Pick a session
Each one says where it meets, the skill level to expect and what it costs. Say you’re going and Near reminds you an hour before.
How it works
Groups on Near meet at the same place and time each week, so it’s easy to keep going and get to know people.
Check in when you arrive
Scan the host’s code with Near. Some hosts give something small for coming, like a free shoe rental on your first visit.
Become a regular
Check in three times within 60 days and you join the group’s list of regulars.
See who’s going before you get there
Every session shows the people going, who’s a regular and who’s coming for the first time, so you won’t be the only new face. Plenty of people come on their own.
Everything you’re going to this week
Plans keeps your week in one place. Add a session to your calendar or get directions in Apple Maps. If a host moves the time or cancels a date, you’ll see it there.
Post an event from a flyer or a link
Posting takes a few seconds. Snap a flyer or paste an Instagram post, and Near fills in the title, time, place and cost. You just check it and post, whether you run the event or only saw it.
Find something to do nearby
Search what’s on around you this week, or start from the kind of thing you’re in the mood for.
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Climbing, pickleball, run clubs and more
Groups across San Francisco, from beginner nights to weekly games. If nobody hosts what you’re looking for yet, Near can let you know when someone does.
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Climbing
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Pickleball
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Running
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Yoga
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Cycling
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Hiking
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Tennis
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Volleyball
Run your group from your phone
A new code every 30 seconds
People scan it in Near when they arrive. A screenshot stops working, so only people who are there can check in.
Who’s here
Arrivals show up as people scan, with first visits and regulars marked. Mark someone as here if they can’t scan.
If you already organize a weekly climb, game or run, Near gives it a page people can find and shows you who keeps coming back.
- Weekly sessions
- Set the place, time, cost and directions for first-timers. Repeat every week or every two.
- Notes to everyone going
- Send a short message like “we’re at the north courts” to everyone going to a date.
- Co-hosts
- Add people who can run check-in, and hand the group to one of them if you step back.
- Removing people
- Remove or block anyone who causes trouble. Blocked people can’t see or join your group.
Hosting is free. Tap New group on the Groups tab to start one.
Questions
Is Near free?
Yes. Near has no ads and no in-app purchases. Some sessions have a cost, such as a day pass at a climbing gym, which you pay to the host or the venue.
Where can I use it?
Near covers San Francisco for now, and it’s available in the United States.
Is there an Android app?
Not yet. Near is on iPhone first.
Who can join?
Anyone 18 or older. You sign in with your email or your Apple account.
Do I need to bring a friend?
No. Plenty of people come on their own, and each session shows who’s coming for the first time.
How do I start a group?
Open the Groups tab in Near and tap New group. Then add a session with the day, time and place you meet.
What happens to my information?
Near doesn’t sell your information or show ads. You can report or block people, hide groups and delete your account in the app. The Privacy Policy has the details.