In Albuquerque, young adults can find community through hiking groups, creative workshops, volunteer projects and social meetups. These activities give people a chance to meet others with similar interests, especially when school or work no longer provides those opportunities.

Making friends as an adult can be difficult. After high school or during college, familiar routines disappear, work schedules fill up and meeting new people takes more effort. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, ABQ 20s and 30s Hiking and Social group organizes hikes, backpacking trips and social events, including game nights, dinners and movies. The group’s meetup page lists events ranging from easy sunset hikes to more challenging outings. Participants can choose activities that match their experience and comfort level. 

Those looking for a more casual way to get outside and meet others, check out ABQ Girls Who Walk. The group organizes walks around Albuquerque, giving women an opportunity to meet new people while enjoying time outdoors.

Ella Gellhausen, who has joined the group said, “I think sometimes it’s easier to meet people when you have an activity to do together. You don’t have to worry about making conversation the entire time.”

For those who prefer running, Run Club ABQ offers another way to meet people through shared activities. The community running group brings people together through regular social runs. The club welcomes participants with a wide range of experience levels.

Those interested in art can visit OffCenter Community Arts Project, a free community art studio at 808 Park Ave. SW. The nonprofit provides art supplies, open studio hours, classes and creative groups, giving people a place to work on projects alongside others. 

Autumn Famiglietta, who has visited the art studio several times, said it offers a great opportunity to get out of the house. “It’s a cool space where you can work on something creative and meet other people while you’re there,” Famiglietta said. 

For people who want to make connections while serving their community, One ABQ Volunteers connects residents with volunteer opportunities through the city. Community service can offer a way to meet people while supporting local initiatives.

The Albuquerque Public Library also offers low-cost ways to meet people. Its events calendar lists activities, including craft gatherings and recreational events. Knitting, stitching and other shared hobbies can provide an easy conversation starter for people who are looking to make new friends.

Gellhausen said not every activity will lead to a lasting friendship, but trying different activities can help people find environments where they feel comfortable.

“You don’t have to go into it expecting to make a bunch of friends right away. Sometimes just getting out and trying something new while being around people helps a lot,” she said.