If you want to be around intelligent people, you have to know where to look.
Surrounding yourself with deep, creative thinkers is bound to have a knock-on effect on you, right? If you’re sick of spending time with simpletons and want to boost your own brain power, here are some places to start frequenting. You’re bound to find some brainiacs there!
1. Universities and college campuses are hubs of intellectual activity.
Academic institutions naturally attract intelligent people, from students to professors and researchers. These environments encourage and support learning, critical thinking, and intellectual discourse. Even if you’re not a student, many universities offer public lectures or events that are open to the community.
2. Libraries offer a quiet space for knowledge seekers.
Source: Unsplash Libraries aren’t just about books; they’re gathering places for those who value learning and information. Many libraries host book clubs, lectures, and workshops that attract intellectually curious people. It’s a great place to find people engaged in research or personal learning projects.
3. Science museums cater to the intellectually curious.
Science museums attract those with a keen interest in understanding the world around them. These institutions often host talks, interactive exhibits, and special events that draw in people who are passionate about science and discovery. It’s an excellent place to meet people with a thirst for knowledge.
4. Tech startups are breeding grounds for innovative thinkers.
Startups, especially in the tech sector, tend to attract bright minds looking to solve complex problems. These environments often encourage creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Attending startup meetups or tech conferences can be a great way to connect with these innovative people.
5. Chess clubs gather strategic minds.
Chess is a game that requires strategic thinking and foresight. Chess clubs and tournaments are likely to attract people who enjoy mental challenges and logical reasoning. Even if you’re not a chess player yourself, these venues can be interesting places to meet and observe intelligent people.
6. Debates and public forums attract articulate thinkers.
Public debates, whether political, philosophical, or on current events, tend to draw people who are well-informed and articulate. These events can be great places to come across people who are passionate about ideas and enjoy intellectual discourse.
7. Art galleries appeal to the culturally and intellectually sophisticated.
Art appreciation often goes hand-in-hand with intellectual curiosity. Galleries and art openings attract people who are interested in culture, aesthetics, and often, the deeper meanings behind artistic expression. These venues can be excellent places for thought-provoking conversations.
8. Book launches and literary festivals gather avid readers and thinkers.
Literary events are magnets for intellectuals and book lovers. These gatherings often feature discussions on complex topics and attract people who are well-read and enjoy engaging with ideas. It’s a great opportunity to meet people with diverse knowledge and perspectives.
9. TED Talks and similar events showcase innovative ideas.
Events like TED Talks are designed to spread innovative ideas and attract audiences interested in learning about new concepts across various fields. Attending these events can put you in touch with both the speakers and attendees who are passionate about expanding their knowledge.
10. Professional conferences bring together experts in their fields.
Industry conferences, regardless of the field, tend to attract top minds and thought leaders. Events like these are great for networking with people who are knowledgeable and passionate about their areas of expertise. Even if you’re not in the field, many conferences offer passes for interested members of the public.
11. Makerspaces and hackathons attract creative problem-solvers.
These collaborative spaces and events draw people who enjoy tackling challenges and creating out-of-the-box solutions. They’re great places to meet people who are not only intelligent, but also have practical skills and enjoy applying their knowledge.
12. Online forums and communities focused on specific interests can be intelligence hubs.
Source: Unsplash While not a physical location, online communities centred around specific topics often attract intelligent people passionate about those subjects. Whether it’s a forum on quantum physics or a subreddit on philosophy, these digital spaces can be treasure troves of knowledge and interesting discussions.
13. Volunteer organisations often attract socially conscious intellectuals.
Many intelligent people are drawn to volunteer work, especially in organisations that tackle complex social or environmental issues. These settings can be great for meeting people who are not only smart, but also socially aware and committed to making a difference.
14. Coworking spaces gather diverse professionals.
Coworking spaces often attract a diverse mix of professionals, entrepreneurs, and freelancers. These environments can be great for cross-pollination of ideas and meeting people with varied expertise and intellectual interests.
15. Astronomy clubs bring together those fascinated by the cosmos.
Astronomy enthusiasts often possess a deep curiosity about the universe and science in general. Joining an astronomy club or attending a stargazing event can connect you with people who have a profound interest in understanding the world beyond our planet.
16. Language exchange meetups attract multilingual and culturally aware people.
People who are interested in learning multiple languages often have a broader worldview and a keen interest in different cultures. Language exchange events can be excellent places to meet intelligent, culturally aware people with diverse perspectives.
17. Local government meetings draw civic-minded intellectuals.
Town halls and local government meetings often attract people who are well-informed about community issues and engaged in civic life. These gatherings can be good places to meet people who are knowledgeable about local politics, urban planning, and community development.
18. Toastmasters clubs gather articulate and confident speakers.
Toastmasters and similar public speaking clubs often attract people who are not only articulate but also interested in personal development. These clubs can be great places to meet people who value clear communication and continuous learning.
19. Specialty bookshops cater to niche intellectual interests.
Unlike general bookshops, speciality bookshops focusing on topics like science, philosophy, or rare books tend to attract people with deep interests in specific fields. These shops often host events or simply provide a space for like-minded people to browse and potentially connect.
20. Meditation and mindfulness centres attract introspective thinkers.
Source: Unsplash While intelligence comes in many forms, places that focus on meditation and mindfulness often attract people interested in self-awareness and personal growth. These centres can be good places to meet people who are thoughtful, introspective, and often well-read in areas of psychology and philosophy.
