5 Fun Hangout Ideas

Go to Paint Nite

Held in more than 1,500 cities worldwide, Paint Nite brings individuals and groups together for two hours of painting, drinking, and bonding with fellow amateur artists. Approachable hosts keep the intimidation factor nonexistent as they guide you in re-creating original works by Paint Nite artists, some influenced by famous painters such as Andy Warhol and Georgia O'Keefe. And even if you do find yourself unsure of the next step, you can always have another drink while you figure it out.

Enroll in Wine School

Do you know your Malbecs from your Chiantis? Your Pinot Grigios from your Chardonnays? Learn the basics and then some at wine school (we're partial to Chelsea Wine Vault in NYC and The Chopping Block in Chicago) and never end up with a terrible bottle at your birthday dinner again.

Take Jewelry Making

If your jewelry-making skills peaked at summer camp with friendship bracelets, opportunities abound for you and your friends to pick up where you left off. South Floridians flock to Miami's Jewelry Creations Workshop, while NYC's Ayaka Nishi Design School has garnered a cult following.

Brush Up On Your Cooking Skills

Homemade pasta, anyone? For those looking to try something different than a typical restaurant outing but also consider a full meal essential to socializing, a cooking class at a local culinary school should fit the bill. The highlight will obviously come at the end when you get to eat whatever you learned how to whip up.

Get Your Dance On

There are few things more fun and liberating than dancing your heart out, especially when you're in a studio with your friends as opposed to a packed, sweaty dance floor. We encourage you to leave your bodycons at home and take advantage of the opportunity to pretend you're Ciara. L.A.'s Edge Performing Arts Center and Banana Skirt Productions in NYC both get our stamp of approval