Does waiting in a long line to get into an overcrowded bar where someone is inevitably going to spill their drink on you not sound like an ideal Friday night anymore? We’ve been there, done that, and understand. But just because you’re over the Friday night party scene doesn’t mean you need to give up on your Friday night out just yet. Within the city of Los Angeles (and maybe a bit outside of it), there are a plethora of activities you can do on the weekend to make your social life just as fun, sans the annoying guy at the bar that won’t stop hitting on you.

First Fridays at Griffith Observatory – All Space Considered

On the first Friday of every month, the staff at the Griffith Observatory host a free public program in the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon. Topics range from anything involving astronomy to space science, so make sure you come prepared to be amazed. It’s first come, first serve so make sure you get there with time to spare.

Cooking Class – Eatz

Cooking made easy (for those who may struggle like me). Eatz’s personal cooking classes take the form of a dinner party (see following suggestion for a Friday night), which means you get a hands-on experience with all of the eating included. Your classes include the following: a pre-made appetizer to get you ready to cook, fresh ingredients, wine pairings or cocktails made from scratch, recipes, and culinary tips.

Host a Dinner Party

Want to feel like an adult without the actual effort of adulting? Host a dinner party. It’s the perfect excuse to get all of your friends together, yet getting to stay in the comfort of your own home. Bonus points if you give it a theme (think: Clue) or require your guests to dress as if it’s a black tie affair. For some great recipes, check out The Yellow Table and Rachel Mansfield.

Board Game Night

The same amount of fun as a dinner party, without the commitment of cleaning the dishes after. Gather your friends at your place, their place, or even a coffee shop open late enough and break out the board games. Between Jenga and Sorry, we’re confident this is a great way to spend a Friday night.

Massage at The Now

Open until 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, The Now is your haven in Los Angeles for affordable massages without any corners cut. If you’re really looking for the perfect way to relax on a Friday, this is the way to do it.

Bowling

No matter what neighborhood you live in in Los Angeles, it’s safe to assume that there’s a bowling alley somewhat nearby. A quick Google Search will let you know where the closest one is, and soon you’ll be on your way to wearing funky shoes and secretly wishing that they left the bumpers on your lane (or maybe that’s just a wish we have).

Staycations

We’re a big fan of the staycation at Something Social (just check our Instagrams, you’ll probably see at least one of us at a hotel on any given weekend). And with a plethora of hotels in Los Angeles with amazing amenities, it’s hard to stay away. The trick for staycationing the right way? Do it with friends. It’s more cost effective, and laying in a hotel robe with a face mask on is always more fun with a friend right next to you.

The Last Bookstore

Here us out. Open until 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, The Last Bookstore is a beacon of hope in a world that no longer saves up their allowance for the Scholastic Book Fairs at school. Not into reading (though we recommend you give our favorite books a try)? That’s okay; they have records too. Grab a friend or go alone; your pick. But either way, let us know what you’re reading or listening to.

Peppermint Club

This isn’t your average Friday night club spot, but how can it be when it was started by a partnership between h.wood Group and Interscope Records? With live music every Tuesdays-Saturdays, a visit to Peppermint Club will most definitely feel like you’re treating yourself.

UCB

See a show at UCB! Right in the heart of Hollywood, the Upright Citizens Brigade offers a variety of shows every night. You’re guaranteed to laugh, smile, and definitely have a better time than if you just sat home.  

Y7

We’ll consider this one the start to your Friday night. Y7 – the yoga studio that adds a rap/hip hop twist to traditional yoga classes – offers a 7:00 pm yoga class on Friday nights! What better way to start your weekend than with a stretch and Drake?

Written by our Digital Specialist, Nora Henick.

What are you doing this Friday? Tweet us  @somethingsocial or tag us on Instagram- @somethingsocial.