“How did you find this place?” That is the number one question I get from people when they see the places I find in town on the gram. When I tell you that there is not a place or area in town that I don’t know about, I really mean that. There is a reason for this of course. Besides my natural propensity to explore and having an active social/recreational lifestyle, I simply rely on several resources to tell me about where and when events are happening in town. Today I am going to share with you my “Six” go to resources for finding things to do.
Before I dive into what those six things are, I want to give you some of “The Curious Gal” principles I live by.
Make a List of Your Interests
How would you know what you are looking for if you don’t know what you like to do? Take some time and jot down 10-15 things that you like to do. And then list 10-15 things you’ve always wanted to try. This list will help you guide you when you start finding things to do.
Making a Things to Do List Attracts Events to You
I’ve noticed that every single time I’ve made a list of type of events or new things that I wanted to do, opportunities to do so tend to pop up almost instantly. I love this! I have no doubt when you make your list that the same will happen for you.
Make Time For Getting Out
Some of you simply aren’t doing enough to get out and explore. Make it a point this year to end that. I go out at least 1-2 times a week. And where I go does range from low-key events such as a panel talk to high-energy events such as doing a day at Disney. In being asked the question of “How did you find this place?” It is usually followed up with statements like “I wish I could get out more”, “I don’t have time to go out”, “Girl, call me when you go out next”, “I’m gonna start getting out more.” Now, I don’t have a problem with people saying these things of course but I often feel like these statements are said because many people don’t know how to find regular events that they could attend. They don’t know the resources.
Here are my “Six” Top Resources for finding things to do in my town
Event Apps
Event apps are a great starting point for someone who wants to find events instantly or for the foreseeable future. Try using apps like Eventbrite, Facebook Local, Meetup.com, or UNATION. These apps will help you find events in your area by category. My favorite app to use at the moment is the Facebook Local app. This app is connected to your Facebook account and is a concentrated platform on events happening around you. It’s connected to your friends and will give you suggestions based on what your friends are doing. I also love the curated lists such as the one below. Definitely download and give it a try.
Local Alternative Newspaper
Almost every city I’ve been to has an alternative newspaper that keeps you abreast of the events happening there. Your mission should you choose to accept it will be to find out when it’s being published and pick one up. It’s totally FREE. The Orlando Weekly here in Orlando comes out every Wednesday with a fresh list of things to do for the week. They even host ticketed events and produce special guides such as a Holiday guide.
Event/Promotions Companies
There are people in your town that are curating fun events for you to enjoy as their business. Try to find out who is behind some of those events and follow them. If an event they’re hosting appeals to you, you’ll be the first to know about it.
Local Bloggers
People who love exploring the city as much as I do share what they know on their blogs. There are bloggers in all sorts of categories. For example, I love food! So naturally I found some local bloggers that write about food scene and could recommend good places to eat. So whatever you’re most interested in you can find a blogger for.
City Website
This is a place that’s often overlooked. Your city wants you to explore and most of all frequent some of the local businesses. Check out your city’s event calendar on there local site. You’d be surprised at what fun awaits you.
Subscribe to Event Newsletters
Make finding events easier by subscribing to some event newsletters. The good thing about downloading event apps such as Eventbrite is that they start curating events lists for you and sending them to your email. Alternatively you can sign up for specific ones that match your interests.
What types of resources do you use to find things to do? What’s something new you’re going to go out and do? I would love to know in the comments below.
thecuriousgal.com 