Where Do People Make Friends in Phoenix?
Feeling lonely in Phoenix? You're not alone. Here's how All Dogs is creating real connection—one dog at a time.
How Bad Is Loneliness, Really?
A 2024 APA poll found that 30% of U.S. adults feel lonely at least once a week—and 10% feel lonely daily. Gallup reports 20% of adults felt lonely 'a lot of the day yesterday,' the highest level since early 2022. And Harvard’s 'Loneliness in America' report found that 21% of U.S. adults are lonely overall.
That means 1 in 5 Phoenix residents is likely waking up feeling alone—and in a city built for cars more than people, that loneliness is harder to interrupt. A UK study even linked poor public transit and car dependency to higher rates of isolation.
Where Are People Finding Real Connection Instead?
Instagram isn’t the answer. According to Meta’s own data, just 7% of your Instagram feed in 2024 came from your actual friends. The rest is influencers, ads, and AI-generated content.
Real connection doesn’t come from algorithms. It comes from proximity, repetition, and shared purpose—things you’ll find at All Dogs.
All Dogs Pop-Ups: How and Why Connections Happen
All Dogs is building a low-key, high-vibe space where dogs and humans alike can find their people. Here's why it works:
Shared purpose: Everyone here loves dogs. That’s the start of a bond.
Low-pressure mingling: Dogs give you a reason to talk—and something to talk about.
Rituals: Weekly events create familiarity and momentum.
Safety: The environment is welcoming, inclusive, and gently guided.
Joy-forward: This is about play, not pressure.
So... Where Do People Make Friends in Phoenix?
Phoenix Babes Who Walk, is a casual walking group that meets weekly in scenic parks like Encanto or Papago. If you're into creativity, Sunshine Craft Co. in downtown Phoenix offers hands-on workshops in macramé and embroidery, perfect for bonding over shared projects. For those who enjoy staying active, the Arizona Sports League hosts adult soccer, volleyball, and pickleball leagues across the Valley, making it easy to meet teammates who become friends. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe. And for those who want to give back, volunteering with Clean Up Papago not only helps the environment but also connects you with like-minded people.
If you are looking for an opportunity to socialize with new people and include your dog, then All Dogs pop-ups in Tempe is for you and your furry friend You will make connection not through swiping. Not through content. But by showing up.
We’re re-learning how to be around each other again, and dogs are leading the way. It’s not a miracle cure. It’s a starting place. A leash-length away from your next friend.
Sources
- APA Poll: https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/new-apa-poll-one-in-three-americans-feels-lonely-e
- Gallup Report: https://news.gallup.com/poll/651881/daily-loneliness-afflicts-one-five.aspx
- Harvard Study: https://mcc.gse.harvard.edu/reports/loneliness-in-america-2024
- Meta Data via Business Insider: https://www.businessinsider.com/meta-reveals-decline-friend-content-instagram-facebook-amid-ftc-trial-2025-4
- UK Transport Study: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jul/06/public-transport-car-dependancy-loneliness-uk-study
