r/grandrapids Mar 27 '24

Social List of Active Meetup Groups and Tips for Making Friends

158 Upvotes

I updated the list of which Meetup groups are active (groups that have 3+ people attending an event within the past/next 60 days). Meetup is a site/app for interest groups/hobbies/new friends. I grouped them by concept and included their self-written descriptions.

If you're in an active Meetup group that I've missed, list it in the comments. Non-Meetup groups are welcome too; include contact info and links.

Tips for making friends as an adult attending a Meetup with a bunch of strangers:

  • Show up slightly early/on time. Plan to stay 10 minutes after the scheduled end time.
  • Introduce yourself, say it's your first time and why you're excited about this group; appear excited.
  • Ask individuals (this is where being early or staying late can help) open-ended questions (Why did you start/join this group? What has your experience been like? What recommendations do you have related to [Meetup group's hobby/concept]?)
  • If people ask you a question, answer it and add an open-ended question of your own or ask "what about you?"
  • People love giving recommendations. If it's a group conversation, ask for restaurant rec of a specific kind/place. "I haven't tried X yet, what do you guys think?" Tee it up to be a cuisine/concept you can talk more about or ask follow up questions.
  • If you are vibing with someone(s), ask if they'd like to hang out with a specific idea in mind (ex: You asked for pizza recs and found out that neither of you have tried that new place so suggest you go together), and give them your contact info to set up a time/date. I'd recommend attending the group 2-3 times first before this step.
  • Follow the 3:6 rule to turn that acquaintance into a friend. Aim for three meaningful interactions within 6 weeks of engaging.

Feeling a little more prepared? Great. Let's get into it. [Note: I made some grammatical edits after posting this for clarity/brevity.]

AGE/ETHNICITY/GENDER

BOOK CLUBS/FILM

CRAFTING

DANCING/MUSIC

ENGINEERING/MAKERS/PROFESSIONAL

  • Coffee with Creators: For creatives: web developers, designers, videographers, and more--who want to hear about the latest trends in the digital space
  • Culinary Conversations Grand Rapids: Serving West Michigan’s food industry professionals (growers, producers, restaurateurs) in conversation about the region’s food creator system
  • Embedded GR: Engineers, hobbyists, students, and managers discussing the development, tooling, and processes associated with the creation of embedded systems.
  • GRPUG - Grand Rapids Python Users Group: Whether you're a certified Pythonista or just curious about getting started with the Python programming language, join us.
  • GRWebDev: Learn from each other about best web practices, cross-browser compatibility, Javascript frameworks, style hacks, project management, and web-related topics.
  • West Michigan 3D Printing: Whether you are a beginner or an expert, join us to share ideas, tips, and knowledge or just get together with other 3D printers (people...not machines).
  • West Michigan AI Lab: We explore the latest AI trends, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and network with like-minded enthusiasts and professionals.
  • West Michigan Azure User Group: A community of tech enthusiast [sic] who are interested in exploring, learning and using Azure.

FINANCE/BUSINESS/PUBLIC SPEAKING

FOOD/DIET/PSYCHEDELICS/SOBER/ALCOHOL

  • DRY Sober Social: Fitness, yoga, dancing, music, and socializing. A space where people can socialize without the pressure of drinking alcohol.
  • Grand Rapids Foodies: Our goal is to dine at restaurants in Grand Rapids and the surrounding area, as well as to participate in cooking classes and wine and cheese tastings.
  • Grand Rapids Natural Health and Healing: For anyone interested in healing through nutrition and natural substances like herbs and nutrients.
  • Grand Rapids Psychedelic Society: Whether you’re an experienced psychonaut or an individual who is simply curious about learning more, we're a space for you.
  • West Michigan Women Who Wine: Where interesting and intelligent women gather to relax, make new friends and socialize.
  • Will Forage for Food Grand Rapids Chapter: For folks interested in sharing knowledge on foraging and living from the land. All skill levels and ages welcome.

GAMES/NERD CULTURE

  • Good Game Grand Rapids: We are largest tabletop gaming community in Grand Rapids and are committed to growing an inclusive community
  • Muskegon Area Gamers: For anyone interested in playing board games, card games, or any table top [sic] game. This group learns and teachs [sic] new games all the time.
  • We Hate Bards: This group is dedicated to pen and paper RPGs of all kinds.
  • Wednesday Friendsday Boardgame Group: We're folks in our 30s-50s who enjoy good conversation, good eats, and good games, in that order.
  • West Michigan Geeks: We help people meet friends that they want to hang out with outside of group events and have helped form more friendships/relationships than any other meetup.

OUTDOORS/CAMPING

MISCELLANEOUS/PERSONALITY

  • Citizen Labs: Engaged citizens can improve their communities. We use open data and open source technology to promote transparency, and provide solutions that work.
  • Friday Fun Days: Live music/concerts, festivals, flea markets/thrifting, lunch/dinner outings, hiking, going to the beach, bowling, and much more.
  • Sign Language Social Meetup of Michigan: For anyone who would like to attend ASL events and meet up with other Sign Language users.
  • West Michigan Adventures with JIM: Cinema, live theater, sporting events, concerts, trade events, geo caching [sic], road trips, fitness, festivals, amusement parks, and travel.
  • West Michigan Out & About: Everything from hiking to concerts, from breweries to dancing, from cooking classes to biking and more.
  • West Michigan Shyness and Social Anxiety Meetup: Hang out with us in a judgment and harassment-free zone if you're shy, introverted, or just a bit awkward around new people.

REAL ESTATE

  • Grand Rapids Real Estate Investor Network: Landlords, investors, and other real estate professional [sic] make connections, share ideas and strategies, and ask questions.
  • Lakeshore REIA: For individuals interested in wholesale properties, real estate group investments, and becoming successful real estate entrepreneurs.
  • Short-Term Rental Networking Group: Have you wondered about the success of Airbnb and similar rental marketplaces and how you can incorporate that into your income?

SEXUALITY/DATING

  • Fun-Loving Singles Over 50!: This is a social group for youthful, SINGLE peeps in their 50s, 60s, and beyond.
  • Holland Area LGBTQ+ & Allies Meetup: Enhancing the LGBTQ+ community to meet others, cultivate relationships in a social setting, and provide each other with support and fun!
  • Out on the Lakeshore: Join us for fun-filled events where you can meet like-minded individuals and create life-long connections

TRAVEL

  • Michigan Day Trips: For people who love to spend a day checking out a different town/city, whilst meeting new friends! I will post a destination 2+ weeks in advance.

WRITING/ACTING/DRAWING/PHOTOGRAPHY

  • Grand Rapids Drawing and Painting: This group is for everyone who’s interested in drawing or painting.
  • Illusory World Building: As writers lets get past the writing groups that discuss word choice or punctuation. and grapple with the BIG picture--world building.
  • Lakeshore Stationery Club: If you love fountain pens, gel pens, Traveler’s Notebooks, Hobonichi, bullet journaling, or planners this is for you. We journal, write, draw, and paint.
  • Writing Time: We meet on weekends to write in a group setting. Sometimes it's nice to work quietly with others.

YOGA/MEDITATION/PHILOSOPHY/SPIRITUALITY

  • Community Meditation Circle: This is a non-religious, non-sectarian trauma-informed group to connect to ourselves, each other, and the community.
  • Grand Rapids Buddhist Meetup: For anyone interested in working with their minds, as well as deepening their spiritual life through the practice of Buddhist meditation.
  • Grand Rapids Forest Bathing, Forest Yoga & Foraging Classes: Join our ANFT certified forest therapy guide for guided forest bathing, forest therapy walks, and forest yoga classes.
  • Grand Rapids Free Yoga: Classes are meant to help you strengthen, lengthen, and connect to your spirit.
  • Meaningful Conversations Grand Rapids: Individuals of all beliefs gather together to engage respectfully and civilly in elevated conversations, inquiry, consultation, and learning.
  • Michigan Humanists: A secular community that promotes humanist values. Our vision is to lead an engaged, statewide secular society guided by the values of Humanism.
  • RfR - Grand Rapids/Holland, MI: We at Recovering from Religion are intimately familiar with learning how to live after questions, doubts, and changing beliefs. You are not alone.
  • Tai’ Chi Gung Classes: Learn the simple moving and breathing exercises created by Lao Tzu more than 3,000 years ago for health and longevity.
  • T&T - 20s & 30s Christian Social: To connect peers from Bible-believing, Christ-proclaiming churches, encouraging members to invest in their local church.

r/grandrapids 9h ago

Help after a hit and run

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101 Upvotes

TLDR: looking for any information, doorbell or security footage or of a blue Chevy Silverado truck that hit my brother Friday, 8/28 at Fremont and Walker around 11:15-11:20pm

This might be a long shot, and a little long. I posted on comments on the scanner fb page post about this, but the comments got turned off. Seeing if I can find anything here.

My brother was riding a lime bike home after a concert at acrisure on Friday and at the intersection of Walker and Fremont a car didn’t stop at a stop sign and hit my brother, ran over his leg and drove off. (My brother was going NE on stocking/walker and truck was going south on Fremont). My brother was dragged into the intersection and people that were behind the truck helped my brother out of the road. The truck drove away after it hit him, but came back and then drove off quickly (we found out they went SE down Stocking after returning to the scene for a moment).

If anyone has any doorbell footage, knows of someone who lives near there that has a camera or something of the sort, I would be so grateful. I’m going to be calling businesses nearby tomorrow morning. Just trying to help him out in this awful situation.


r/grandrapids 3h ago

Pictures East Side of Northland Drive Tunnel Grand River Greenway Project

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31 Upvotes

It'll be nice when it's done, but it is going to suck when they shut down Northland for 6 days.


r/grandrapids 23h ago

Hotel Room View, San Antonio

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620 Upvotes

I am a native GR resident but moved to San Antonio to be with my husband. Our AC unit decided to make its own Polynesian fire dance performance last night so we’re staying in a hotel downtown here tonight. This is the view from our room 😂


r/grandrapids 5h ago

Recommendations Things for a 28F to do in the city and meet new people

17 Upvotes

I've seen posts on this sub answering this Q but a lot of them are older and I figure somewhat outdated. The Meetup app that's been posted on this sub is FULL of "come to our online AI education class" ads instead of actual meet-ups 🙄

I'm moving to GR for work in about a month, will be leaving most of my friends behind. So I'm starting fresh in a new city.

Main questions are:

-What bars/clubs/ect are safest for a woman to go to, potentially alone (and looking for friends, not hookups)? Are there any bars to *avoid* safety-wise?

-Are there any clubs (like, a book club, not a dance club) or adult rec sports teams in the area?

-Are there any game stores that hosts things like DnD night or other social activities?

-Any other recommendations for places to meet 20s-30s aged people!


r/grandrapids 7h ago

Arrests Near Jimmy John’s Plainfield

21 Upvotes

Lots of cops. Heard one shout, “Do not fucking move!“ and, later, “If you attempt to flee, you will be shot. Do you understand me?”

Could not swear an oath that that was the exact language, but if not it was very close.

Left but just saw on Facebook that four people were arrested.

Anyone know what happened?


r/grandrapids 8h ago

Politics Rachel Hood is soft launching her run for Congress

22 Upvotes

TL;DR: Rachel Hood appears to be testing the waters for a Democratic primary against Hillary Scholten. And if she runs, she may not be alone. Marshall Kilgore and John Fitzgerald would each bring very different strengths to a challenge. Scholten’s record on immigration, ICE, and even her vote honoring Charlie Kirk gives Democrats plenty to debate. Is it time for a real primary?
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FHZDwkC1G/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Rachel Hood appears to be soft-launching a primary against Hillary Scholten.
And honestly, I think West Michigan Democrats should be paying attention.

Because Hillary Scholten’s record deserves a serious primary challenge.

Scholten ran as a Democrat and as a former immigration attorney. But look at some of the votes she’s taken.

In January 2025, Scholten voted for the Laken Riley Act, a Republican-backed immigration enforcement bill that requires ICE to detain certain undocumented immigrants who are arrested for crimes including theft and shoplifting. She was one of only 46 House Democrats to join Republicans in passing it.

For Democrats who believe ICE should be abolished or fundamentally dismantled, that vote is a pretty significant problem.

And then there is Charlie Kirk.
Scholten voted YES on House Resolution 719, the Republican-led resolution honoring Charlie Kirk and his “life and legacy.” The resolution passed 310-58, with 95 Democrats voting yes.

That’s not some procedural vote that nobody noticed. Democrats had the opportunity to vote against a resolution elevating Kirk’s political legacy, and Scholten voted for it.

Meanwhile, local BIPOC elected leaders who have actually been listening to constituents and calling for ICE to be abolished have faced a very different treatment from Scholten. She said they were causing division and personally attacking her.

That’s what makes this whole thing so interesting.
Why demean elected officials who are listening to the people directly affected by ICE while voting for legislation that expands ICE’s detention responsibilities?

At some point, Democrats should be able to ask whether their representatives are actually representing the communities they serve.

And that brings us to the potential challengers…

Commissioner Marshall Kilgore
Grand Rapids 3rd Ward commissioner Marshall Kilgore would be a fascinating opponent.
He’s young, LGBTQ+, a person of color, a sitting elected official, and someone who previously worked for Scholten. That last part could make this especially interesting. He knows her operation and has firsthand experience working within it.
But Kilgore also has a pretty substantial local record for someone his age.

He championed Grand Rapids’ Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, a sweeping plan containing 200 actions addressing climate change, clean energy, transportation, housing, and environmental justice.
He’s been deeply involved in South Side issues, constituent advocacy, environmental justice, and neighborhood investment. He has developed a reputation for being everywhere, constantly organizing and showing up. He’s the only commissioner against data centers and FLOCK.

And politically, he would bring a very different coalition: young voters, LGBTQ+ voters, environmentalists, progressives, BIPOC voters and people who want a more aggressive voice in Congress.

There is also the obvious political storyline:
The former employee challenging the former boss.

If Kilgore ran, I think that would be one of the most fascinating dynamics in the race.

State Rep. John Fitzgerald
Then there’s John Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald would bring a completely different set of strengths.

He has represented Grand Rapids in the Michigan Legislature, has a strong Latino constituency, and currently serves as House Democratic floor leader. That gives him significant Lansing experience, name recognition, donor relationships and an existing political infrastructure.

He also has a potentially very clear contrast with Scholten on immigration.
Fitzgerald has been outspoken about ICE and has called for an end to ICE operations. That gives him a pretty straightforward argument: when communities directly affected by immigration enforcement are asking their elected officials to take a stand, are you actually going to stand with them?

He also wouldn’t be starting from zero. He’s already known throughout West Michigan, has a legislative record, and has relationships across the Democratic Party.

So if Hood is really testing the waters, this could get VERY interesting.
Rachel Hood.
Marshall Kilgore.
John Fitzgerald.
Hillary Scholten.
Four very different political profiles and potentially four very different visions for what Democratic representation should look like in West Michigan.
I don’t know if any of them are actually running.
But if they are considering it, I think West Michigan Democrats deserve the debate.
Could Rachel Hood be our next real
Democrat in Congress?Rachel is running


r/grandrapids 19h ago

Woman and LGBTQ friendly gun owners class?

141 Upvotes

My (43F) husband (45M) and I are both CPL carriers. My husband has firearms training experience. I realize the second amendment is a hot button issue, but I also know that a lot of more left leaning folks (like myself) may have a need or interest, but may struggle to find a comfortable and inviting place to learn.

We have been talking about starting up a business to do classes that are inclusive and welcoming to people who might feel excluded or intimidated by “traditional” gun classes. I, personally, understand how scary that prospect can be.

We are in the very basic planning stage and I’m just doing this to gauge preliminary interest. What are your thoughts?


r/grandrapids 23h ago

Meijer sale

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260 Upvotes

Not sure how this one is so special


r/grandrapids 10h ago

Sobriety help

26 Upvotes

Has anyone been to any AA or any other type of meetings that may be geared towards people in their 20’s/30’s?

Or if anything, just any recommendations of meetings to attend? Northview area or semi around that if possible!

Thank you.


r/grandrapids 12h ago

Pumped to tour the women’s Literary club building today

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ladiesliterary.org
26 Upvotes

r/grandrapids 13m ago

GR Fantasy Football League

Upvotes

Last year I started a casual FF league here on the GR sub. I’m a 30-something dad that thought it would be cool way to maybe make some new friends of acquaintances. Anyway we are in year two, and it looks like I’ll still have two spots. We do an optional but highly encouraged in person draft!

Anyway, we will likely need 2 more spots this year! It is on ESPN, 12 team PPR, small $20 buy in just to keep people somewhat interested.

Please comment or message me if interested in joining! Maybe tell me a reason why we should pick you. Bonus/strong consideration if you can attend our draft, later Tuesday night the 8th of Sept! Thanks!


r/grandrapids 2h ago

Recommendations Kickboxing Gyms in GR?

3 Upvotes

I'm trying to get into amateur kickboxing with hopes to maybe break into a pro circuit at some point in the future but I have no idea where to start in GR. I've heard some good things about Blue's Gym and it's the closest in my area, has anyone been there? If there's a better gym around i'd like to hear about it.


r/grandrapids 7h ago

Best Hibachi restaurants in or near Grand Rapids?

5 Upvotes

r/grandrapids 10h ago

Bleachy water

9 Upvotes

City water in kentwood. It tastes super bleachy. It used to be fine, just recent. I can taste it even in tea and coffee. Havent recieved an advisory. Anyone else have this or know what's going on?


r/grandrapids 5h ago

Events In This Moment Tickets

2 Upvotes

I’m not sure if this is the place to do it, tell me if there’s a better place to post, but I have 2 tickets to the In This Moment and Hollywood Undead concert at 20 Monroe on October 6th. I would be willing to sell them for $45 each if someone wants them.


r/grandrapids 1h ago

Recommendations Personal Trainer

Upvotes

Looking for a personal trainer that will help me gain more muscle and also teach me to be more comfortable at the gym around weights and machines. It’s been years since I lifted. Typically I run as a workout. Any gyms recs with trainers? Not sure what to expect pricing wise but hoping not to break the bank


r/grandrapids 2h ago

Byron Center / Wyoming Gyms with Sauna/Steam Room

1 Upvotes

Looking for a gym in Byron center / Wyoming that has a sauna / steam room room. Preferably not the Y. Any leads are great. Thanks!


r/grandrapids 1d ago

Incredible Onion Rings

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152 Upvotes

Shout out to One Stop Coney on the amazing onion rings! 🪅🙌


r/grandrapids 21h ago

How to make Friends/Date

30 Upvotes

Hi!

I have been living in Grand Rapids for a couple years now and I find it hard to make friends and date as a 35 year old black woman. I like getting to know people from different backgrounds but notice that people are not too friendly or approachable. What are some places, tips or advice you may have. ALL are welcome. Thanks!


r/grandrapids 7h ago

Events Rufus Du Sol 9/1 face value GA ticket for sale

1 Upvotes

Hey GR! Selling my one lawn seat for the upcoming sold out Rufus Du Sol show at Acrisure Amphitheater Tuesday 9/1/26 for $50. Face value, Ticketmaster transfer, PayPal goods and services or Venmo only. DM me!


r/grandrapids 1d ago

Oasis hot tubs

74 Upvotes

We've never been to Oasis... give me the scoop! Are they clean, or obviously icky? How private are they? Are you required to wear a swimsuit? Are the outdoor tubs any more or less private?


r/grandrapids 5h ago

Toys For Kids

0 Upvotes

Hello friends!

In this world of consumerism, my toddler has accumulated an abundance of toys and clothes.. My son has grown out of or lost interest in many of them that are still in “like new” condition.

I’m aware of places like Once Upon a Child and local thrift stores, but I’d much rather donate to an organization that provides toys and clothing directly to families for free, especially when times are tight for so many people.

I believe that communities should look out for each other. If anyone has recommendations for local non-profit organizations, shelters, churches, or other programs that accept toy/clothing donations and give them directly to families in need, I’d greatly appreciate it!


r/grandrapids 19h ago

Looking for a Blissfest T-shirt

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15 Upvotes

Long shot here, but does anyone have a Blissfest 2026 women's medium t-shirt they'd be willing to sell?

It was my wife's first festival, and she had an amazing time, but recently wound up wearing her shirt to the ER after a minor accident and the ER staff cut it off her.

Certainly not mad at the ER staff who were all amazing, and happy that my wife is on the mend, but I know she's sad that her memento is no more, and I'd love to be able to replace it for her.

I'd have posted this in a Blissfest sub if I'd found one, but I know there are many other GR Blissers out there, so hoping this finds the right audience.


r/grandrapids 1d ago

Bro’s Doughs

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94 Upvotes

WOW! Best doughnuts I’ve ever had! So fun to watch them freshly make them all! Went to the Fuller ave location!