As an introvert, you can feel like you’re part of the action in a crowd – but you can also go it alone if you’re too overwhelmed.
I’m a huge introvert, but I have a confession that might surprise everyone: I actually like being in crowds.
People often assume that introverts like to be alone— always – in a quiet environment, but this is not necessarily true. Sometimes we like to be around large crowds (or groups of people), but with a few exceptions: We don’t want to chat or interacts with the people there for a long time.
Yes, we can be overstimulated by loud voices and constant chatter, but we actually know enjoy being around crowds when we can control our interactions with the people in them. If we like the environment we are in, we thrive. The time when we’re frustrated, when we’re stuck in overwhelming environments and situations where we’re not comfortable in our introverted skin—and there is no easy way to escape when we want.
It’s all about control over your environment
For example, I work at a major airport as a traffic officer. My 10-hour days are filled with constant noise from airplanes taking off and landing, large vehicles (such as aircraft tractors, food trucks, fire trucks, and police cars), radio chatter, alarms, car traffic, and passengers entering and exiting the terminals. It can be exhausting sometimes, but I actually don’t mind being with all the passengers. Why? Because I can still control my own interactions with people and I actually love seeing people go out.
Sometimes I just watch the passengers walk and wonder what fun destinations they are going to. i like people and they like to answer their questions when they are trying to find their way around the airport as it can be confusing. I feel like I’m part of the action, but I can still pull myself away from it when I’m overwhelmed.
If you are an introvert who wants to some social interaction – but without having to interact much – try going to these places.
6 places introverts can enjoy despite the crowds
1. Theme parks – try to go during the week for less people
I’m a big fan of theme parks because I love the experience of being able to get away from reality for a bit and enjoy new foods, rides and experiences. I even have a blog about theme parks because I really like going to them!
I get it, theme parks can be an introvert’s nightmare when you combine the heat, crowds, long lines, and constant noise. However, you can make the experience better by visiting on weekdays or busy days, looking for quiet places to rest in the parks, making an itinerary of the attractions you want to go to, or to plan a route in the park, where the crowd may be less.
You can also take frequent breaks between activities to avoid (over)exerting yourself. And my favorite: Go to the parks alone – so you can control where you want to go and when you want to leave.
2. Concerts – you can blend in with all the people
I recently visited my very first arena rock concert We had a great time in San Francisco, even though I went alone and sat next to complete strangers.
At first, I was a little nervous going into an arena full of thousands of people by myself. But once I got there, I sang really well, cheered and clapped for my favorite band. You can come prepared by bringing a book, phone and some snacks book you during downtimelike during recess. Noise canceling headphones are great even when the music is too loud.
3. Beach – being in nature can help you recharge
There is something about the warm sun, the feel of the sand on your toes and the sound of the waves that is so soothing to us introverts. The beach is a great place to relax and unwind, whether you’re on vacation or a local spot. After all nature recharges introverted people.
Living off the coast of Northern California, I always surfed to read a book or just stare at the waves when I wanted to zone out and recharge my introverted energy. Beaches can be crowded, especially on warm days, but I actually love the sound of people laughing, the sound of dogs barking and playing on the beach, and the sound of seagulls flying overhead.
In general, most people on the beach won’t bother you, and it’s useful to bring a huge umbrella – or even a collapsible beach tent – to have your own “introvert pod” where you can read books, grab a bite to eat, just lay out or sleep. Or you can just park your car and watch the waves from afar, which is what I usually do since the beaches in California tend to be cooler than in the south. (And being in a car without people helps, too.)
4. Cafes — you don’t have to talk to anyone, but you can be one of them
Cozy cafes are great places to work, to read a bookor just zone out while sipping your favorite drink. Cafes can be crowded, especially in the morning or at lunchtime, when people need their caffeine fix. But if you find a nice little corner or open table where you can plonk down, it can be an enjoyable experience.
In addition, you can enjoy the pleasant aroma of coffee and pastries in the air. You don’t even have to talk to anyone, but you can still be around people and just do the introverted thing.
5. Movies – you can sit in silence for two hours without having to talk to anyone
I like going to the cinema alone or with a friend. The great thing about going to see a movie, even though it might be crowded at peak times, is that you can sit in silence for two hours without having to talk to anyone…while eating some buttered popcorn, snacks, and a drink. There is no pressure to make small talk and you can leave anytime.
But if you really don’t want to be around anyone, go to a matinee, which has such low attendance that sometimes I’ve kept a theater to myself!
6. Train ride – you can be as lonely or as social as you want
I’m not a big fan of crowded commuter trains – everyone is squished together and you’ll probably have to stand up at rush hour.
However, my seven-year-old is obsessed with trains, so we decided to go on long journeys train journeys on Amtrak to get to some of our vacation spots. And now we’re hooked.
Yes, the train can be crowded at times, but there is usually an assigned seat. If you are to travel aloneyou may have to sit next to someone. Or you can book a private room with your own bed, which sounds gorgeous! You can bring a book, listen to music or watch movies on your phone to rest on the train. Or just look out the window and take in the beautiful scenery.
It’s a wonderful way to see the country without the stress of driving, rushing through a busy airport or taking a long bus ride. Most passenger trains have dining cars or snack bars, as well as glass “observation cars” where people can look out and enjoy the view.
The best of both worlds – you can be around people, but on your own terms
I know the thought of going to crowded places can make an introvert cringe. However, some of us still like the social aspect of being around our fellow humans without the pressure of forcing a conversation.
The places I’ve listed are great places to be alone and get away whenever you want. There is no pressure to stay and no bad feeling when you do we want to go home early.
The best part? You are still free to do whatever you want while maintaining your inner energy. You won’t feel completely alone, but you won’t feel too outcast either—and you’ll have fun doing activities you love. 
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