Beyond Swiping: How to Meet Real People Through Shared Adventures
If you’re tired of endless swiping, awkward coffee dates, or group chats that go nowhere, you’re not alone. Modern dating and socializing can feel like a game of chance. But there’s a better way: meeting people through shared adventures. Whether it’s hiking a trail, taking a pottery class, or joining a trivia night, experiences create natural connections far faster than any profile ever could.
Around 70% of adults report feeling lonely at times, and most crave friendships or meaningful connections built through real-world interaction. And that means not just digital likes.
Why Shared Adventures Help People Make New Friends
Experiences do the heavy lifting when it comes to forming bonds. Here’s why:
Instant icebreakers: Activities give you something to talk about besides small talk.
Authentic interaction: Watching how someone reacts to challenges, laughs, or teamwork shows you their personality immediately.
Shared memories: Adventure creates stories you’ll remember and reference, strengthening bonds naturally.
Step 1: Identify Your Adventure Style
Think about what excites you:
Are you outdoorsy? Hiking, cycling, or kayaking could be your playground.
Are you creative? Art classes, pottery, or cooking workshops may spark both fun and conversation.
Are you competitive? Trivia nights, board games, or escape rooms can be your arena.
Knowing your style helps you target events and activities that attract like-minded people.
Step 2: Use Activity-Based Social Apps
Apps like WentSwell make finding adventure partners easy. You can:
Post your own activity and invite local people to join
Filter events by interest, skill level, or location
Join existing experiences and meet others who want to engage in real-life adventures
Step 3: Mix Online Planning with Offline Action
Check local event boards, Facebook groups, or Meetup for activity nights.
Attend multi-week workshops or recurring events to see the same faces consistently.
Suggest follow-ups after an activity: coffee, brunch, or another group adventure.
Step 4: Be Open and Curious
Friendship is a two-way street. Ask questions, laugh at mistakes, and be genuinely interested in others’ experiences. Shared adventure makes even introverted adults feel more comfortable — you’re working on a task, learning something new, or exploring a trail together, not staring awkwardly at each other.
Step 5: Have Fun with It
Don’t overthink it. Shared adventures are meant to be enjoyable first, friendship-building second. Be playful, laugh at mishaps, and let the experience speak for itself.
What Other People Like You are Wondering
Q: How do I meet people without swiping?
A: Attend shared activities, workshops, or adventure events through WentSwell or local groups. Real-world experiences naturally spark conversation and connection.
Q: What if I’m new in town?
A: Start with structured, beginner-friendly activities. Multi-week classes or recurring events are great for meeting the same people repeatedly.
Q: Do I have to be good at the activity?
A: Not at all! Shared experiences are about participation, laughter, and trying new things — not perfection.
