10 Unforgettable Fun Things to Do With Friends When You’re Feeling Down

We all have those days when loneliness sets in, even when we’re around people. I’ve had those times too—when swiping through my phone feels hollow, and I crave real connection. The best part? There’s nothing more healing, energizing, and heartwarming than spending quality time with friends. Whether you’re down or just need to shake up routine, scheduling fun things to do with friends can totally turn your mood around.

Through the years, I’ve learned a few activities that not only lift my spirits but also strengthen my friendships. So if you’re looking for thrilling, side-splitting ways to reconnect with your squad, here are 10 unforgettable experiences you can try. Each one combines laughter, togetherness, and a touch of adventure. Let’s jump into the greatest fun spots to visit with friends, fun places to go with friends, and good stuff to do with friends—just when you need it most.

1. Organize a Potluck That Becomes a Mini Party

One of my absolute favorite methods of reconnecting with friends—particularly when we’re all too exhausted or penniless for a night out—is to have a warm potluck at home. The best part of a potluck is that you all bring something, and then you have this array of food you wouldn’t have otherwise attempted. I generally choose a theme (Italian night? Taco night?) and encourage my friends to be creative. We put some music on, light some candles, and after the evening’s over, my house feels cozier, my heart fuller, and my belly cheerfully stuffed. This little, collective effort always yields huge grins and closer bonds.

2. Organize an Impromptu Day Trip to a New Place

There’s no replacement for the rush of piling into a car with your crew and driving off to a new place—even if it’s just an hour or so away. One Saturday, we chose to go to a secluded lake outside of town that we’d never been to. We brought snacks, a Bluetooth speaker, and positive energy. The trip was filled with awful singing and giggling, and the day became one of our most unforgettable escapades. Whether it is a secret beach, a scenic hike, or a tiny quirky town, discovering new cool places to visit with friends can break the routine and fill your heart.

3. Begin a Hobby Club (Even If It’s Just Two of You)

I started a “creative Sundays” tradition with my closest friend where we’d get together once a week to attempt something different—painting, candle-making, or writing poetry. What I thought was a loose idea turned into one of the richest rituals of my life. Learning something new from a hobby together makes you both grow as individuals and as a team. And it gives you both something to anticipate. Whether it’s pottery, photography, or bird-watching, learning together breeds joy that’s shared.

4. Plan an Epic Game Night

At other times, there is nothing more required than a deck of cards or a quality board game to light up hours of entertainment. I arranged a game night a few weeks ago and was amazed at how rowdy and competitive all of the guests became over Uno and charades. Add in some snacks, a few beverages (or mocktails), and you have yourself a night to recall. If you don’t like old-school board games, there are plenty of digital games and apps for group fun as well. Game nights are great things to do with friends that don’t take much planning but bring maximum laughter.

5. Make a Home Spa Day DIY

If you’re stressed, exhausted, or just out of whack, treating yourself to a day with your friends can be so healing. I adore setting up a DIY spa station with face masks, cucumber water, calming music, and essential oils. We even paint our nails and trade shoulder massages sometimes. It’s affordable, simple, and the ultimate combination of self-love and friendship. And it feels like splurging without overspending.

6. Attend a Live Show or Local Event

One of the most exhilarating experiences I’ve had with friends was attending an outdoor jazz concert downtown. The vibe, the lights, the music—it was pure magic. Whether it’s a comedy show, a street festival, a local band playing at a small bar, or an open mic night, there’s always something happening nearby. Looking for places to have fun with friends in your city can sometimes uncover hidden gems. These experiences not only provide a great topic of conversation, but they also create memories that will last a lifetime.

7. Binge Watch an Episode or Have a Movie Marathon

There’s something strangely comforting about lounging in a heap of blankets with a handful of popcorn and watching consecutive movies or episodes with friends. I once had a Harry Potter marathon that became an overnight slumber party with themed treats and costumes. (Yes, I wore a Gryffindor robe the entire time.) Whether you enjoy horror, rom-coms, or documentaries, choose a theme and transform your living room into a mini theater. It’s low-maintenance but so gratifying, especially on a rainy or lazy weekend.

8. Take a Class Together Just for Fun

Feeling adventurous? Take a class with a friend. I went through a sushi-making class with two of my closest friends, and not only did we giggle our way through most of it, but we learned something too. From dance lessons to pottery, yoga to photography, learning together creates rich, shared experiences. And these are amazing activities to do with friends that help you connect beyond small talk.

9. Volunteer for Something You All Care About

Volunteering isn’t merely about giving back—it’s about feeling complete together. I volunteered with my friends at a weekend animal shelter event last year. Getting to play with the puppies, sorting out the food, and just being a general help made us all feel so positive. Select a cause that your group feels passionate about—be it children’s education, community clean-ups, or the environment. Taking part in something meaningful as a group can redefine what fun is and put you closer together than ever.

10. Host a Surprise Appreciation Party

This is more intimate. I organized a surprise appreciation night for a friend who was in a tough place. I asked close friends to come, prepared a slideshow of memories, and we each had one reason we loved them that we shared with the group. It wasn’t a party—just a memory of connection, belonging, and care. And to be real, it benefited all of us. To celebrate one another does not require a grand occasion; sometimes a small action becomes a gigantic one.

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Final Thoughts

The fact is, we all feel isolated at times. But I’ve learned that the way out of that emotional trough is to reach out, laugh a bit louder, and share new experiences with people who are important to us. These cool things to do with friends aren’t diversions—they’re connections back to happiness, belonging, and love.

So the next time you’re feeling down or just need some good company, give one of these ideas a try. Whether it’s having a potluck, learning about cool places to go with friends, or just finding new things to do with friends, the happiness you’re looking for is closer than you know—usually just a shared laugh away.