64 Best Places to Meet Men & Ways to Find Your Perfect Attractive, Eligible Guy

All the good guys aren’t taken. Maybe you’re just looking in the wrong places. If so, here are the best places to meet men and meet someone amazing beyond online dating! 

The dating world is no longer simple, and it’s harder than ever to meet a single man with similar interests and values. Nowadays, you can spend all your time swiping left on men who aren’t even slightly compatible with you. That’s why you need to know the best places to meet men.

There are always guys around, but it’s difficult to find an eligible man, one that you could genuinely see yourself with in the future. Now the debate is still out whether there are just fewer of these men available in general or if they are just harder to track down.

But, if you’re single and interested in dating and ultimately finding someone who could be your potential partner, but you are not content to settle and wait for a good man to sweep you off your feet, you need to proactively take the first step and learn how to meet someone who has real dating potential. [Read: Ways to get even the shyest guy to approach you]

The better way to meet single men: online or in person? 

There is no easy way to answer this because either way has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Advantages and disadvantages of both

1. Chemistry 

If you meet in person, you can tell right away if you have physical chemistry, if your personalities match up, and if he’s the type of man that you’re looking for. However, you don’t know anything about them, and you can’t talk to them at all before you meet them. So, you can’t weed anyone out or “screen them.”

If you meet online, you might think you have chemistry with them before you meet, but it could be completely different in person.

Single people can be very different when hiding behind a phone or laptop. Plus, they might not look anything like their photos when you swiped right. [Read: 15 intense signs of chemistry that reveal an instant connection]

2. Natural vs. unnatural

Before the internet and the explosion of technology, those who were single and looking didn’t even have the option of meeting online. It just wasn’t invented yet.

So, they had to meet people naturally by running into them in real life or being set up by family or friends. That’s a better option for some people, but not all.

Some people prefer to have control over meeting their potential dates in an unnatural, more technologically controlled way. That way, they can search for people they like and not rely on fate to bring them together like they would the natural way.

3. Common interests

If you meet someone in person because you happen to be in the same group or the same place based on similar interests, then that’s great.

For example, if you are both in a hiking group or at the same concert, you already know that you share something in common. [Read: Relationship compatibility – what it is, signs you have it, and ways to improve it]

On the other hand, if you meet online, you can ask the person questions about their interests and assess your compatibility before you even meet. This can save you time and effort in the long run.

4. Sure thing vs. crapshoot

So, is either way of meeting men a sure thing? No. Nothing in life is a sure thing. Sadly, it’s all a crapshoot. Sometimes, you will get lucky when meeting men in person. But sometimes, you will strike out. And the same is true of meeting men online too.

At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong way to meet men. The best thing to do is to try both ways and see what works for you. [Read: 40 rules and dating advice for women tired of bad dates and shitty men]

Now let’s take a look at some of the best places to meet men in person.

The best in-person places to meet eligible men

If you’re looking for a place to start, take a look at our list of the 46 best places to meet eligible men!

1. At the gym

There are a lot of eligible single men at gyms – and probably the weight room specifically! If your dream man is someone who knows the importance of taking care of his body *and also how to take care of other important people in his life, like perhaps his wife or girlfriend*, the gym should be the first place you look.

The next time you’re at the gym, ask for some help with the weights or your cardio routine and don’t be afraid to get a little competitive. [Read: Gym crush – 17 ways to approach a guy and get him interested at the gym]

However, if you don’t like working out, then it may not be the right place for you to meet men. But there are many girls who get asked out all the time at the gym. So why not try it anyway? Whether you meet someone or not, you’ll get into great shape in the process, which is still a win!

2. Techy stores

Most guys love technology. While we ladies tend to drop in, pick up what we need and get out, men love to browse the latest software, gadgets, and other geeky things. Who’s to say you couldn’t meet an amazing guy by inquiring about the best updates for your phone?

3. A rally or campaign

Whether for politics or for a worthy organization, you could definitely meet some passionate men at a rally or campaign.

If you join up for a cause, it’s one of the best ways to meet people that really resonate with your own values, which means you can talk about the important things going on around you. Here you’re destined to meet someone who shares similar beliefs! [Read: How to get a boyfriend – A no-nonsense guide to find a great guy]

4. The farmer’s market

What’s better than local food and farmers? A man that knows his way around the local market along with the benefits of local food.

So while you’re waiting in line to pay for your groceries or maybe scanning the market for your fresh produce, you could also keep a lookout and see if there’s a single guy who’s into the same produce.

5. A bookstore

If you love literature, why not scope out the local bookstore? Not only it’s a great way to get lost in the world of books, but it’s also a great place to meet an eligible guy that also loves to read.

You may be interested in the same genre or something totally different. Either way, you’re bound to share the love of reading, and that could definitely start more than a conversation.

6. Intramural sports teams

With intramural sports leagues, you aren’t dealing with serious competitiveness, but you do still get to run around and have some fun on the field or court! You’re guaranteed to see a compatible single guy’s face during the monthly games *and might even get a little physical*. [Read: 41 girlie things that girls do that guys love and that makes them crazy for you]

7. Grad-school coffee shop

If you’re in college or graduate school *or are just age-appropriate*, the best place to meet guys your age or in a similar stage of life to you is in your local grad-school coffee shop! Be very careful to avoid the freshmen hangout, or else you will be surrounding yourself with youngsters and frat boys!

8. A steak house

A lot of men love meat and are passionate about their steaks. If you share this love of beef, why not sit at the bar or community table to open up your chances of starting a conversation? It doesn’t even have to be about strip or sirloin cuts.

9. Extreme sports

Any activity that gets the adrenaline pumping is a sure place to find a bunch of guys. Don’t underestimate the matchmaking powers of rock climbing, CrossFit, or anything else that might look a little bit daunting.

It’s a perfect place to push yourself to do something new and awesome, and you’ll also possibly meet a cute support system while you’re at it. [Read: 30 weird facts about guys’ deviant minds, crushes, and love life]

10. A religious or spiritual institution

If you meet your soul mate here, you know you’re going to have very similar beliefs and moral grounding. Not to mention you will see them at least once a week.

11. College

Only a few are lucky enough to meet and stay with the man of their dreams during their college years. For the rest of us, there’s always another chance with further studies! 

Take an evening class to brush up on an old skill or learn a new one. A man that’s not afraid to continue learning is definitely attractive. [Read: How to get a boyfriend in college without losing your mind and freedom]

12. Friends

Friends love to be matchmakers! So, ask your friends to set you up. 

Your friends know you well, so they might be able to find a good match for you. They know your type, your likes, dislikes, and deal-breakers.

You’re always going to be able to rely on particular friends over others, but you should reach out to the networks you already have. You never know who might exist in your extended social circles, so ask around to find out.

It can be nerve-wracking to put your dating life in the hands of someone else, but be brave and hand them Cupid’s arrow and let them shoot it in your direction. [Read: Blind dating tips for a happy blind date]

13. Vacation

People always tell you that vacation relationships will never last, but this is the 21st century! Now that airfares are lower and live video chats are increasingly common, why not give a guy you met on a vacation a chance? It’s time to get to know the guy sitting next to you on your next plane ride.

14. Parks

Take a stroll through your local park in the daytime and check out your options. A man that likes to take a break outdoors is probably in tune with his natural surroundings, and that is a major plus.

15. Art exhibits

This is one of the places you might go if you want to meet a person who has an interest in art.

Whether you share a love for classical or contemporary art, you are bound to meet some interesting individuals at art exhibits.

While you’re admiring a particular piece, why not strike up a discussion with the single gentlemen beside you? [Read: 125 funny icebreaker questions to start talking and make anyone like you]

16. Blood drive

Meeting someone new over a donated pint of blood might seem strange. But if he’s caring enough to give to someone he’s never met, then he might be worth getting a coffee with. If it doesn’t work out, at least you were able to help someone out.

17. Wine tasting 

If wine’s not your thing, go for beer or scotch. A shared interest in vintage wines and specialty brews makes for a great conversation starter.

18. Weddings

The common belief is that all single guys at weddings just want to get laid, but that’s not always the case. Some of them are perfect gentlemen who want to find a relationship and are ready to take things to the next step that could eventually land them in their own dream wedding. [Read: 25 obvious signs you’re high on wedding fever]

19. Laundromats

Many people find that doing the laundry is hardly exciting, but if you have a cutie that visits the same mat as you, it’s probably not going to be as boring.

In fact, while you’re waiting for your laundry to be done, it could be the perfect place to start chatting with him. You obviously live in the same neighborhood, so that could be just one of the many things you have in common.

20. Ski resorts

Whether you’re a veteran or a complete beginner, ski resorts offer that romantic setting of snow and wood fires that is extremely romantic.

You might find yourself next to a cute guy by the fire, and if you do, check if he’s a regular. If he is, you might be sharing the lift with him sometime soon. If skiing is not your thing, you may have to get out of your comfort zone.

21. Walking the dog

A simple daily task that you enjoy with your pup could become even more exciting if you find yourself talking to another dog lover. Go ahead and take your pooch to a local dog park, and you might also meet guys with a similar breed of dog as yours: a perfect excuse to talk to him.

22. The hardware store

Have you got a DIY project or some other home maintenance job that you’ve been putting off? Well, now’s the time to get started! This can be the perfect opportunity to meet your future handy man.

Next time you notice a guy that catches your attention while looking around the hardware store, don’t be afraid to say something like, “Excuse me, can you help me find a screw?” *pun unintended* [Read: 15 effective conversation starters to use on guys]

23. Museums

Artsy guys, cultured men, and hot foreigners often take a trip to the museum. What a great way to find a guy who can help you brush up on your history.

24. Concerts

If you’re at a concert, you’re guaranteed to meet a guy with the same musical taste as you. You could meet a dance partner or someone to help you get to the bathrooms without being trampled. Once the music dies down, you might end up bonding over the experience.

25. The beach

If you see a man on the beach alone, he’s probably single. But watch out for what he’s doing. If he seems to be stalking the ladies on the beach, steer clear. But if he’s jogging, swimming, or taking in the sights, then go for it. [Read: Ways to look sexy at the beach without looking like you’re trying too hard]

26. Movie theatre

You need to take a big girl step here and go to the theatre alone. Girls in groups are extremely intimidating for any man, but if you’re solo you are much more approachable. 

The same goes for him. As a group, it seems impossible, but if he’s alone you could almost assume he’s open to possibilities.

27. A sports game

Another one of the best places to meet men is at a sporting event. However, you should be a little cautious here because some guys get into testosterone fever at sports games.

But if you also love the game, the best place to meet someone that supports your team is at a match. [Read: Ways to charm men into approaching you]

28. Brewery

Guys like beer, and beer is delicious. Why not go see how the brew is made, and meet some men that are also as interested in beer as you? Keep your eye on the brewmaster; not all of them are old with a hanging beer gut.

29. Co-working space

Co-working spaces generally consist of a collection of talented creatives who like to share their work and life experience. There are sure to be a ton of cute professionals there!

30. Join clubs

It can be any kind of club. Maybe you’re a professional; if so, you could join Rotary or a women’s business organization. Clubs like that routinely have luncheons and other types of functions that you can go to. [Read: 25 simple ways to capture a guy’s gaze at the first glance]

Or if you’re more active and you like to run, why not get fit and meet new people at the same time by joining a running group? Even if there are no single men in the group, you could meet new female friends that have some interesting candidates.

When you do, mingle around and talk to as many people as you can. Even if you don’t meet a man there, maybe you’ll meet someone who can introduce you to someone they know.

31. Make new friends at work

Sometimes, especially if you are an introvert, you can just get into a bad routine of staying in your office or cube all by yourself. But why not try venturing out of your cave and go start talking to new people? [Read: 15 ways to make new friends as an adult effortlessly]

Obviously, that works best if you work for a big company, but either way, start talking to people, and you never know where it might lead.

32. Your office

While we’ve all heard the expression “don’t mix business with pleasure,” the office can be where we spend most of our time. If you meet someone at the same company as you, they are probably on the same intellectual level, and you’ll definitely share some things in common. 

If your office is too small or thrives on drama, then you should steer clear unless you find a diamond in the rough. [Read: Effective ways to deal with nosy coworkers]

33. Matchmakers and Relationship Coaches

Don’t laugh! They actually still exist. And if you can afford it, this may be a great option for you. The matchmaker gets to know you and gets to the bottom of what kind of man you’re looking for, and then they go out and find him for you.

34. Rock climbing center

If you’re athletic and adventurous, then you probably want to find a man who is just like you. So, going to a rock climbing center would be a great way to meet a man like that. Strike up a conversation with a guy you find particularly cute and ask him to spot you or give you climbing tips.

35. Jury duty

Now, you can’t always control when you get called up for jury duty. But if you do, then you never know who might also be on it with you.

There is a good chance that there could be some eligible single men. Being on the case together will give you something interesting to talk about. [Read: 41 casual conversation starters to use with a guy and get him talking]

36. Reality shows

If you have ever watched reality TV shows before, then you know that a lot of couples meet that way. They start out as strangers and then evolve into a “showmance.” Granted, this is a bit of a long shot to get on a reality TV show. But hey, someone has to get on them, so why not you? It’s worth a try.

37. In the Navy

Okay, it doesn’t have to be just the Navy. It can be any branch of the military. Let’s face it – there are a lot of men in the military. And if you like a manly man who is willing to put his life on the line for his country, then this would be a great way to meet single guys for you, especially if you are inclined to want to join the armed forces too.

38. Casino

If gambling is your thing, then a casino would be a perfect place to meet men. A lot of men like gambling, and so you know that you would share that same interest.

You might have to strike up a conversation with one of them just in case he’s so intensely into his game that he isn’t noticing you. [Read: 47 really fun date ideas that’ll make anyone want a third]

39. Airport/on a plane

Traveling can be long and tiring, especially if you have long layovers in airports or a long flight to wherever your destination is. The airport terminal, or even the airport bar, is a great place to strike up a conversation.

If you’re lucky enough to be seated next to a hot man on the plane, then don’t let that opportunity slip by – talk to him the whole way!

40. Speed dating

There are still restaurants and bars that hold speed dating events.

If you’re not familiar with it, it’s where you have a lot of eligible men and women sitting at tables, and you take turns meeting all of them. Each sit-down with a person looking for a relationship is timed, and you talk as much as you can in the time available. 

Then when the timer goes off, you have to go talk to someone else. At the end of the night, you all write down who you liked, and hopefully, you’ll find a match. [Read: 70 speed dating questions to reveal everything fast]

Technological ways and places to meet men

Now that we have talked about the places to meet men face-to-face, we can’t end this feature without talking about how technology can provide you with ways and places to meet men. After all, it is the 21st century, right? 

Let’s start with online dating and dating apps.

Online dating apps and websites

It seems like most people meet online or on dating apps these days. While this saves the face-to-face meeting for later, there are some benefits to being able to chat with someone before you meet them. 

You can save yourself some time and narrow down the candidates that are worthy of a date *or not* very quickly. It’s also a great tool for introverts! [Read: Do’s and don’ts you need to know before meeting an online date]

So, let’s take a look at the most popular ones:

41. Tinder

Tinder has a horrible reputation for being a hookup app. And it can be. But there are plenty of good, normal, eligible men on Tinder. There are a lot of people who meet their significant others and even spouses on that dating app. It sounds surprising, but it’s true. 

42. Plenty of Fish

This is another online dating site that has a bad reputation. But it’s one of the most popular ones out there, and it’s been around for quite some time. So why not give it a try?

43. Match

Match.com is the granddaddy of online dating sites. It has been around for a very long time. And the good thing is that it doesn’t have the reputation for sleazy people like Tinder or Plenty of Fish. 

It seems to be a bit classier, but you need to know who you’re looking for. [Read: 30 effective tips to help you win at online dating]

44. Eharmony

Eharmony markets itself as a scientific way to find your perfect match. Some people would argue that it’s more of a marketing ploy, but it still appeals to people who are more relationship and marriage-minded.

45. Niche sites and other dating apps

Are you Catholic? Great! There’s Catholic Match. Jewish? One for that too. Want to date a millionaire? There’s MillionaireMatch.com for that. And it seems like there’s a new dating app coming out all the time. So, check out those if you are looking for a particular kind of person.

46. Social media

And we can’t forget social media.

It may seem impossible to meet someone of quality on social media sites, but it is doable. Of course, avoid the one-night stand kind of app and go for something a little less obvious, like city walks or a photography group. [Read: Social media sites to use to snag you a date]

A lot of people just meet people to date on social media. It might start with a DM, then a conversation, and the rest is history. You can even meet new friends there too.

So, what should you do? Well, start by looking through your friends’ friend lists. If you see someone you think is cute, then stalk their profile. 

Look for any signs of a wife, girlfriend, wedding ring, or relationship status. If you think he’s single, then send him a friend request. If he accepts, send him a friendly message introducing yourself, and see where it goes. [Read: Facebook dating – can you really have a real relationship only online?]

Another thing you can do is join groups on Facebook. If you love to hike, maybe there’s a hiking group. Interact with the people within the group, and you never know who you might meet there. 

The only problem with this strategy is that you could meet someone you like who lives halfway across the world. Well, you can cross that bridge if it comes.

Tips when meeting single men

Now that you know all the great places to meet men, you need to know all the right things to do when you meet that perfect guy. So, here are some things to keep in mind to have the best experience you can have. [Read: 15 essential relationships tips for single women]

1. Be willing to try new things

We all get stuck in our comfort zones – that’s normal. But doing your typical going to lunch, dinner, or a movie can get a bit boring sometimes. So, if you want to meet someone exciting, then try different things that you wouldn’t normally do. You might be surprised at how much you like it.

2. Be aware of who is around you

Whether you are out at a bar, at a sporting event, or at work, always be aware of the people around you. In other words, don’t just stay in your own little world. Look around to see if there are any attractive men you can strike up a conversation with. If you don’t notice them, you can’t meet them.

3. Have a good time

No one likes a Debbie Downer personality. In other words, smile, laugh, have fun, and be happy! That is the most attractive quality a woman can possess.

It’s actually more attractive than her physical appearance. When you’re having a good time, men are naturally drawn to you and want to be with you. [Read: How to be confident when flirting – overcome the butterflies and have fun]

4. Wear a comfortable but attractive outfit

Of course, you want to look good so that you can attract a man. So, make sure you wear something attractive that compliments your body.

However, you don’t want to be uncomfortable. Wearing a tight mini-skirt and sky-high heels might look good, but if you aren’t feeling good, then stay away from those kinds of clothes.

5. Spray your best perfume

Smelling good is part of someone’s sex appeal. So, if you have some perfume that you like, then don’t forget to wear it. If you don’t, go out and get some.

Most perfumes have pheromones in them, which attracts men sexually. But don’t use too much, though; you don’t want them to gag! 

6. Make yourself look unoccupied

If you are too busy talking to a group of people or just intensely talking to a friend, then you don’t look approachable. That’s not to say that you should go to a bar by yourself, but don’t forget to look around and show the guys that they can have an “in” to talk to you. [Read: Body language and attraction – how it works, the signs, and how to recognize it]

7. Use body language to attract the guy you want to talk to 

If you see someone you like, then don’t forget to have purposeful body language. You don’t want to look closed-off by folding your arms and legs. Instead, have an open appearance with your arms open or throw out a flirty gesture, such as twisting your hair.

8. Make eye contact

When you see someone you like, then don’t avoid looking at them. Now, that doesn’t mean you should stare at them because that would be creepy. But, you can throw some subtle glances in their direction accompanied by a smile. This is a very friendly, inviting thing you should do to attract a man.

9. Be ready to engage in a conversation

If you do attract the attention of a man, then don’t be shy. Be ready to talk to him. Ask him all about himself, such as where he’s from, what he does for a living, and what his hobbies are.

Also, be prepared to share information about yourself or start a deeper conversation. [Read: How to start a conversation with a stranger and say the right things]

10. Don’t be afraid to take initiative

Although a lot of men do like “the chase” and usually do the initiating with a woman, don’t be afraid to do it yourself. Some men aren’t that confident, or they’re shy. In that case, they would appreciate a woman taking the lead. It’s flattering to them when a woman shows interest first.

Starting a conversation

If you do decide to take the initiative and start up a conversation with a man you want to meet, then here are some things to keep in mind so that he asks you out on a date.

1. Introduce yourself with a big smile

Just like you wouldn’t go into a job interview with a scowl or frown on your face, you don’t want to approach an attractive man that way, either. A smile goes a long way.

So, approach him with a smile, and hold out your hand to introduce yourself. Tell him your name and ask what his name is. Then tell him it’s nice to meet him. [Read: How to introduce yourself to a guy – the guide to impressing any guy]

2. Ask genuine questions

You want to get to know this man as well as you can. Just because he’s a hot guy from across the room doesn’t mean that the two of you are going to be compatible. He could be a real jerk, for all you know. So, you need to just ask some genuine questions so you can find out who he really is and see if he’s worth your time.

3. Listen carefully to him

If you tend to be a very talkative person, try to scale it back and do some listening too. Not only is that a polite skill to have, but it also allows you to really analyze what he has to say.

You might find some red flags in what he’s saying. Hopefully, you won’t, and you’ll find what he says to be fascinating. If all goes well, you will both want to see each other again.

4. Share an interesting story about yourself

Consider this initial conversation as an “icebreaker” of sorts. He wants to know that you’re an interesting person with a full life. So, if you have a funny story or piece of information about yourself, then be prepared to tell it. This will make him feel comfortable, and he’ll want to get to know you more.

[Read: How to get a boyfriend effortlessly with a few small changes]

Now that you know the places to meet men, what are you waiting for? Prince Charming isn’t going to just come knocking on your door. But if you put some effort into it using these tips, you’ll be riding off into the sunset in no time.