As nice as it is to spend a hot day laying down right in front of the AC, doing that all summer can become a bit…dull. So while the are still days are long and the sun is still shining, here are nine apps (all free to download, and most to free to use) that will inspire you to get out there and make the most of the last weeks of summer. Don’t come crying to us when it’s cold and you regret your summer choices
Meetup
Meetup is an app that can help you meet a few friends. It lists local events and groups, so you can find-like minded people through a meetup that already exists, or you can create your own. There’s a meetup for literally every interest and hobby you can think of (and some you couldn’t guessed.)
Bumble BFF
You can use Bumble to find dates, sure, but also to make friends. This is great if you’ve just moved to a new city, are hoping to find people who share hobbies with you that your current friends might not, or if you simply want to expand your network. So many people meet their romantic partners through an app—why not friends, too?
ClassPass
You might be looking to stay active this summer. If you’re bored with the pool or gym, you can take a class—or several different classes—with ClassPass. It’s a great way to try different types of exercise you may have been curious about in a relatively low-commitment way, meaning without having to get a monthly membership.
Yelp
Yelp is great for finding new restaurants and cafes, but also finding the points of interest nearest to you. It’s well-trafficked for good reason—it’s user-friendly with features to bookmark and make reservations. You can also bookmark things you’re interested in, which can be helpful if you find three bars you want to check out but want to save two for another day.
Facebook may be considered old school at this point, but it’s still a good way to find things to do. You can search for a group in your area for a desired activity—swing dancing in San Diego, for example—and find people who share your interests and will connect you to where you can go to do so. You can also just find one-night or weekly events at local museums, parks, etc.
Oh, Ranger! ParkFinder
Oh, Ranger! ParkFinder is an app that will help you find something in the outdoors to do based on category—climbing, hiking, camping, bicycling, etc. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy the sunshine and good weather.
SkyView Lite
You can use this and similar apps to identify what stars or planets you see in the sky. Simply point your phone camera at the sky and your app will tell you what you’re looking at.
5 Every Day
5 Every Day will give you five things to do—you guessed it—every day. This one is LA-specific, but it’s a helpful reminder that nearly all cities will have a unique way to find local events. A simple scroll through the App Store could help you find events and activities near you.
Groupon
My mom would be deeply disappointed if I didn’t mention her favorite appGroupon, which will give you ideas on things to do and places to visit for a discounted price.