As the saying goes, life moves pretty fast. Over the years, home addresses can change, hobbies start and stop, and friendships come and go. As a result, there may be times when you’re in a place to get up and try something new, or you want to see if other people in your community share your love for travel, hobbies or sports.

Fortunately, there’s a whole world of social groups, clubs and activities created especially for seniors. Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, share your hobbies, get active or just meet new people, your community is sure to have something interesting and fun for you to join. We’ll describe the different kinds of social clubs that may be in your area, activities that could be available (along with some local examples) and how having fun can be great for your overall health.

Where to find active senior social groups, clubs and programs

To start your search, look for senior centers, groups and programs that are in and around your community. A quick Google search of your city and “senior activities” can deliver dozens of options in seconds. For even more possibilities, pop any of the examples below into your Google search.

You can also get more information about senior activities at your local library or community center. Plus, it’s always a great idea to ask your family and friends for their suggestions on where to find senior-centered activities. They may have ideas and resources that you might not have thought of. Who knows, maybe they’ll even join in on the fun with you!

Community centers and programs

Community centers are often home to senior clubs and activities. For example, in the Twin Cities, the city of Plymouth has classes, programs, clubs and groups for seniors and active adults over the age of 55. School districts may also have classes for adults and seniors, like the ones offered at Wayzata public schools.

Costs can vary by activity: Clubs and casual gatherings are usually free or have a small fee, while classes and fitness activities can cost a little more. You can find all the details online or in the activity’s description. To see what’s available to you, search for your city and “senior center,” “senior activities” or “community center.”

Local and national senior clubs

Outside of those organized by your city or county, other clubs and organizations for seniors can also be found in your community. Some are national organizations that may have local groups, classes and activities, like AARP. AARP Minnesota has events, opportunities to volunteer and other fun things to do – many without an AARP membership.

For other suggestions on clubs, Meetup.com has a wide range of independent groups that regularly come together for all kinds of interests. Many groups are created especially for seniors – just search for your city, “seniors” and whatever interests you. You might find something right in your own neighborhood.

Gyms and fitness clubs

If you want to get fit with other seniors, your local gym or community center may already have a program for you. For example, the Woodbury YMCA features in-person and online activities made especially for seniors that are included with membership. To start, just do a Google search for your city and “senior fitness.”

If you have a Medicare plan, check to see if you have a fitness program like SilverSneakers that offers free membership to local gyms and fitness centers – many also have classes and groups created for seniors.

Women’s and men’s clubs

Senior social clubs are also great ways to get out and meet new people. For women, local chapters of clubs like the Red Hat Society provide regular events and meetups to have fun in the community. Local clubs for men may also be in your area – just search your city, “senior” and either “men” or “women” along with “social club” or “activity club.”

LGBTQ+ organizations

You can also meet up with others in the 50+ LGBTQ+ community for connections and fun. A perfect example is the Minneapolis/St. Paul chapter of Prime Timers – a social organization for senior gay and bisexual men. You can also find sports and activity groups in OutFront Minnesota’s online directory.

Support and retirement groups

If you’ve gone through a big life event like retirement or losing a loved one, support groups can connect you with others in your community. Organizations like the West Suburban Grief Coalition hold regular meetings with information and connections for those dealing with recent loss.

Many senior centers also have regular meeting groups for those dealing with recent life changes like retirement. By talking with those both new to retirement and experienced with the changes that it brings, you can come up with your own plan for the future. Just search for your city and “senior retirement support group.”

Online groups and social media

Social media also provides ways to connect with other seniors about almost any topic. Online interactions can also ramp up to meeting in person through regular events. Just search on your favorite social media site like Facebook or Nextdoor. If you’re not sure how to get started on social media, now is the perfect time to learn more about how to use technology to get online.

Fun senior group activities to search for

Now that you have a start on where to look, it’s time to think about what you want to do. As you’re searching for groups and activities, make a short list of your own interests – things that are fun for you or that you want to learn more about. Use that as your starting point for searches in your own community.

And don’t worry about having to be an expert. Activity groups often welcome people of all skill levels. And if you’re brand new, even better – there are many groups with members happy to include and teach newcomers.

Wellness activities and exercise – walking, running, dance and more

Whether it’s a leisurely walk, a brisk jog or a perky polka, exercising can be a lot easier (and more fun) with others. If you like walking or running, consider joining a walking club like the one offered by the Eden Prairie Senior Center. Looking to dance? Dance groups like the Midwest Polka Association can point you to local dance nights especially for seniors. If you’re more into aerobics, either in the gym or in water, your city’s community center or school district may offer senior-centered classes.

Travel, outdoor and RV groups – including sightseeing, camping and hiking

From visiting local outdoor spots to touristy day trips to excursions around the country, travel groups for seniors are out there for you to join in. Seniors in South Washington County have a regular lineup of organized trips and tours to choose from, ranging from one-day excursions to overnight mini-vacations with lodging. Most have associated costs to cover travel, activities and hotel stays.

Already have your own wheels for vacationing? Clubs like Good Sam can connect you with other seniors on the road with regular events and meetups. Or check out the many outdoor groups for seniors that focus on activities like hiking and camping – just search for your own city and “senior outdoor groups.”

Sports – pickleball, tennis, bowling, biking and more

If you’ve been playing sports since you were a kid or are interested in a way to get out more, your community has plenty of organized ways to play. For example, pickleball is perfect for players young and old, inexperienced to semi-pro. Cities around Minnesota have organized programs, like Maple Grove with its many opportunities to play, both indoors and out.

Other senior sports abound, from tennis to bowling to biking and more. If there’s something that interests you, search for it along with your city and “senior” – you’ll probably find something close by to join.

Card, chess and other board game groups

Do your favorite activities involve more mind than muscle? Card and board game groups are also great ways to be social. For example, senior card and game groups in Golden Valley include weekly meetups for dominos, cribbage, bridge and more for players new and experienced. There are numerous other chess and board game groups around the area – just search for your favorite game along with “seniors” and “local.”

Hobbies – including book clubs, singing, gardening, knitting, crocheting and crafts

Hobbies are also a great conversation and connection starter. Minnetonka’s community center currently hosts over 30 special interest groups for seniors covering book clubs, ham radio, gardening, storytelling, woodcarving and more. There are also online and in-person meetups for senior singers, crafters and more – just search for the activity that you’re interested in along with “local seniors club.”

Education – computer skills, cooking and more

If you want to learn something new, community education classes are also a great way to meet like-minded seniors while feeding your curiosity. Seniors in Eagan, Rosemount and Apple Valley can join adult continuing education courses on a wide range of subjects. And if you don’t see your favorite on offer, you can always create and teach your own course. For possibilities in your neighborhood, search for your city name and “community education.”

How being social and staying active can keep you healthy

Going out and doing things with others is more than fun – it’s also great for your physical, mental and emotional health. By keeping your body and mind active, you’re taking big strides in aging well.

Maintaining your physical health by staying fit

Staying physically active after 60 is important in keeping your energy up, your body strong and chronic illnesses like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes in check. Group exercises and playing sports with others are fun ways to get your recommended weekly 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity.

Brightening up your mental and emotional health with social connections

Connecting with others who share the same hobbies and interests as you can bring you better health in multiple ways. Regular positive social interactions can help fight depression, anxiety and loneliness, as well as bring you a more positive outlook and overall quality of life. Even better, it’s been found that social connection can also be good for your physical health, key to preventing conditions like heart disease and stroke.