I'm the owner + photographer at Anne Casey Photography — serving Maryland & Pennsylvania

Fun Ways to Catch Up with Friends Without Coffee or Cocktails

I can’t tell you how much I love living in Baltimore. Between the culture, restaurant scene, and tons of destination spots only a short drive away, you can always find fun and new things to get into with your tribe.

Then again, it’s so easy to get into the habit of heading for the closest coffee shop to kill two birds with one stone – catching up with friends AND getting your daily dose of caffeine. And it feels so comfortable meeting at the local dive for happy hour week after week with your closest gal pals.

It’s so important to make yourself try something different every now and then to have some new experiences and take advantage of all Baltimore has to offer! Here are some fun things you can do with your nearest and dearest without coffee or cocktails! 

1. Sign up for a cooking class 

One of the best ways to get to know someone new or catch up quickly with one of your besties is to cook with them! Take a cooking class with your friends for a fun new experience where you can take some new skills with you. Baltimore Chef Shop in Hampden has any cooking class you could think of and it’s in one of Baltimore’s most artsy and cool little neighborhoods! 

2. Have a Paint Nite! 

Paint Nites are great for mixing up the average happy hour cocktail date and you can take a cool piece of art home with you. Paint Nites are held all over the place and happen any night of the week so it’s a super convenient way to spice up a friend date. 

3. Explore a museum

I know I don’t think to go to an art museum every week, but when I go, I am always super happy I did! Aside from making you feel super sophisticated, visiting a museum helps you get to know your city and shakes things up in your social life. Between the Baltimore Museum of Art and Baltimore Museum of Industry, you can find the coolest places to explore in the city! 

4. Get out on the water! 

One of the best things about Maryland is that there are mountains, cities, beaches, and quaint little waterside towns for a quick weekend or day getaway. Take a day trip to the beach or go kayaking on the Susquehanna. 

5. Go hiking at a state park 

There are a lot of great parks and hiking trails in Maryland, and, if you’re me, going out for a nature hike can also double as a fun photo op with friends! I love exploring new places and taking photos with friends, and it’s a healthy and fun option for catching up with my besties! 

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