How to Get Connected in Castle Rock, CO

Colin Shreffler

Moving somewhere new always comes with challenges, from learning the ins and outs of traffic patterns to figuring out the best walking route in your neighborhood to taste-testing at different restaurants until you find new favorites, to name a few. But one of the biggest hurdles of moving to a new city is making new friends and finding your community. Starting from scratch in a place where you don’t know anyone means you have to make a concentrated effort to build connections, but it’s well worth the effort – and not as daunting as it may seem. Here are five ways you can get connected in Castle Rock, CO:

1. Volunteer Around Town

Volunteering is a tried-and-true way to meet new people and make new friends, as it helps connect you with people who share your values and passions. By finding a nonprofit that resonates with you, you’ll be able to do good and meet other good people. There are plenty of local nonprofits available for you to volunteer with. For example, people particularly drawn to nature and the environment, can check out the Douglas Land Conservancy and the Colorado Agricultural Leadership Foundation. Another way to connect with volunteer opportunities is through places of worship, and in Castle Rock, there is an abundance of diverse spiritual communities to get plugged into.

2. Get Networking

Making professional contacts can be just as valuable and important as making friends and meeting neighbors – so why not attend a few networking events and get a feel for the Castle Rock business community? Check the websites and calendars of the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Castle Rock to find out when their next networking events are scheduled and set yourself up to mix and mingle with others who are actively involved in the community.

3. Head Outdoors and Be Active

If you lead an active lifestyle, chances are you want to surround yourself with people who do the same. For those that love to ride bikes, check out Castle Rock’s 6202 Cycling Club, which organizes group rides every Sunday morning. If running and walking are more your speed, RNK Running & Walking hosts trail runs and conversational walking events. You could also join one of the many fitness facilities around town and chat with your fellow gym-goers!

4. Meet the Makers

Don’t just shop local, fraternize local! Get to know your local growers and artisans by talking with them at their farmers market booths. Castle Rock has two main markets: Festival Park Farmers Market and Castle Rock Farmers Market, which is held at Douglas County Fairgrounds. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation and ask about how things are made or grown – you never know who you’ll meet and what fun stories you might hear.

5. Try Out a Class

Castle Rock has a surplus of incredible ways to learn something new. Connect with instructors and fellow students at one of the many classes available across town. If you’re feeling artsy, check out the Tri Arts Project or Sew-ciety, which cater to creative souls. Craving something more active? Try Ubergrippen Indoor Climbing Crag, Castle Rock Recreation Center or Peace Out Yoga.