There’s a loneliness epidemic, with too much time spent on social media or Zoom. To get yourself back out there again, find places nearby to meet new people face to face.

We live in a world that’s increasingly socially isolated. With apps that instantly connect us to hundreds of friends via our fingertips and work-at-home jobs that have taken brainstorming meetings to our bedrooms, many of us are foregoing in-person connections.

As a result, we are lonely and long for interaction. If you can relate, it’s time to revamp your social scene. To help you take the first step and get out of your comfort zone, check out any of these interactive places and spaces where you can make a new friend.

1. Sports group:

Whether you like to run, play softball or engage in the latest pickleball craze, intramural sports for adults offer a great way to socialize. Not only will you meet people who enjoy the same type of physical activity you do, but you’ll also get a little exercise and spend time outdoors in nature.

2. Volunteering:

Volunteer a few hours of your time each week or month at a food bank, library or local nonprofit whose mission has meaning to you. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow volunteers with similar values and give back to your community at the same time. A double win-win.

3. Dog park:

Dog parks are a hub for dog lovers, some of whom are looking for doggie play dates and maybe even human dates! If your dog isn’t a park fan, walking him or her in public can be a great way to break the ice with other dog owners, as well as with people who want to meet your dog and hopefully, you, too.

4. Classes:

Whether you’re a current college student or just want to take a class on a topic that interests you, such as cooking, auto maintenance or photography, in-person classes are a great way to meet people with similar interests and goals.

5. Farmer’s market:

Many local communities host weekend farmer’s markets, where you can browse the cut flowers, fresh fruits and artisan stands. The free-flowing, casual shopping environment offers the perfect opportunity to mingle with others who are spending their Saturday morning the exact same way.

6. Walking trail:

If you exercise on a local walking path or trail, chances are that you regularly see the same people and may even exchange a smile or wave. Next time you run into a familiar face, take it a step further and strike up a conversation. You may find yourself pairing up with a new walking or jogging buddy and emerge with a real friendship.

7. Open mic nights:

Whether it’s for music, comedy or both, open mic nights provide a friendly, supportive stage to budding performers and a receptive audience. What a fun experience to open yourself up to meeting someone new!

8. Your favorite restaurant or coffee shop:

As humans, one of the most popular ways we connect is over food and drinks. At a restaurant or coffee shop that you love, you’ll find others who cherish the same spot. You’ll have an instant foodie connection and potentially build a relationship.

No matter where you are, the best way to meet people is to open yourself up to the possibility of companionship and friendship.

Look around, smile, make eye contact and welcome the “small talk” that may lead to something bigger.

If there’s one thing this increasingly digital world has taught us, it’s that there is no substitute for face-to-face interactions and emotional connections.