Fun With Friends

Do you love hosting dinner parties with friends and family? It’s a great way to catch up and spend quality time together, but if you’re looking for some extra fun, dinner party games can add an extra bit of excitement to the evening. From trivia and charades to more creative activities like in-home scavenger hunts and murder mysteries, there are plenty of dinner party games to choose from.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best dinner party games so your next dinner gathering can be one to remember. Whether you’re looking for a game that will bring out everyone’s competitive side or something more laidback and entertaining, we’ve got the perfect dinner party game for you. Read on to find out more and start planning your dinner party today.

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Make Every Evening an Adventure

Got friends coming over? Keen to try something different? Why not grab a copy of Adventures From Scratch: Friends Edition? Skillfully crafted by travel experts who happen to be best friends, this great puzzle book is full of hilarious activities to help bring you together and enjoy a great evening, including creative challenges, conversation prompts, and even a scrapbooking section to record your adventures. Grab the book now and let the adventure begin!

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DIY Games

DIY games are a great way to have fun and stay entertained without spending a whole lot of money. With a bit of creativity and imagination, you can create your own unique and exciting dinner party games with everyday items found around the house.

1. Create a murder mystery game.

Are you looking to go above and beyond with dinner party games? Creating a murder mystery game is a great way to get everyone engaged and having fun. Set up clues around the house and start with an opening story about who has been “murdered” and what happened.

Invite your guests to search for clues, interrogate each other, and try to figure out who the killer is. You can even create different characters for your guests to act out. Putting together a murder mystery game takes a bit of time and creativity, but you can easily find templates online to get started.

For an added bonus, select a theme and have guests come dressed in costume. This will make the game even more fun, and everyone can get creative with their looks. Popular murder mystery themes include the Roaring 20’s, the 80s’ and casino nights.

2. Get kooky with Junk in the Trunk.

Junk in the Trunk is perfect for your next dinner party. All it requires is an empty tissue box, cotton balls, and string. To play, tie the empty tissue box around someone’s waist with the string, fill it with cotton or ping pong balls, and set a timer for 30 seconds. The player shakes their butt as fast as they can to shake out the balls and get points.

At the end of 30 seconds, count how many balls they shook out—whoever shakes out the most wins! It’s a hilarious game that everyone can join in on, no matter what age. So grab those tissue boxes and get ready to shake your booty!

3. Be silly with Charades.

Charades is an easy game for any group. The rules are simple: one person acts out the title of a book, movie, or tv show while the other players guess what it is. Or, you can get creative with your categories and try something totally new. Actors can use anything but words to act out their clues—be as creative as you want!

All the host has to do is pre-write prompts on slips of paper, put them in a bowl or hat, and the game is ready to go!

4. Get to know each other with Two Truths and a Lie.

Two Truths and a Lie is a great icebreaker game to get everyone talking with conversation starters. Have each person say three facts about themselves – two true statements and one false statement. Everyone else tries to guess which statement is false. It’s up to you if you want to have prizes for guessing correctly or just let people vote on who they think is telling the truth. Two Truths and a Lie is an easy way to get people laughing and having fun in no time.

You can also mix it up with different themes, like “Two things I did this past weekend” or “Two dreams I want to accomplish.” But, no matter how you do it, Two Truths and a Lie will surely be the hit of your dinner party games.

5. Find the smarty-pants with a round of trivia.

Do you have a few trivia buffs in your group? Put their skills to the test with a round of dinner party trivia. You can create a trivia game yourself by choosing topics everyone might know a little something about.

For example, if you are hosting a birthday party, you could ask questions about the guest of honor or their favorite TV show. Or, if you are hosting a movie night, create questions about the films everyone is watching.

If you’d prefer something more general, try making up questions about pop culture, geography, sports, or history. You’ll be surprised how quickly the trivia night comes together.

To make it even more exciting, award prizes for the winner or keep track of each person’s score throughout the night.

6. Race against one another in Cup Stacking.

Cup Stacking is an entertaining and easy game to play, even if you don’t have any special props. All you need are plastic or paper cups of the same size and color that you can easily find at your local grocery store or on Amazon.

Assign each player a cup color, then have them race against one another to build their own cup towers. The goal is to be the first person to stack their cups in the correct order, from largest to smallest.

This game will bring out your competitive streak and have everyone laughing at their attempts. Plus, it’s a great way to practice motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Don’t be afraid to get silly with your cup stacking.

7. Get ready to laugh with a round of Pictionary.

This old-school game is sure to get everyone laughing. To play, divide players into two teams and have each team draw a card with a word or phrase written on it. One player must then try to draw the item while the other teammates guess what it is. The team that guesses correctly first wins the point!

Note: There is also a board game version of Pictionary if you prefer.

8. Shout out to Bingo!

Bingo is a classic dinner party game that’s great for any age. You can easily find printable Bingo cards online and create a set of your own. To mix up the game, you can create multiple cards with categories like Movies, Music, or Sports. Then make sure to get some small prizes to give out when someone hits Bingo!

9. Learn about one another’s quirks with Would You Rather.

This game is perfect for a dinner party that’s looking for something a bit more lighthearted. Each player takes turns asking the group questions about their preference between two scenarios—like “Would you rather be able to fly or read minds?” Of course, the answer will spark some interesting conversations!

Note: There is also a board game version of Would You Rather if you prefer.

10. A blast from the past: Connect Four.

Players take turns dropping discs into the grid, trying to be the first ones to get four of their colors in a row. It’s quick and easy, so you can keep conversations flowing while playing.

11. Engage in friendly fire with Battleship.

You won’t want to miss out on Battleship when it comes to dinner party entertainment. The classic game requires two players, and each person takes turns trying to sink their opponent’s ships by guessing their location on the board.

It’s a great game for dinner parties because you don’t need a lot of space or materials, and you can get through a few rounds in the time it takes to finish dinner. Make it a tournament to get everyone involved.

12. Try not to knock things down with Jenga.

The beloved block-stacking game is fun for everyone, even if you don’t think you’re good at it! Players take turns removing blocks from the tower and placing them on top without knocking them over. The last person to move without making the tower collapse is the winner.

Just keep it far away from the breakables!

13. Crack the puzzle with Codenames.

Codenames is a game of deduction and communication. Players split into two teams and take turns giving one-word clues to help their team guess all the words on the board before their opponents do. It requires good problem-solving skills, so it’s an excellent option for dinner parties with more experienced players.

Board Games

Board games are a great way to get the whole dinner party crew together for an evening of fun and laughter. Whether you’re looking for classic favorites like Guess Who or Would You Rather, or something new and exciting, board games provide hours of entertainment.

14. Earn your Ticket to Ride.

All aboard! Ticket to Ride is a great game option for dinner partygoers who are feeling strategic. The goal of the game is to travel routes between major cities, collecting cards and earning points along the way. It’s fast-paced and entertaining, so you’ll all have a great time. 

Hold on to your train ticket; it’s going to get competitive out on the rails!

15. Relive a classic with Guess Who.

This classic game has been around for decades, and it’s no wonder why. It’s easy to learn and can accommodate up to six players. Each player takes a turn asking yes or no questions about the other person’s mystery character card until one person guesses who it is correctly.

16. Unleash your artistic talents with Telestrations.

Telestrations is a board game that really lets you unlock your creativity and not-so-great artistic talents. One person draws a picture; the next person has to guess what it is, then draw their own interpretation of it, and so on, until the circle is complete. It’s an absolute blast.

Looking to spice things up? The Telestrations After Dark package is for adult eyes only!

17. Go back to English class with a game of Scrabble.

Scrabble is the perfect dinner party game for any group of word lovers. The classic board game has been around for decades and will provide hours of entertainment. Each player takes turns creating words and scoring points, and the person with the most points at the end of the game wins.

18. Solve a mystery with Clue.

Clue is a game of deduction and strategy that is perfect for sitting around the dinner table after dessert. Players must work together to figure out who killed Mr. Boddy in the mansion’s library, with what weapon, and where it happened. This game will require some thinking and logic, but that’s all part of the fun!

Bonus points if you tell your guests in advance to come dressed as their Clue character.

19. Try a face-paced round of Yahtzee.

Yahtzee is a fast-paced game of luck and strategy. Each player rolls five dice to try and make combinations that score points, such as three of a kind or four of a kind.

The person with the highest score at the end of the game wins. It’s an easy game to learn, and you will have time for a few rounds. Make sure to shout out “Yahtzee!” when your dice land five of a kind. 

20. Take a little Risk.

The aim of the game is to conquer the world by controlling every territory on the board. Players take turns moving their armies and attacking other territories in order to expand their empires. It’s a great game for dinner parties because it requires both strategy and luck, so you’ll never know who will come out on top.

21. Bankrupt your pals with Monopoly. 

Would it really be a game night if Monopoly wasn’t in the mix? This party game is the perfect way to put your guests up against some ruthless competition.

Players move around a board buying property, building houses, and collecting rent—all while trying to avoid going bankrupt! It’s a great way to get dinner conversation flowing as you cross your fingers, hoping not to be the one who owes all their money to the bank.

Card Games

Card games are a perfect way to get your dinner party group to laugh and have fun. Whether you prefer classic card games like Uno or newer ones like Cards Against Humanity, there’s something for everyone. There is no limit to the ways you can entertain with cards—here are just a few of our favorites!

22. Unlock your dark humor with Cards Against Humanity.

This popular adult party game has become a fan favorite for its ability to bring out people’s dark sense of humor. It can accommodate up to six players (but really, you can stretch it to as many folks as you need to in a large group) and will keep everyone laughing throughout the night.

The goal of the game is to match your cards with those in play and come up with the funniest answers possible. With a variety of topics and cards to choose from, no two games are ever the same!

23. Keep it PG with Apples to Apples.

Apples to Apples is a simple game for dinner parties with younger kids or those with a slightly more sensitive group of friends. It’s very similar to Cards Against Humanity, but the questions are tailored toward a family-friendly audience.

Each player takes turns drawing cards and presenting them to the group; then, everyone has to match their card with one from the draw pile that fits best. The player with the most matches at the end of the game wins!

24. Enjoy a classic with a game of Uno.

This classic card game is perfect for a dinner party with four or more party guests. Everyone takes turns drawing and discarding cards, trying to be the first person to get rid of all their cards.

It’s easy to learn, but it can get surprisingly competitive – so make sure to come with your game face ready!

25. Get a little Taboo.

This deck of cards challenges players to describe a word without using any of the associated terms. Teams must guess what the word is before time runs out and their opponents can do it. It’s a great way to get people to think outside the box and have some laughs along the way.

26. Put on your Poker face.

Poker may be the right choice for a more experienced crowd. Each player receives cards and must bet on their hands in order to win the pot. There are many variations of poker, so it’s important to make sure everyone knows the rules before starting.

In any version, it’s all about bluffing your opponents and reading the table—who will come out on top?

27. Go Fish.

Go Fish is an accessible option for a game night with younger players. Each player is dealt five cards, and they must attempt to make pairs by asking other players if they have certain cards. The player who collects the most sets of four at the end wins the game.

28. Turn up the Speed.

Speed is a fast-paced card game that can be played with two or more players. The goal of the game is to get rid of all your cards by playing them onto the discard pile.

Players must think quickly in order to make moves and try to outwit their opponents. If you are looking for an energizing game that will keep your dinner party guests on their toes, this is it!

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Closing Thoughts

No matter what type of dinner games you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone. From classic card games like Uno and Go Fish to more modern choices like Cards Against Humanity and Taboo, dinner parties are an excellent opportunity to have some fun with your family and friends. So grab some snacks, break out the cards, and get ready to have a night of dinner party games you won’t soon forget!

Is your dinner party going virtual? Take a look at our “Ultimate Virtual Game Night Guide.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Friends are the best part of life. They make us laugh, help us through hard times, and even remind us to take a break from our busy lives and enjoy life. No matter how long you’ve known each other, best friends share an unbreakable bond that’s made up of countless shared memories, adventures, and inside jokes. So why not create a best friend bucket list to honor this special connection? A best friend bucket list is a collection of activities and experiences that you can do together to make even more amazing memories and have fun together. These ideas are meant to be completed throughout your lifetime, so you can continue to look back on all the amazing things you’ve done together.

From getting matching tattoos to taking a road trip across your state, best friend bucket lists can be as creative and adventurous as you make them. Use this list to get inspired and create one of your own.

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Build Your Bonds With Adventure

Looking for a way to reconnect with your besties? How about sharing an evening of puzzles and adventure games with Adventures From Scratch: Friends Edition? Brimming with awesome challenges and indoor activities specially designed for best friends. Our books also include pay-it-forward adventures, conversation prompts, and even a scrapbooking section to record your hilarious time together. Buy the book now and strengthen your bonds today!

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Your Best Friend Bucket List

This is the ultimate guide for creating a best friend bucket list that’s tailored to you and your BFF. From outdoor activities and cultural experiences to traveling abroad, here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Go wine tasting in Napa Valley.

Put on your finest sundress and head over to one of Napa Valley’s many renowned vineyards for an unforgettable day of wine tasting. From the historic Inglenook Estate to the contemporary Cliff Lede Vineyards, a winery experience awaits you in every corner of this picturesque region.

At each stop, you’ll be able to sample world-class wines and learn about the secrets behind each bottle. If you’re lucky, you may even have the chance to meet one of Napa Valley’s celebrated winemakers.

 After a day out in the vineyards, head back into town for dinner at any one of the area’s acclaimed restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely meal while sipping on a glass of your favorite Napa Valley wine, and enjoy the evening with friends.

No matter what you choose to sample or experience, a day spent touring and tasting in Napa Valley is surely a best friend bucket list item. So grab your wine glass and go explore all that this region has to offer. Cheers!

2. Attend an international music festival.

Tomorrowland, Glastonbury, or Donauinselfest—whatever music festival you choose, it’s sure to be an unforgettable bff bucket list experience. Book a flight, gather your best friends, and prepare for an unforgettable music and fun weekend.

Dance the night away with people from all over the world to the best artists in the industry. Take part in exclusive VIP experiences and make memories that you’ll cherish forever.

Music festivals are more than just concerts—they’re an opportunity to bond with best friends through shared experiences and make lifelong memories. And best of all, you’ll have a million wild stories to tell when you come home!

No matter what genre of music you prefer, attending an international music festival is a best friend’s bucket list item that should not be missed. Round up your besties and prepare your festival outfits.

3. Go on an African Safari.

Look no further than Africa’s great safaris for the ultimate best friend bucket list experience. Embark on an unforgettable journey through the wilds of African countries like Tanzania and Zambia, spotting elephants, giraffes, lions, and more.

Stay in luxury safari lodges while exploring the region’s best national parks. Learn about local conservation efforts and participate in guided tours led by experienced guides. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti, or embark on a dawn game drive—the choice is yours!

No matter what you choose to do, an African safari will be an incredible best friend bucket list item. It’s sure to be an adventure you could never forget.

4. Ride every ride and roller coaster at Disney World.

For best friends in search of unlocking their inner child, there’s nothing quite like spending the day at Disney World. Ride every roller coaster and enjoy the never-ending lineup of entertainment.

From the soaring heights of Space Mountain to the epic cruise through Pirates of the Caribbean, it’s sure to be a great day.

Take some time to explore the parks and enjoy classic Disney attractions like It’s A Small World and Cinderella’s Castle. Don’t forget to get a picture with Mickey Mouse or any other of your favorite characters!

No best friend travel bucket list is complete without a trip to the happiest place on earth – so make sure you take some time out for an unforgettable day at Disney World.

5. Go Hiking in Yellowstone National Park.

Experience the best of nature and bond with your best friends on a hiking trip through Yellowstone National Park. Home to canyons, geysers, hot springs, and dramatic landscapes—there’s something for everyone in this sprawling national park.

From beautiful waterfalls to vast meadows and lush forests—you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to breathtaking scenery. Take a day or two to explore the stunning landscape and see for yourself why this is one of America’s greatest outdoor gems.

Pack your hiking backpacks, throw on some sturdy boots, and get ready for unforgettable memories in Yellowstone National Park.

6. Take a class to learn a new language.

Daydreaming of ordering pain au chocolat in Paris? Or perhaps you’ve always wanted to learn how to order a meal in Tokyo? Learning a new language with friends is an incredibly rewarding way to spend time together.

Choose your language and sign up for classes together—from French, Spanish, or Mandarin—the choice is yours! A few hours of weekly practice will soon turn into conversations in no time—and best of all, the skills you learn will stay with you for a lifetime.

Learning a new language has lots of benefits, from improved brain function to reducing stress levels. So why not give it a try with your pals?

7. Fly to New York City and see a Broadway show.

New York is calling, and you need to answer. Whether you’re a fan of musicals, stand-up comedy, or plays—there’s something for everyone in the Big Apple.

Fly to New York City and get ready for an unforgettable best friend bucket list moment—seeing a show on Broadway! Catch your favorite production and laugh until your stomach hurts. Then, go take photos in Times Square and explore the best of New York City.

From the iconic Empire State Building to Central Park, this vibrant city has no shortage of sights and fun activities. Grab your besties and get ready to order some NY-style pizza and book a karaoke room!

8. Go bungee jumping in New Zealand.

Adrenaline junkies unite – it’s time to go bungee jumping! This iconic activity began in New Zealand, so it is the best place in the world to experience this thrilling adventure for the first time.

Jump off a bridge or platform suspended hundreds of feet above the ground. The rush of free-falling will make you feel alive, and best of all—you can share this experience with your besties!

Some operators, like the Shotover Canyon Swing, offer creative solutions to get off the platform. For example, daredevils can choose to ride off the edge of a child’s tricycle or even be pushed backward off a patio chair. The choice is yours!

9. Hire a photographer for a bestie photo shoot.

Who says professional photos are just for couples? Make memories that will last a lifetime with a bestie photo shoot! Hire a professional photographer to capture all your best moments together—from silly poses to beautiful portraits.

A best friend photoshoot is the perfect way to document your friendship and create cherished mementos for years to come. You can even choose an outdoor location like the beach or a park to best capture the environment and mood of your best friend session.f

10. Take an epic road trip across the U.S.

Nothing beats an unforgettable road trip across the United States with pals. Pack your bags, turn up the playlist, and hit the open road—from coast to coast, there’s plenty to see and do in this vast nation.

Choose a destination like the Grand Canyon or Los Angeles as your final destination and map out stops along the way! Stop for souvenirs, take photos at iconic landmarks, or just enjoy the change of scenery.

Consider taking the iconic Route 66 to enjoy some retro roadside attractions and classic American scenery. A road trip is truly one of the best summer bucket list ideas out there.

11. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in London.

Welcome in the New Year with style—from views of Big Ben to the London Eye, celebrate New Year’s Eve in one of the most iconic cities in the world. Watch as thousands of fireworks light up the sky and usher in a brand new year surrounded by your best friends.

Put on your best dress and makeup, because London is full of incredible parties that you can attend for the special occasion. Take in a show at the West End or grab dinner and drinks with your pals before making your way to the city’s impressive fireworks displays.

Enjoy an unforgettable New Year’s celebration by the river Thames!

12. Go skydiving in Hawaii.

Feel the wind beneath your feet as you take on a brand new adventure—skydiving in Hawaii! This exhilarating experience will make your heart race and give you a rush like no other.

Jump from an airplane high above Oahu and soar overviews of this beautiful island. You can even get a GoPro to record every moment for later viewing. Then, float through the air and take in the stunning landscape below.

After you land, reward yourself with some tropical food or drinks and reminisce about the incredible experience.

13. Dance all night in Las Vegas.

Forget your average local clubs—take your best friends to Sin City for a night of dancing they’ll never forget. Las Vegas is home to some of the world’s most iconic venues, with live music and DJs playing all night long.

Whether you’re looking for an EDM festival or just a place to shake it on the dance floor, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you can take in the stunning neon lights of The Strip while you’re at it!

Popular spots like XS or OMNIA offer an unbeatable nightlife experience with top-tier DJs and drinks aplenty. Gather up your people and hit the dance floor – Las Vegas is calling your name!

14. Build a time capsule to open when you’re both 50 years old.

Nothing says “old friends” like a time capsule! Create a meaningful memento of your friendship by writing letters and gathering items to share when you turn 50 years old.

Write notes, take photos from scrapbooks, or even record videos for the future. You can fill your time capsule with all sorts of memories—from concert tickets and DIY crafts to favorite snacks—anything that captures the essence of your friendship.

Bury the capsule in a safe spot and mark it with a GPS tracker or landmark—that way, you’ll be able to find it easily when the time comes. Opening up this capsule in 50 years will bring you both back to all those cherished moments shared throughout your years together.

15. Enjoy a spa day at the Széchenyi Baths.

Enjoy the bucket list spa day with your friends. Located in Budapest, Hungary, Széchenyi Baths is one of Europe’s largest natural hot springs – perfect for soaking up some R&R with your best pals. Plus, its 20th-century architecture makes a great spot for some selfies.

Enjoy therapeutic waters that range from warm to hot as you unwind and let go of all your worries. You can also get a massage or enjoy some of the other spa treatments available here. While they don’t offer manicures, you can get a pedicure. Afterward, grab some drinks in Budapest’s famous ruin bars and let loose!

You’ll be sure to leave this experience feeling refreshed and even closer than ever.

16. Have a glamping sleepover in Moab, Utah.

Experience the great outdoors without having to sacrifice comfort. Pack your bags and head to Moab, Utah, for a glamping trip of a lifetime with your best friends!

Spend the night under the stars while still enjoying all the amenities you could ask for—from hot showers to cozy beds. Spend your days exploring nearby canyons and mountains, kayaking down the Colorado River, and even taking a hot air balloon ride.

At the end of each day, come back to your glamping retreat for some s’mores by the fire, music, and stories with your friends. With no phones or internet to distract you, this is the perfect opportunity for making new memories in a stunning natural setting.

17. Go on a shopping spree in Tokyo.

Make your way to Tokyo with your friends for an unforgettable shopping experience. This bustling metropolis has fun things for everyone, from designer stores to vintage markets and discount outlets. Get lost in the exciting atmosphere of Shinjuku’s electric streets while browsing the latest trends.

Stop by Harajuku for fashion-forward street styles, and then explore Akihabara for all sorts of geeky gadgets. Don’t forget to grab some treats at one of Tokyo’s many delicious restaurants!

Be sure to check out TikTok for hidden gems to explore. So go on, get your wallets out, and let the shopping spree begin!

18. Get matching tattoos.

If you and your best friend want a permanent reminder of your bestie bond, then why not get matching tattoos? Whether it’s an inside joke, a meaningful quote, or two mismatched pieces that fit together to form one complete design—whatever you choose to ink on your skin will be a statement of your friendship.

Getting tattooed can be a nerve-wracking experience, but having your best friend there to support you will make it even more special. Plus, it’ll give you something to laugh about in the years to come!

If you feel like taking the plunge and getting some ink, why not make it a best friend bucket list item? Get creative, and find a design that best expresses your bestie bond. After all, best friends forever are worth celebrating!

Not ready to commit to some ink? You can order some fake tattoos on Amazon for laughs!

19. Take a sightseeing tour of Scotland’s stunning Highlands.

Take in the majestic beauty of Scotland with a sightseeing trip with your pals! From lochs to mountains, this is the perfect destination for exploring some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Start your journey in Edinburgh and make your way to the Highlands, where you can marvel at the rolling hills and glacial lakes. Visit charming villages like Thurso or Fort William before heading to famous castles like Eilean Donan Castle.

End your trip with a hike up Ben Nevis, The United Kingdom’s highest peak—it’s sure to be an experience you’ll never forget! Capture the stunning views along the way and take lots of new pictures to flood your social media with.

20. Take a culinary trip through Italy.

If you’ve just had to binge-watch Finding Italy, it’s time to treat your taste buds to an unforgettable adventure in Italy with your oldest and best high school friends by your side! From creamy gelato in Rome to fresh seafood in Sicily, this country will not disappoint. Get ready for some of the best cuisine you’ve ever had!

Start your journey in Rome, where you can sample dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe and savor a scoop or two (or three!) of gelato. Then make your way to Bologna to try traditional mortadella sandwiches and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Head south to Sicily for some of the freshest seafood dishes, followed by Naples for delicious pizza and pasta. Follow travel influencers’ youtube channels like The Blonde Abroad to find even more inspiration Eat your way through this beautiful country with your best friends!

21. Go on a Colorado Ski Trip.

If you’re looking for an adventure with your pals, a ski trip to Colorado is a perfect choice! With miles of slopes and tons of resorts to choose from, you’ll be sure to have fun on the slopes. Explore the many ski villages in the state, like Steamboat Springs or Aspen, and make lifetime memories along the way. Never been skiing before? It’s time to pick up a new hobby on the bunny hill!

Stop at one of the many hot springs to relax after a long day on the slopes or explore Colorado’s great outdoors with hikes, biking trails, and camping spots. And don’t forget to grab some après-ski drinks with your friends—cheers!

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Closing Thoughts

No matter what you and your friends are looking for, there’s something for everyone when traveling together. From exploring the canyons of Colorado to the markets of Tokyo, these best friend bucket list ideas will no doubt create lasting memories with your closest buddies. Get packing and start planning your next adventure!

All this friendship stuff sounds great, but you kinda have to have friends first. If you’re working on making great friends as an adult, take a few tips from “How to Make Friends as an Adult (and Why You Should!)”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ah, summer break! It’s what every kid looks forward to during the school year—no more listening to teachers babble or studying for big tests. It’s time to relax, sleep in, and have few responsibilities. However, summer break can quickly become a boring, repetitive cycle of sleeping, eating, and playing on your phone. In this article, we’ll provide you with 35 things to do on summer break to escape the boredom.

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35 Things to Do on Summer Break

Overcoming the allure of screen time can be a challenging feat, especially when you find yourself with plenty of idle time. However, with some creative thinking, you can discover enjoyable and engaging activities to keep you entertained without relying on your phone. From learning a new hobby to exploring the great outdoors, there are countless ways to disconnect and make the most of your free time.

1. Go on a scavenger hunt.

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to explore cities, look no further than our Let’s Roam app! We offer unique and entertaining scavenger hunts that take you on an adventure through the most interesting and iconic locations in cities all over the world. With our app, you’ll have access to urban art walks, ghost tours, and attraction hunts loaded with fun challenges and interesting trivia that will keep you entertained and engaged throughout your journey. Whether you’re exploring on your own, with friends, or with family, our scavenger hunts are the perfect way to discover new sights and create lasting memories.

2. Have a museum day.

The United States boasts some of the finest museums in the world, catering to a diverse range of interests and budgets. If you’re a history buff, you’ve got plenty of options, from small, community-based museums that showcase local history to the renowned National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. (I enjoyed this museum so much that I went to it twice). In fact, some museums even offer overnight stays, providing a truly unique “night at the museum” experience! If you can’t get to a museum, there are scores of virtual museum tours you can do from your computer, like touring the Louvre in Paris.

3. Go to the park.

If you’re looking for a place to spend a relaxing afternoon with your friends or family, local parks are a perfect choice. Many parks have playgrounds for kids, walking paths, basketball courts, skate parks, and tennis courts. Some even have water features, like fountains or splash pads, for hot summer days. For teens, parks also offer fitness equipment, allowing you to get in a workout while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

4. Go on a road trip.

Embarking on a road trip is a great way to get out of the house and experience something new, whether it’s a solo trip or an adventure with friends. The open road holds endless possibilities, from breathtaking scenery to unique roadside attractions, and each mile traveled brings something new and unexpected.

All you need to do is pick a spot on the map, get in your car, and let the journey begin. Whether it’s exploring new towns, trying new foods, hiking through national parks, or taking a dip in a hidden swimming hole, the options are endless. Make a plan or completely wing it for some spontaneity!

If you want to see the national parks, go check out our blog on the ultimate national park road trip.

5. Go to the beach.

Summertime is the perfect time to head to your favorite beach with your whole family or just your friends to enjoy the warm weather, water, and sunshine. Why not use your creativity to make the most of it? Building a sand castle can be a challenging task, especially if you’re aiming for an elaborate design. Challenge your buddies to build the biggest and best! Go swimming, throw a frisbee, play beach volleyball, or just lounge in the sun (wear your sunscreen, folks). When you eventually need to cool off, grab a popsicle or ice cream.

6. Volunteer in your community.

Volunteering is a fulfilling way to give back to your community, and there are countless opportunities available. Whether you’re interested in helping people in need or supporting animal welfare, there’s something for everyone. If you enjoy working with animals, consider volunteering at your local animal shelter for the day and bathe pooches. If you want to help those in need, volunteer at a soup kitchen or help stock a food bank. Check with your church, local homeless shelter, or your city’s website for opportunities.

Remember, you don’t need an organization to work through. You can just as easily take a few friends and clean up litter in the park, rake leaves for an elderly neighbor, or arrange a gaming day at the old folks’ home!

7. Go on a service/mission trip.

Going on a mission trip is an incredible experience that will definitely change the way you view the world and different cultures. Mission trips with local churches or community organizations are a popular way for teens to get this experience, so check there first. If there is nothing available or you aren’t interested in that style of trip, look into a teen travel service.

These travel agencies work specifically with young people, designing service trips that are part volunteer, part tourism. For instance, you could work with injured primates in the jungles of Costa Rica, teach English in a school in the Philippines, or work to dig wells in an African village. The agencies take care of the itinerary, paperwork, and security, ensuring that the parents are comfortable and that all you have to do is focus on serving and enjoying.

For more information, check out “The Top 12 Service Trips for Teens.”

8. Attend a sporting event.

For sports enthusiasts, attending a live sporting event is an unforgettable experience. From the thrill of the game to the roar of the crowd, there’s nothing quite like the energy and excitement of being there in person. Summer is a great time to catch a baseball game, a soccer match, or a tennis tournament. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun evening, a live sporting event is a great way to enjoy some quality time with friends and family.

9. Have a sleepover.

Invite your friends over for an unforgettable time. Staying up all night, eating all your favorite snacks, watching movies, or playing board games is the perfect way to stay in touch with your friends over break. For a fun sleepover activity, head to your local craft store and get a kit to make your own tie-dye shirts or create a scrapbook to remember your night. If you need some ideas for activities, Adventures From Scratch: Friends Edition has you covered!

10. Go camping.

When you’re craving an escape from the city, camping is an ideal way to immerse yourself in nature. From hiking and fishing to kayaking and canoeing, outdoor activities are a refreshing break from video games. If you’re in the mood for a more laid-back experience, you can simply kick back in your hammock and read a good book while soaking up the natural beauty that surrounds you. And when the sun sets, stargazing is a must, especially while snacking on some delicious s’mores by the campfire.

11. Learn a new language.

Why waste your free time when you can do something both productive and enjoyable? One great idea is to challenge yourself by learning a new language. Not only will it impress your friends, but it can also come in handy for future travels or job opportunities. Download Babble and learn from the app, learn in situ by taking an international trip, or sign up for a class at a local language center.

12. Try new foods.

If you’re feeling adventurous, trying new foods like crawfish, oysters, or sushi is a fun way to expand your palate and maybe even discover a new favorite dish. You can also try your hand at cooking something new to impress your friends and family. Masterclass and Cozymeals offer several amazing cooking classes that are easy to follow along with.

13. Tour your own territory.

Another way to make the most of your summer break is by exploring new places. This doesn’t necessarily mean traveling to far-off destinations—it could be as simple as checking out a new gallery in your city or taking a day trip to a nearby town that you’ve never visited.

14. Learn a new skill.

If you’re looking to pick up a new skill, there are plenty of options to consider. Knitting, archery, skateboarding, and woodworking are just a few examples of activities you can try. Get creative and build a DIY treehouse with your friends to have a special retreat spot to call your own.

15. Attend a concert.

Attending outdoor concerts in the United States is a popular pastime. From intimate shows to large-scale festivals, there are plenty of options available for music lovers of all genres. Head to Chicago for Lollapalooza, check out Coachella, or attend one of the shows at your local fairgrounds.

16. Go for a bike ride.

When you’re feeling cooped up and need some fresh air and exercise, going for a bike ride is an excellent way to explore your city and spend time with friends. You can start by mapping out a new route that takes you to a part of town you haven’t seen before or even try out a nearby bike trail. Plus, it’s a fun way to discover hidden gems and local hotspots that you might not have known existed.

17. Find a drive-in movie theater.

Going to a drive-in movie is a fun thing to do on summer break, and there has been a resurgence in these vintage theaters in recent years. Unlike traditional movie theaters, drive-ins offer a retro atmosphere that can be a fun experience for families and friends alike. You can also bring chairs, blankets, and snacks to enjoy outside of your car, creating a cozy movie-watching experience.

18. Have a car wash.

Hosting a carwash is a popular way to raise money for a variety of causes, such as school events, charity organizations, and sports teams. Not only is it a fun activity, but it’s also a great opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause. All you need is a parking lot, a few buckets, and lots of soap!

19. Go geocaching.

Geocaching is a modern treasure hunt that takes place all over the world. People use GPS devices to search for hidden treasures. They’re hidden in plain sight using latitude and longitude coordinates, with online clues provided to aid seekers in their quest. It’s a game of hide-and-seek that promotes outdoor exploration and environmental stewardship.

20. Go whitewater rafting.

Barrelling down the rapids in a raft is an exhilarating experience! Don’t worry, professional guides will teach you what to do and how to stay safe as they guide you down the river, avoiding all the big rocks. Whitewater rafting involves an element of teamwork, so it’s the perfect summer activity for sports teams or work crews.

21. Go on a hot air balloon ride.

Going on a hot air balloon ride is a breathtaking experience. As you lift off the ground, you feel weightless and free, soaring above the earth with a sense of awe and wonder. The views are spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, cities, and countryside. A hot air balloon ride is an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

22. Learn to scuba dive.

Use your summer break to learn how to scuba dive. You start by mastering the basic skills in a pool and then progress to open water dives, where you explore a whole new world beneath the waves. The weightlessness of diving makes it feel like you’re flying, and the vibrant colors of the marine life are mesmerizing. Learning to scuba dive opens up a whole new world of adventure and exploration that will stay with you forever.

23. Become a lifeguard.

Who doesn’t want a job sitting in the sun by a pool? Becoming a lifeguard is a challenging experience that requires a high level of physical fitness, training, and responsibility. To become a lifeguard, one must complete extensive training in CPR, first aid, and water rescue techniques. Although the job can be demanding, it provides an opportunity to help others and make a real difference in people’s lives, all while enjoying the sun and water.

24. Throw some axes.

Ax throwing has gained popularity in recent years. It requires skill, accuracy, and a steady hand. Participants take turns throwing an ax at a wooden target, aiming to hit the bullseye. It’s a great way to relieve stress, improve hand-eye coordination, and bond with friends or colleagues. Ax throwing venues often have a fun and festive atmosphere, with music and refreshments available.

25. Attempt a ropes course.

Taking on a ropes course is a fun thing to do on summer break that tests both physical and mental limits. It involves navigating a series of obstacles, such as swinging bridges, tightropes, and zip lines, high above the ground. They provide a sense of accomplishment and boost confidence as participants overcome their fears and complete each challenge.

26. Play disc golf.

Golf can be a very frustrating and expensive game to play, so try a little-less-expensive version. Disc golf rules are the same as golf, but instead of a ball and a club, you have a specialized frisbee and a basket. Discs are a fairly cheap purchase from any sporting goods store.

27. Create a DIY American Ninja Warrior course.

Manufacturing a DIY obstacle course is a unique way to put your creativity to use. It involves constructing a series of challenges that mimic those found on the popular TV show American Ninja Warrior. Some examples include a warped wall, salmon ladder, and monkey bars. Building the course requires creativity, ingenuity, and some basic construction skills. If this is too big of a challenge, use the monkey bars, slides, and seesaws at your local park and challenge your friends to a race.

28. Take an online class.

Taking online classes can offer teens the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, which can be particularly helpful for those with busy extracurricular activities or part-time jobs. They also allow teens to access a wider range of courses and teachers than what is available at their local school, opening up new academic opportunities and interests.

29. Join a mentor program.

Joining a mentor program not only provides you with an opportunity to help a younger person achieve great things, but it is also a learning experience for you. Programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters of America afford you the opportunity to pair up with a young person for fun activities and projects. Whether you are a “big” or a “little,” these mentoring programs are an awesome way to add meaning to your summer vacation!

30. Start a book club.

Starting a book club can be a fun and rewarding way to connect with others who want to explore new books and ideas. Book clubs can provide a platform for engaging discussions, allowing members to share their thoughts, opinions, and perspectives on a variety of topics and themes. Reese Witherspoon and Oprah both have book clubs you can follow along with, or you can just choose your own. Make some snacks, gather the crew, and enjoy!

31. Host a water balloon fight.

Nothing screams summer quite like an epic water balloon fight. Have a free-for-all, organize a team battle, or combine your balloon war with a game of Capture The Flag. It’s the perfect way to cool off and enjoy some lighthearted fun in the sun.

32. Have a bonfire.

One of my fondest memories is of a perfect summer night spent with friends, listening to music and standing by the bonfire. The warm air was filled with the sounds of our favorite songs and the smell of hot dogs roasting. We laughed and danced under the stars, enjoying each other’s company and the magic of the moment. In the rural South, this is one of the most popular summer activities.

33. Build a slip-n-slide.

The joys of a slip-n-slide are hard to match. There’s nothing quite like running and launching yourself onto the slick surface, feeling the cool water spray up around you as you glide along. Invite your buddies over and make a day of it.

34. Have a fishing derby.

Why not turn your love of fishing into a friendly competition with friends or family? Competing to see who can catch the biggest or most fish can add an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Plus, it’s a great way to bond and create memories while enjoying the great outdoors.

35. Have a henna tattoo party.

Hosting a henna tattoo party is a unique way to express your artistic talent. Amazon sells a variety of kits with all the necessary materials. Make sure to provide plenty of design inspiration and snacks and encourage guests to experiment with different patterns and styles. Don’t worry, it’s not permanent.

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Have an Epic Summer!

Summer is a time to relax and unwind, but that doesn’t mean it should be boring. With this list of 35 things to do on summer break, you have everything you need to mix it up this year. From outdoor activities and creative pursuits to new experiences and learning opportunities, there’s something for everyone.

For more summer ideas, check out Adventures From Scratch: Friends Edition! It’s stocked with 50+ scratch-off adventures ranging from in-home crafts to exciting road trips!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “What is a bromance?” The term is used in tons of pop culture references to describe a couple of dudes who are good friends. It sounds a bit cheesy, but these relationships are extremely beneficial to all parties. No matter what you call it, having close same-sex, non-sexual relationships is good for your mental and physical health. We’re giving you all the info on bromances, why they’re beneficial, how to find the best bro, and what activities you can do once you’re part of a bromance.

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Enjoying a Guys’ Night Out With Adventures From Scratch

Don’t neglect your bromance, man. If you’re looking for fun activities to do on a guys’ night out, we’ve got you covered. Check out the Adventures From Scratch book! Don’t worry, this doesn’t involve cuddles and romance (although there is a date edition). Adventures From Scratch: Friends Edition is all about bonding adventures with good buddies. Instead of always going to the usual beer and wings night at a local bar, pick from over 50 challenges that will have you laughing and creating memories. Cut loose tonight!

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What Is a Bromance?

Before we get in too deep, let’s cover the actual definition of bromantic relationships and answer the question—What is a bromance? Dave Carnie, an American editor, coined the term in the 1990s, and it’s a blend of the words brother and romance. He was originally referring to skateboarders and how much time they spend together. The term has morphed into a term to describe a very close friendship between (usually) straight men and pokes fun at the intimacy that can be present. 

Homosocial relationships are same-sex relationships that are not of a romantic or sexual nature. Because that’s a more scientific term used in sociology studies and reports, society clings to words that are way more fun to say and easier to understand quickly. Enter bromance, a term for male friendships where you might finish each other’s sentences and know all the quirks about a person without being in a romantic relationship. It doesn’t just have to refer to heterosexual men, but it’s used to describe best friends or young men who aren’t attracted to one another but spend a lot of time together. 

Examples of Popular Bromances 

Hollywood has many examples of BFFs that could be classified as bromances. Consider the movie I Love You, Man, starring Paul Rudd and Jason Segel. Paul Rudd’s character is getting married and realizes he doesn’t have any guy friends. He goes on a series of man-dates with the aim of finding new friends who can join him at his wedding. The entire movie is about two guys falling into a bromance, and it’s a perfect example. 

Other movie bromances include Maverick and Goose from Top Gun, Bodhi and Johnny Utah from Point Break, Roger Murtaugh and Martin Riggs from Lethal Weapon, and, really, all the guys from The Hangover. TV shows love to feature romances. From Cory and Shawn on Boy Meets World to Turk and J.D. from Scrubs, these relationships are often lifelong and provide great entertainment for audiences. 

You can probably think of plenty you’ve seen in your own life. Even President Biden and President Obama have been referred to as a bromance, with hilarious memes circling the internet of them in matching aviators at the White House. Now that you’ve got the idea, let’s get into some of the benefits. 

Why Would I Want a Best Bro?

Many people believe that men and women require different things from their relationships, but that’s not true. For a long time, men have been discouraged from sharing their emotions. They’ve been told that’s a feminine thing. Society is just starting to celebrate men sharing their feelings, vulnerabilities, and emotions. It’s healthy to have emotional intimacy, no matter your gender. 

A study from Men and Masculinities reported that young men receive more emotional satisfaction from their bromances or non-sexual relationships than their romantic partners. The benefits of having a bromance are plentiful. 

Benefits of a Bromance

Provides Emotional Support

Close male relationships have proven to elevate emotional stability and social fulfillment. You’ll have someone who isn’t your girlfriend, partner, or spouse to get advice from. You can also talk with them about real-life struggles. Conversations about various things can help you open up more in other relationships and build your conflict-resolution skills. Plus, you know you have a best friend who has your back and supports you.

Relieves Stress

Friends provide stress relief. When things at work or home are stressful, you can turn to your friends for an outlet. Talk it out or let them get your mind off things and get you laughing. Being around your friends will help lower your cortisol levels, which is the stress hormone. Whether you blow off some steam over a happy hour or hit the trails together and get some exercise, just having a person to chat with and bounce ideas off of is extremely beneficial. 

Improves Social Life

Maybe you’ve developed a man crush on someone who always seems to be doing cool stuff. Maybe you want to get out and do more. Start a friendship. You’ll be introduced to new activities and more people by making friends. Once you have a tight relationship with someone, you’ll be much more likely to try new things knowing you have someone with you who can either help or try it right alongside you for the first time. 

Benefits Physical Health and Brain Functions

Tons of studies show that having strong social connections is really good for your physical health and helps you fight off dementia. It also slows cognitive decline. Having in-person conversations helps you continue to learn new things and stay active. You have friends whom you can exercise with and stay motivated by.

Allows You to Be Yourself

Self-esteem is important during all phases of life. With your bros, you can always be yourself and have a support system of people who like being around you and care about you. Even though society’s expectations are changing, it’s still good to have close friends with whom you can share your emotions and feel comfortable. When you’re able to be yourself, it boosts your self-esteem. 

Where Can I Find Bros?

So how do you know the best place to find bros? Here are some ideas to help you get out and meet new people. 

Join a hobby group.

Make a list of the things you like doing and then start searching for groups of people who share those interests. If you’ve never looked at the available options before, you’ll probably be surprised at how many unique groups are out there. Whether it’s something physical, like rock climbing or kayaking, or you play chess or a certain video game, you can find a group that shares your interest. Meetup is a website dedicated to bringing groups like this together, so that’s a great place to start.

Sign up for a sports team.

Check the local recreation centers, Craigslist, and community Facebook groups for sports leagues. Whether you were a professional athlete or you’ve never played the sport, there are typically leagues and teams for all levels, and they are constantly looking for new members. Pick a sport you think you would enjoy, learn a few of the basics, and then sign up. Most of these leagues are pretty casual and laid-back. 

Head out solo to local events.

Don’t be afraid to head out on the town without a wingman. Sit at the bar and strike up conversations. Attend events for a sports team, holidays, or museums on your own and be open to chatting with new people. The odds are pretty good that you won’t be the only person on your own. Just make sure you make yourself available for conversation; don’t sit with your face buried in your phone the whole time.

Use your current network.

Consider the people you already know and take advantage of the network you’ve built. Organize a happy hour and get to know your coworkers better. Host a party and have everyone bring one or two guests so everyone can meet new people. Start a book club with a few friends where each member invites someone in their circle and then plan monthly conversations. 

Find a fraternal organization.

Multiple organizations exist to provide a place for men to gather. They’re called fraternities! Some were created for veterans, like Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion, and others exist to help encourage positive change in the world, like the Order of Elks. These clubs and organizations bring men together and are dedicated to the members’ intellectual, physical, and social development. Check out the options, see if any sound appealing to you, and sign up. You’ll be initiated with a group of other people, and it’s a great way to meet other men in your area.

Take advantage of social media.

Social media can be used as a great tool to expand your network. It doesn’t matter if you live in a large metro area, like New York City, or a small town in Iowa. People everywhere are using social media. Instead of just scrolling through photos and TikToks, put the tools to use and seek out some people in your area who might share some of your interests. It’s no longer weird to follow people whom you don’t know or drop a message to someone. Not everyone will be open to meeting new people this way, but plenty of people connect with new friends this way.

What Can I Do With My Bro?

Spending time with your male friends is important, but it’s fun to have interactive experiences and do new and different things together. If you’ve been looking for new things to do with your guy friends, here are a few male bonding ideas to put on the schedule. 

Board Games

It might sound a bit nerdy, but board games have really evolved in the last few decades There are card games and strategy games that feature many unique characters and situations. Unexploded Cow is a funny but oddly dark game where bombs are littered across the French countryside after the Great War. You play the game by placing cows and trying to clear the field using tactical cards. Catan is another popular game for groups. Take turns gathering resources for your settlements and trade with other players. It’s simple to learn and provides hours of entertainment. Try these or another one of the top board games for adults with your buddies.

Local Scavenger Hunt

Get out and explore with an app-based scavenger hunt from Let’s Roam. Follow the prompts to find locations, complete challenges, and solve puzzles as a team. Compete against other teams and score as many points as possible while you’re out there. There are even some haunted ghost tours and bar crawls, depending on what you want to get out of your experience. 

Bike Rides

Most large cities have programs to rent bikes and pay by the hour. Grab some bikes and head towards a new neighborhood to explore for the day. Try a new restaurant or a new pub while you’re out (if you don’t need a shower). It’s a fun way to get some exercise and move your legs while still being able to hang out.

Training for a Marathon or Activity

Training for a big race is way more fun if you can do it with a partner. Look at calendars to see what fun events are coming to your city and create a training program. Running races are extremely popular, but there are all kinds of physical events that you can prep for. Work together to raise money for a good cause and help motivate each other. Knowing that you have an accountability partner will make it easier to show up consistently.

Movie Marathon

Has it been years since you’ve watched the original Star Wars trilogy? Maybe you’ve never watched all the Godfather movies. Put a date on the calendar and queue up whatever flicks you have on your list. Make sure to stock up on snacks, like popcorn and candy, and maybe even grab a six-pack of beers and spend some time watching movies.

Heading to an Event

There will be plenty of bands and sporting events you want to see that your girlfriend or wife has zero interest in. This is one of the best things about a bromance: You have a partner to see those concerts with! Talk to your buddies and see what things you’re interested in and then look for tickets. It’s nice to be able to go with people who enjoy the experience as much as you do.

Taste Testing Local Food

Food brings everyone together, so why not create an event that incorporates something tasty? Think about a food item everyone likes or a local specialty, like pizza in New York or fish tacos in Southern California. Once you have a particular type of food, pick a few places that claim to have the best. Ask your friends for suggestions. Then set out to try each place and rank them. You can do this all in one day or spread it over a few weeks. It’s fun to have a little friendly debate and enjoy good meals with friends. This can easily be turned into a competition with something you each cook, like chili. 

Hitting the Courts (or Course)

Getting outside is beneficial for so many reasons, and there are some spectacular outdoor activities you can do with your friends. Golf is a popular activity. It gives you a chance to get fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery with good company. If you want to get your heart rate up a little more, try Pickleball. This racket sport can be played on most tennis courts and is gaining popularity rapidly in the US. 

Video Games

A classic activity for a couple of bros is spending an evening on the couch playing video games. You can find every kind of game now, from sports to strategy and racing. If neither of you has a video game console and the equipment, head to a local arcade and spend some coins playing each other in pinball, air hockey, or Cruisin’ USA. 

Trivia Night

Many pubs and breweries now offer weekly trivia nights. Gather your guy friends and see if you can put your heads together to come out on the top of the leaderboard. Hopefully, you each have your own specialty areas to contribute. Either way, you’ll learn something new, enjoy a few cold beverages, and maybe even win some stuff. It’s a great way to get out on a weeknight and do something interactive. 

Book Club

A book club is one type of group activity that never seems to go out of style. If you like reading, grab a group of your guy friends and start a book club. Pick a certain genre or take turns choosing the selection. It’s a great excuse to get people together and have a conversation about a specific topic. Plus, you can set out good snacks and drinks. It will encourage you to read a bit more, which has all kinds of benefits.

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Final Thoughts on Bromances

Hopefully, now that you’ve read this article, you’re already pumped up for your next guys’ night out. Don’t worry, if you aren’t in a bromance currently, you aren’t alone. Just put yourself out there and work to meet new friends, and you’ll build a strong bond with someone soon. You’ll find the Wayne to your Garth and be ready to party on.

Do you already have a bromance? Where did you find him? Let us know in the comments!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Dreary winter nights don’t have to spoil your fun. Just move the party inside with one of these easy and fun girls’ night-in ideas! Let’s be honest—even if the weather is perfect, sometimes you just don’t want to get all dressed up and fight crowds after a long workweek. There’s a time and place for getting fancy and going out, but being able to hang with the gal pals in the comfort of your own home sounds pretty good, too. In honor of all the girls who just want to hang with your sistas without all those other people, we’ve gathered up 30 ladies’ night-in ideas for every type of crew. So grab your favorite bottle of wine, invite the besties over, and pick an activity that suits your vibe.

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Building Better Friendships With Adventures From Scratch

Adventures From Scratch: Friends Edition has launched, and it’s full of amazing adventures and in-home activities specifically designed for friend groups. Just consult the simple key, scratch off your choice, and let the chaos unfold. Our books also include pay-it-forward adventures, conversation prompts, and even a scrapbooking section to record your adventures together. P.S., this little guy is loaded with great girls’ night-in ideas. Strengthen your bonds, relax in your comfy clothes, and let the laughing commence!

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30 Fun Girls’ Night-In Ideas

1. Virtual Game Night

Game night is an oldie but a goodie. If all your best gal pals are local, have an in-person get-together for board games. If not, join together for one of our virtual game nights. We have trivia, geography, emoji decoders, Pictionary, and much more. Our innovative video chat platform allows you to sign up, invite friends, pick your game, and play all night without downloading any software or messing with any video conferencing sites. For a fun night with your best friends that takes pretty much no planning, this is your winner!

2. Virtual Wine Tasting and a Comedy Show

If you’re looking for a different twist on the traditional vineyard experience but still want to wear your pajamas, a virtual wine tasting and comedy show with Sam Mushman might be just the ticket. This hilarious program from Seven Hills Global is an all-inclusive package. Once you register, they will deliver a wine-tasting kit to your home for each guest. Then, you and your crew can sit back and learn all the ins and outs of proper tasting and pairing from a professional sommelier while getting in a good laugh, too! It’s the absolute best of two worlds.

3. Virtual Cooking Class

Cooking might be the last thing you consider to be a fun girls’ night-in idea, but like anything else on the list, when done with your besties, the chore of cooking becomes a whole different ball game. You won’t just be whipping up some boring spaghetti, either. Virtual cooking classes from Cozymeal, Masterclass, or a million other programs out there are brilliant ways to spend an evening with the girls. Many of them even have a crate of fresh food items delivered to your door, so you don’t have to do any shopping!

4. Ice Cream Bar

Forget the meal; order takeout! Then, spend the night vegging out on ice cream sundaes and binging Netflix. It’s an easy, cheap, and tasty way to reconnect with the girls. Everyone can wear their PJs. Nobody needs a face of makeup. Large bowls and spoons are suggested, and the more sprinkles, the better! We can’t think of a more delectable idea than loads of ice cream for your next girls’ night.

5. Karaoke Night Upgrade

Forget the traditional karaoke party. Gather your best girls. Design your own costumes, and create a music video that YouTube and the Spice Girls would be proud of! All you need is your phone, some snazzy fits, and possibly a shot or two of tequila. This one won’t be for everyone, but with the right group of ladies, it’s a hilarious girls’ night-in idea!

6. Themed Photoshoot

If there’s a photographer or Instagram lover in your clan, document your girls’ night in pics. Select a theme, like ’90s Grunge, Princess Party, or Old Money Fits, and spend the evening styling your outfit, hair, and makeup. When everyone is ready, put on your own runway show or set up an area of your home for a themed photoshoot. Not only will you have a blast with your best friends throughout the night, but you’ll also have amazing photos to remember the evening by.

Writer Note: While this activity might sound a little amateur, I can personally attest that it’s really memorable. About ten years ago, a good friend of mine decided to have a margarita and Glamour Shots-themed bachelorette party. For those of you who aren’t familiar, Glamour Shots was a trend in the ’90s where women would go into a photo studio, get made up in over-the-top glitzy attire and makeup, and take photos.

Anyway, we all brought sequined dresses from Goodwill and ridiculous costumes. A few girls were assigned to hair and makeup, the margaritas flowed, and we scored some of the most fabulous photos that have ever been taken in the history of mankind. I can’t show you because the pictures are to be forever designated top secret, but I’ll never forget that night with my girls.

7. Spa Night

For a more relaxed evening, stop by Target and grab some face masks, scrubs, and a few manicure kits or a DIY spa night. Treat your best girls to a night of pampering, finger foods, soothing music, and chick flicks. If you’re feeling really connected, build a big blanket pallet and turn it into a sleepover.

8. Virtual Museum Tour

For a fancy night out without actually going out, join a virtual museum or art gallery tour. You can jet off to the Louvre in France, pop into the British Museum in London, or hang out at the MET in NYC, all from the comfort of your couch. Virtual museum tours are about the only good thing that came out of that whole pandemic thing.

9. Backyard Stargazing

When the weather is right and the skies are clear, head out to the roof with a picnic basket and blanket for a night of stargazing. If you’re afraid of heights, the patio will do, too. There’s no better way to connect with someone than to lie side by side and solve all the problems of the universe over wine and cheese.

10. Fight Night

If you and your best girlfriends are more of a feisty crew, consider planning a pay-per-view fight night. Boxing and UFC fights are a fun girls’ night party idea for those who love a little action. Swap the wine and cheese for chips and beer, and you’re all set!

If you’re really feeling it, invest in some gloves and have a little sparring of your own. Just don’t hit your friends in the face. For a really fun take on fight night without the bruises, turn the real fight on in the background and rent those sumo wrestling suits for a hilarious tumble in the living room. We guarantee watching your best friends smash each other in a sumo suit will be the funniest girls’ night you’ve had in a while!

11. Much-Needed Makeovers

There’s probably a fair share of us that could use a little updating, either in the clothing, makeup, or hair department… or maybe all of them! If you have some fashionista friends, invite them over for a makeover party. It’s a fun ladies’ night idea that doesn’t take any planning, and you get some much-needed style advice. It’s a win-win.

12. Virtual Escape Room

At Let’s Roam, we excel at team building, and we have loads of virtual activities to help coworkers bond and work as a team, but you can also take our activities and mold them into a bonding night for you and your besties! Our virtual escape room is the perfect example. We have several creative themes, and you can play with two players or 500 players. You will need to plan this one in advance, but it makes for a great bachelorette or birthday party idea!

13. Virtual Murder Mystery

Another awesome option for a special occasion is our Murder Mystery Night! Our team has created amazing themes, ranging from “Halloween Whodunnit” to “Murder on the Space Station.” You’ll get to engage with our outgoing hosts and participate in a fully scripted mystery where you are the sleuths. Find out which one of your besties should have been a detective and which one just might be a murderer in disguise.

14. Dreaming of Vacation

Do you and the girls take a trip each year together? If you don’t, now is a good time to institute that tradition! If your summer beach vacation is still months away, that doesn’t mean you can’t spend a winter Saturday night planning the deets. Get together with your travel crew and spend the evening eating takeout from your intended destination, finding the absolute best resorts and shopping for those adorable monogrammed swimsuits on Etsy.

15. TikTok Dance Party

TikTok has made dancing easy for uncoordinated white people the world over. So, even if you can’t walk and chew gum at the same time, you and your besties can still bust a move with the best of them. Take a few minutes to find the dances you like or ones that are trending. Master the moves and post away! If nothing else, you’ll get in some good giggles, and that’s what girls’ night is all about, right?

16. Book Club

For the perfect girls’ night, invite over your quieter friends for a book club sesh. Bust out the murder mysteries, ridiculous romance novels, or a few classics and read them together. Most of us could use a little push to be more consistent readers, and having a group of friends all reading the same material can help a ton! Plus, you get to gather together for snacks and wine while you discuss this week’s chapters.

17. Chick Flick Binge

While creativity is always appreciated, there’s nothing wrong with an easy movie night with the girls, binging on your favorite rom-coms. If you have a favorite actor, gather some of their best works or pick a theme that correlates to the time of year, like Valentine’s comedies or Christmas romance flicks!

18. Backyard BBQ

Summer nights are best spent outdoors with a hamburger in hand and a little competition. Bust out the yard games. Grill some tasty game food and challenge the girls to a game of cornhole. Turn on a great playlist, pull out the ice chests, and fill them with cokes and beer. Make some homemade ice cream or stock up on popsicles. When it gets dark, gather around the firepit for s’mores. Perfect!

19. Goal Night

Okay, you don’t have the motivation to go out tonight. You can still get some important stuff done! Get a few cute pushpin boards at your hobby store and gather your besties for a night of motivation. Turn on some music that makes you feel empowered and talk about your goals for this year. What do you want to accomplish? How can you help each other get there? Having a group of dedicated friends to keep you accountable is the best way to stay on track, so spend a night sharing your goals with your BFFs, document them in a cute way, and then assign a goal partner to each guest to help keep each other motivated!

20. Card Night

Playing cards is definitely old-school. Women have been playing and gossiping about their husbands since pinochle was popular, but it’s still a fun way to bond. Sitting around a table and chatting with your best gals over a little competition is a low-key way to enjoy each other’s time. Plus, it takes little to no planning. For more updated girls’ night games, invest in Cards Against Humanity or Exploding Kittens.

21. Old-Fashioned Party Games

Speaking of games, sometimes it’s fun to get really nostalgic and bring out the board games or hilarious games you used to play as a kid. We’ve gathered all the best ideas in “25 Fantastic Party Games to Play With Friends” and “40 Fun Board Games to Play With Friends.”

22. International Dinner Night

For a unique girls’ night-in idea that celebrates cultures and allows you to travel the world without leaving your house, plan an international food night! Pick a place. Send out invites to the girls. Have everyone make a food item (or order takeout) from that destination. Make a playlist that corresponds and let the fun begin. You could also opt to have everyone chip in on ingredients and cook a meal together!

23. Themed Party

It’s amazing how adding a theme can spice up any boring activity. Attaching a theme makes it easier to plan, encourages creativity, and just seems to get people excited. For a fun girls’ night idea, think about themes you can really go all out for. Perhaps you host a Grease-themed dance party, a princess-themed photoshoot night, or a 1920s flapper cocktail gathering.

24. Charcuterie Night

Why do cheese and meat taste so much better when beautifully displayed on a fancy charcuterie board? We have no idea. It’s still basically toddler food, an adult version of Lunchables, but somehow, it feels upscale… especially if you add chocolate or beer cheese fondue!

25. Family Recipe Tasting Party

If you have a diverse group of friends, ask each girl to bring their favorite traditional family recipe and have a big potluck. Friends will likely bring a recipe that means something to them… grandma’s famous chocolate cake or a holiday tradition from their native home. Not only will you gorge yourself on tasty food, but you get to know more about your friends’ heritages and will likely share amazing memories, too.

26. Mixology Class

If you’ve always wanted to learn to make beautiful cocktails, now is the time! Classbento has more than 40 different online mixology courses, and most of them include a DIY cocktail kit that is sent right to your door. Classes include interesting drink information, a tutorial from an expert mixologist, and high-quality ingredients.

27. Clothing Swap

Are you sick of literally everything in your closet? Chances are your friends have had the same feeling lately. Gather all the clothes you’re ready to get rid of. Call the girls. Have them do the same thing. Throw it all in a pile on the floor and go shopping, for free! You can peruse at will or turn it into a game by drawing names out of a hat for a turn to choose. Then play “White Elephant” style, where friends can steal an item or pick one from the pile on their turn.

28. Teach-A-Craft Night

Crafting can be a great stress reliever after a long week. Take turns within your friend group teaching each other your favorite hobbies. Maybe one of you knows how to sew? Someone else can probably paint or draw, and we all have that one friend who knows how to build and make everything. Now is the time to learn their ways!

29. Renovation Night

Speaking of that handy friend, put her to use on that bathroom remodel you’ve been thinking about! When it comes to remodeling, the more capable hands, the better. This week, you paint your bathroom. Next weekend, you change the knobs on her kitchen cabinets. Big chores are way more fun with a little company from your besties.

30. De-stress Fest

If you’ve had a long week, peruse YouTube for a great free yoga class and invite the girls over for a de-stressing session. If you really want to go all out, you could hire a masseuse to do an in-home massage session for you and the girls to follow your workout!

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Calling All the Ladies

We really do love a good night with the besties! Which one of these girls’ night-in ideas are you going to try for your next gathering with the gals? Let us know in the comments which idea sounds the most fun to you. Do you have any great ideas that have worked in the past? We would love to hear your girls’ night success stories! Drop them in the comments.

All this girls’ night stuff sounds great, but you kinda have to have friends first. If you’re struggling to make and keep adult friendships, take a few tips from “How to Make Friends as an Adult (and Why You Should!)”

What about when your bestie can’t come over on Friday night? Here are a few tips on “How to Stay Connected to Your Long-Distance Best Friend.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for a few legendary guys’ night out ideas? To say the information out there is limited is a massive understatement! While there are millions of articles for girls’ night out, the fellas are lacking in number and creativity. Let’s see if we can do better. Here are our votes for the best guys’ night out options.

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50+ Ideas in One Adventure Book

When is the next guys’ night out? If you’re thinking about cooking up some fun, bring us with you! Did you know that Adventures From Scratch has created a friend version of our popular adventure book? Our edition for friends is loaded with more than 50 on-the-go challenges and in-home ideas, so whether you want a weekend away with the guys or a Friday night at home, we got ya covered. Have fun getting to know the bros!

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The Best Guys’ Night Out Ideas

Seriously, the options for guys’ night out articles are slim, and the ones out there aren’t very creative. This is partly due to the nature of most guys. In general, less thought and planning goes into the typical guys’ event when compared to their female counterparts. We’re all busy people here—work, family, marriages, and community responsibilities—they all add up! We know you don’t have much time to go out with the guys and certainly don’t have tons of time for planning. With these facts in mind, we’ve collected a list of ideas that is varied and unique, but no event on the list should take an inordinate amount of planning. Here we go!

1. Let’s Roam Bar Crawl

For a fun GNO that requires no planning, download our Let’s Roam scavenger hunt app and check out the options in your city. Our bar crawls are easy and fun. Buy a ticket for each guy in your group and follow along. We’ll take you to several of the best bars in your area and test your crew to a few hilarious challenges along the way.

2. Night Museum Tour

If your crew loves a little art from time to time, check out an interesting museum at night. Night tours are great because there are no groups of schoolchildren. There are fewer people, and there are often special events featuring artists or guest speakers. A museum followed by a few drinks in a chill whiskey bar makes for the perfect Friday night cap to a busy week.

3. Axe-Throwing Expedition

Axe-throwing venues have popped up all over the country in recent years, and they’re awesome. Throwing a sharp object at a target is the perfect way to blow off some steam after a stressful work week. It takes no planning. It’s pretty budget-friendly, and you get to throw axes. What more do you want?

If you want to go even more budget-friendly and reproducible, go to your local home improvement store and buy a few cheap hatchets of your own. This only works if you have a safe outdoor space in which to throw hatchets. Otherwise, your neighbors probably won’t approve of your guys’ night endeavor.

4. At-Home Bonfire

Some nights, you just want to stay home. Invite the guys. Build a fire in the backyard or just use a firepit. Have somebody bring hot dogs; someone else gets the stuff for s’mores. Crack open some beers. Put on a great playlist. Done and done.

Make sure you comply with the fire regulations in your neighborhood. In some places, you must notify the fire department ahead of time. In others, you’ll have to stick to the firepit, as burning would be illegal. Don’t let your fun guys’ night turn into a night in jail or a big fine.

5. Urban Art Walk

If you live in a city with a walkable night scene and great street art, take some time to truly appreciate it. Our art walks take you to the best spots in the city and give interesting background information on the works. It’s a unique way to re-see the city you walk through daily. Check out all our art walk options!

6. Local Ale Trail

If your area is famous for craft beer, chances are you have an organized ale trail in the region. Pick up your passport, choose your stops and your designated driver, and hit the trail. You’ll stop at breweries and bars along the route, try out the designated ale trail flight, get your stamp, and then move on to the next stop. Not only is it a good time, but you might find a new favorite brew or hangout spot that you can incorporate into your next guys’ night out. Some ale trails even have a shuttle service between breweries, so check the details before you leave.

7. Virtual Whiskey Tasting

If you have a fine whiskey bar in your area, set up a tasting event. They’ll handle all the details. If not, the online cuisine company Cozymeals offers a virtual whiskey-tasting event. Just hop on the website and sign up. In your confirmation email, they’ll send you a recipe list, so you can grab any items you need beforehand. Invite the dudes over and enjoy!

8. Cabaret Show

Cabaret is one of those things that you forget exists but is kinda perfect. The shows are typically budget-friendly, sexy, and sometimes super funny. If you and the guys are looking for something different this weekend, skip the video games and sip drinks in a cabaret lounge instead.

9. Connecting at a Comedy Club

Don’t know about you, but on Friday night, we often just need a good laugh. While comedy nights are not a sure thing, given that it all depends on who takes the stage that night, there’s a good chance that you will at least chuckle a few times. We find they get funnier the more whiskey you have, so let loose. Have a few and get some good laughs in with the guys.

10. Live Music Night

How long has it been since you saw a good concert? You could score tickets to a big show, but if massive event spaces stress you out, gather the guys at a local restaurant or bar with a good band. Grab a burger and spend the evening in a comfy booth with good tunes.

11. Ping-Pong Tournament

Anybody got a ping-pong table? If not, you can actually rent them at a party/event store. Set it up in the basement or backyard and let the trash talk begin. It’s a fun idea for a boys’ night out, and it’s easy to pull off. Just beware: This game is really addictive, and you might end up buying a ping-pong table.

12. Arcade Night

Does your crew love video games? Well, branch out with your gameplay this week. Get off the headphones and actually go out for games. Head to the nearest arcade. Challenge the guys to an old-school Pac-Man game, air hockey, or shooting hoops. The only downside is you might be surrounded by teens or kiddos, but you’re bigger than them.

13. Games on the Lawn

If the arcade sounds too stressful, trade in electronic games for yard games. Horseshoes, ladder ball, bocce ball, cornhole… all great options. Most of these are available, albeit in cheap versions, at your local big box store. If you find one that you and the guys really love, you can invest in a more sturdy set later. Order some pizza. Have the guys bring beer, and you’re good to go.

14. Traditional Cookout

If you have a little more time for planning, set up a traditional cookout. Either provide the food yourself or have everyone bring their own meat. Fire up the barbecue grill. Fill up the ice chests. Put out some lawn chairs and spend an evening outside. You can also include the lawn games from the last idea or fire up the hot tub!

15. Tacos and Tequila

Winter weather got ya down? Trade in steaks on the grill for tacos and tequila inside the warmth of the house. Everyone loves tacos. They’re easy to make and affordable when it comes to feeding lots of people. You make the meat (or make a stop at your favorite restaurant) and have everyone else bring toppings. You can also choose to just buy it all and have the guys bring some cash to pitch in. Beware of the strong side effects of tequila! You might end up with half-naked dudes doing karaoke in sombreros. There are no guarantees here.

16. Nostalgic Night

Head for the nearest fun park and let out your inner children. Challenge the guys to laser tag. Slam into each other with go-karts. Bust out that old homerun swing in the batting cages. Gorge yourself on corndogs and soda. You probably have fond memories of a place like this from your childhood. It’s time to revisit! This would also be a great last night out for a simple bachelor who doesn’t really do the whole party scene.

17. Lending a Hand

For some guys, taking time out of the weekend to just hang out feels like a waste of precious time. We get it; houses don’t repair themselves, and grass certainly doesn’t mow itself. If you need to get some work done but also haven’t seen your best friends in months, invite them over to lend a helping hand. Roofs get repaired faster with an extra set of hands.

Whether you have something to build, something big to move, or a repair to make, more muscle makes the job faster. It may not sound fun, but it’s kind of a win-win situation. You get time with your friend, and you still get stuff done. Just make sure you volunteer to go to their place next week!

18. Podcast Production

If you and the guys are feeling creative, spend some time creating a podcast about a subject you love. You really don’t need much, just a good camera and microphone. You could even do it on your phone. If you love the outcome, schedule to do it regularly and find a platform for your creation! Alternative creations could be a how-to YouTube video, music video, or any creative endeavor you’re all passionate about.

19. Dive Bar Quest

Forego the normal sports bar this week and go looking for the grungiest dive bars in your city. You know the ones where the burgers are dripping with grease and as big as your head? The decorations are probably covered in dust, and there are tons of truckers at the bar. It might not be your normal vibe, but that’s the fun of it!

If the dive bar is your typical vibe, change it up. Put on a jacket and head for a nice rooftop cocktail bar instead. The point is to get a change of venue and experience the other side of a guys’ night out.

20. Late Night B-Ball

If you and your crew are the athletic bunch, a fun idea for a free night is to head to the local city park and challenge the guys to a few pickup games. You get good exercise. You get to trash-talk your friends, and it’s good stress relief. Plus, it’s totally free. You’ll definitely work up an appetite, so plan on burgers afterward. Just choose a restaurant with an outdoor space please and spare the rest of us your post-game stench.

21. Mixology Night

Grab a good mixology book and invite the guys over to test your skills. Put on some jazz. Have each guy create a cocktail from the book or invent their own, and have a little contest. Loser buys the booze for next week. Alternatively, you could do an online cocktail-making class with a professional mixologist. Rockoly provides professional happy hour classes, and they will even send you a drink kit in advance; all the ingredients arrive at your door like magic!

22. Culture Night

Whether you cook yourself or hit up a great international restaurant, set a theme for your GNO. Explore the food, music, and customs of a different culture. Learn the history with a YouTube video or set up your own trivia game and test your knowledge about your own heritage.

23. Food Tour Friday

Rediscover your own city with an organized food tour. You’ll get a knowledgeable guide, try tons of great foods, and maybe even find a new favorite restaurant. Food tours are generally pretty budget-friendly, available in most larger cities, and a really good way to try new things without having to spend money on an entire meal you might not like.

24. Vintage Video Game Extravaganza

Donkey Kong, Mario, and Duck Hunt… if you’re looking for nostalgia, you got it! These games (or whatever games were the jam when you were in your childhood) bring back fond memories and an intense spirit of competition. Set up the gaming system. Make a playlist of songs from the era and invite the guys. Hopefully, you’ll still be friends by the end of the night.

25. Brazilian BBQ

There’s no place on earth that produces the meat sweats like a Brazilian BBQ restaurant. Giant, heaping trays of roasted meat that just keep coming… it’s heavenly! Hopefully, your city has a great Brazilian steakhouse, but if it doesn’t, you could always throw a DIY meat-fest!

26. City Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are a fun way to spend an evening in your own city. You’ll compete with other crews for the top spot in your city on a journey through town filled with trivia tests and hilarious photo challenges. With the right group of guys, these hunts are a riot, and you will definitely see a new side of your city.

We even have custom hunts for birthdays. We’ll work with you to create a hunt that honors the birthday boy with personalized photo challenges and trivia!

27. Poker and Cigars

Go old-school with a night of Texas Hold’em, Cuban cigars, and a good Scotch. Load up on finger foods like sandwiches, chips, and snack cakes and let the bids begin!

28. Shooting Range Romp

Another great stress reliever for you and the guys is a night at the shooting range. Load up your pistols or rent one from the facility. Make it a challenge or just work on your form; either way, this guys’ night out provides a little adrenaline and might give you the chance to learn a new skill.

29. Fight Night

If you have a boxing arena or UFC league near you, spend the evening watching a live fight. If you don’t have that option, you could host a pay-per-view event or join the guys at the local sports bar to watch the fight. Place some bets. Loser buys rounds.

30. Disc Golf Picnic

Head to your local disk golf course. They’re often located in city parks. Challenge the guys to a game or two, then when darkness hits, head for the provided bbq grills and bust out the coolers. Grill up some meat. Throw out the lawn chairs, have a few beers, and get in some good conversation while stargazing.

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Getting the Guys Together

The hardest part about planning a guy’s night is not thinking of what to do. It’s just finding the determination to make it happen. We’ve provided you with 30 great guys’ night out ideas. Choose one of ours or come up with your own plan, but do it this weekend. Connecting with friends and having a strong social circle is a key aspect of stable mental and physical health. So, quit slacking on the guys’ night!

Let us know which night out you chose in the comments! Was it fun?

Planning on having a game night? Check out “40 Fun Board Games to Play With Friends.”

If you struggle to make friends and you can’t say you really have a strong circle, take a look at “How to Make Friends as an Adult (And Why You Should).”

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Frequently Asked Questions

There’s nothing more refreshing for the soul than a night of laughter with your best friends. If your normal outings are getting stale, you have come to the right place! We’ve gathered all the best girls’ night out ideas for you and your gal pals. From low-key wine tastings to full-on booze cruises, we have something for everyone (including non-boozy outings too). Let’s find your perfect night out!

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Unique Adventure With Adventures From Scratch

Did you know that Adventures From Scratch has a new friend edition? Well, you know now! We’ve created a new scratch-off adventure book full of excursions for you and your crew. Our books feature on-the-go challenges, tear-out extras, and in-home adventures to help you build stronger friendships while having an absolute blast! Out of fun ideas to get you laughing? Wanting to deepen your connection? Try our girls’ night out ideas the next time you get together!

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Funtabulous Girls’ Night Out Ideas

Finding time to spend with the girls is not always easy. After a long week of work, plus mom-ing, wife-ing, or serving in the community, everybody is tired. Even with the best of intentions, our well-laid plans with the girls often get canceled or overlooked. However, hanging with close friends has been proven by multiple studies to be beneficial for our mental and physical health, so it’s important that we all make time for belly laughing with the besties! You might find that when you do get time to hang out, nobody really planned anything, and you end up doing the same old local bar or dinner spot, which doesn’t offer much excitement or spontaneity. You deserve something better to look forward to.

Next time girls’ night rolls around, you’re going to be prepared! Read through this list. Pick your favorites and jot them down, or better yet, save the list to refer to in the future. We know how it is on Friday night. Your brain is fried, and you can’t think of good ideas. Keep this list handy and try a few of these amazing girls’ night out ideas instead of resorting to the same old same.

1. Wild out on a Let’s Roam bar crawl.

For your next girls’ night, let off a little steam by visiting the best bars in your city. Our app-led bar crawls escort you to four of the top bars and include a few fun challenges along the way to keep it interesting. Our bar crawls are the easiest night out to plan because they take no planning at all. You just download the app. Choose the crawl in your city, and follow along! It’s a budget-friendly and fun way to spend an evening with the gals.

2. Explore your local urban art.

In the summer months, when you have extra daylight and warm weather, take the time to explore your city’s urban art on a Let’s Roam urban art walk. Our experts have gathered all the best street art pieces in the world for our hunts and designed easy walking tours complete with pertinent info on all the works. If you want to see a different side of your city or just learn something about the fantastic murals you pass every day, an art walk is the perfect girls’ night out idea.

3. Hop on a food tour.

It’s Friday night. You’re hungry, right? Instead of a boring dinner at the same old chain restaurant, take the girls out on a city food tour. Most major cities have a food tour option, and they’re usually awesome. You’ll be paired with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll hit up the best restaurants in town, and often, you learn quite a lot about the traditional foods of your city. Check the tourism website for your city (usually “visit____”) or search food tours on Instagram or Google to see what your city offers.

4. Take a group cooking class.

Staying on the food theme, take your girls’ night as an opportunity to learn to cook a new meal. For some, cooking is a chore that sounds like an awful option, but when you do it together with your besties, it becomes a really fun night. You could take a virtual class on Cozymeal or Masterclass or book an in-person class at a local cooking school. If you know a private chef, hire them to come to your home so that you can cook in your pajamas.

5. Book a spa evening.

Spa days are nice, but spa nights are even better. If your town has a spa that is open late, set up a joint appointment. Get a lush facemask, a massage, or mani/pedis. You’ve likely had a long, stressful week; what could be better than a little stress relief with your bestie? After you’re feeling refreshed, retreat to one of your homes and finish the evening off with a little wine on the porch.

6. Take in a comedy show.

Most of us don’t laugh enough, not that deep down, really good belly laugh, at least. While you aren’t guaranteed to get that at a comedy show, you might. After a drink or two, they usually get funnier, so let loose a little and enjoy a night of drinks and giggles.

7. Take your gal pals on a scavenger hunt.

Group scavenger hunts are the perfect way to spend an evening with your gal pals. Our hunts are designed to provide easy fun with minimal planning and maximum bonding. We will escort you on a short trek around your city filled with funny photo challenges and tough trivia. You’ll choose the challenges that sound fun to you, learn a ton about your city, and, most importantly, get in some good quality time with the gals. We have hunts in more than 400 cities worldwide; check out all the options!

We also do custom hunts for bachelorette parties or birthday parties. You’ll be set up with one of our hunt coordinators to add in personal trivia and make the game all your own!

8. Start a book club.

If partying all night isn’t your vibe, gather the girls and start a weekly (or monthly) book club. This ladies’ night is awesome because, if we’re all honest here, the most likely deterrent to going out on the weekend is the fact that you have to put on real pants. With a book club option, you can all wear your comfy pants, messy buns, and real face. Have everyone bring an appetizer or just order takeout, and you’re good to go. It’s no muss, no fuss, and it forces you to read a little. It’s a win-win!

9. Plan an old-school sleepover.

Another fun night for the no-pants crew is to swap your girls’ night out for a girls’ night in. Do you remember how excited you were when you got to stay at a friend’s house? There would be unhealthy snacks, party games, dance parties, and juicy secrets. They’re just as fun as an adult. Binge-watch chick flicks, sing karaoke, or have a night of pampering with some DIY spa treatments. The options are endless; just choose a few activities your crew will love. If you guys have spouses and kiddos at home, you might have to get this one on the schedule pretty far in advance, but with enough determination, it’s totally doable.

10. Bust out the board games.

An old-school game night can be a lot of fun. Invite the girls over. Have each person bring their favorite game and just veg out with a few drinks and snacks. If you need a little inspiration for girls’ night games, check out “40 Fun Board Games to Play With Friends.”

11. Build a bonfire.

Weather permitting, there’s nothing more relaxing than sharing stories around a flame. Whether you use a firepit or build a giant bonfire, have the girls bring a lawn chair and some stuff for s’mores, and that’s all you need for a fun girls’ night, except maybe a perfect playlist! Just make sure you check the burn rules in your area if you’re planning on building a real fire!

12. Attempt an escape room.

Escape rooms have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. While the trend is fading a bit, that can be a good thing, as you can get in easily without much planning. The good ones are constantly changing their themes, so there’s always a new challenge. If you find that you have any brain cells left on your Friday night, an escape room can be a fun way to bond with your besties.

13. Throw axes… not at each other.

Okay, don’t actually throw them at each other. Throw them at a target. If your town has an axe-throwing facility, go there. If not, head to Lowe’s, grab some small hatchets, and head to whichever friend has the biggest (and safest) backyard. Please don’t throw axes if you have close neighbors… unless you don’t like them (obviously kidding).

14. Get crafty.

A fun idea for old friends is to have a scrapbook night. Plan it in advance and give everyone enough time to go through old photos. Get a cute scrapbook and then spend the evening working on it together. It’s a great way to reminisce over your years as friends, and you’ll no doubt end up laughing about things you didn’t even remember until you saw the pics.

15. Throw a favorite food party.

Another DIY party idea that is super easy and budget-friendly is to have each of your girlfriends bring their all-time favorite food or a favorite family recipe. Each person can make their food item ahead of time or open some wine and have a cooking party. It’s a fun way to spend time together, and you get a new favorite recipe out of the deal.

16. Plan a dinner parade.

Progressive dinners are a nice way to spend an evening, and it takes some of the cost and pressure off of the host. The problem is, it only works if you live in close proximity to each other. Ideally, you have appetizers at one person’s house, the main course at another, and then desserts and coffee or drinks at the last.

17. Visit a cabaret.

Cabaret shows are just a good time. While many would put a cabaret show in the romantic date category, others actually find them less awkward to see with friends. The costumes are beautiful. The performers are talented, and the drinks are free-flowing. Not sure what more a girls’ night needs!

18. Have a chore party.

Bear with us here. Nobody, I repeat, nobody wants to do chores, but they do have to be done. One of the many reasons that adult women don’t get together is that they just have too much to do at home. Make your necessaries way more fun by throwing on a killer dance playlist, inviting over your bestie, and tackling the chores. It’s actually way less boring to do someone else’s chores than your own, strangely. Help each other clean the blinds, weed the flower beds, or clean out the pantry. Then make your favorite cocktails and sit back and enjoy the fruit of your labor.

19. Paint each other.

Do you have any art skills? No? Great! Your paint night will be even more fun. Set up a few easels and a canvas for everyone. Draw names out of a hat and keep your name secret. Each person attempts to paint a portrait of the name they drew. Most of them will be hilarious failures, and they make for a good laugh and funny post-painting group photo.

20. Celebrate mojitos and memories.

If you have a group of friends that have been together for many years, spend the evening discussing old times. Make a dessert and coffee or your favorite cocktails and find a comfy spot around the fireplace or the dining table to reminisce. Laughing about old memories is a great way to make new ones!

21. Repeat your first hangout.

Do you remember the first time you hung out with your best friend? If you do, recreate it! Go to the same places and try sitting at the same table. See if you can fit in the same outfit if you still have it. The longer you’ve been friends, the harder this one will be!

22. Host a cultural night.

For a special evening, plan a themed party from a different culture. Have everyone bring an Indian dish or a Thai dish. Go all out with traditional clothing or just chow down on tasty international treats in your pajamas. The choice is yours. Don’t forget the appropriate playlist, and you might even do some research to see if there are any popular party or board games from the culture you chose.

23. Have a mixology contest.

Take an in-person mixology class at your local bartending school or invite the girls over to make your own cocktails. Send out a list of ingredients and have everyone chip in. You might have to have a short list of possible cocktails… unless you already have a good-sized liquor collection. Each person can choose a cocktail to make from a mixology book, or you can draw from a hat. Better yet, make it a competition and have each person create their own signature cocktail and vote for the winner!

24. Tour an art gallery or museum.

Night time in museums and art galleries is a whole different vibe. The art hits differently in the night light. They’re less crowded, and they often have special events featuring wine tastings, chats with local artists, or interactive classes. There are no herds of school children, no overloaded group tours, just a relaxing evening full of fine art.

25. Catch a ballgame.

If action is more your thing, gather your gal pals and head for the nearest major or minor league sporting venue. Live sporting events are a blast, even if you don’t really like sports. The comradery of the fans, the tasty concession stand food, and the general excitement that fills the air is intoxicating. If you don’t have anything like that in your town, get some nachos at your local high school football game and enjoy a simple evening under the lights.

26. Ride bumper cars.

Sometimes, all you need to shake off a stressful week is to ram your best friends with a car. The only way that is acceptable in polite society is in a bumper car. Head to the nearest adventure park and let out your inner child. Race go-carts. Smash in bumper cars or bumper boats. Take a few swings in the batting cage. It’s a great way to blow off steam.

27. Challenge your gals to a climbing wall.

If you’re part of an athletic clan (actually it might be funnier if you aren’t), challenge your besties to a race up a rock climbing wall. Almost all moderate-sized cities have one now, so there’s likely one within driving distance of your hometown. Loser buys drinks!

28. Take in the night skies.

There’s nothing more beautiful or relaxing than a deep conversation under a clear sky. Gather for stargazing at your local park or one of your backyards. Throw out some blankets, or if you’re brave and nimble, head up to the roof for a closer view. Maybe leave the cocktails out of this one.

Writer note: This one is a personal fave. My friends and I have had some of our most intense and meaningful conversations while stargazing at our local park. We just take a blanket and lay it out in the back of the truck or on the hillside. We take snacks and drinks and let the night unfurl. It’s simple, free, and always so enjoyable!

29. Plan a guilty pleasure night.

We all have a guilty pleasure, and if you have a really tight set of friends, you can feel safe sharing your weirdness. Whether it’s face masks and trash magazines, cleaning out your pores and binging reality TV, or whatever grossness you partake in, do it together. Sure, it’s private and might make you feel vulnerable, but we guarantee your friends are likely just as weird as you.

30. Compete in a thrift store challenge.

Set a budget that your group is comfortable with and carpool to your nearest thrift store. Challenge each other to complete the “most outrageous outfit,” a “1970s look,” or “the best man’s outfit.” No cheating; you only get to spend the max budget. Take the items back to one of your houses and have a fashion photoshoot.

31. Volunteer together.

Volunteering for a cause you love is a very rewarding experience, and it’s only more so when you share it with someone you love. Serve food at a local soup kitchen, serve in the concession stand at a community event, or bathe puppies at the homeless shelter. Most non-profits are always looking for help!

32. Create your own cupcake war.

Get creative in the kitchen with a cupcake competition. Grab a few decorating kits from your local craft or grocery store. If you’re short on time, you can prebake the cupcakes and let them cool the night before. The best part about this craft night is that the masterpieces are edible!

33. Walk your pooches.

One of the first things most tourists do when arriving at their vacation destination is get out and take a stroll, but when was the last time you took a walk around your own city? For a totally free Friday night activity, put on your best sneakers, leash up the pooches, and take a stroll around your city. We recommend you do it with an ice cream!

34. Host a backyard barbecue.

For a laid-back girls’ night out idea, fire up the grill. Bust out the pool chairs and whip up some margaritas or fresh lemonade. Put on a playlist of the Beach Boys and enjoy an evening with the girls in the backyard. Throw a white sheet on the fence and have an outdoor movie night if you have the ability.

35. Plan your next girls’ getaway.

One of the best parts of any getaway is the excitement of the research and planning phase. Set a date in your calendar for your next girls’ trip. Use your weekend nights to get together and plan. Get on Etsy and order those matching swimsuits and beach hats. Pick your hotel. Peruse the local restaurants and put them on a trip map. It will only increase the excitement and make everyone more likely to actually go through with the trip.

36. Swap sexy secrets.

Are you a guru in the bedroom, or do you need a little help? Maybe your relationship has just gotten a little boring, and you need some new trick. That’s what good girlfriends are for. Have everyone throw their favorite position or trick in the pot and draw them out. When your strip is drawn, you have to explain how to do it to all your curious gal pals.

37. Set up a book swap.

Maybe you and your crew aren’t organized or dedicated enough to have a real book club, but you can gather for an easy book swap. Everybody bring a book that you’ve finished and loved and trade them. It’s even more fun if each friend writes their thoughts or a little note in the back for the next friend to enjoy.

38. Take turns teaching a skill.

Everybody is an expert at something! Take turns on your girls’ nights, each friend leading a night and teaching the others their special skill. It could be sewing, painting, cooking, crafting, an exercise routine, or a stupid human trick. Allowing your friends to teach you something they’re passionate about allows you to see a whole new side of them and makes your bond even stronger.

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Making It Happen

It doesn’t really matter what you do with your besties for girls’ night. There are a million little girls’ night out ideas you could put into action. The key is to choose one and be adamant about making it happen! Call the girls. Get it on the schedule, and resist the urge to cancel when you inevitably don’t want to wear pants that day. Some excuse will always come up, but push past it because, once you’re out with the girls, you’ll have a blast, and it will be worth the couch time you sacrificed.

What are your favorite girls’ night out ideas? Please, do share them with us in the comments!

If your bestie is unfortunately in a different time zone, you can still have frequent girls’ nights. Find out the secret to success in “How to Stay Connected to Your Long-Distance Best Friend.”

Friendship in adulthood is hard! It takes real determination and planning to make friendships work. If you find yourself struggling in this arena, take a few tips from “Keys to Maintaining Adult Friendships.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Spring break is coming up fast, and if you’re looking for unique things to do on spring break with friends, you’re in the right place. While a week away from the grind is awesome, even if you don’t do anything special, we know that you want this week to be extra amazing, so we’ve scoured the internet and dove deep into personal experience to create the ultimate list of the most unique spring break ideas. Obviously, partying on Florida’s South Beach is a fun way to blow off some steam, but there are so many more great spring break destinations out there. We’ve included something for every kind of traveler, ranging from volunteer trips for high school students to family-friendly destinations and trips for college students too. Let’s roam!

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Devoting Time to Your Friends With Adventures From Scratch

Did you know that Adventures From Scratch has an entire adventure book solely devoted to friend activities? Well, now you do! Want some awesome ideas for things to do on spring break with friends? Grab Adventures From Scratch: Friend Edition today and begin scratching off your next adventures. Our books have more than 50 excursions specially crafted to nurture your friendship while you have a blast in the process. We’ve included hilarious conversation starters and a scrapbooking space too, so you can document all your adventures together!

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Spring Break Activities for Teens

High school can be really stressful, especially that last year or two, so whether you’re a teenager or the parent of one, consider one of these amazing options to let loose on spring break. Decide to give back and pad that college resume with a volunteer trip. Hang out with friends on a day trip, or invite a friend along on your family vacation.

1. Volunteer Trip to Guatemala

Discover International Volunteer Headquarters offers an awesome trip to Guatemala over spring break that would be perfect for any teen who is looking to dip their feet into the volunteer world. It includes volunteer projects in childcare, teaching, construction, animal welfare, and medical shadowing. It’s the perfect trip to test the waters. Volunteers get to participate in several arenas of serving and see what they like best. Students will be housed in Antigua Guatemala, a lovely and historic Spanish Colonial city in a stunning landscape of towering volcanoes and sparkling lakes. Antigua is a foodie paradise, features wonderful traditional markets, and has fun tourist activities. Take a visit to a chocolate lab, try coffee plantation tours, and go volcano trekking.

The trip is very affordable at just $360 for the week, which includes airport transfer, accommodation, two meals a day, and 24/7 in-person support. If you’re interested in giving back this spring break, this Guatemala trip is the perfect option with a reputable company.

Not interested in Guatemala? That’s ok! There are plenty of amazing options out there. Here’s a list of “The Top 12 Service Trips for Teens.”

2. Camping Trip in Your State Park

If the parents give you the okay and you can drive, pack up the tent and a couple of friends and head for your local state park. Hit hiking trails. Build a bonfire and tell ghost stories. Roast s’mores. Go fishing. Enjoy nature. Relax and recuperate. Being in nature is good for the soul! You might need someone above the age of 18 to rent the campsite and be present, so invite an older sibling or a parent along.

3. Themed Party

If you can’t get away for spring break, it doesn’t mean you can’t do something special and fun. Invite a few friends over and plan an epic party for Friday night. Choose a theme. Design the decorations. Pick out the food, and work together to plan the party activities. Send out invites through your social media and enjoy! Go all out with this DIY party. Planning it is half the fun!

If your area has warm weather in March, have it outside. Build a fire in the fire pit. Play yard games. Set up a photo booth for themed pics and TikTok vids. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, move to the living room and whip out the board games, have a dance party, or play traditional party games.

Check out this list of “25 Fantastic Party Games to Play With Friends.”

4. Road Trip Adventure

If you can drive, take a short road trip to an interesting place in your state. You could consider going snowboarding at the nearest ski park, taking a chilly swimming trip to a nearby lake, visiting an ancient Native American site, or taking a walking tour of a nearby city. For a unique trip, consider visiting several of the small towns in your area and seeing what quirky tourist attractions they have to offer. You might be really surprised at the awesome stuff hidden in these relatively unknown places. While every state is different, there is certainly something in your home area that you didn’t know about, so get out there and explore. The options are endless!

5. Theme Park Extravaganza

Take a few days and hit up all the theme parks in your vicinity. If the waterparks are open, spend a day there. Then, head for the amusement park the next day. On day three, find the closest aerial adventure park where you can enjoy ropes courses, zip lines, and rope swings. Take your friends along for the ride. Enjoying a little adrenaline with good company is the perfect way to let loose and produce those feel-good hormones!

6. Concert or Festival

Have a favorite band? See if they’re playing in a nearby city, or join a spring festival and catch several live shows over the week. Check out the South by Southwest Festival in Austin, the Portland Rose Festival, or Miami’s Calle Ocho. If you can’t get to one of these amazing spots, Google spring concerts near you.

Spring is also a very popular time for lots of other weird and wonderful local events. Consider the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., Frozen Dead Guy Festival in Colorado, or the Nenana Ice Classic in Alaska, which are just a few among the many weird events taking place in the U.S. in March.

Spring Break Ideas for College Students

This section focuses on spring break trips for college students who want to get away from the stress of the semester. These trips offer epic outdoor adventures, laidback beach time, and a chance to plan for the future in a fun way!

7. Road Trip to Arizona

Arizona is an outdoor adventurist’s playground. The dramatic red rock cliffs, iconic national parks, and free vibe of the state make it the perfect spot for a spring break getaway with friends. Rent a mountain bike and hit the trails of Monument Valley. Enjoy a sunset picnic at Cathedral Rock in Sedona. Take part in watersports on Lake Powell, or hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. If you love the great outdoors, Native American history, desert landscapes, and freedom, you can’t do better than an Arizona road trip.

8. Wine Trails of California

Consider yourself a budding oenophile? Then head for Napa Valley and book a trip on the Wine Train. You might need the parents to chip in a few dollars for this one, as it’s not a super cheap trip. You’ll enjoy a window seat on a luxurious train that travels throughout the region, stopping at multiple wineries for tours and tastings.

If you can’t swing the cost of the Wine Train, no big deal. Look on WorkAway and see if you can find a winery or vineyard to work at for your spring break. You and a friend can tuck some vines for an hour a day in exchange for a nice place to stay and an education in the entire process of winemaking.

9. Local Ale Trails

Most major cities have a host of craft breweries these days. Take a few friends. Get your (ale) passport and hop along your local ale trail. Generally, you will visit several breweries and sometimes distilleries along a marked road trip. At every stop, you’ll get a passport stamp, and often, you receive a little something once you complete the entire ale trail. Just make sure you have a designated driver.

10. Bucket List Checkoff

What is that one thing you’ve been meaning to do for months (or years)? Perhaps you have a few things on the list? Now is a great time to check them off. Whether it’s skydiving, trying fresh calamari, or reading War and Peace, utilize your spring break free time to accomplish it. If you don’t have a bucket list, now is kind of the perfect time to make one. After college, you will hopefully have some more free time and a little money of your own to spend as you wish, so you might as well get ahead of the game and start adding fun things to your to-do list!

11. Costa Rica Adventure

March is the dry season in Costa Rica and the perfect time to visit. This little Central American nation is one of the most biodiverse environments on earth for both flora and fauna. It’s the cleanest and safest country in Central America, and it’s very easy to navigate. There are hundreds of English-speaking tours spanning a wide range of wildlife river floats, volcano ATV adventures, hanging bridges in the Cloud Forest, bungee jumping from jungle platforms, and night walks in the jungle. Whether you go as a tourist or a volunteer in one of the nature centers, you will see incredible wildlife, hang on some of the most laidback beaches in the world, and enjoy some of the earth’s best scenery. The list of fun things to do here is neverending, and the food is pretty tasty too!

12. Lounge Days in Puerto Rico

If you’re looking for carefree days on the beach, adventures in the jungle, fabulous seafood, a vibrant culture, and an easy trip, look no further than Puerto Rico. This little Caribbean island is an unincorporated territory of the United States, and citizens don’t need a passport to visit. You can enjoy a tram tour through historic Old San Juan and its mega forts, eat delicious Spanish-inspired food, hang out at the popular beach clubs of Carolina, try out those crazy water jets, go kitesurfing, or zipline and chase waterfalls in the only tropical rainforest on U.S. territory. It’s a beautiful island, and flights are generally pretty cheap from the mainland.

13. Scoping a Future Job City

Believe it or not, your college years will go by fast, and soon, it will be time to get a real job and figure out where you want to live. If you have a few options in mind, take the free time you have on spring break to check out one of the possible cities. Tour apartments and find out what’s going to be available in your price range. Visit your possible future company and shadow a staff member for the day. Take a walking tour and get a working knowledge of the history and layout of the city. Join a food tour to find all the best restaurants. Hop on a Let’s Roam bar crawl and explore the city’s nightlife options. Meet a few locals and start working on connections.

While thinking about the rigors of adult life might be the last thing you want to do on your spring break, touring a possible future home is actually a wise call. Not only will you have an awesome time in a new city, but you’re getting valuable research done and making connections too!

14. Spa Trip With the Besties

There’s nothing more relaxing than a spa day… except maybe a spa week! If your semester has been really stressful, consider packing your bags, inviting a few friends, and heading for the nearest spa city. Hop over to Jimez, Nex Mexico, and lounge in the natural hot springs. Visit the historic bathhouses of Hot Springs, Arkansas, or hang in boutique spas of Sedona, Arizona. Enjoy a long soak in a salted tub and paint yourself with one of those green face masks. Get a massage, a manicure, and a few glasses of champagne. Relax and recuperate with your best buds on spring break!

15. First Timer’s Trip to Italy

Italy in March is divine! The tourist season hasn’t started yet, but the weather is generally nice enough to walk around town with a good jacket. The lines are not so long. The prices are a bit cheaper, and it’s just much more enjoyable.

If you can convince the parents or grandparents to chip in on your grand adventure, grab a friend and take a backpacking trip. If you plan early and spend your money wisely, you can do it for less than $1500 and still get to see everything on your bucket list. For a first-timer’s trip, we recommend visiting Venice, Florence, Rome, and Naples or Sorrento, with day trips to the Isle of Capri, Pisa, and Pompeii. This itinerary gives you a good taste of what Italy has to offer, and if you leave a day early, you can spend two nights in each city, which is a whirlwind, but it works!

Family-Friendly Trips With Friends

If you have tweens or teens at home, the idea of a spring break trip with the whole family might sound like more of a nightmare to them than a retreat. If your kiddos seem a little less than thrilled about your spring break plans, consider allowing each of them to bring along a friend or plan a joint trip with another family who has kids their age. Having friends present at this age can totally change the behavior of teens and make the trip more enjoyable for the whole clan. Here are a few trip ideas that are easy to bring extras along.

16. Cruise With a Friend

Cruise lines have really upped their game in the last decade to make their trips more kid-friendly, especially in the tween and teen areas. Major cruise lines now have teen-only arcades, swimming areas, nightclubs, and excursions, giving them some freedom with their friends in a controlled and safe environment. It’s the best of both worlds. You can enjoy a cocktail in a deck chair and know that they’re having fun in a zone made just for them.

17. Staycation in the Backyard

Not every parent can get away for spring break. Unfortunately, that season of life doesn’t transfer into the working world. If you can’t plan a vacation in March, you can still make it a special week for your kids and their friends. Plan a fun staycation camping trip. Let your kids invite some friends for a sleepover in a backyard tent or a living room fort. Bring out the board games, giant yard games, or hire a bounce house. Set up an obstacle course or allow the kids to make a tasty treat in the kitchen. No matter how much or how little you do, your kiddos will love having their friends over for a day or two of staycation, so don’t stress over it. Movie marathons with popcorn are totally acceptable!

18. Scavenger Hunt of Your Hometown

Let’s Roam offers fun-filled scavenger hunts in more than 400 cities worldwide, and the list is growing every day. They’re the perfect day trip for a group of young friends. They’ll explore a limited area on a walking adventure filled with challenging trivia and hilarious video and photo scenarios. They can compete with other groups in a city-wide challenge and share their adventures on social media. The hunts are generally contained within a 1-2-mile radius. Older kids may be able to do them on their own, while younger ones will need a chaperone. Check out all our hunts and choose one or two in your area!

19. Museums of Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is a great option for spring break. Grab a friend or two and head for the nation’s capital for a little education under the guise of fun. Kids can peruse the quirky National Museum of American History, visit the National Air and Space Museum, and the International Spy Museum. The great things about Washington, D.C., for kids are that everything is very contained and walkable, and all the fabulous Smithsonian museums are free to visit!

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Spring Breaking With Friends

There you have it, the top 19 things to do on spring break with friends! Whether you’re planning a week away from home or need ideas for a fun staycation, we hope you found something fun on this list. Let us know in the comments where you’re heading!

Planning Note: Spring break is coming fast, you guys! To get the best deals, you need to be booking your trip now. So, don’t wait a second more. Choose one of these great spring break ideas and start planning with your friend group today!

Have you taken a spring break trip in the past that you loved? Don’t keep it to yourself. Share your awesome experience with the rest of us! Just drop it in the comments. We always love hearing from you!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Losing touch with friends after high school or college is a pretty common occurrence, even with the best of intentions. You get a new job, in a new city. They do too. You get married, have kiddos, or decide to travel, and before you know it, you haven’t talked to your bestie in years.

When you start to reconnect with old friends, it can feel awkward at first. Both parties have no doubt gone through significant life changes, and the thought of rekindling the relationship comes with some serious concerns. Will they have the same fond memories you do? Do you even have anything in common anymore? These are pretty common thought processes, but if you find yourself repeatedly thinking of an old friend, it’s likely they’re doing the same, and everyone is just leery of making the first move. Let’s dive into some quick and easy ways to jump that fence of doubt and rebuild those lost friendships.

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Reconnect With an Adventure Book

At Adventures From Scratch, we’re pretty passionate about friendships, and that’s why our newest scratch-off adventure book is loaded with exciting excursions specifically geared toward deepening your relationships with friends. Just consult the key, pick an adventure, scratch off the details, and enjoy! On top of excellent adventures, our books include tear-out challenges, conversation starters, and journal space to document the fun. Now you have the perfect way to reconnect with old friends!

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Benefits of Reconnecting With Former Friends

For some of you, life is going great, and reconnecting with old friends may seem like a futile endeavor. You’ve moved on with new friends. So have they. Why bother? However, old friends are the only people in the world who experienced the same childhood as you. They’re the only ones who share the memories of some of your most formative moments. Keeping a few old friends around can help you build a healthy connectedness with your past and keep you grounded as you move forward. Here are just a few of the benefits of reconnecting with your childhood buds.

Takes You Back to a Simpler Time

Life starts to get crazy in your late twenties, often keeping the chaos up into your thirties. Jobs are getting serious. You might be buying a home or growing a family, and it can all get very stressful. Taking some time, even if you feel like you don’t have much to devote, to talk about old times with a good friend can really be a boost to your mental health. You’ll laugh about silly antics, pull out memories you didn’t even know you had, and revel in the simple times of your youth.

Reminds You of Your Roots

While your current friends might know you better than anyone from high school did, they don’t share the same roots and heritage as you do. Like it or not, the way in which you were raised (and even the area you were raised in, to some extent) helps shape your worldview. There’s something special about sitting down with an old friend and discussing the intricacies of your past. While you may have chosen to move on from the negative aspects of your childhood, there are likely some very positive bits that make you who you are today. Exploring old memories is one of the best ways to connect to your roots and stay grounded in the good parts of your upbringing.

Expands Your Community

While you may have one or two best friends that live a similar lifestyle to you, it never hurts to have a larger community of friends to bounce ideas off of. They might be surface-level buds, and that’s fine, but a wide community of friends keeps you connected with many spheres. This gives you access to information and resources that you may not have within your closest friend group. It pays to know and have cordial relationships with a vast group of people.

Reshapes Your Perspectives

When talking with an old friend, you may quickly find out that their perspective of your joint past is very different than your own. They’ll remember things through their own personal filter, their feelings about the event. Reminiscing with an old friend can be hard in this area, as you might find out things about yourself or your friend group that you didn’t previously perceive. Learning to view your past through someone else’s lens has the potential to change the way you approach others in the future.

Allows You to Heal Old Wounds

If you’ve had a falling out with an old friend or you just have difficult memories in your past pertaining to that person, reconnecting is a way to heal old wounds. You have changed and matured. They most likely have too. Harboring bitterness and unforgiveness is not good for your overall well-being. According to an article by Harley Therapy, bitterness can have the same effects on the body as serious trauma, resulting in fatigue, decreased libido, and interrupted sleep patterns. In the long haul, it can affect self-confidence and the ability to formulate new healthy relationships.

Provides a Healthy Dose of Laughter

We’ve all heard that laughter is the best medicine, and you don’t need any fancy medical research to prove that. We’ve all had one of those laugh-until-we-cry sessions. You know there’s nothing that relieves stress better or busts through awkward or difficult circumstances more effectively than a hearty laugh. Reminiscing with old friends is bound to produce some funny moments as you remind each other of your teenage antics.

How to Reconnect With an Old Friend

1. Assess your motivation.

An important aspect of rekindling an old relationship is to first take a deep dive into why you feel compelled to do so. Are you just curious about how their life is going? Do you miss them? Are you just feeling lonely, longing for companionship? Is there an unsolved conflict between the two of you that is weighing on you?

There are many reasons you may choose to reach out to an old friend, but make sure your reasons are healthy ones. If you’re just lonely, you might be setting yourself up for more disappointment when you reach out for companionship and they don’t have the time or will to meet your expectations. You also don’t want to reenter unhealthy relationships just because you’re desperate for companionship. If you’re suffering from extreme loneliness, it’s probably time to touch base with a counselor and begin doing some inner work to find the cause.

2. Assess the nature of the friendship.

Is this person someone who adds value to your life, or are your memories of them loaded with hurt and baggage? While a nagging conflict with an old friend may need to be resolved for you to move forward, there are other friendships that may not be worth pursuing. Maybe you didn’t have a falling out or a major conflict but that person fell away from your life for normal reasons. You need to decide if rekindling this relationship would add positive companionship and mutual benefit to you both or if entering into a relationship with this person would likely bring stress. While a large friend group can be extremely rewarding, choose who you let in your inner circle wisely. A person who brings drama and toxicity is better left alone.

3. Set reasonable expectations.

Don’t go into your first conversation with someone you haven’t seen in years expecting to pick up right where you left off and be best friends forever. That could happen, but it also is not guaranteed. Set reasonable expectations for your first conversation. The goal is to make contact, possibly set up an in-person meeting, and explore surface-level info about their current situation. It’s better to be pleasantly surprised by a wonderful encounter than to be let down if it’s just so-so.

4. Start easy with social media.

The easiest way to initiate contact is via text message or social media. If you don’t have their phone number, you can likely find them on Linkedin, Facebook, or Instagram. Send a simple message or bring up a funny memory. It doesn’t have to be a well-thought-out dissertation, just something like, “Hey, was just thinking of you today and laughing about that time we ran your mom’s car off in the ditch. How are you doing?” Something easy like this will start the flow of conversation.

Making contact in the first place is generally the hardest part. It gets easier from there. So, jump the hurdle, and send the text.

5. Pick up the phone.

If it was a close friend, pick up the phone and hear their voice. Don’t wait for a time when you have hours to talk. That won’t happen. Just call. They might pick up, or they might be busy, but they’ll likely call back when they get a minute. If you’re nervous, have a few notes of things to talk about, including some of your favorite memories.

A phone call might feel too formal or old-fashioned for you, but remember that emotions are difficult to display over text messages. They can easily be read with the wrong inflection, and your words may be misconstrued. Sometimes, hearing the tone of voice is necessary for proper communication, and actually talking to the person is best!

6. Meet up for a short while.

Once you’ve made initial contact, arrange to meet for coffee, grocery shopping, or a dog walk in the park. Make sure it isn’t too formal and doesn’t require a lot of time or planning. Make it casual and easy. Any of these activities will give you the perfect backdrop for conversation and a relaxed vibe.

When you decide to meet up, don’t just say, “We should get together sometime.” Again, that will never happen. Instead, say something like, “I have some time next Saturday morning, would you like to meet at Joe’s for a coffee at 9?” Set a date and a time that works for both of you, and get it on the calendar.

7. Bring along a mutual friend.

If you had a falling out with a friend or you have reason to believe that the meetup might be awkward, bring in a moderator. Group hangouts are easier than one-on-ones, and you might find that bringing along mutual friends eases the tension for everyone.

8. Plan an outing with your families.

If you got married or had children since the last time you saw your friend, suggest a meetup that includes your families. Your spouses can get to know one another, and they will glean insight about you that they never knew before, which can be fun for everyone… if a little embarrassing. Having the people you’re closest to and most proud of around for the meetup can help ease any nerves, as long as they’re on their best behavior, of course.

9. Show interest in their life and passions.

Once you meet up, direct the conversation to their new passions and the current events of their life. Make sure you take time to really listen and ask pertinent questions. Try not to monopolize the conversation with all things going on in your own life, but also be vulnerable and willing to talk about your life when it is your turn. Try to find a time when you don’t have other distractions and you can devote your attention to your friend.

10. Bring up funny memories.

You might consider having a few notes and points of conversation thought out before arriving. Think of a couple of your favorite memories together and bust out a funny one within the first few minutes of conversation. It’ll break the ice and get the conversation moving. After a good laugh, things will flow more freely, and you’ll easily glide into current-day conversations.

11. Don’t be afraid to address the hard stuff.

In-person communication with an old friend isn’t always rainbows and unicorns. There may be old slights that you need to address in order to move forward with a healthy friendship. After some time, don’t be afraid to just address the elephant in the room. Do it with grace, and try to avoid placing blame, but don’t just avoid it.

Talking through these situations is difficult, but you might find your old friend has a totally different perspective on the situation than you do. There may be information you didn’t know, or it’s possible they’ve been carrying the burden and want to apologize for their part in the hurt. Be willing to apologize for yours as well. Remember that you are not the same person you were at 16, and it’s likely they’re not either.

12. Look for positive changes.

As stated, you have changed, and your friend has too, but that doesn’t have to be a negative thing. Often, people change for the better as they age and mature. Instead of focusing on the fact that your friend isn’t the person you remember, look for fun new things about them that you can relate to. Good friendships are always evolving, and you might find that you love them even more now than you did then.

13. Seek a shared passion.

Look for one thing in your conversation that you can move forward with! Do you both love rock climbing, work in accounting, or have a child with a disability? You may have several shared interests but focus on one thing you have in common that can be fuel for your next meetup.

14. Make future plans.

Once you’ve gotten through the initial meeting and you’re sure that pursuing a relationship is a good idea, go ahead and make plans! Maybe you schedule a hike in the nearest national park, take your son to see their son play baseball, or meet up at a local winery for a wine tasting. Whatever your shared passion is, focus on that as you rebuild your relationship.

Go ahead and get out your calendars and schedule it before you leave. You may still have to change it later, but you’re both much more likely to make it happen if it’s in writing, with a date and time. Once you’ve set a date, be faithful to it. Integrity is important in any friendship but especially in one that is in the rebuilding phase.

15. Consult your partner or closest friends.

As you reconnect with your old friend, ask your besties or your spouse to help watch for red flags, especially if you have a history of turbulence with this person. They know you well, and they’ll be able to spot areas where you’re feeling stressed or letting negativity slip in on you. It never hurts to have a few people you trust help keep you accountable for your own well-being.

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Closing Thoughts

If you’re considering seeking out an old friend, take the necessary precautions to protect your mental health and your current relationship. But if there’s no risk in those arenas, go for it! Take the chance and make the move to initiate contact. Just remember to control your expectations.

The goal initially is to check in on your friend, see how their life is going, and let them know you have fond memories of your friendship. Let it move naturally from there. It might be that you retain a friendship through social media only, or it might progress to weekly in-person hangouts; who knows? Either way, keep it light at first and wade the waters gently as you reconnect with old friends. It probably won’t be as awkward as you imagine.

Have you had success reconnecting with a childhood friend? Tell us how you did it in the comments!

For more ideas to nurture your friendships, check out “Friendship Goals for the New Year.” It’s full of fantastic ideas to ensure that 2023 has plenty of healthy moments with your crew.

Have you decided to have your old friends over for dinner and a few games? Great idea! Busting out our nostalgic games is a wonderful way to reminisce. Check out our list of “40 Fun Board Games to Play With Friends” for a little inspiration.

Sources

Jacobson, S. (2022, October 26). 12 steps to overcome feeling bitter. Harley Therapy™ Blog. Retrieved January 16, 2023, from https://www.harleytherapy.co.uk/counselling/12-steps-to-overcoming-bitterness.htm#:~:text=Bitterness%20not%20only%20causes%20symptoms,to%20have%20a%20healthy%20relationship.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Playing board games is a time-tested bonding activity for friends and family. Board games encourage conversation, friendly competition, and creativity, and provide hours of laughter. With our screen-obsessed culture, taking an evening away from the virtual and having a good old-fashioned game night can be extremely refreshing! If you are looking for something easy and fun for you and your crew, here’s our list of the best board games to play with friends. From wholesome, classic games to card games specifically made for terrible humans, there is something on this list for every group of friends!

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50+ Awesome Activities to Enjoy With Friends

Our scratch-off books are expertly crafted and full of exciting activities, designed to deepen bonds and add some adventure to your routine. If you and your crew are looking for something new to do, snag a copy of Adventures From Scratch: Friends Edition, and get scratching! Make this your go-to book when you want to get together with your besties.

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The Best Classic Board Games

This section is full of oldies but goodies. Perhaps you haven’t played these since you were a kid, or maybe you missed out on their heyday altogether. It’s never too late to pick up a good thing though, and you will fall in love with the long-standing awesomeness of these classics!

1. Monopoly

Players: 2-8

This classic wheeling and dealing business game challenges players to buy, sell, and scheme to build their personal fortunes. Become a railroad tycoon, a landlord, or a hotel owner. Oh, by the way, you might also end up in jail. When you play Monopoly, it’s all a roll of the dice!

2. Scrabble

Players: 2-4

Test your vocabulary against your buds with the board gamer’s original word game, Scrabble. Pick your random letters out of the bag and build upon previously laid words to collect points and prove your thesaurus mastery. It’s an easy game that you can play all night, with simple rules, and plenty of arguments over whether that is or is not a real word!

3. Taboo

Players: 4 or more

Taboo is a great game for large groups, as you can have as many players as you want in this cooperative game. Break up into teams and draw a card. Your job is to get your teammates to guess the word on the card without using any of the forbidden words. There are over 640 guess words in the stack so you can play for a long time without repeating words. Race against the timer to add some suspense, or use the Game-changer dice to change up the rules a little. It’s the game that keeps on giving! You get a point for each guess word you get within the timer, and you lose a point if you accidentally say any of the forbidden words. The team with the most points wins.

4. The Game of Life

Players: 2-4

Spin to win in The Game of Life. From Start to retirement, your spin and choose to determine your fate. Will head to the workforce or take on major debt to go to college? Will you get married? Have kids? What risks are you willing to take? At the end of the game, the person with the most money in the bank wins. The Game of Life allows you to take risks you probably wouldn’t or didn’t in real life and find your wealth, even if it is just on the board. With a four-player limit, it is the perfect game for a low-key night with your besties or a double date night.

5. CATAN (Formally Known as Settlers of Catan)

Players: 3-4

CATAN is a classic game of trade, build, and settle. You will set out on a quest, guiding your settlers on an epic adventure of building your future while avoiding attempted monopolies by other players and robbers on the trail. It’s a strategy board game where you will have to be smart about how you use or hoard your grain, wood, and lumber. The game is simple to learn, and playtime generally is about an hour. However, every game is different, so you can play it several times in one party if you like.

6. Ticket to Ride

Players: 2-5

Another classic small group game, Ticket to Ride has trains, and who doesn’t love trains? Hop on the train and head across the country as you collect train cards and enable them to buy up railroads, connecting your way across America (or Europe if you get that version). In what seems contradictory to efficient public transit, the goal is to build the longest railroad. The longer the route, the more points you earn. You can even launch Ticket to Ride through Alexa, with sound effects and music. It’s actually a pretty fast-paced game and can be tackled in 30 minutes. There are many different versions of the game, so if you get sick of America, move on to a new location, or add boats!

7. Yahtzee!

Players: 2 and up

Yahtzee is a classic party game that can be played with two or more players. There is no board for this one, so it’s really a tabletop game. You just need a place to roll the five dice. The point is to roll high-scoring combinations, and the person with the highest score after 13 turns wins. It’s easy, and with 100 scorecards, you can pretty much play with any number of players. Yahtzee has stood the test of time because it is just a fun game!

8. Pictionary

Players: 4 and up

Pictionary is a classic and one of the funniest games around. Players use the given markers to draw their best version of the clue on the card. Their team members are tasked with the sometimes difficult job of guessing what the first player is drawing. It’s been a classic since 1985, and it is still one of the best games for large groups. It’s even more fun if you have had a few drinks.

9. Balderdash

Players: 2-6

It’s time to call out your friends on their BS. That’s basically the gist of Balderdash. Definitions have never been so fun. In this multiplayer game, you will choose a word from one of five categories. Each player will then make up an answer to the question or definition of the word on the card. The Balderdasher will write down the correct answer. Then, they will read off all the answers and players will vote for the answer they think is true. You earn points when your answer gets the most votes. There are a few more ways to earn points, but that’s the gist. The fun comes in when you realize how hilarious and creative (or dirty!) your friends are. The answer to these simple questions give you a lot of insight into your friends and are sure to keep you laughing all night long.

10. Trivial Pursuit

Players: 2-6

The iconic trivia game allows friends to show off their brilliance and dominate in a little competition of smarts. The Classic Edition of Trivial Pursuit includes a retro player board and the time-tested gameplay you know and love. With 2,400 questions in six categories, you roll the die, land on a category, and if you can answer the question for that category correctly, you collect the colored wedge for it. The first player to collect all six wedges and answer the final question correctly wins the game and the title of trivia master. Once you have conquered the classic, Trivial Pursuit also has Harry Potter, Friends, Sports, Decades, and many more versions, all available on Amazon. You might as well get them all!

11. Clue

Players: 6

The original murder mystery game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit. There is one murderer and six suspects. Gather in the Tudor mansion and decipher the clues to find who did it, where they did it, and what weapon they used. The first player to correctly deduce all three aspects of the murder wins. Clue has evolved with the times, with new versions of the game including the ghost of Mrs. White, played by Alexa.

The Best Board Games for College Friends (or the young at heart!)

This section gets a little silly and sometimes a bit raunchy too, depending on your friend group. While they may be appropriate for older teens, these games are the most fun with a few drinks and a few weird and rowdy friends.

12. Cards Against Humanity

Players: 4 and up

This insane card game made playing cards fun again. Cards Against Humanity is certainly not your traditional family board game, but it is hilarious and perfect for a group of adults who are feeling a bit saucy. It is self-described as a party game for horrible people. The concept is simple, player one asks a question by laying down a black card. The rest of the group answers the questions with a white card from their hand, picking the card that they think is the funniest answer to the question. Player one votes on whose answer wins, and that player gets to keep the cards. The player with the most sets at the end of the game wins. At least that is the original game, but there are plenty of ridiculous alternative rules to spice it up. Buy the expansion packs for more preposterous cards when your originals get old. The questions are absurd. The answers are even more ridiculous, but the game is legendary!

13. Exploding Kittens

Players: 2-5

Exploding Kittens is basically Uno but with exploding cats, goats, laser beams, and all manner of other preposterous playing cards. Draw from the deck. Sabotage your opponents, and try to stay away from the Exploding Kittens which you make you dead, and out of the game. It’s easy. It’s weird. It’s super fun with a few beers, and if you have somewhere never played it, we are sure it will be your next favorite!

14. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

Players: 3-8

No, it’s not just a list of the most awesome things on earth—Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a fabulously funny and addictive game! It’s a basic slapjack-like matching game. When you think you see a match… SLAP! But, be careful, your mind might just trick you!

15. Telestrations After Dark

Players: 4-8

This adult-only version of Telestrations is all about miscommunication. It’s basically the old telephone game where you pass something through your friend group and see how it changes over time except with drawings instead of words. These 1200 prompts in this version are adult only, so be prepared for hilarious and inappropriate.

16. What Do You Meme?

Players: 3-20

What Do You Meme? is great fun! Compete against your crowd to create the funniest memes. Pick a photo card from the deck. Each player answers it with a caption card from their hand. The judge chooses the funniest meme, and the winner keeps the card. The player with the most cards wins the whole shebang. Mature content plus funny friends lead to some wild combinations and lots of hearty laughs.

17. Escape Room: The Game

Players: 3-5

Escape Room: The Game works just like the coordinated escape room that you probably have in your city except it can all be done in your own home. Set the timer to 60 minutes, bust open the game, and use your teamwork skills and creativity to make your exit from the designated room by solving the clues given. It’s full of clever riddles and puzzles

18. Unstable Unicorns

Players: 2-8

Ever wanted an army of sparkly unicorns? Well, today is your day! Unstable Unicorns is a strategic card game where you collect unicorns in your stable instead of points. Use Magic and strategically played cards to trip up your opponents. It won the People’s Choice Award for Toy of the Year in 2019, and it’s still a magical blast for any group of friends who love a little game of betrayal… and unicorn armies

19. Beat That!

Players: 2-8

Dare your crew to 240 whacky challenges. Wager a bet on a personal skill, or challenge a friend to a duel. Beat That! is a true competition with all players attempting the same challenges for the ultimate bragging rights. It’s easy to learn and provides hours of hilarious fun!

20. Apples to Apples

Players: 4-10

Apples to Apples is a pretty popular party game that is easy to play with a medium to a large group. Deal the cards, and select one from your hand that you think best describes the card played by the judge. If the judge likes your answer the best, you win the rounds. It’s kind of the same premise as Cards Against Humanity, except for slightly better people.

The Best Board Games for Couples’ Game Nights

21. Spouse-ology

Players: 2-4 couples

A new turn on The Newlywed Game, Spouse-ology is the ultimate test of your relationship. How well do you know your spouse? Roll the die to pick a category. Match your spouse’s answers, and earn points. You’ll either go home a winner or argue all the way home then make up when you get there. With 240 hilarious questions, win or lose, you will leave with some new insight into your spouse and your buds.

22. Monikers

Players: 4-16+

Voted “the be-all-end-all of party games” by IGN, Monikers is really funny! Monikers is played in rounds. Round one, you can say anything to get your team to guess who is on your dealt card. In round two, you can only use one word. Round three is charades only, with no words. With a few good friends and a little wine, this one will keep you giggling all night long.

23. 7 Wonders: Duel

Players: 3-7

7 Wonders comes in several versions, including the two-person duel and architects, but the original is still great for a small group of friends. You’ll travel back in time to one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. You are the city’s leader, and it is your job to gather the resources to build not only the wonder itself but the city around it. It’s a strategic expansion game like many others on the list, but with an ancient twist!

24. Fog of Love

Players: 2-6

Fog of Love is your second chance at a new beginning with your partner. Create your characters. Meet and fall in love, and then tackle some serious relationship challenges. You’ll have plenty of awkward conversations along the way and lots of tough decisions along the way. Choose wisely!

25. Blank Slate

Players: 3-8

Blank Slate is all about your ability to predict your friends and their thought processes. Pick a cue card, then write in the word that you think best fills in the blank. You also want to match another player’s answer, so you have to think strategically. It’s an easy game to learn and works great for large groups as you can pair off and add more players pretty easily.

26. Taco vs. Burrito

Players: 2-4

The basic gameplay is easy, but this simple game is surprisingly strategic. Taco vs. Burrito was created by a young man (when he was just seven years old!) and turned out to be one of the most successful gaming endeavors on Kickstarter. While it sounds a bit childish, the game is actually quite strategic, as you fight to build the most valuable meal (taco or burrito) and sabotage your friends along the way. You may even start a food fight.

27. Forbidden Island

Players: 2-4

Forbidden Island will have you working together as a couple to race against disaster. Your island is sinking, and you and your teammate must take risks and find all the hidden treasures. You must also make some very brave decisions to make it out in time, as the island is sinking. It’s an intimate game for a double date, but it gets intense!

The Best Virtual Board Games

While in-person games are always better, sometimes you just need a game night with your besties across the world, and thanks to technology, you can now do it with some of your favorite classic games.

28. Let’s Roam’s Virtual Game Night

Players: 2-20+

Did you know that Let’s Roam hosts epic virtual game nights? Log onto our amazing virtual platform, and pick your poison. We have geography games, general trivia, drawing games like Pictionary, emoji decoders, and much more, so you can host a different game every weekend of the month! Also, check out our huge list of in-home scavenger hunts!

29. Scattergories

Players: 2-6

Scattegories challenges players to create words that fit within a set of categories and begin with a chosen letter. The game is great for distance relationships because it can easily be played over Zoom or other video chat platforms. One player will pull up the game on scattergoriesonline.net and share the screen with everyone else. The site will choose a letter and issue the prompts, as well as keep the timer.

30. Mysterium

Players: up to 7

Warwick Manor is home to a haunting, the ghost of a murdered servant from 30 years ago, and you must get to the bottom of the crime. One player will be the ghost, and the rest are psychic investigators looking for answers. Work together to solve the mystery and get answers from the deceased. The suspects, victims, and weapons change every time you play, so there is always new excitement. Play Mysterium online through their website or app

31. Boggle

Players: 2+

Boggle is a simple word scramble game. Shake the letter cubes, lift the lid, and flip the timer. Players compete to write down as many words as they can from the shaken cubes in 90 seconds. The player with the highest number of unique words wins. Boggle can easily be played online too! Choose your format and send the pin code to as many players as you want. It’s free to play!

32. Risk

Players: 2-5

Risk is a classic strategic conquest game where players compete to conquer enemy territory by building an army and battling it out. The first player to complete their secret mission wins. The gaming platform, Steam, offers a digital version of the game called RISK: Global Domination and the original version is free to play online. Just choose the multiplayer mode. Call up your besties on your favorite video share app, and begin the battle.

33. Pandemic

Players: 2-4

The popular board game Pandemic has more variants than the COVID virus itself. The original Pandemic Legacy 0 Cold War era game is fraught with CIA and soviet spies, but you can also choose from European Hot Zone, Experimental Labs, and Contagion, among many many more! The game requires teamwork, as the object is to work together to conquer the worldwide epidemic. Pandemic is available online on several platforms and is adapted to video game consoles and smartphones.

A Few More Fun Board Games to Play With Friends

34. Say Anything

Players: 3-8

Say Anything is a hilarious game for a group of close friends. Grab a question card and choose a question to ask the group. Each player will write down their answer, trying to be as witty or heartfelt as possible. Player one secretly chooses their favorite, and then everyone else places their bets with tokens on which answer Player 1 chose. Gameplay lasts 12 rounds and usually takes around 35 minutes.

35. The Game of Things

Players: 4+

The Game of Things is a hilarious party game that gives you major insight into the warped thinking of your friends. Read a topic card and everyone writes down whatever response comes to mind. There are no right or wrong answers, you just pop off your first thought. All responses are read aloud and players try to guess who said what. As you can imagine, things get pretty crazy with this simple little game, and plenty of laughter usually ensues.

36. Chinese Checkers

Players: 2-6

Chinese Checkers is a classic, originating from Germany in the late 1800s. There are various ways to play the strategic marble game, but basically, the gist is to get all your marbles across the board and onto the opposing triangle by following the moving rules and blocking your opponent. It’s a quieter game for when you are feeling like a chill evening of conversation.

37. Codenames

Players: 2-8+

Codenames has a simple premise, but it can pose a real challenge! Two rival players take on the role of spymasters. They hold the identity to 25 hidden identities of other undercover agents. Teammates only know the agents by their codenames. The spymaster will give one-word clues to their teammates as they try to decipher the hidden identities and avoid the assassin.

38. Carcassonne

Players: 2-5

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of this class tile-laying game with a new and updated edition! Carcassonne is a strategic building game. Players compete to medieval fortresses while blocking others from completing their tasks. It’s a cunning game of creativity and sabotage that features a beautiful landscape and well-crafted tiles.

39. Trekking: The National Park Board Game

Players: 2-5

This ingenious game is a combination of exploration and trivia that outdoor lovers and travelers will fall in love with. The concept came from an adventurous couple who achieved their goal of visiting all the U.S. national parks. They then worked with their grown son to build a board game representing their challenge. It’s still a family-run business that gives part of all profits back to nonprofit organizations and environmental endeavors, so it is a game you can feel good about purchasing!

40. Poetry for Neanderthals

Players: 2+

Poetry for Neanderthals comes to you from the makers of Exploding Kittens and has a similar structure to Taboo. Because you are neanderthals, you may only use one-syllable words to get your point across. Give clues to your team to help them guess the phrase on your card, but keep it simple. For instance, if your word is television, you might say “big box you watch for fun.” This is an easy one, but many of the concepts are extremely complicated to explain with the simplest of terms. If you break the rules and bust out multiple syllables, the other team gets to whack you with a giant inflatable club, and you lose points.

Game Time!

Alright friends! That’s a wrap. We hope you found the perfect board game for you and your crew. Let us know in the comments which one you are going to try, or fill us in on a great game that we missed! We are always looking for new games to play with friends. Make sure to check out our Scavenger Hunt App for hundreds of in-home and city hunts all over the world. Our hunts include bar crawls, urban art walks, and customizable hunts for bachelorette trips or birthdays!

For more excellent party ideas, check out “25 Fantastic Party Games to Play With Friends.”

Need a good date night at home? Forget the phones. Turn off Netflix and bust out one of our recommendations from The Best Board Games for Couples Looking for Fun.

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Frequently Asked Questions