For some, moving to a new city can feel isolating. For others, being in the same place can feel daunting and a need for switching up the usual routine is neccessary. In both cases, knowing the right places to go is really important. Keep reading to learn of seven spaces designed to help you build new connections.
Blk Prnt CLT
Living in big city, for some women, can feel like navigating a never ending maze of new faces. Blk Prnt CLT is a social group described as a “safe space for black women”. According to their website, the purpose of the group is for Black women to elevate. On both personal and professional levels, group members connect through networking and building friendships. Women of all ages are encouraged to attend their events. Twice a month, the Blk Prnt CLT team coordinates events from hiking to luxury picnics, in attempt to facilitate connection and have fun.
The Artisan’s Palate
Located in NoDa, The Artisan’s Palate is a dream for the city newcomer. A restaurant, cocktail bar, and art gallery all in one, The Artisan makes for an experience that entices all the senses. Local artists are featured monthly in the gallery. Both food and drink menus are crafted around the month’s art feature. The owner and chef collaborates with local farmers to bring the specialty menus to life. With live music on the weekends and brunch on Sundays, The Artisan’s Palate is the place to share a drink and a two step with anyone. From the food to the to the furniture, the team takes pride in connecting with local artisans, musicians, and craftsmen to provide an ethical and sustainable presentation that makes the place unique.
1218 E. 36th Street Suite A, Charlotte, NC 28205
Middle C Jazz
Music has a way of bringing people together and Middle C Jazz is the backdrop to do it. For an evening of dancing, great acoustics, and a true “grown and sexy” vibe, Middle C Jazz is a local staple! The live band takes renditions to the next level, serenading the audience with covers of old school and modern jazz. The food and drinks are worth returning for and each cocktail pays homage to jazz clubs around the world. Be sure to attend when there’s a spotlight artist headlining. This is guaranteed way to experience some of the best in music from R&B, gospel, and soul.
300 S. Brevard Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
1501 South Mint
If you’ve been looking for a place with good drinks any day of the week, look no further than 1501 South Mint. The cocktail lounge is located within walking distance of the Bank of America Stadium and the Truist Field if you want to go easy on your pockets before a game. They also have weekly events with $2 Tuesdays for Hookah, Food Truck Fridays, and of course, Sunday Football. They also offer Sunday brunch! From curry shrimp and grits to French toast and jerk chicken, this bar is sure to bring a different flavor than the average brunch menu. 1501 is a membership-only space, so prepare for a one time fee of $10 for initial entry. With plenty of seating inside and outdoors, this is a hot spot for meeting new people.
1501 S. Mint Street, Charlotte, NC 28203
Mad Miles Run Club
This may seem like a long shot from where we started, but hear me out. Personal interests and lifestyle can go a long way in guiding a person to the best tribe and despite the stigma, exercise is a good avenue to explore for meeting new people. Mad Miles Run Club was created to provide a safe space for runners, at any skill level, to come together and “crush” their goals. Every Tuesday and Saturday the club meets for weekly runs and maintains accountability by recording progress. Though this is a fairly unique approach to initiate a bond, this out-of-the-box experience could possibly lead to a lifelong running mate.
Roxbury Nightclub
You might be imagining the infamous “What is Love”’ head bang from “A Night at the Roxbury” because of the name, but this is different. Located in the heart of Uptown, Roxbury Nightclub turns back the hands of time with an 80 and 90’s themed dance club. Exclusively open on the weekends until 2 a.m., the club is the designated space for nostalgia. In addition to drink specials, classic jams, and an amazing skyline view, Roxbury Nightclub provides the familiar setting of a club scene with a vintage twist. This club was made for dancing so while you’re out dance floor, enjoying your favorite throwback, keep an eye out. Your forever dance partner or new crew might on the floor nearby.
116 W. 5th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
Livin’ Charlotte
For those who’ve grown accustomed to the convenience of the online world before entering the real one, Livin’ Charlotte is the place that lives as a one-stop-shop for what’s happening, where to go, and what to do in the Queen City. And it’s “for the culture”-approved.
Recommendations for things to do, events to attend, and the food and beverage scene, Livin’ Charlotte has the pulse on the city’s social life, connecting you to the people and places you desire. We even include the occasional day trip. Yes, our focus is Charlotte, but local getaways can be an ideal escape for residents and new playing field for newcomers.
However you choose to venture into the process of meeting new people, remember you are the main attraction. The locations and group settings are only a bridge to the impressions you’ll make. All there is to do now is be brave and get on out there!
