Recovery & aftercare

How to find AA meetings near me: A complete guide

Published October 22, 2025 · 7 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

Finding meetings

aa.org/find-aa has a meeting finder searchable by location. The AA Meeting Guide app provides GPS-based meeting locations. Google AA meetings [your city] for local intergroups with updated schedules.

Types of meetings

Open meetings welcome anyone including non-alcoholics supporting a loved one. Closed meetings are for people who identify as having a desire to stop drinking. Speaker meetings feature one person sharing their story. Discussion meetings have open group conversation on a topic. Step study meetings work through the 12 steps.

Your first meeting

Arrive a few minutes early. You do not have to speak — just listening is fine. Someone will likely greet you and offer to sit with you. You may hear I am [name] and I am an alcoholic — you can introduce yourself however you are comfortable. There is no sign-up sheet or record of attendance.

If the first meeting does not feel right

Try at least 3-6 different meetings before deciding AA is not for you. Each meeting has its own culture and personality. A meeting that feels wrong at 7am on Monday may feel right at 7pm on Wednesday.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Frequently asked questions

Are AA meetings free?

Yes. AA is free. A basket is passed for voluntary contributions, but there is no obligation. You are never charged to attend.

Do I have to talk at AA?

No. You can simply listen. If asked to share, you can say I am just listening today and that is respected.

Are AA meetings anonymous?

Yes. What is said in meetings stays in meetings. Members use first names only. Your attendance is confidential.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.