Audiobook Walking Clubs Gain Traction as Low-Pressure Social Outings

Audiobook walking clubs are emerging across the country, transforming the solitary act of listening into a shared, low-pressure social activity. These groups allow participants to listen to their chosen audiobooks while walking, then gather afterward to discuss their selections, share recommendations, and foster connections.

Kelsey Bettis discovered the Fleuria Audiobook Walking Club through social media, drawn by the promise of a manageable way to be more social while managing anxiety. "The audiobook walks allowed me to be social in a way that didn’t require talking to other people if I didn’t want to," Bettis stated. "I had the option."

Stephanie Pao, owner of the mobile bookstore The Fleuria, initiated one of the earliest clubs in July 2025 after inviting social media followers to join her for a walk. What began as an experiment expecting a small turnout quickly grew, with initial events drawing 50 people and subsequent gatherings in Long Beach attracting nearly 200. "Reading is often such a solitary hobby," Pao observed. "But readers want to meet other readers."

These clubs offer a distinct alternative to traditional book clubs, eliminating the need for assigned reading and the pressure of prepared commentary. Participants simply need a book on their phone, headphones, and comfortable shoes. Events often begin with a mingling period, followed by a walk where individuals listen to their own audiobooks, sometimes splitting into groups based on walking pace. Afterward, attendees often gather to discuss their listening experiences, leading to new book discoveries and friendships.

In the Washington, D.C., area, Morgan Menzies founded Pages on the Path, which now typically draws around 30 readers to its monthly outings. The demographic is diverse, ranging in age and including new parents. Menzies noted that while running clubs are abundant, audiobook walking clubs offer an alternative for those who prefer a less intense form of exercise. "There are like a thousand run clubs in D.C.," Menzies said. "But not everyone wants—or is able—to run."

The growth of these clubs coincides with a significant boom in audiobook sales, which reached $2.43 billion in 2025, a 9% increase from the previous year, according to the Audio Publishers Association. This trend reflects a growing acceptance and enthusiasm for audiobooks as a versatile medium.

Facilitating Social Interaction

Despite the inherent quietude of walking with headphones, these clubs can paradoxically make socializing more approachable. "At Pages on the Path events, participants can talk with one another, or they can simply 'press play and just be in [their] own world,'" Menzies explained. The structure removes the pressure of forced introductions, allowing connections to form more organically. "It’s fun to hear when someone loved a book and a different person hated that book," she added.

In Janesville, Wisconsin, the Hedberg Public Library hosts "These Books Are Made for Walkin'," a club that also experiences a surge of conversation once the walking portion concludes. "It’s very low-stakes social engagement," said young-adult librarian Gabrielle Draxler. The question "What are you listening to?" serves as a natural icebreaker without the perceived baggage often associated with initial conversations in other social settings.

Health and Community Benefits

Dr. Mariah Stump, a primary-care physician specializing in lifestyle medicine, views these walks as a form of "social prescribing," integrating physical movement, outdoor time, and social contact—all key components of well-being. Even a moderate pace offers health benefits. "Five minutes a day can go a long way," Stump stated. "Any movement for your body is helpful."

An added benefit is the sense of security derived from being part of a group. Women who might feel hesitant walking alone with headphones often feel more comfortable in a larger group setting. The shared experience of walking, even silently, can create a sense of camaraderie.

Starting a Club

For those without a local club, organizers encourage starting one. "If only one person shows up, congratulations—you’ve got a walking buddy," said Menzies. Recommended steps include choosing accessible routes, clearly defining meeting points, and allowing time for pre- or post-walk conversation. For inclement weather, indoor alternatives like walking in a mall can be arranged.

Libraries can play a role in supporting these clubs by providing access to audiobooks, such as pre-loaded Playaways or digital downloads through apps like Libby. The format is particularly beneficial for individuals who desire social interaction but find large gatherings overwhelming, offering a manageable dose of connection.

"You’re going to go out, you’re going to enjoy nature, and you’re going to listen to a book," Draxler encouraged. "Just do it. I think you’re going to find your people."