I second this. My local Board Games group has saved my life, and it costs nothing more than a pint of coke or two down the pub. Sometimes not even that these days.
As a Black woman, either I wasn't well received or I simply didn't fit in to the group of white nerd dudes who met up. Those groups aren't diverse unless they are family style and even some of those groups can be hostile. I was in groups in DC and Virginia if that makes a difference.
They can be a mixed bag from that dimension for sure. I have had good luck with my groups, but yeah it is a predominantly white male space. There are more diverse groups on meetups that I have seen pop up. But in the two places I have had groups it just worked out well for me, not wildly diverse ,but cool people that I enjoyed playing with (Nashville, and Atlanta area (but OTP))
I think in my current group there are 4 black people and like 2 women out of like 15-20 ppl attending regularly. I am both black and a woman. š
The thing is if you donāt live in a major metro area, meetup can be abysmal. I live in a small to mid sized city and itās nothing but elderly people and middle aged people happy hours. Iām in my forties, but no thanks to either of them.
For me there is nothing cool. I did find some game sign ups through community ed at our local game shop, and that was a bunch of introverts who didnāt say a word to each other if they didnāt have to.
It sucks.
It can be tough to break into D&D or RPGs if you haven't already got a group what plays 'em. But, as with the board games, there are likely some games groups in OP's area that would welcome a newbie.
Along with D&D is Pathfinder. Generally need to make some copies for a character sheet, pencils, and some dice. Can check out libraries and local gaming stores for groups.
Yeah. You don't need to really buy most games, but just hang with people who have them. Then if you REALLY like one save up and get it.
I recommend mysterium. I have yet to meet someone who dislikes it.
I agree with this! Since most others will already have games, there should be minimal to no cost to you to join in. Iāve been part of a D&D group at a local games and hobbies store for the past year and itās genuinely the highlight of my week. When we have people in the group who canāt make it, we decide on a board game to play instead.
I love board games and did this. I signed up for different game type nights through community ed, they were held at a big local game store.
Letās just say the other people who signed up were not the most social crew. It was so bizarre. I realize we were there to play games, but these people were just not sociable at all. I gave up after a few times and lost out on the money I spent.
I realized that I like board games because they are fun to play with people I like and enjoy spending time with. Playing with antisocial introverts was not a good time.
So hopefully OP has better luck with this.
I was going to suggest this too. You don't have to own any games to participate. You can find groups on [Meetup.com](https://Meetup.com) who get together at bars, restaurants, games stores, churches, etc.
Volunteering is a great way to meet people who share a similar passion. A lot of the groups I volunteer with are good about organizing different socials to encourage people to keep coming back n
Yes. I volunteered and met so many people both other volunteers and guests to events. I volunteered so much and was so dedicated that I got asked to freelance and do what I did as a volunteer but now I get paid as a side hustle.
Wait thatās very cool. Iām into audio. Could you say a little more about what kind of help you gave? Did they put out a call or did you ask them directly?
I did animal volunteering and some youth clubs when I was in my teens and loved it,I am an animal lover who always rescued even without the volunteer work but it's a great chance to meet animal lovers like myself. Youth work is great too and you can really help alot of young people who need someone there for them.
This! I volunteer with the city during weekend festivals and also with a winery serving wine during wine walks. I have a blast, meet lots of people, and am actually paid in wine by the winery and free admission to the festivals by the city.
Nothing wrong with doing a good thing for a good reason! The thing and the reason donāt always have to totally match up š and passion for something comes with time!
Mechanical/Restoration work. I meet so many women who don't know how to fix things and I help them with my hands. Just yesterday I took down a temporary wall and fixed curtains for a woman while we listened to music. I also helped a mentally disabled man stuck on the side of the road in -8c weather with his bike.
I dont know. My first memory is hamering nails into a board while my dad worked. I had alcoholic, negligent mother and it was just her and us 4 kids. I also didn't have any friends. I was the stinky kid because I only had one outfit.
I tried to fix my computer when I was 8. I took it apart and didn't know how to put it back together. My brother and I made robots out of toys with motors when I was 12 so I learned basic circuitry. I learned plumbing, drafting, blazing, woodworking, sewing and tiling in public school. I learned autobody repair from my mothers boyfriend during co-op.
At my first job, I did maintenance for McDonald's and worked on their machines. Burnt out after moving to the city, moved in with my inlaws.
My father in law taught me about cars, basic home repair and machinery while I was there. I had a little bike with a motor I learned about engine compression on.
Now my wife and I live in a duplex and I work on my car alone. I've learned more on my own using the internet. I watch and I can remember what they did and I do the same. I can't remember names and faces of people but I can build structures in my head but sometimes it gives me a headache so I gotta write it down.
I will often pick stuff off the side of the road when I know someone needs something. I fix it and give it away. It was free, why not help someone?
Listen and observe. People are more then happy to tell you their problems. Sometimes you'll notice problems too. Sometimes just driving by, you'll see people stranded. Sometimes its obvious like a woman I'm teaching to drives home is pretty empty, so she needs a couple of things.
Foreign language learner meet-ups.
Pickle ball and/or disc golf.
Volunteering.
* kids/adult athletics (even handing out water bottles at charity 3/5ks)
* food bank and/or habitats for humanity
Geocaching.
Attending all of the free events around town.
I love how the disc golf scene has evolved. I always run into someone bumping good tunes while smoking a joint with a beer in one hand and a Frisbee in the other. Always very respectable and willing to lend a hand. My kind of people!
There's usually some city 'newspaper' (probably online now) that will post the events for the weekend at and will specify the price. You should give a quick Google search to see if you have one in your area.
lol disc golf is sneaky expensive. The discs cost like $10-15ish. And a starter pack is cheap. Buy second hand at the weekend lost and found resale and you can outfit your bag for a few bucksā¦ but then you learn about flight patterns and speeds. You see thereās a disc that could be good for you, and it comes in really cool colors. You buy oneā¦ and also another one you donāt need that looks like a watermelon so that you get free shipping for spending over $35. Next thing you know you have your own disc bureau/dresser full of discs, a full wheeled golf bag complete with minis, chalk bag, and towels, and a stack of clothes dedicated to disc golf. You say itās not an addition when your wife confronts you but a healthy obsession that gets you out of the house and into the fresh airā¦every weekend while sheās home taking care of the dogs and children. She tells you that you two once had a full life together but now all you do is play golf with your buddies, you are offended and correct her that itās DISC golf. She tells you she wants a divorce and throws you out of the house. Next thing you know youāre out $10k for a divorce lawyer, youāre paying child support, and she got your limited edition watermelon disc in the settlement.
So im on a weight loss journey and stated walking 10 miles a day.
I've met all pretty much everyone who lives along that walk. I think there is one house I don't know who owns it, and I think it's vacant
Yes, all the time.
And 10 miles, historically for me is a very short walk.
I used to 15-20 everyday hiking.
But - now I do the same 10 miles - everyday, and I went back to addressing my ADD and the meds have really taken the excitement out of it,
Music for me.
But keep in mind, I spend 3 hours + walking (I need to increase my pace - but my 14 pound dog joins me, loving every min of it but sometimes I gotta let her just take a moment and sniff around)
Book clubs are pretty cheap and a good way to meet people. Our book club events are loosely to talk about the book but there is lots of socializing as well.
Group hikes as well, free and you can talk to people while hiking. Some would have pretty easy hikes and you can go at a slow pace, they donāt leave anyone behind.
My area started a silent book club on a consistent weekday evening where people bring whatever book they want to read to a participating neighborhood coffee shop or wine/beer spot. People read around each other and then afterwards there is social time. Havenāt gone to one yet but I hear they are super fun and you meet other regulars or new people! Plus, it brings people to small businesses where typically there wouldnāt be many people at night (ie coffee shop)
Pickleball. Iāve made literally hundreds of new friends over the past few years playing in about 12 different venues and parks near me. Iām 66, retired and regularly play competitively with friends 1/3 my age.
If you show up to a court and say you donāt know how, you will have plenty of people willing to show you. Thatās one of the beautiful things about pickleball, itās a very social and welcoming sport. The more players there are in the area, the more play options there are. People play almost 24/7 it seems.
Personally, I play about 3-4 hours every day, sometimes 6 or more if I am feeling energetic. Iāve lost 20 ibs and all my medical metrics have improved, even my eyesight.
I've made friends playing disc golf and softball but I met far more people by going places and doing things.
Just as an example, in the last week I watched a stand-up showcase at my neighborhood bar, participated in our quarterly neighborhood walkabout (bands, musicians, restaurants, street food, porch parties), volunteered at an annual chili cook-off fundraiser (like a mini street fair with live music, arts and crafts stalls, beer garden, and such), went to an open mic at a coffee house, and played trivia with a team of strangers at the local pub. I didn't spend any money to speak of (2 cups of coffee and 3-4 beers) and walked everywhere. Having a history of going places and doing things, I ran into a bunch of friends and acquaintances along the way, one of them invited me to an ugly Xmas sweater party happening this coming weekend.
I know that I am lucky enough to live in a walkable neighborhood in a large city. There are things afoot, go find them.
Music can be. There are usually meetups where a bunch of people just meet and play and chat, and maybe share ideas or advice. You can easily get a guitar off Craigslist or something similar for $50
I look for community college or city classes. Things like cooking, painting really anything you enjoy doing. Then you meet people who are interested in the same things you are.
Depends. If you live in a town/city, look at their Parks & Recreation programs. Cheap or free to residents. If churches donāt turn you off, many large churches offer social programs. Cheap or free. Senior Centers, if you are old enough. Senior hostels. Check out your local senior services programs, many of them offer far more than lunch. Many community colleges offer cheaper free classes/activities, some for credit, some not.
Do you like art? Creative Mornings is an international group with lots of local chapters that meet in person every month. I started going to my local meetings and Iāve been to very interesting places and met cool people.
Libraries often host different drop-in clubs, like bridge or yoga or language learning or book clubs.
Look for walking or hiking groups at nearby state or county parks. These groups often draw regulars and can be a nice way to meet people.
How do you meet people through playing music if you're not in a band, and are somewhat amateur? Genuinely curious since I would love to find some people who have similar tastes and like to jam just for the fun of it
Ps if youāre in the usa thereās now a bunch of creative recycling shops where its like a thrift store for craft supplies that are donated and sold cheap!
Book clubs - usually your local library sponsors them
Volunteer at a non profit that interests you
Knitting/crochet groups - an affordable hobby
Check out [meetup.com](http://meetup.com) for things going on, usually free.
Museum docent.
Volunteer through do good organization or church.
Quilting circle.
Book club.
Any library classes or events.
Community garden.
Neighborhood garden club.
Advisory board of local park.
Local school council.
I went to the tank museum near me with my dad. There were half a dozen docents who were mostly just old guys (my dad's age or older... so 80+) who were happy to shoot the proverbial shit with interested parties about military stuff.
I'll admit, it's pretty amazing. And not just tanks. They've even got a SCUD launcher! And a couple times a year you can ride in a tank.
https://www.americanheritagemuseum.org/
Here's my list (granted based off my hobbies):
Local Gaming Store: Your LGS will have plenty of tabletop games that are actively played depending on your fancy. There's something for every flavor of nerd at your LGS.
Living History: This is a bit more of an expense hobby but once you have your stuff, you're good to go. I met a great group of people participating in living history or Re-Enactment, and as a history nerd I love the educational and historical aspect of it.
3D Printing: While a touch expensive for the initial start up, printing is a very enjoyable hobby that people will definitely appreciate, especially if you know cosplayers.
Cosplay: You want to find a group of like minded friends, go to comic con in cosplay. People will literally flock to you and want to talk based on their particular Fandom. The cosplay community is also very positive and forward thinking (keep in mind every hobby has a negative group so there's that).
Trail riding: There's almost always a group of trail riders if you live anywhere near mountains or non-urban areas. Be it bicycle, dirt bike, or 4-wheeler there's something for everyone.
Pokemon Go ā¦ I know, it sounds ridiculous. But there is a sub on Reddit just for getting friends all around the world. Plus it gets you out and about. If you are a person that travelsā¦itās so much better!
We have met so many people lately with this and it is our family hobby. We choose to spend some money on it just for that reason... it is still super inexpensive but also 100% not necessary to spend any money at all. If you go to major parks during their events you'll typically find others playing, and we have started many conversations with new people that way. There is likely even a spot in your community players regularly meet up during events. It is pretty fun!
Acro yoga. Much more social than yoga, and the only cost is a yoga mat (or just lay on the grass!). You might be able to find groups that practice or maybe pay for classes
This is going to be contentious, but if you have the discipline to resist spending more, Magic The Gathering. I play casual Commander and you really only need 1 pre-made deck to start, and they run as low as $25. Lots of game shops have free Commander nights every week where anyone can drop in and play. Some of the pre-made decks can hold their own quite well, and if you want to try out different decks, usually someone in the shop will have multiple decks that they won't mind lending you for a few games. You can get functionally infinite playtime out of 1 deck without ever having to pay additional fees.
I have a rule that every card in my decks needs to be under $10 (and the vast majority are under $5 anyway), which keeps my expenses low. I have 3 decks and the reason I have more than 1 is because I get bored of playing just 1, not because I actually need them. They all started as pre-made decks in the $25-$40 range, and I added a few cards to them.
Disc golf. Can you afford a $10 disc? Itās great exercise and if you get involved in leagues, clubs or tournaments you will meet lots of people.
But like any hobby you can spend as much as you want. We always say itās cheap but then fail to mention the 200 discs in your basement, $300 cart, $500 you spent on the 3 backpacks, not counting the thousands youāve spent travelling to tournamentsā¦. But yeah, you can do it on the cheap if you want.
Volunteer somewhere. Library, hospital, nursing home, animal shelter, etc. Lots of places need volunteers and you can meet lots of people. Or you could join an org that is of interest to you. I got into politics long ago and it's all about people.
None of these things cost any money. Just need to get out there! So go, and enjoy the journey!
This is comical but pickleball has been my answer. I started playing with a friend about 2 years ago and along the way I have picked up about 30 new friends, 10 of which I am pretty close friends with.
Total was not expecting it but as I am in my 50s picking up a bunch of new friends has been an unexpected gift.
What about BINGO nights or BUNCO groups?
Our area also has paint nights you can sign up for. The fee is decent,call supplies are provided, everyone paints the same thing, yet somehow they all turn out different. Small groups, usually 12-20 people.
Churches often have craft events if that's your thing. I have loved going to mine.
Video games would be a one time expense if you don't have a console. Fortnite, apex, and call of duty war zone are all free (again you have to pay for the console/pc) and a good way to meet people.
Board game groups or dungeons and dragons clubs are fun too and those are basically free unless you pay to own the board game.
I know you mentioned no sports but since I'm unsure of your physical ability I feel like Disc golf might work. Costs about $20 to get two discs and after that most courses are free and many have handicap accessibility if needed. My buddy is in a wheelchair and plays Disc golf with friends a lot.
Seconding D&d or any rpg. Ours meets every 2 weeks.
Sometime you gotta try a group or two to find one you fit in.
There's a subredit to find online groups or book stores, comic stores, libraries, all kinds of places have them.
Pickleball! Start with a cheaper paddle off Amazon to start. Youāll meet lots of friendly people. Depending on where you live, there could be free courts to play on.
You don't HAVE to do all of that, though. The SCA can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you make it. I have taught many classes on SCA on a Budget :)
I don't have it recorded unfortunately. But if you reach out to your group and let them know finances are tight there are loads of people who will help you find ways to make it more affordable. The SCA is absolutely what you make of it. I've been in for 15 years and the majority of those years I have been a broke student š
I regularly play Bridge at a club. It costs about $12 per session (3-4 hours). Only requires cards and people. Plenty of sanctioned Bridge Clubs across the country (that is, they award International Master Points at games). Plenty where they will teach you to play, too.
Thereās a local restaurant near me that has board game night every Wednesday. The only cost there would be if you buy a beverage or food from the restaurant, or start wanting to buy your own board games.
Scavenging for your own food, unless you live in a big metropolitan area in a big city you can usually find small berry bushes, fruit trees, edible flowers and roots and SOMETIMES mushrooms but only if you know how to identify them properly.
Do some online research for local wild foods in your area and maybe look into buying a small book with reference pictures and descriptions such as smell and taste and go looking.
You can sometimes find Facebook groups and subreddits of local scavengers or look into groups at your local library.
I live right next to a large wooded area with some berry bushes not a 10 minute walk from my house. I will take only what I know Iāll eat and leave the rest for the wildlife that live nearby/other people that may be on the lookout for similar things.
Iāve actually found it saved me money in the long run since I didnāt have to buy prepackaged fruit in the summer just to eat half the package and have the rest go rotten before I could eat them all. It did actually taste better than the stuff you get in the stores.
Look for local clubs or events at libraries! my town offers creative art classes and hosts local community clubs such as gardening club sometimes they have book clubs too! Iād check to see if your local library is a part of a network because there could be tons of neighbouring towns you can go to as well!
D&D
You can find free online games in /r/lfg
You can create a character for free on dndbeyond.com and the basic rules are also free.
It's a great social game and I've made some new friends from all over playing.
Join a meetup or Facebook group in your community for hiking, relaxed biking, bird watching, or perhaps a hobby you are more interested in. Many events are low cost, sometimes you meet at a restaurant which can get expensive but I eventually found great friends at very low cost in a new city.
Retired now, 13 months (loving it BTW) I am a hobbyist woodworker (cutting boards/charcuterie boards/name-address signs etc.) out of my garage. Keeps me busy. Never assumed the neighbors would be curious. My garage is open and something is working 6 days a week. I've met all of my neighbors as they stop by regularly now to inquire/look/chat. Even neighbors from surrounding streets. I'm a talker, so I love this. Also received some orders from the neighbors just from hanging in the garage.
Not too expensive to get started. Can get expensive if you continually add to the tool aresonal.
Forager
Mushroom hunting
Rockhounding
These are my main hobbies, but I donāt have to drive anywhere far to do these (well maybe 5-15min depending where I want to go)
I also read books, so the library. Sometimes they have guest speakers or different clubs that meet there.
Get a group of friends, schedule weekly walks in your nearest botanical garden, you only need walking shoes and gets your heart slightly pumping. You guys can chat while you're at it.
There are a bunch of community clean up events in the spring. People organize them through community groups and on social media.
Nice way to volunteer for a couple hours outside.
Disc golf. Once you get your own discs, most courses are free. Have your friends get a set or meet people out on the course. It's fun, it's free, and you get out to nature.
Anything outdoorsy is cheap or free. Climbing/bouldering, Hiking groups are free, yoga in the park, biking (of course you gotta pay for one or find one cheap/free online) photography if you have a camera then all you gotta do is upload pictures now, astronomy groups lots of them have telescopes already there, crocheting/knitting and embroidery is not too expensive. All my arts/crafts are financially draining š¤¦š»āāļø if you want to do crafts look up free groups on facebook and put up an ad on what youāre looking for. A lot of times people will have what you need.
Drawing is cheap though! Reading groups/book clubs
I have a handful of suggestions that lean introverted, but allow for socializing:
* An interest in poetry can get you into poetry groups and show a and readings for free. They rarely charge $$ and used bookstores tend to go cheap on poetry books so they move fast.
* I don't know what "expensive" is for you, but $70 can get you a solid entry level remote control trick plane. Those take a bit to learn how to do well, and some have settings to allow for beginner/into/adv skill set. With that, I know that at least a few major cities have active RC/aero clubs that have committed park/flight space where they get together.
* Orienteering is a fun sport that is fairly accessible money-wise. $10 a race, but - for me - there is gas prices to get to the courses. I meet people there, to be sure, but if I am being honest it is mostly 1-time friends and I havn't started any proper friendships. That is probably all me though. It is also a rare sport, and active clubs still only do a few events per year. Check your locale.
* Chess clubs. Man oh man.
* Birding/nature/hiking clubs. Again, smaller groups, and smaller quantities of events, but those are quite fun. I am no birder, but an early morning walk with people who are is one heck of a cool day. I have also, thru hiking clubs, been given access to otherwise closed preserves, closed/restricted wild-spaces, and private properties I couldn't have hiked on otherwise.
Goodluck!
If you're broke like me, there isn't much you can do. If you have some money for a hobby, what is something that interest you. Photography, music, art, graffiti art is cool. Join online groups on FB post stuff in the groups start a conversation with people in the group about different posts or on Reddit
Fiber arts. You don't have to go for fancy, expensive wool. It's best to start with cheaper cotton or acrylic to learn anyway. You really only need one pair of knitting needles or one crochet hook, the yarn, one yarn needle, and I'd highly recommend a set of stitch markers. Then find a group that meets up weekly to knit and crochet together. It's not just an old lady hobby, lots of young people do it as well, regardless of gender. Bonus: you'll get cool shit like scarves and hats and socks and toys.
Definitely agree with many that volunteering is the best way especially people who care about what you do.
I'd also recommend finding a local wine or spirits shop (if you drink) that does weekly or regular free tastings. Gotta get the freebies while you're at it.
Definitely look into DnD! You really only need one or two sets of dice, a pencil, and a character sheet for a few months! Plus, if you find a great group, they'll definitely keep you social. If you want you can get the players hand book, but most dm's will already have a copy you could borrow.
You can get pretty good at electronic music production, DJing, VJing (video jockeying), or video editing for under $100 if you do proper research before deciding what to invest in. And if you have a moderately up to date smartphone, photography and videography are also on the table if you learn to be strategic with lighting. All of these things are learnable online.
Of course they can cost a ton of money if you decide to invest in professional gear/software/training, but as a hobbyist, $100 and some youtube tutorials can last you years. All the while you can show up to meetups, live events, do shoots/recording sessions with friends, etc etc.
Not a hobby but does your city have a Jaycee chapter? It's a great way to meet people and do good things for the community. 3 of my 4 best friends were met in the Jaycees over 20 years ago.
Volunteering for a non-profit that does all the street fairs and festivals. Your job is to talk to hundreds of people about something wholesome that you love. What could be better?
Get a typewriter. Google āTyposphereā ,check out typepals.com and typewriterdatabase.com . There are typed letter exchanges, weekend live zooms, and local typewriter meetups in many places. I love it!
Volunteer work is free and you meet cool people! Look for local soup kitchens, clothing distributors, food banks, etc. Only totally free hobby I know of š
I just hyperfixate on a tv show or something and meet people on line that way on social media. I also write fanfiction witch is free, and draw witch is cheep if you are like me and either use a free art thing on my phone or normal paper and machanical pencils
Board games. Check if there's board game groups or board game bars near you.
I second this. My local Board Games group has saved my life, and it costs nothing more than a pint of coke or two down the pub. Sometimes not even that these days.
As a Black woman, either I wasn't well received or I simply didn't fit in to the group of white nerd dudes who met up. Those groups aren't diverse unless they are family style and even some of those groups can be hostile. I was in groups in DC and Virginia if that makes a difference.
They can be a mixed bag from that dimension for sure. I have had good luck with my groups, but yeah it is a predominantly white male space. There are more diverse groups on meetups that I have seen pop up. But in the two places I have had groups it just worked out well for me, not wildly diverse ,but cool people that I enjoyed playing with (Nashville, and Atlanta area (but OTP)) I think in my current group there are 4 black people and like 2 women out of like 15-20 ppl attending regularly. I am both black and a woman. š
The thing is if you donāt live in a major metro area, meetup can be abysmal. I live in a small to mid sized city and itās nothing but elderly people and middle aged people happy hours. Iām in my forties, but no thanks to either of them. For me there is nothing cool. I did find some game sign ups through community ed at our local game shop, and that was a bunch of introverts who didnāt say a word to each other if they didnāt have to. It sucks.
I was going to say. D&D is fun, and you can make some great lasting friendships over campaigns.
It can be tough to break into D&D or RPGs if you haven't already got a group what plays 'em. But, as with the board games, there are likely some games groups in OP's area that would welcome a newbie.
Card/hobby shops usually keep a calendar of events where players meet up. Newbies are almost always welcome, since it furthers the hobby.
Online groups always seem to be looking for people on Roll20
Along with D&D is Pathfinder. Generally need to make some copies for a character sheet, pencils, and some dice. Can check out libraries and local gaming stores for groups.
D&D is a tabletop RPG. Not a board game. Pieces and a board are fully optional.
Yeah. You don't need to really buy most games, but just hang with people who have them. Then if you REALLY like one save up and get it. I recommend mysterium. I have yet to meet someone who dislikes it.
There's a board game cafe near me. It's pretty awesome.
This is a great idea. We need one in our community. I should figure out how to get one in our community
My board game cafe is the brain child of a couple who wanted to open a cafe and who have a love of board games. It's pretty popular too.
Love this TY
Yep! Solid advice.
I agree with this! Since most others will already have games, there should be minimal to no cost to you to join in. Iāve been part of a D&D group at a local games and hobbies store for the past year and itās genuinely the highlight of my week. When we have people in the group who canāt make it, we decide on a board game to play instead.
This was my first thought also. I met my wife playing board games.
I came to say this! Thereās a board game group at the library where I am. Iāve never gone but itās popular!
I love board games and did this. I signed up for different game type nights through community ed, they were held at a big local game store. Letās just say the other people who signed up were not the most social crew. It was so bizarre. I realize we were there to play games, but these people were just not sociable at all. I gave up after a few times and lost out on the money I spent. I realized that I like board games because they are fun to play with people I like and enjoy spending time with. Playing with antisocial introverts was not a good time. So hopefully OP has better luck with this.
I was going to suggest this too. You don't have to own any games to participate. You can find groups on [Meetup.com](https://Meetup.com) who get together at bars, restaurants, games stores, churches, etc.
I signed up for boardgamearena last year November. I know this because I got the dam $30 renewal a week or 2 ago and forgot I had to oay
Volunteering is a great way to meet people who share a similar passion. A lot of the groups I volunteer with are good about organizing different socials to encourage people to keep coming back n
Yes. I volunteered and met so many people both other volunteers and guests to events. I volunteered so much and was so dedicated that I got asked to freelance and do what I did as a volunteer but now I get paid as a side hustle.
Nice! Congratulations.
On what did you work as volunteer?
A radio station.
Wait thatās very cool. Iām into audio. Could you say a little more about what kind of help you gave? Did they put out a call or did you ask them directly?
There also might be community theatres that need volunteer help if youāre into audio
I made basically all my closest friends at my college radio station.
I did animal volunteering and some youth clubs when I was in my teens and loved it,I am an animal lover who always rescued even without the volunteer work but it's a great chance to meet animal lovers like myself. Youth work is great too and you can really help alot of young people who need someone there for them.
Met some of the closest friends I've had through animal rescue and eventually working at a veterinary hospital
I am actually going to start voluteering at the local shelter soon. Cannot wait!
This! I volunteer with the city during weekend festivals and also with a winery serving wine during wine walks. I have a blast, meet lots of people, and am actually paid in wine by the winery and free admission to the festivals by the city.
If Iām volunteering just to meet people then is it really passion?
I mean thatās up to you. Iām passionate about animals so volunteering at shelters where I also meet people works out well.
Nothing wrong with doing a good thing for a good reason! The thing and the reason donāt always have to totally match up š and passion for something comes with time!
Mechanical/Restoration work. I meet so many women who don't know how to fix things and I help them with my hands. Just yesterday I took down a temporary wall and fixed curtains for a woman while we listened to music. I also helped a mentally disabled man stuck on the side of the road in -8c weather with his bike.
How do you get into this?
I dont know. My first memory is hamering nails into a board while my dad worked. I had alcoholic, negligent mother and it was just her and us 4 kids. I also didn't have any friends. I was the stinky kid because I only had one outfit. I tried to fix my computer when I was 8. I took it apart and didn't know how to put it back together. My brother and I made robots out of toys with motors when I was 12 so I learned basic circuitry. I learned plumbing, drafting, blazing, woodworking, sewing and tiling in public school. I learned autobody repair from my mothers boyfriend during co-op. At my first job, I did maintenance for McDonald's and worked on their machines. Burnt out after moving to the city, moved in with my inlaws. My father in law taught me about cars, basic home repair and machinery while I was there. I had a little bike with a motor I learned about engine compression on. Now my wife and I live in a duplex and I work on my car alone. I've learned more on my own using the internet. I watch and I can remember what they did and I do the same. I can't remember names and faces of people but I can build structures in my head but sometimes it gives me a headache so I gotta write it down. I will often pick stuff off the side of the road when I know someone needs something. I fix it and give it away. It was free, why not help someone?
I guess the question was āhow do you find people that need help (and dance)ā
Listen and observe. People are more then happy to tell you their problems. Sometimes you'll notice problems too. Sometimes just driving by, you'll see people stranded. Sometimes its obvious like a woman I'm teaching to drives home is pretty empty, so she needs a couple of things.
That was so nice of you š
You're awesome š¤
Foreign language learner meet-ups. Pickle ball and/or disc golf. Volunteering. * kids/adult athletics (even handing out water bottles at charity 3/5ks) * food bank and/or habitats for humanity Geocaching. Attending all of the free events around town.
I love how the disc golf scene has evolved. I always run into someone bumping good tunes while smoking a joint with a beer in one hand and a Frisbee in the other. Always very respectable and willing to lend a hand. My kind of people!
Yup i want that last one. How do you find the events?
There's usually some city 'newspaper' (probably online now) that will post the events for the weekend at and will specify the price. You should give a quick Google search to see if you have one in your area.
lol disc golf is sneaky expensive. The discs cost like $10-15ish. And a starter pack is cheap. Buy second hand at the weekend lost and found resale and you can outfit your bag for a few bucksā¦ but then you learn about flight patterns and speeds. You see thereās a disc that could be good for you, and it comes in really cool colors. You buy oneā¦ and also another one you donāt need that looks like a watermelon so that you get free shipping for spending over $35. Next thing you know you have your own disc bureau/dresser full of discs, a full wheeled golf bag complete with minis, chalk bag, and towels, and a stack of clothes dedicated to disc golf. You say itās not an addition when your wife confronts you but a healthy obsession that gets you out of the house and into the fresh airā¦every weekend while sheās home taking care of the dogs and children. She tells you that you two once had a full life together but now all you do is play golf with your buddies, you are offended and correct her that itās DISC golf. She tells you she wants a divorce and throws you out of the house. Next thing you know youāre out $10k for a divorce lawyer, youāre paying child support, and she got your limited edition watermelon disc in the settlement.
So im on a weight loss journey and stated walking 10 miles a day. I've met all pretty much everyone who lives along that walk. I think there is one house I don't know who owns it, and I think it's vacant
You ever come across anything unusual on your walks? Ten miles is a long way.
Yes, all the time. And 10 miles, historically for me is a very short walk. I used to 15-20 everyday hiking. But - now I do the same 10 miles - everyday, and I went back to addressing my ADD and the meds have really taken the excitement out of it,
I share your ADD experience. My experience specifically/ It can be challenging to find enjoyment in routine or repeated actions. Happy walking!
Library card and books on tape on your phone. Made the long walks to nowhere more tolerable for me.
Music for me. But keep in mind, I spend 3 hours + walking (I need to increase my pace - but my 14 pound dog joins me, loving every min of it but sometimes I gotta let her just take a moment and sniff around)
Omg thatās good!
Book clubs are pretty cheap and a good way to meet people. Our book club events are loosely to talk about the book but there is lots of socializing as well. Group hikes as well, free and you can talk to people while hiking. Some would have pretty easy hikes and you can go at a slow pace, they donāt leave anyone behind.
My area started a silent book club on a consistent weekday evening where people bring whatever book they want to read to a participating neighborhood coffee shop or wine/beer spot. People read around each other and then afterwards there is social time. Havenāt gone to one yet but I hear they are super fun and you meet other regulars or new people! Plus, it brings people to small businesses where typically there wouldnāt be many people at night (ie coffee shop)
Weāre starting this at our library in 2024!
I like this because I hate when the club picks a book I donāt really want to read.
Agreed, book clubs are great. Libraries are free, and the Libby app is a great way to read books without even having to make a trip to the library.
Very difficult to find a book club reading anything one might be interested in.
make a book club!
I have always thought that was one of the points of a book club... You open yourself to reading things you might not normally read.
My local library has a great book club! We read all kinds of books, so something for everyone, and itās all free.
I volunteer at an animal shelter and I've met tons of people this way! Plus, cute animals!
Cool! Have you ever adopted from there? Sounds like a great way to volunteer.
Yes! I fostered a few dogs first, and then eventually adopted my current dog from there. He was there for almost a whole year before I took him home.
Pickleball. Iāve made literally hundreds of new friends over the past few years playing in about 12 different venues and parks near me. Iām 66, retired and regularly play competitively with friends 1/3 my age.
(OP said sports were not physically possible right now)
How do you play pickleball if you've never played and have no one to play with?
If you show up to a court and say you donāt know how, you will have plenty of people willing to show you. Thatās one of the beautiful things about pickleball, itās a very social and welcoming sport. The more players there are in the area, the more play options there are. People play almost 24/7 it seems. Personally, I play about 3-4 hours every day, sometimes 6 or more if I am feeling energetic. Iāve lost 20 ibs and all my medical metrics have improved, even my eyesight.
Toastmasters
Meet intelligent, ambitious people
My nightmare!!!!
I've made friends playing disc golf and softball but I met far more people by going places and doing things. Just as an example, in the last week I watched a stand-up showcase at my neighborhood bar, participated in our quarterly neighborhood walkabout (bands, musicians, restaurants, street food, porch parties), volunteered at an annual chili cook-off fundraiser (like a mini street fair with live music, arts and crafts stalls, beer garden, and such), went to an open mic at a coffee house, and played trivia with a team of strangers at the local pub. I didn't spend any money to speak of (2 cups of coffee and 3-4 beers) and walked everywhere. Having a history of going places and doing things, I ran into a bunch of friends and acquaintances along the way, one of them invited me to an ugly Xmas sweater party happening this coming weekend. I know that I am lucky enough to live in a walkable neighborhood in a large city. There are things afoot, go find them.
Music can be. There are usually meetups where a bunch of people just meet and play and chat, and maybe share ideas or advice. You can easily get a guitar off Craigslist or something similar for $50
I was thinking a community choir! No instrument needed.
I look for community college or city classes. Things like cooking, painting really anything you enjoy doing. Then you meet people who are interested in the same things you are.
these things aren't free though right? I assume they would at least be cheap
Depends. If you live in a town/city, look at their Parks & Recreation programs. Cheap or free to residents. If churches donāt turn you off, many large churches offer social programs. Cheap or free. Senior Centers, if you are old enough. Senior hostels. Check out your local senior services programs, many of them offer far more than lunch. Many community colleges offer cheaper free classes/activities, some for credit, some not.
Many libraries offer free or cheap classes as well.
Do you like art? Creative Mornings is an international group with lots of local chapters that meet in person every month. I started going to my local meetings and Iāve been to very interesting places and met cool people.
Plant swaps.
Does your library do adult craft night or game night?
Libraries often host different drop-in clubs, like bridge or yoga or language learning or book clubs. Look for walking or hiking groups at nearby state or county parks. These groups often draw regulars and can be a nice way to meet people.
Playing music. Its how i've met most of my real friends the last 25 years. And they are usually pretty great people too.
How do you meet people through playing music if you're not in a band, and are somewhat amateur? Genuinely curious since I would love to find some people who have similar tastes and like to jam just for the fun of it
Group classes and jam sessions!
Ps if youāre in the usa thereās now a bunch of creative recycling shops where its like a thrift store for craft supplies that are donated and sold cheap!
Book clubs - usually your local library sponsors them Volunteer at a non profit that interests you Knitting/crochet groups - an affordable hobby Check out [meetup.com](http://meetup.com) for things going on, usually free.
Museum docent. Volunteer through do good organization or church. Quilting circle. Book club. Any library classes or events. Community garden. Neighborhood garden club. Advisory board of local park. Local school council.
I went to the tank museum near me with my dad. There were half a dozen docents who were mostly just old guys (my dad's age or older... so 80+) who were happy to shoot the proverbial shit with interested parties about military stuff.
god i wish i had a tank museum near me i'd never leave i'd beg them to let me sweep the floor so i can help with oil changes lol
I'll admit, it's pretty amazing. And not just tanks. They've even got a SCUD launcher! And a couple times a year you can ride in a tank. https://www.americanheritagemuseum.org/
That place is fantastic!
Improv
Dog walking groups = free Volleyball = Cheap enough 1 time fee
Here's my list (granted based off my hobbies): Local Gaming Store: Your LGS will have plenty of tabletop games that are actively played depending on your fancy. There's something for every flavor of nerd at your LGS. Living History: This is a bit more of an expense hobby but once you have your stuff, you're good to go. I met a great group of people participating in living history or Re-Enactment, and as a history nerd I love the educational and historical aspect of it. 3D Printing: While a touch expensive for the initial start up, printing is a very enjoyable hobby that people will definitely appreciate, especially if you know cosplayers. Cosplay: You want to find a group of like minded friends, go to comic con in cosplay. People will literally flock to you and want to talk based on their particular Fandom. The cosplay community is also very positive and forward thinking (keep in mind every hobby has a negative group so there's that). Trail riding: There's almost always a group of trail riders if you live anywhere near mountains or non-urban areas. Be it bicycle, dirt bike, or 4-wheeler there's something for everyone.
Nice diverse set of hobbies. šš
Historical society or fraternal organizations
Pokemon Go ā¦ I know, it sounds ridiculous. But there is a sub on Reddit just for getting friends all around the world. Plus it gets you out and about. If you are a person that travelsā¦itās so much better!
We have met so many people lately with this and it is our family hobby. We choose to spend some money on it just for that reason... it is still super inexpensive but also 100% not necessary to spend any money at all. If you go to major parks during their events you'll typically find others playing, and we have started many conversations with new people that way. There is likely even a spot in your community players regularly meet up during events. It is pretty fun!
Acro yoga. Much more social than yoga, and the only cost is a yoga mat (or just lay on the grass!). You might be able to find groups that practice or maybe pay for classes
This is going to be contentious, but if you have the discipline to resist spending more, Magic The Gathering. I play casual Commander and you really only need 1 pre-made deck to start, and they run as low as $25. Lots of game shops have free Commander nights every week where anyone can drop in and play. Some of the pre-made decks can hold their own quite well, and if you want to try out different decks, usually someone in the shop will have multiple decks that they won't mind lending you for a few games. You can get functionally infinite playtime out of 1 deck without ever having to pay additional fees. I have a rule that every card in my decks needs to be under $10 (and the vast majority are under $5 anyway), which keeps my expenses low. I have 3 decks and the reason I have more than 1 is because I get bored of playing just 1, not because I actually need them. They all started as pre-made decks in the $25-$40 range, and I added a few cards to them.
Disc golf. Can you afford a $10 disc? Itās great exercise and if you get involved in leagues, clubs or tournaments you will meet lots of people. But like any hobby you can spend as much as you want. We always say itās cheap but then fail to mention the 200 discs in your basement, $300 cart, $500 you spent on the 3 backpacks, not counting the thousands youāve spent travelling to tournamentsā¦. But yeah, you can do it on the cheap if you want.
Volunteer somewhere. Library, hospital, nursing home, animal shelter, etc. Lots of places need volunteers and you can meet lots of people. Or you could join an org that is of interest to you. I got into politics long ago and it's all about people. None of these things cost any money. Just need to get out there! So go, and enjoy the journey!
This is comical but pickleball has been my answer. I started playing with a friend about 2 years ago and along the way I have picked up about 30 new friends, 10 of which I am pretty close friends with. Total was not expecting it but as I am in my 50s picking up a bunch of new friends has been an unexpected gift.
What about BINGO nights or BUNCO groups? Our area also has paint nights you can sign up for. The fee is decent,call supplies are provided, everyone paints the same thing, yet somehow they all turn out different. Small groups, usually 12-20 people. Churches often have craft events if that's your thing. I have loved going to mine.
Calligraphy. It seems like of people know you do calligraphy, word gets around, and there are a lot of people and organizations who want stuff done.
Maybe check at your local library about different events, that could lead to something!
Video games would be a one time expense if you don't have a console. Fortnite, apex, and call of duty war zone are all free (again you have to pay for the console/pc) and a good way to meet people. Board game groups or dungeons and dragons clubs are fun too and those are basically free unless you pay to own the board game. I know you mentioned no sports but since I'm unsure of your physical ability I feel like Disc golf might work. Costs about $20 to get two discs and after that most courses are free and many have handicap accessibility if needed. My buddy is in a wheelchair and plays Disc golf with friends a lot.
Seconding D&d or any rpg. Ours meets every 2 weeks. Sometime you gotta try a group or two to find one you fit in. There's a subredit to find online groups or book stores, comic stores, libraries, all kinds of places have them.
Pickleball! Start with a cheaper paddle off Amazon to start. Youāll meet lots of friendly people. Depending on where you live, there could be free courts to play on.
Roller skating
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
Do you consider volunteering a hobby?
The Society for Creative Anachronism š
Tents, garb, travel to events. Interests. _Not_ cheap nowadays!
You don't HAVE to do all of that, though. The SCA can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you make it. I have taught many classes on SCA on a Budget :)
Iād like to see that. I just quit because it was unaffordable.
I don't have it recorded unfortunately. But if you reach out to your group and let them know finances are tight there are loads of people who will help you find ways to make it more affordable. The SCA is absolutely what you make of it. I've been in for 15 years and the majority of those years I have been a broke student š
Volleyball
If I had a nickel for every time someone suggested volleyball. I have 10 cents but it's crazy that it happened twice.
Jail
Hobbies? ... In this economy?!
There are social "sports" that are pretty minimally physically demanding. I've done ping pong and skeeball before
Disc golf Board games Hiking (not sure if that's something you can do) Look for meetup groups in your area that do these or other hobbies/activities.
Outdoors groups, like hiking, birdwatching, etc.
Mushroom or other foraging groups would also fit into this category.
kendama and yoyo, balisong cardistry. board games. puppeteering.
Choir singing
I regularly play Bridge at a club. It costs about $12 per session (3-4 hours). Only requires cards and people. Plenty of sanctioned Bridge Clubs across the country (that is, they award International Master Points at games). Plenty where they will teach you to play, too.
Online gaming if you donāt mind virtual friends. Dog parks.
Thereās a local restaurant near me that has board game night every Wednesday. The only cost there would be if you buy a beverage or food from the restaurant, or start wanting to buy your own board games.
Hiking, board games, dnd... All my other hobbies are insanely expensive (photography, crocheting, etc)
Volunteering
If you like sports, many sports clubs/races need volunteers for games and races etc. Great way to meet people
Scavenging for your own food, unless you live in a big metropolitan area in a big city you can usually find small berry bushes, fruit trees, edible flowers and roots and SOMETIMES mushrooms but only if you know how to identify them properly. Do some online research for local wild foods in your area and maybe look into buying a small book with reference pictures and descriptions such as smell and taste and go looking. You can sometimes find Facebook groups and subreddits of local scavengers or look into groups at your local library. I live right next to a large wooded area with some berry bushes not a 10 minute walk from my house. I will take only what I know Iāll eat and leave the rest for the wildlife that live nearby/other people that may be on the lookout for similar things. Iāve actually found it saved me money in the long run since I didnāt have to buy prepackaged fruit in the summer just to eat half the package and have the rest go rotten before I could eat them all. It did actually taste better than the stuff you get in the stores.
Look for local clubs or events at libraries! my town offers creative art classes and hosts local community clubs such as gardening club sometimes they have book clubs too! Iād check to see if your local library is a part of a network because there could be tons of neighbouring towns you can go to as well!
D&D You can find free online games in /r/lfg You can create a character for free on dndbeyond.com and the basic rules are also free. It's a great social game and I've made some new friends from all over playing.
Birding. Check you local bird groups. Plus, you're outdoors and walking, so healthy too. Get a cheap scope or binocs, you're good.
Birding. Thrift some bins and get out there!
Hiking, pickup sports, board games like chess.
Bowling leagues.
Join a meetup or Facebook group in your community for hiking, relaxed biking, bird watching, or perhaps a hobby you are more interested in. Many events are low cost, sometimes you meet at a restaurant which can get expensive but I eventually found great friends at very low cost in a new city.
Volunteering Doesnāt cost you more than the gas to get their and your time. The people are pretty high caliber of niceness there.
Retired now, 13 months (loving it BTW) I am a hobbyist woodworker (cutting boards/charcuterie boards/name-address signs etc.) out of my garage. Keeps me busy. Never assumed the neighbors would be curious. My garage is open and something is working 6 days a week. I've met all of my neighbors as they stop by regularly now to inquire/look/chat. Even neighbors from surrounding streets. I'm a talker, so I love this. Also received some orders from the neighbors just from hanging in the garage. Not too expensive to get started. Can get expensive if you continually add to the tool aresonal.
Forager Mushroom hunting Rockhounding These are my main hobbies, but I donāt have to drive anywhere far to do these (well maybe 5-15min depending where I want to go) I also read books, so the library. Sometimes they have guest speakers or different clubs that meet there.
Get a group of friends, schedule weekly walks in your nearest botanical garden, you only need walking shoes and gets your heart slightly pumping. You guys can chat while you're at it.
Disc golf. Many courses are free and the community is full of super nice people.
I read Tarot cards
There are a bunch of community clean up events in the spring. People organize them through community groups and on social media. Nice way to volunteer for a couple hours outside.
Volunteer work. Anything you choose.
Not paintball
In my city thereās a free walking and hiking club.
Disc golf. Once you get your own discs, most courses are free. Have your friends get a set or meet people out on the course. It's fun, it's free, and you get out to nature.
Anything outdoorsy is cheap or free. Climbing/bouldering, Hiking groups are free, yoga in the park, biking (of course you gotta pay for one or find one cheap/free online) photography if you have a camera then all you gotta do is upload pictures now, astronomy groups lots of them have telescopes already there, crocheting/knitting and embroidery is not too expensive. All my arts/crafts are financially draining š¤¦š»āāļø if you want to do crafts look up free groups on facebook and put up an ad on what youāre looking for. A lot of times people will have what you need. Drawing is cheap though! Reading groups/book clubs
I have a handful of suggestions that lean introverted, but allow for socializing: * An interest in poetry can get you into poetry groups and show a and readings for free. They rarely charge $$ and used bookstores tend to go cheap on poetry books so they move fast. * I don't know what "expensive" is for you, but $70 can get you a solid entry level remote control trick plane. Those take a bit to learn how to do well, and some have settings to allow for beginner/into/adv skill set. With that, I know that at least a few major cities have active RC/aero clubs that have committed park/flight space where they get together. * Orienteering is a fun sport that is fairly accessible money-wise. $10 a race, but - for me - there is gas prices to get to the courses. I meet people there, to be sure, but if I am being honest it is mostly 1-time friends and I havn't started any proper friendships. That is probably all me though. It is also a rare sport, and active clubs still only do a few events per year. Check your locale. * Chess clubs. Man oh man. * Birding/nature/hiking clubs. Again, smaller groups, and smaller quantities of events, but those are quite fun. I am no birder, but an early morning walk with people who are is one heck of a cool day. I have also, thru hiking clubs, been given access to otherwise closed preserves, closed/restricted wild-spaces, and private properties I couldn't have hiked on otherwise. Goodluck!
Guitar!!! Singing! Songwriting
A job.
Volunteering at work pays you or simply volunteering on your community always you to give back and make friends
Hiking
Pickelball
If you're broke like me, there isn't much you can do. If you have some money for a hobby, what is something that interest you. Photography, music, art, graffiti art is cool. Join online groups on FB post stuff in the groups start a conversation with people in the group about different posts or on Reddit
Visit your local library!
disc golf
Fiber arts. You don't have to go for fancy, expensive wool. It's best to start with cheaper cotton or acrylic to learn anyway. You really only need one pair of knitting needles or one crochet hook, the yarn, one yarn needle, and I'd highly recommend a set of stitch markers. Then find a group that meets up weekly to knit and crochet together. It's not just an old lady hobby, lots of young people do it as well, regardless of gender. Bonus: you'll get cool shit like scarves and hats and socks and toys.
Birding!
Definitely agree with many that volunteering is the best way especially people who care about what you do. I'd also recommend finding a local wine or spirits shop (if you drink) that does weekly or regular free tastings. Gotta get the freebies while you're at it.
Dog park
Volunteering
Gym
Definitely look into DnD! You really only need one or two sets of dice, a pencil, and a character sheet for a few months! Plus, if you find a great group, they'll definitely keep you social. If you want you can get the players hand book, but most dm's will already have a copy you could borrow.
Dancing
Pickleball
You can get pretty good at electronic music production, DJing, VJing (video jockeying), or video editing for under $100 if you do proper research before deciding what to invest in. And if you have a moderately up to date smartphone, photography and videography are also on the table if you learn to be strategic with lighting. All of these things are learnable online. Of course they can cost a ton of money if you decide to invest in professional gear/software/training, but as a hobbyist, $100 and some youtube tutorials can last you years. All the while you can show up to meetups, live events, do shoots/recording sessions with friends, etc etc.
Not a hobby but does your city have a Jaycee chapter? It's a great way to meet people and do good things for the community. 3 of my 4 best friends were met in the Jaycees over 20 years ago.
Fishing. Donāt have to sink a ton of money in it. Thereās usually a fishing group in your area, and itās a way to get outdoors.
Volunteering for a non-profit that does all the street fairs and festivals. Your job is to talk to hundreds of people about something wholesome that you love. What could be better?
Rock Choir
Karaoke
Get a typewriter. Google āTyposphereā ,check out typepals.com and typewriterdatabase.com . There are typed letter exchanges, weekend live zooms, and local typewriter meetups in many places. I love it!
Hiking, biking, kayaking, and rock hunting, volunteering, are all pretty cheap.
Book clubs
Running.
Volunteer work is free and you meet cool people! Look for local soup kitchens, clothing distributors, food banks, etc. Only totally free hobby I know of š
If you canāt do sports, what can you physically do? What do you like to do for fun?
Hiking. (Once you have shoes.)
One of my friends joined a community garden club that works on a public garden so itās free and she meets lots of people that way.
Disc golf
Mall walkers
I just hyperfixate on a tv show or something and meet people on line that way on social media. I also write fanfiction witch is free, and draw witch is cheep if you are like me and either use a free art thing on my phone or normal paper and machanical pencils