getting started.

34. Play Fly

This game is arguably the simplest one to enjoy globally, requiring nothing but sticks. You can use any type of stick, making it entertaining and completely cost-free.?

35. Have a photoshoot

Wear your best outfit, take attractive photos, and improve your photography abilities. Visit several places, and don't forget to switch up your outfits. Sharing the results of your day on Instagram is up to you.

36. Go for a night walk

Gather together post-dinner for a leisurely 5-kilometer stroll in the local area. Reflect on the last time you had a casual conversation during a walk without any playful imaginary creatures being a part of it. A walk in the late hours or when it's dark can be serene and soothing. It's a lovely method to wrap up the day, whether you are accompanied by a large assembly of companions or simply a couple of friends.

37. Work out together

You can join the nearby fitness center and spend quality time together. Alternatively, a significantly more affordable option for all ages is to locate a park that provides gym facilities outdoors and take turns coaching one another. You can find an excellent compilation of exercise routines that utilize the equipment commonly available at many of these parks.

38. Make an obstacle course

This is an enjoyable activity to partake in by utilizing the facilities at parks, whether at the outdoor fitness area or the children's play zone. You can construct an obstacle course in any location, including your backyard. Motivate one another to push the boundaries by moving more swiftly, reaching greater heights, and building strength. You can arrange it as a contest or finish the tasks at a leisurely pace without keeping track of time or competing.

39. Go to a local workshop

Look at your local government's schedule to discover the weekend events. This week in my neighborhood, there's an array of options, including a beekeeping workshop, a bush conservation activity, or a macramé class. I'm keen to try any of these activities. Check out what events are available in your vicinity and gather some friends to join you. Don't forget that your neighborhood library can also be an excellent source for finding local events and activities.

40. Teach each other a skill

One of you can strum melodies on the guitar, while another has the knack for easily tossing objects in the air. Another one of you might be skilled with a fishing rod, and you're particularly great at programming. It might be the perfect moment to consider your next step. ?Would you like to spread the joy of knowledge??

This is most effective within a cozy circle where a single individual spearheads by sharing expertise in a particular area while still allowing room for others to impart their wisdom. Certain subjects may attract more enthusiasm than others. Therefore, it's good to come to a mutual understanding from the start that feelings won't be hurt if there is a lack of interest in your exceptional talents in crochet or family history research.

41. Organise a swap

You and your friends can exchange almost any item with each other. It makes sense since you likely share similar interests. Potential themes for an exchange gathering could include:

• clothes;
• video games;
• books;
• collectibles;
• jewellery.

42. Start a fantasy league

If everyone in your group is passionate about soccer, netball, or another type of sport, engaging in it can be an enjoyable joint activity. At present, it is likely wiser to save your funds and focus on earning respect and prestige in your league.

43. Start a blog together

Starting a blog can be an enjoyable activity if you and a friend have a distinctive interest in common. Whether it's used as a joint digital journal to document your friendship or inspired by another passion, it's unnecessary to elaborate. Collaborating to create posts and capture photos can be a delightful means of cultivating your friendship. Plus, you can easily initiate a blog without any cost.

44. Join a sports team

Trying out a different sport is good if you haven't found one you're passionate about. Engaging in a new sport can lead to friendships, skill development, and improved fitness. Consider exploring others if common sports such as soccer, basketball, netball, or cricket haven't sparked your interest. There are various options like hockey, lacrosse, OzTag, beach volleyball, golf, squash, table tennis, junior lifeguard programs, martial arts, or other unexpected sports that might catch your fancy.

45. Go geocaching

Participating in this GPS-based scavenger hunt is simple: visit the digital map, locate a nearby geocache (a tiny, GPS-marked item placed by another participant), write down its coordinates, and utilize your smartphone’s GPS system to navigate to the spot. Once there, search for the hidden item. Upon discovery, sign the accompanying logbook, typically included with geocaches, and put the item back for the next treasure seeker. For additional information, explore further.?

46. Talk to each other on the phone

Scary but doable.

47. Walk somewhere for a milkshake

A simple yet effective activity is going for a walk while conversing. To top it off, treat yourself to a milkshake once you've finished. Ensure the walk is sufficiently lengthy to ensure the treat doesn't cancel out the benefits of the exercise. This is an excellent activity to engage in after school hours.

48. Go to the pool

Nowadays, many individuals have swimming pools in their backyards, which are enjoyable places to spend time, yet the community swimming pool remains unmatched. There's no need to worry about cleanliness; they are usually extremely clean because of the significant amount of chlorine used (just avoid wearing your best swimwear!).?

If you want to improve your diving, backflips, or perfect the butterfly stroke, the Olympic-sized pool is the ideal spot. It's great to socialize with a large crowd there, but always be considerate of other swimmers, particularly young children.

49. Start a band

Even if you lack musical talent, someone skilled with a musical instrument is likely in your social circle. You can pick up the rest of the required skills. You might have some doubts if you're unfamiliar with the 'Four Chords' video. It's time to let go of skepticism and embrace the possibility.

50. Transform the garden

Consider the goodwill you'll accumulate if you visit one another's homes to care for and spruce up the garden. Believe us when we say your parents will adore you for this (possibly even more than they already do, if you can imagine). Additionally, you'll discover the pleasure of putting in a good day's work and enjoy some valuable time with each other outdoors. The more I reflect on it, the more convinced I am that this is an ideal method for children to enjoy themselves with their pals.

Wrapping It Up

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or quality conversation, this list of 50 creative hangout spots has provided a springboard for unforgettable moments with your friends. Remember, the most important ingredient is a good company, so grab your best buds and get ready to make some memories!?

From exploring hidden corners of your city to venturing into nature or cozying up for an activity night in, a perfect hangout awaits you and your crew. So get out there, explore, and have fun!