Definitive List of Hobbies & Interests: 1,000+ Hobby Index!

So, you must be looking for a new hobby or something new to get into? Our definitive list of hobbies has over 1,000+ (counting!) hobbies and interests for you to explore should have you covered!

This hobby list is by far the largest on the internet.

Having a new hobby or interest provides us with amazing things to do when we’re bored.

Starting a new hobby gives you a fun activity and way to spend time doing something enjoyable and productive.

Before we get started with our hobby list…

Let’s define what a hobby is

A hobby is an activity, or interest, that you can perform for enjoyment, pleasure, and relaxation in your free time.

Hobbies can range from outdoor activities – like hiking or gardening – to indoor activities like reading or painting.

Or anything in between!

What makes a good, New hobby?

• When determining what makes a good hobby, it’s important to consider factors like personal enjoyment, relaxation, and skill development.
  • A good hobby should bring joy and satisfaction.
  • It should provide a means of relaxation and stress relief.
  • Starting a hobby encourages building new skills and personal growth.

Hobbies are also an opportunity to learn new skills, socialize with others who share similar interests, and promote personal development.

See also: 7 Key Benefits of Hobbies

So now that we know what a hobby is…

Let’s start exploring our extensive list of hobbies!

We will break down this list into several types of hobbies and interests for easier understanding and navigation.

Jump ahead by hobby type below:

Outdoor & Adventure Hobbies

Ever wondered what exactly an “Outdoor & Adventure Hobby” is? 

Outdoor activities have also proven to rejuvenate your mind, body, and mental health.

Embracing adventurous outdoor activities connect you with nature, get your adrenaline pumping, and offer a refreshing break from the mundane.

Now, let’s talk numbers!

Did you know that the outdoor recreation industry is a powerhouse, contributing a whopping $887 billion to the US economy annually? 

Pretty crazy right?

Here’s a sneak peak of the outdoor hobbies and the complete list that await you:

• Hiking: Discover trails that offer breathtaking views and a dose of fresh air.
• White-water Rafting: For those who seek thrills and splashes.
• Stargazing: A tranquil experience under the sky, connecting you with the universe. (and completely free!)
• Beekeeping: A unique hobby that brings you closer to nature’s buzzing wonders.

But wait, there’s more!

 Engaging in these hobbies is not just fun but comes with a host of health benefits, making you fitter and happier.

So, are you ready to dive in and explore? Trust us, it’s a journey packed with excitement, learning, and personal growth. 

Let’s get started with Hobby Ideas involving nature!

Sidenote: we’re avoiding most of the sports (or there is some crossover, obviously). Those will come in a different section!

Nature & Observation Hobbies

• Aircraft Spotting: a hobby where enthusiasts observe and document different types of aircraft. It’s a fun way to learn about aviation and stay updated on the latest technology and designs.
• Astronomy: a hobby that involves observing, studying, and exploring stars, planets, and galaxies. It’s a great way to learn about the universe and satisfy your curiosity about the cosmos.
• Bird watching: a hobby where enthusiasts observe and identify different types of birds in their natural habitats. It’s a great way to learn about different bird species and appreciate the beauty of nature.
• Bus Spotting: a hobby that involves observing and documenting different types of buses and their routes. It’s a fun way to learn about public transportation and stay updated on the latest models and designs.
• Butterfly Watching: a hobby where enthusiasts observe and identify different types of butterflies in their natural habitats. It’s a great way to learn about different butterfly species and appreciate the beauty of nature.
• Bus Spotting: a hobby that involves observing and documenting different types of buses and their routes. It’s a fun way to learn about public transportation and stay updated on the latest models and designs.
• Butterfly Watching: a hobby where enthusiasts observe and identify different types of butterflies in their natural habitats. It’s a great way to learn about different butterfly species and appreciate the beauty of nature.
• Camping: a hobby where people spend extended time outdoors, usually in tents or RVs. People will then enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and campfires. Some folks even do car camping!
• Cloud Watching: a relaxing hobby that involves observing and identifying different types of clouds and their formations.
• Eclipse chasing: is a hobby where people travel the world to watch solar and lunar eclipses, which is an event where the moon passes between the earth and the sun.
• Hiking / Backpacking: Hiking and backpacking involve exploring natural environments on foot, whether it’s a local park or a remote wilderness area.
• Stone Skipping: A simple hobby that involves throwing a flat stone across the surface of a body of water. The goal is to have it “skip”, or bounce, on the water as many times as possible.
• Rail fans (Trainspotting): A hobby that involves observing and documenting trains and locomotives.
• Weather Watcher: An activity that involves observing and recording weather patterns and phenomena outside.

Water Activities & Hobbies

• Canoeing: a hobby that involves paddling a canoe through rivers, lakes, and streams. It’s a fun way to explore the outdoors and stay active.
• Kayaking: a water sport that involves paddling a small boat called a kayak through various bodies of water.
• Fishing: a popular outdoor hobby that involves catching fish in lakes, rivers, and even the ocean. It can be done for sport, food or relaxation, with a variety of methods.
• Fishkeeping: involves setting up and maintaining a fish tank or aquarium, and caring for the fish and other creatures that live within it.
• Rafting: an exciting outdoor activity that involves navigating rough waters in a raft.
• Surf Fishing: a relaxing hobby that involves fishing from the shore or wading in shallow water.
• Scuba diving: an underwater diving activity that involves using a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus to breathe underwater.
• Skimboarding: A water sport that involves riding a board on shallow water near the shore.
• Snorkeling: a hobby that involves swimming with goggles and a snorkel (breathing tube), to observe underwater life.
• Kite Boarding/Kite Surfing: involves using a large kite to propel oneself across the water on a board, similar to wakeboarding.
• Rowing/Sculling: a water sport that involves using oars to propel a boat through water.

Fishing Hobbies

I mean, you can’t list several water hobbies and NOT have a section dedicated to just fishing, right?

Let’s break these fishing types down and see if anything gets your interest:

Freshwater Water Fishing

• Bass Fishing: Targeting bass species in lakes and ponds.
• Trout Fishing: Often found in lakes and stocked ponds.
• Ice fishing: Ice fishing involves drilling a hole into a frozen lake or river and catching fish using a line and bait.
• Carp Fishing: Primarily found in lakes and ponds.
• Night Fishing: Can be done in lakes and ponds to catch species that are more active during the night.
• Fly Casting: Practiced in various freshwater environments, including lakes and ponds.
• Tenkara Fishing: A method often used in freshwater environments, including lakes and ponds.
• Fly Fishing: A popular method for river fishing, targeting species like trout and salmon.
• Kayak Fishing: Often conducted in rivers, targeting various species found in river environments.
• Noodling: Primarily done in river environments, catching catfish in their burrows in riverbanks.
• Bowfishing: Can be done in rivers, targeting fish in shallow waters.
• Magnet Fishing: Often conducted in rivers to find metal objects lost or discarded in the river.
• Chumming: Used in rivers to attract fish to a specific area for increased chances of a successful catch.

Ocean Fishing

• Deep Sea Fishing: Conducted in the open ocean, targeting large oceanic species.
• Surf Fishing: Done from the shoreline, casting into the ocean to catch various species.
• Pier Fishing: Fishing from a pier into the ocean, targeting species found near structures in the ocean.
• Spearfishing: Conducted in the ocean, where divers spear fish underwater.tea
• Big Game Fishing: A sport conducted in the ocean, targeting large oceanic species.
• Tournament Fishing: Ocean tournaments focus on catching large oceanic species.
• Crabbing: Conducted in the ocean, catching crabs in coastal areas.
• Lobstering: Conducted in the ocean, catching lobsters in coastal areas.
• Shrimping: Conducted in the ocean, catching shrimp in coastal areas.
• Aquarium Fishing: Catching fish for aquariums, often focusing on oceanic species.
• Kite Fishing: A method used in the open ocean to suspend bait for large species.
• Drone Fishing: Using drones to drop bait in the ocean, often in deep or hard-to-reach areas.

Gardening & Wildlife

Gardening is a popular outdoor hobby that involves growing and cultivating plants, flowers, or vegetables. 

Let’s take a look at a variety of hobbies that are related to gardening or keeping plants.

• Beekeeping: Hobby that involves cultivating nests of bees to collect honey or for fun.
• Bonsai gardening: Bonsai gardening is the art of growing and cultivating miniature trees, originating from Japan, in containers.
• Butterfly gardening: This gardening involves planting butterfly-friendly flowers and creating a habitat that supports these insects throughout their life cycle, contributing to biodiversity and the conservation of butterfly species.
• Composting: The process of converting organic waste into nutrient-rich compost, enriching soil quality, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable gardening.
• Flower gardening: Flower gardening is the practice of growing and cultivating various types of flowers for aesthetic purposes.
• Hydroponics: A hobby that uses a method of growing plants without soil, where they are instead grown in a nutrient-rich water solution
• Indoor gardening: Refers to the practice of growing plants inside a controlled environment, typically within a home, office, or other indoor space.
• Landscape design: The art and science of planning and arranging outdoor spaces to create aesthetically pleasing and functional environments.
• Permaculture gardening: a sustainable and holistic approach to gardening that aims to create a self-sufficient and regenerative ecosystem.
• Succulent gardening: A type of gardening that focuses on growing and caring for succulent plants.
• Vegetable gardening: Vegetable gardening is the practice of growing vegetables for personal consumption or for sale.

Outdoor Winter Hobbies

Let’s take a look at hobbies that are best suited for the cold!

 Ice and snow – watch out!

• Building snow forts or igloos: Building snow forts or igloos is a winter pastime where people shape snow into protective shelters, fostering teamwork and outdoor fun.
• Cross-country skiing: Cross-country skiing is a form of skiing that involves gliding on flat and uphill terrain.
• Figure skating: Figure skating is an artistic hobby that requires grace, precision, and athleticism. Participants perform various spins, jumps, and lifts on ice.
• Ice sailing: Ice sailing is a hobby that involves sailing on ice using a specially designed boat that is propelled by the wind.
• Skiing: Skiing is a popular winter sport that involves sliding down snow-covered slopes on skis.
• Snowboarding: Snowboarders glide down snow-covered slopes, performing tricks and jumps to challenge their balance and coordination skills.
• Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing involves walking on snow with specially designed shoes that distribute weight and prevent sinking.
• Snowkiting: Combining snowboarding or skiing with kite flying, snowkiters use the power of the wind to propel themselves across snow-covered landscapes.
• Snowboarding in the Backcountry: Backcountry snowboarders explore snowfields, mountain slopes, and rugged terrain, often hiking or using snowmobiles to access remote locations.
• Snow & Ice sculpting: Snow and ice sculpting is the practice of creating art out of ice using specialized tools.

Extreme Outdoor Hobbies

Alright so, I’m not one for adrenaline rushes. 

HOWEVER, some of you might be!

Below is a list of mind-blowing hobbies I don’t think I could ever try to attempt even in my dreams!

Yes. Yes, I am lame.

Take a look!

• Base Jumping: an extreme sport that involves using a prachute to jump off a building, bridge, or cliff.
• Big Wave Surfing: A hobby where surfers ride massive ocean waves.
• Bungee Jumping: an activity where people leap off a high platform or bridge with an elastic cord tied to their ankles.
• Cave Diving: an extreme sport that involves diving into underwater caves and exploring the dark and mysterious environment.
• Canyoneering: This sport involves navigating through narrow canyons, often requiring rappelling, swimming, and climbing, to explore remote and breathtaking natural formations.
• Climbing: a hobby that involves scaling different types of vertical surfaces such as rocks, mountains, and buildings.
• Free Solo Climbing: In free solo climbing, climbers ascend challenging rock faces without any safety equipment or ropes, relying solely on their skill, strength, and balance.
• Highlining: Similar to slacklining but at greater heights, highlining involves walking or balancing on a narrow, suspended webbing stretched between two elevated points, often in dramatic natural settings like cliffs or canyons.
• Mountain climbing / Mountaineering: Mountain climbing or mountaineering involves climbing mountains or other high peaks, often with the use of specialized ropes, harnesses, and crampons.
• Parachuting: A thrilling hobby that involves jumping out of a plane or helicopter while wearing a parachute.
• Paragliding: A recreational and competitive outdoor flying sport that involves flying lightweight, free-flying glider aircraft with no rigid primary structure.
• Rafting: A fun and exciting outdoor activity that involves navigating rough waters in a raft. Can be done on calm rivers or challenging rapids.
• Rappelling (Abseiling): A technique used to descend a vertical surface by sliding down a rope. Commonly used in rock climbing or canyoneering.
• Spelunking: A fun outdoor activity that involves exploring caves and underground passages. Spelunking can be an exciting way to explore the outdoors and requires physical fitness and safety awareness.
• Skydiving: This adrenaline-pumping sport entails jumping from an aircraft at high altitudes and free-falling before deploying a parachute for a safe landing.
• Storm Chasing: A thrilling hobby that involves following and observing severe weather events, such as tornadoes or thunderstorms. Storm Chasing requires safety awareness and is not recommended for beginners.
• Survivalism: An interesting outdoor hobby that involves learning and practicing wilderness survival skills, like building shelters or finding food and water in the wild.
• Slacklining: A balance sport that involves walking or performing tricks on a flat, flexible line that is tensioned between two anchor points.
• White Water Kayaking: Unlike regular kayaking, this extreme sport involves navigating challenging and turbulent whitewater rapids, requiring advanced paddling skills and knowledge of river currents.
• Wingsuit Flying: Wingsuit flyers wear special suits with wings between their arms and body, allowing them to glide through the air at high speeds after jumping from cliffs, aircraft, or other elevated positions.

Arts & Crafts Hobbies

Ever felt the magic that unfolds when you pick up a paintbrush or mold clay with your hands? 

Welcome to the vibrant world of “Arts & Crafts Hobbies”! 

It’s a space where you can unleash your creativity and craft beautiful pieces of art, all while having a blast with friends or enjoying some ‘me’ time.

But it’s not just about the fun; it’s a journey packed with incredible benefits. 

Did you know that indulging in artistic hobbies can make you happier and more relaxed, enhancing your observation and problem-solving skills? 

Yes, it’s a fantastic way to boost your brain productivity and even improve hand-eye coordination!

Here’s what you can explore in this section:

• Drawing & Painting: From digital art to traditional sketches, discover the joy of painting your dreams on canvas.
• Crafting: Dive into the world of crafting, where you can create beautiful artifacts and decorations. Or maybe even your own clothes?
• Photography & Videography: Capture the beauty of the world through your lens, creating memories that last a lifetime with your own personal style.

So, are you ready to dive into this colorful journey? Trust us, it’s a canvas waiting for your creative touch. 

Let’s get started!

Drawing & Painting

Drawing & Painting hobbies involve using various art materials and techniques to create visual art.

These creative hobbies include several methods such as sketching and drawing with pencils or charcoal, to painting with watercolors, acrylics, or oils.

Some drawing hobbies involve creating detailed illustrations, while others focus on abstract or expressive art.

Drawing hobbies can be pursued for fun, relaxation, or to develop artistic skills and techniques.

These hobbies enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels and can be a great way to unleash creativity and explore different artistic styles.

• Abstract Expressionism: Abstract expressionism is known for its emotional and spontaneous use of color and brushwork to convey feelings and ideas.
• Acrylic Pour Painting: Acrylic pour painting is a technique where acrylic paints are poured onto a canvas to create mesmerizing abstract patterns and effects.
• Airbrushing: Airbrushing is a technique of drawing with an airbrush, a tool that sprays paint or ink onto a surface.
• Animation Drawing: Animation drawing involves creating the illustrations for an animated feature or short film.
• Anime Drawing: Anime drawing is a style of drawing that originated in Japan and characterized by its distinctive visual style. It involves drawing characters and scenes from popular anime shows and movies.
• Batik Painting: Batik is a traditional method of painting on fabric using wax resist and dye, resulting in intricate and colorful patterns.
• Botanical Drawing: Botanical drawing is the art of drawing plants and flowers.
• Caricature Drawing: Caricature drawing involves creating exaggerated or humorous portraits of people or animals.
• Cartoon Drawing: Cartoon drawing is creating humorous or satirical illustrations, often featuring exaggerated characters and situations.
• Celtic Knot Drawing: Celtic knot drawing involves creating intricate knot designs often inspired by traditional Celtic art. It is a popular hobby for those interested in history and culture.
• Chalk Art Drawing: Chalk art drawing involves creating large-scale drawings using chalk on pavement or other surfaces.
• Charcoal Drawing: Charcoal drawing involves creating detailed illustrations using charcoal pencils.
• Chinese Brush Painting: Chinese brush painting is a traditional art form that uses brush and ink to depict natural scenes, often featuring landscapes and flowers.
• Cityscape Drawing: Cityscape drawing involves creating detailed illustrations of cityscapes and skylines.
• Color Pencil Drawing: Color pencil drawing involves creating detailed illustrations using colored pencils.
• Comic Book Drawing: Comic book drawing involves creating the illustrations for comic books or graphic novels.
• Concept Art Drawing: Concept art drawing involves creating illustrations for movies, video games, and other visual media.
• Contour Drawing: Contour drawing involves creating illustrations using only the outlines of objects or figures.
• Cubism Drawing: Cubism drawing involves creating illustrations inspired by the art movement of the same name.
• Decoupage: Decoupage is the art of decorating surfaces with cut-out images and layers of varnish or glue, creating a collage effect.
• Encaustic Painting: Encaustic painting involves using hot wax mixed with pigments to create layered and textured artworks.
• Figure Drawing: Figure drawing involves creating illustrations of the human figure. It is a popular hobby for people interested in traditional art techniques and anatomy.
• Gesture Drawing: Gesture drawing involves creating quick sketches to capture the essence of a pose or movement.
• Hyper-realistic Drawing: Hyper-realistic drawing involves creating illustrations that resemble photographs.
• Impressionist Painting: Impressionist painting is characterized by capturing the essence of a scene through loose brushwork and the play of light. It’s a style known for its atmospheric quality.
• Illusion Drawing: Illusion drawing involves creating illustrations that create an optical illusion or appear three-dimensional. It is a popular hobby for those interested in optical illusions and visual trickery.
• Ink Drawing: Ink drawing involves creating illustrations using ink as a medium.
• Fresco Painting: Fresco painting involves applying pigments to wet plaster, creating durable and long-lasting artworks, often found in ancient and historic sites.
• Geometric Abstraction: Geometric abstraction focuses on precise geometric shapes and patterns to create structured and visually appealing compositions.
• Landscape Drawing: Landscape drawing involves creating illustrations of natural landscapes, like mountains or forests.
• Light and Shadow Drawing: Light and shadow drawing involves creating illustrations that play with light and shadow to create depth and dimension.
• Luminism: Luminism is a painting style that focuses on the effects of light in landscapes, creating serene and tranquil scenes.
• Mandala Drawing: Mandala drawing involves creating intricate circular designs often inspired by Eastern spirituality and religion. It is a calm hobby for those interested in meditation and mindfulness.
• Miniature Portraiture: Miniature portraiture is the art of creating highly detailed and small-scale portraits, often found in lockets or jewelry.
• Miniature Landscape Painting: Miniature landscape painting is the art of creating highly detailed and small-scale landscapes, often used in model train layouts or dollhouses.
• Nature Drawing: Nature drawing involves creating illustrations of plants, animals, and natural landscapes.
• Oil Painting: Oil painting involves creating illustrations using oil paint as a medium.
• One-Point Perspective Drawing: One-point perspective drawing involves creating illustrations that use a single vanishing point to create the illusion of depth and dimension.
• Monochromatic Painting: Monochromatic painting explores a single color palette, creating a harmonious and visually striking effect.
• Pointillism: Pointillism is a painting technique that uses small dots of color to create intricate and vibrant compositions.
• Paper Marbling: Paper marbling is a technique where paints are floated on a liquid surface and transferred onto paper to create beautiful and unpredictable patterns.
• Pastel Drawing: Pastel drawing involves creating illustrations using pastel as a medium.
• Pencil Drawing: Pencil drawing involves creating illustrations using pencils as a medium.
• Pet Portrait Drawing: Pet portrait drawing involves creating illustrations of pets or animals. It is a common hobby for those interested in animals and pet ownership.
• Pop Art: Pop art is a style that incorporates popular culture elements and often features bold colors and iconic imagery.
• Portrait Drawing: Portrait drawing involves creating illustrations of people, often focusing on their face or upper body.
• Realistic Drawing: Realistic drawing involves creating illustrations that resemble real-life objects or scenes.
• Realistic Wildlife Painting: Realistic wildlife painting focuses on accurately portraying animals in their natural habitats, making it a popular choice for nature enthusiasts.
• Sand Painting: Sand painting involves creating intricate designs by placing colored sand or pigments on a surface.
• Scratchboard Drawing: Scratchboard drawing involves creating illustrations by scratching away at a surface, such as black ink on white paper, to reveal a contrasting color underneath.
• Scribble Art Drawing: Scribble art drawing involves creating illustrations using random scribbles and marks. It is a popular hobby for those interested in abstract art and spontaneous creativity.
• Sketching: Sketching involves creating quick, rough illustrations to capture the essence of an object or scene.
• Spray Paint Art: Spray paint art is a technique that uses aerosol paints to create vibrant and dynamic street art and murals.
• Stained Glass Painting: Stained glass painting involves painting on glass panels to create intricate and colorful stained-glass windows.
• Still Life Drawing: Still life drawing involves creating illustrations of inanimate objects, such as fruit or flowers.
• Stippling: Stippling is a technique where tiny dots or marks are used to create shading and texture in drawings and paintings.
• Street Art: Street art includes a wide range of artistic expressions in public spaces, from graffiti to murals, often conveying social or political messages.
• Surrealist Drawing: Surrealist drawing involves creating illustrations that explore the subconscious mind and the realm of dreams.
• Tattoo Designing: Tattoo designing involves creating illustrations or designs for tattoos.
• Texture Drawing: Texture drawing involves creating illustrations that emphasize the texture and surface of an object.
• Three-Point Perspective Drawing: Three-point perspective drawing involves creating illustrations that use three vanishing points to create the illusion of depth and dimension.
• Tonalism: Tonalism is a painting style that emphasizes mood and atmosphere through a limited color palette and soft, subtle tones.
• Trompe L’oeil Drawing: Trompe l’oeil drawing involves creating illustrations that create a realistic illusion of three-dimensionality.
• Watercolor Painting: Watercolor painting involves creating illustrations using watercolor paint as a medium.
• Wood Carving Drawing: Wood carving drawing involves creating sculptures or illustrations by carving into wood.
• Zentangle Drawing: Zentangle drawing is creating structured illustrations using repeated patterns and shapes. It is a relaxing hobby for those interested in meditative and therapeutic art techniques.

Have you seen our COMPLETE list of creative hobbies? Take a look.

Digital Art

• Digital Art: Digital art involves creating illustrations and other visual media using digital tools such as software and tablets.
• Diorama Making: Diorama making involves creating a three-dimensional miniature scene or setting.
• CAD Drawing: CAD drawing is computer software to create detailed technical drawings.

Design Hobbies

• Architectural Drawing: Architectural drawing is detailed drawings and plans of buildings, structures, and landscapes.
• Fashion Design: Fashion design involves creating clothing and accessories.
• Graphic Design: This enjoyable hobby involves creating visual media for applications, such as advertising, branding, and web design.
• Industrial Design Drawing: Industrial design drawing involves creating illustrations to develop industrial products, such as furniture or machinery.
• Orthographic Drawing: Orthographic drawing involves creating detailed illustrations of objects or structures from multiple viewpoints.
• Blueprint Drawing: Blueprint drawing involves creating detailed technical drawings for architecture, engineering, and construction.
• Interior Design Drawing: Interior design drawing involves creating detailed illustrations of interior spaces, such as rooms or buildings.
• Urban Sketching: Urban sketching involves creating illustrations of cityscapes and urban landscapes.

Other Drawing Hobbies

• Calligraphy: Calligraphy is the art of writing beautifully, often using ornate lettering and decorative flourishes.
• Cartography: Cartography is the art and science of creating maps.
• Engraving: Engraving involves creating illustrations or designs by carving into a surface, such as metal or wood.
• Etching: Etching involves creating illustrations or designs using acid to etch into a surface, such as metal or glass.
• Graffiti: Graffiti involves creating art or writing on walls or other surfaces in public spaces.
• Lithography: Lithography involves creating illustrations or designs using a printing process that involves using a flat stone or metal plate.
• Handwriting Analysis: Handwriting analysis involves analyzing handwriting to gain insights into a person’s personality traits and characteristics.

Overall, this list of drawing, illustration, and painting hobbies offers interests and activities for people who enjoy drawing, painting, and other forms of drawing art.

Crafting Hobbies

Time to set up shop at your local craft show!

These hobbies are relaxing and fun activities that result in a finished product you can give as gifts, make money selling at local shows or events, or to have around the house or use!

Candle-making is an example of a low-cost hobby that not only smells good, but can keep you busy when you’re bored!

Arts & Crafts (General)

• Basket Weaving: Creating baskets using natural materials such as reeds and vines.
• Bookbinding: Crafting books by hand using traditional techniques and materials.
• Candle-making: Crafting candles by hand, often incorporating natural materials and scents.
• Ceramics: Creating objects from clay using various techniques like pottery wheel or hand-building.
• Glass Etching: Creating designs on glass surfaces using chemicals.
• Glass Fusion Art: Glass fusion art involves melting and fusing glass pieces together to create unique and colorful glass sculptures.
• Jewelry Making: Designing and crafting jewelry using different materials and techniques.
• Lapidary: Cutting and polishing gemstones and minerals to create jewelry or decorative items.
• Macramé: Creating decorative knots using cord or string to make various items.
• Mosaic: Mosaic art involves creating images or patterns by arranging small colored pieces, often glass or tiles, into a larger design.
• Origami: Folding paper into shapes and designs, a traditional Japanese art form.
• Paper Mâché: Creating objects with a mixture of paper and glue.
• Pottery: Shaping clay into various forms and then firing them to create durable objects.
• Sand Art: Creating designs and images by pouring colored sand onto a flat surface.
• Sandcastles: A fun and creative outdoor hobby that involves building elaborate castles or structures out of sand.
• Scrapbooking: Creating albums or books with photographs, memorabilia, and decorative elements.
• Soap-making: Creating handmade soap using natural ingredients and essential oils.
• Tie Dye Clothes: Creating colorful designs on fabric by tying, folding, and dying it.
• Wire Sculpture: Creating sculptures using wire as a medium.

Textile & Fabric Arts

• Crocheting: Creating fabric by looping yarn or thread with a hook.
• Cross-Stitch: Creating designs by sewing X-shaped stitches onto fabric.
• Embroidery: Decorating fabric by sewing designs with thread.
• Felting: Creating fabric by matting wool fibers together.
• Knitting: Creating various items like scarves and hats using yarn and needles.
• Lacemaking: Creating delicate and intricate patterns using thread or yarn.
• Needlepoint: Stitching various designs onto a canvas using a needle and thread.
• Quilting: Sewing together different pieces of fabric to create a quilt.
• Sewing: Creating clothing, accessories, or home decor items using a needle and thread.
• Tailoring Clothes: Altering or repairing clothing to make it fit better or look more stylish.

Design & Decoration

• Balloon Animals: Making whimsical, colorful creations from balloons, popular for entertaining children at parties.
• Building Dollhouses: Creating miniature homes and furnishings for dolls.
• Cardboard Engineering: Creating structures and objects out of cardboard using engineering principles.
• Flower Arranging: Creating floral arrangements for decoration or special occasions.
• Flower collecting and pressing: Similar to flower arranging, flower collecting and pressing involves gathering different types of flowers and pressing them to preserve their beauty. It can also involve creating art or crafts with the pressed flowers.
• Glassblowing: Creating objects out of molten glass using various tools.
• Hair Braiding: Creating intricate hairstyles by weaving strands of hair together.
• Home Decorating: Improving the aesthetic of living spaces through furniture, decor, and other design elements.
• Nail Art: Creating unique and intricate designs on nails using nail polish and other tools.
• Topiary: Shaping living plants into decorative shapes and sculptures.
• Latte Art: This niche hobby can be used for your own leisure, or if you own or work at a local coffee shop!

Traditional & Historical Crafts

These hobby ideas center on traditional arts and crafts – some of which can date back centuries!

Browse below for some inspiration.

• Blacksmithing: Working with metal to create functional objects like tools and weapons.
• Book Restoration: Repairing and preserving old or damaged books.
• Gunsmithing: Repairing, modifying, and building firearms.
• Metal Working: Shaping and manipulating metals into different objects using various tools.
• Taxidermy: Preserving and mounting animal specimens for display.
• Upholstery: Repairing or reupholstering furniture to give it a new look.

Woodworking Hobbies

The hobby ideas focus on the art of woodworking. These can be low-cost hobby projects that can keep you busy for hours!

This enjoyable pastime is frequently passed down from other family members as well.

A great way to keep connected with your friends and family in the process!

• Bonsai Tray Carving: Crafting trays and pots for bonsai trees, often with intricate designs and details.
• Bowl and Spoon Carving: Specializing in carving bowls, spoons, and other utensils from wood. This pastime often focuses on creating functional items with a rustic, handmade aesthetic.
• Cabinetry: Building cabinets for kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces. This involves skills in measuring, cutting, and assembling wood pieces to create functional and aesthetically pleasing cabinets.
• Carving: Creating sculptures, ornaments, and other decorative items using carving tools to shape wood.
• Chip Carving: A style of carving where knives or chisels are used to remove small chips of the material from a flat surface in a single piece.
• Furniture Building: Crafting furniture like tables, chairs, and cabinets. This hobby can range from making simple pieces to crafting intricate, fine furniture.
• Intarsia: Creating images with wood inlay, using various shapes, sizes, and species of wood fitted together to create a mosaic-like picture with an illusion of depth.
• Joinery: The art of joining pieces of wood together to create complex structures. This involves mastering various types of wood joints, like dovetails and mortise and tenon joints.
• Marquetry: The art of applying pieces of veneer to a structure to form decorative patterns, designs, or pictures.
• Pyrography: The art of decorating wood with burn marks resulting from the controlled application of a heated object like a poker.
• Scroll Saw Art: Using a scroll saw to create intricate designs and artworks from wood. This can include decorative pieces as well as functional items like coasters and wall clocks.
• Segmented Turning: A woodworking process where a project is turned on a lathe, where the material is glued together from many pieces to create patterns and visual effects.
• Shaker Furniture Making: Crafting furniture in the Shaker style, known for its simplicity, functionality, and fine craftsmanship.
• Shipbuilding: Crafting scale models of ships or full-sized ships, involving skills in carpentry, joinery, and often, knowledge of historical ship designs.
• Timber Framing: A method of building with heavy timbers jointed together with various types of joinery or joints secured with wooden pegs.
• Toy Making: Creating toys from wood, which can range from simple blocks to intricate dolls and playsets.
• Turning: Using a lathe to turn square or irregular-shaped wood pieces into cylindrical shapes, creating bowls, vases, and pens.
• Whittling: Carving shapes from raw wood using a knife or a chisel, often creating small, handheld objects or sculptures.
• Wood Inlay: The process of decorating the surface of wood by setting into it material like ivory, bone, or other types of wood to create patterns or pictures.
• Wood Veneering: Applying thin slices of wood, called veneer, to the surface of an object to give it the appearance of being made of solid wood.
• Wooden Box Making: Crafting boxes from wood, often with intricate joints and details. This can include jewelry boxes, keepsake boxes, and other types of storage boxes.
• Wooden Frame Making: Creating frames for pictures, paintings, and mirrors from wood. This hobby often involves crafting detailed and decorative frames that enhance the beauty of the artwork they hold.
• Wooden Game Board Crafting: Creating game boards for games like chess, checkers, and backgammon from wood. This hobby often focuses on creating beautiful and durable game boards that can be passed down through generations.
• Wooden Instrument Making: Crafting musical instruments such as guitars, violins, and flutes from wood. This is a highly skilled hobby that combines woodworking with musical knowledge.
• Wooden Lantern and Lamp Making: Crafting lanterns and lamps from wood, often with intricate designs and details that create beautiful lighting effects.
• Wooden Model Making: Creating detailed models of buildings, ships, and other structures from wood. This hobby often involves creating scale models with a high level of detail and accuracy.
• Wooden Pen Turning: Creating pens from wood using a lathe. This hobby often involves using beautiful and exotic woods to create pens that are both functional and artistic.
• Wooden Puzzle Making: Creating complex puzzles using wood. This can range from simple jigsaw puzzles to intricate 3D puzzles.
• Wooden Sign Making: Crafting personalized signs from wood, often using techniques like carving or pyrography to add designs and lettering.
• Wooden Toy Vehicle Crafting: Creating wooden cars, trucks, and other vehicles, often with moving parts. This hobby can be a fun way to create toys that are both beautiful and durable.
• Wooden Wand Making: Crafting wands from wood, often with intricate carvings and details. This can be a fun hobby for fans of fantasy and magic.

Photography & Videography

Have you always considered taking up photography as a new hobby?

You’re not alone! Photography is one of the most common hobbies around the world!

Maybe you want to make your own YouTube channel? That’s cool too!

• Abstract Photography: Creating images that do not have an immediate association with the object world, often showcasing shapes, colors, and textures.
• Astrophotography: Specializing in capturing images of astronomical objects, celestial events, and areas of the night sky.
• Black and White Photography: Creating images with a range of black and white tones, often emphasizing contrast, texture, and shape.
• Drone Photography and Videography: Utilizing drones to capture photos and videos from an elevated position, providing a bird’s eye view of landscapes and properties.
• Landscape Photography: Capturing images of natural scenes, aiming to show the beauty of the environment.
• Macro Photography: Taking close-up photographs of small objects, often showcasing details that are not visible to the naked eye.
• Nature and Wildlife Photography: Specializing in capturing images of wildlife and natural environments, often showcasing the beauty and complexity of the natural world.
• Night Photography: The practice of capturing images in low light conditions, often creating unique and atmospheric images.
• Portrait Photography: Focusing on capturing the personality of individuals or groups through the use of poses, backdrops, and lighting.
• Street Photography: Documenting everyday life and society on the streets, often capturing candid moments and interesting scenes.
• Time-Lapse Photography and Videography: Creating videos that show a scene or event that takes place over a long period, condensed into a short video. This might require more technical knowledge, but well worth the time! (get it?!)
• Travel Photography and Videography: Documenting one’s travels through photos and videos, often showcasing the landscapes, cultures, and experiences encountered during the trip.
• Underwater Photography and Videography: Specializing in capturing images and videos underwater, often showcasing the beauty and diversity of marine life.
• Urban Exploration Photography: Documenting abandoned and forgotten urban environments, often showcasing the beauty in decay and the passage of time.

Music Hobbies

Ever felt the sheer joy that music brings to your soul? Welcome to the melodious world of “Music Hobbies! It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the magical notes and rhythms.

Whether you’re tapping your feet to a catchy tune or strumming a guitar, music hobbies are one of the most popular hobbies in the world. 

But music isn’t just enjoyable; it’s a great hobby packed with incredible benefits! 

Did you know that indulging in music can be a therapy and help you feel fantastic about yourself? 

Yes, it’s a proven way to boost your dopamine levels, enhancing your overall well-being.

Here’s what you can explore in this section:

• Music Composition & Production: Unleash your creativity and compose melodies that touch hearts.
• Music Community & Social Activities: Connect with fellow music lovers and share your passion.
• Dancing: Move to the rhythm and express yourself through dance, from ballroom to modern styles.

And here’s the best part: engaging in music hobbies is a journey of cognitive and emotional development, fostering mental health and happiness.

So, are you ready to dive into making your own music? 

Let’s get started!

Music Composition & Production Hobbies

• Songwriting
  • Lyric Writing: Crafting the words for songs, often telling a story or expressing emotions.
  • Melody Composition: Creating the tune or melody for a song.
• Music Production
  • Recording: Using equipment and software to record musical performances.
  • Mixing and Mastering: Adjusting various sound elements to create a final musical track.
• Sound Design
  • Foley Artistry: Creating sound effects for film and television, often using everyday objects to create sounds.
  • Synthesis: Using synthesizers to create new sounds or mimic existing sounds.

Music Community & Social Activities

• Concert-Going
  • Live Music Appreciation: Enjoying the experience of live music performances, often at venues or festivals.
  • Band Following: Regularly attending concerts of a favorite band or artist, sometimes traveling to different locations to see them perform.
• Music Education
  • Music Theory Teaching: Educating others on the principles and elements of music, including rhythm, harmony, and melody.
  • Instrument Tutoring: Teaching others how to play a specific instrument, often through one-on-one lessons.
• Fan Clubs
  • Community Engagement: Participating in communities of fans who share a common interest in a particular artist or genre.
  • Fan Art and Fiction: Creating art or stories inspired by favorite musicians or bands, often shared within the fan community.

Specialized Music Interests

• Music Theory: Studying the theoretical aspects of music, like scales and chord progressions.
• Music History: Researching the history of music and different musical eras.
• Instrument Collecting: Collecting musical instruments, often rare or vintage.
• Music Streaming: Engaging with music through streaming platforms like Spotify.
• Music Forums: Participating in online discussions about music.
• Cover Videos: Creating and sharing video covers of popular songs.

Music Performance

• Singing: Performing songs vocally, either solo or in a group.
• Instrument Playing: Learning and playing musical instruments like guitar, piano, or drums.
• DJing: Mixing and playing music tracks for an audience.

Dancing Hobbies

Dancing to music has been a hobby of humans for thousands of years.

In fact, many experts believe early humans danced frequently as shown in a recent study of chimpanzees.

There are so many different types of dances, I had to list them all out for you to look into!

Does dancing sound interesting?

Take a look at our ultimate list of dances below!

Traditional & Cultural Dances

• Greek Classical Dancing: A traditional dance style from Greece often performed at cultural festivals and events.
• Native American Dancing: A traditional dance form performed by various indigenous tribes in North America, showcasing styles ranging from powwow dancing to hoop dancing.
• Campos Dancing: A traditional folk dance from the Campos region of Brazil, known for its lively and rhythmic movements.
• Bollywood Dancing: Originating from India, this dance style is characterized by energetic and expressive movements, commonly seen in Bollywood films.
• Flamenco Dancing: A passionate and expressive dance style from Spain, often accompanied by guitar and vocals.

Ballroom Dances

• Ballet Dancing: An elegant and precise dance form requiring years of training and dedication to master.
• Ballroom Dancing: A social dance performed with a partner, typically in a ballroom or similar setting.
• Foxtrot Dancing: A smooth and elegant ballroom dance that emerged in the United States in the early 20th century.
• Quickstep Dancing: A lively ballroom dance from the UK, known for its fast footwork and syncopated rhythms.
• Tango Dancing: A sensual dance that originated in Argentina and Uruguay, characterized by close embrace and staccato movements.
• Viennese Waltz Dancing: A fast-paced ballroom dance from Vienna, Austria, noted for its rapid turns and graceful movements.
• Waltz Dancing: A smooth ballroom dance that began in Europe in the 18th century, known for its three-beat rhythm and flowing movements.

Modern & Fusion Dances

• Acro Dance: A dance style that blends classical dance techniques with acrobatics, resulting in a dynamic performance.
• Break Dancing: A dynamic and acrobatic dance style that originated from the hip-hop culture in the US in the 1970s.
• Hip Hop Dancing: A high-energy dance style that emerged from African American and Latinx communities in the US in the 1970s.
• Linya Break Dancing: A modern form of breakdancing that integrates elements of hip-hop and other dance styles.
• Modern Imaginative Dancing: A contemporary dance style characterized by fluid and expressive movements.
• Zumba Dancing: A high-energy fitness program that combines dance and aerobic movements, often set to Latin and international music.

Recreational & Social Dances

• Belly Dancing: A sensual and fluid dance style that originated in the Middle East and North Africa.
• Calypso Dancing: A lively dance style from Trinidad and Tobago, often associated with Caribbean music and culture.
• Cheer Dancing: A high-energy dance style commonly performed by cheerleading squads at sporting events and competitions.
• Line Dance Dancing: A dance where participants form a line or formation, typically dancing to country or pop music.
• Soca Dancing: A dance style from Trinidad and Tobago, performed to soca music, a blend of calypso and Indian music.

Unique & Novelty Dances

• Bassoon Dancing: A lesser-known dance style that incorporates a bassoon as a prop during the performance.
• Bernie Dancing: Originated from the Bernie Lean, a popular dance move from the “Moving Like Bernie” music video by ISA.
• Double Bass Dancing: A dance style that uses a double bass as a prop during the performance.
• Fire Dancing: A visually stunning dance style involving dancing with flames and other fiery objects.
• Flying Men Dancing: A gravity-defying dance style that uses harnesses and wires to create the illusion of flying.
• Glockenspiel Dancing: A rare dance style that uses a glockenspiel as a prop during the performance.
• Gongs Dancing: A lesser-known dance style that uses gongs as musical accompaniment during the performance.
• Moonwalk: A signature move popularized by Michael Jackson, where the dancer appears to be walking backwards but is actually sliding their feet forward.
• Tap-Dancing: A percussive dance style where dancers wear special shoes to create rhythmic beats by tapping their feet.

Musical Instrument Hobbies

Just as we have with dancing, I’ve listed a number of musical instruments you can learn as a hobby.

Humans have played instruments and sung music for as long as history has been recorded.

These hobbies are great, as you’ll spend time learning new songs, practicing your instrument, playing with friends, and getting the overall satisfaction you’ll get from hearing yourself play music.

Here is our ultimate list of musical instruments you can explore!

Keyboard Instruments

• Accordion: A box-shaped instrument with a keyboard and buttons that produce a sound by squeezing air through reeds.
• Clavichord: A keyboard instrument that produces sound by striking strings with metal blades.
• Celesta: a keyboard instrument that produces sound by striking metal bars with hammers. It is commonly used in orchestral music and has a unique, ethereal sound that is often associated with magical or dreamlike scenes in music and film.
• Electric keyboard: a keyboard instrument that uses electrical amplification to produce sound. It is commonly used in many genres of music, particularly in rock, pop, and jazz music.
• Harpsichord: A keyboard instrument that produces sound by plucking strings, producing a distinctive, Baroque-era sound.
• Kaffir Piano: A traditional South African keyboard instrument with a unique, bright and percussive sound.
• Piano: a large keyboard instrument that produces sound by striking strings with hammers. It is widely used in many genres of music and is often the first instrument studied by music students.
• Jazz piano: A keyboard instrument used in jazz music, often featuring complex harmonies and improvisation, producing a wide range of sounds.
• Organ: a keyboard instrument that produces sound by sending air through pipes or electronic circuits. It is commonly used in church music and classical music.
• Synthesizer: an electronic keyboard instrument that produces sound by generating electrical signals. It is commonly used in many genres of music, particularly in electronic and pop music.

Stringed Instrument Hobbies

• Acoustic Guitar: A guitar that relies solely on its own acoustic sound, without any electronic amplification.
• Arpeggione: A fretted stringed instrument that is bowed like a cello, but has six strings and is played like a guitar.
• Autoharp: A stringed instrument that is played by strumming chords on its bars, which are then dampened by felt pads.
• Banjo: A stringed instrument with a circular body and a long neck, played with a pick or fingers.
• Cello: A stringed instrument that is played with a bow and produces a rich, warm tone.
• Fiddle: A stringed instrument that is played with a bow and produces a lively, energetic sound.
• Guitar: One of the most popular hobbies – Guitar is a stringed musical instrument that produces beautiful, versatile sounds and is popular in a wide range of musical genres. Our guitar guide.
• Gijak: A bowed stringed instrument used in traditional music in Azerbaijan and Iran, producing a melancholic and haunting sound.
• Geedal: A type of lute that is often used in traditional Somali music, producing a rich and resonant sound.
• Harp: A beautiful and ancient stringed instrument that produces a soothing, ethereal sound often associated with angels and heavenly realms.
• Hurdy Gurdy: An ancient stringed instrument that produces a unique, drone-like sound, often used in traditional folk music.
• Irish Bouzouki: A stringed instrument similar to a mandolin, often used in traditional Irish music, producing a lively and energetic sound.
• Igil: A two-stringed bowed instrument used in traditional Mongolian music, producing a mournful and soulful sound.
• Jazz guitar: A guitar used in jazz music, often featuring complex harmonies and improvisation, producing a wide range of sounds.
• Kabosy: A guitar-like instrument used in traditional Malagasy music, producing a bright and rhythmic sound.
• Kora: A West African harp-like instrument with 21 strings, played with both hands.
• Koto: A traditional Japanese stringed instrument with 13 strings, played with finger picks.
• Kagul: A bowed stringed instrument used in traditional music in the Philippines, producing a deep and resonant sound.
• Kamanche: A bowed stringed instrument used in traditional music in Iran and Central Asia, producing a mournful and soulful sound.
• Kanklės: A plucked stringed instrument used in traditional Lithuanian music, producing a sweet and mellow sound.
• Lute: A stringed instrument with a pear-shaped body and a fretted neck, popular in medieval and Renaissance music.
• Kayagum: A Korean stringed instrument with 12 strings, played with a bamboo stick or finger picks.
• Ukulele: A small, four-stringed instrument from Hawaii, similar to a guitar but with a higher-pitched, brighter tone.
• Viola: A stringed instrument similar to a violin but larger, with a deeper tone and lower range.
• Violin: A stringed instrument with four strings, played with a bow, and used in a wide range of musical styles.
• Xalam: A plucked stringed instrument used in traditional Kazakh music, producing a sweet and mellow sound.

Brass Instruments

• Alto Horn: A brass instrument with a wide bell, similar to a euphonium.
• Cornet: A brass instrument with a conical bore and a flared bell, similar to a trumpet.
• Euphonium: A brass instrument with a conical bore and a bell that faces upwards, producing a warm and rich sound. The euphonium is often used in brass bands, concert bands, and orchestras.
• Flugelhorn: A brass instrument with a conical bore and a wider bell than a trumpet, producing a warm and mellow sound. The flugelhorn is often used in jazz and brass ensembles and is sometimes used as a substitute for the trumpet in orchestral music.
• Sousaphone: A type of tuba that is designed to be played while marching, with the bell facing forwards, producing a powerful and booming sound. The sousaphone is often used in marching bands and parades.
• Trombone: A brass instrument with a sliding tube, used in orchestral, jazz, and popular music.
• Trumpet: A brass instrument with a flared bell and three valves, used in classical, jazz, and popular music.
• Tuba: A large brass instrument with a deep, booming sound, typically used in brass bands and orchestras.

Percussion Instruments

• Atumpan: A set of two large African drums that are played together.
• Castanets: Two small percussion instruments that are held in the hand and clicked together to produce a rhythmic sound.
• Snare Drum: A versatile and popular drum used in a variety of musical genres.
• Bass Drum: A large drum with a deep, booming sound often used to provide a strong rhythm in marching bands or orchestras.
• Bell: A percussion instrument that produces a ringing sound when struck.
• Bongos: A pair of small, handheld drums with a sharp, high-pitched sound often used in Latin American or jazz music.
• Timpani: A set of large, kettle-shaped drums that produce rich, deep tones often used in classical music.
• Marimba: A percussion instrument with wooden bars that produce a mellow, resonant sound often used in orchestral music or as a solo instrument.
• Vibraphone: A percussion instrument similar to a marimba but with metal bars that produce a shimmering, vibrato sound often used in jazz or contemporary music.
• Xylophone: A percussion instrument with wooden bars that produce a bright, percussive sound often used in marching bands or as a solo instrument.
• Congas: A pair of tall, narrow drums with a distinctive Latin American sound often used in salsa or Afro-Cuban music.
• Djembe: A West African drum with a distinctive goblet shape that produces a loud, resonant sound often used in traditional African music.
• Tambourine: A percussion instrument with metal jingles attached to a circular frame often used to provide a bright, rhythmic accent in various genres of music.
• Beat Boxing: A form of vocal percussion that involves creating drum and other sounds with the mouth and voice.
• Glockenspiel: A percussion instrument composed of metal bars and played with mallets, producing bright and cheerful tones.
• Gongs: A percussion instrument composed of a large, flat metal disc, producing deep and resonant sounds.
• Khim: A Thai hammered dulcimer with silk strings that is played with two bamboo sticks.
• Triangle: A small, metallic percussion instrument with a triangular shape, played by striking with a metal beater.
• Hyooshigi: A Japanese percussion instrument made of two wooden clappers that produce a sharp, percussive sound when struck together.

Wind Instruments

• Bagpipes: A wind instrument that consists of a bag and pipes, which are played by blowing air into the bag and squeezing it with the arm to produce sound.
• Bassoon: A woodwind instrument with a double reed that produces a deep, rich tone.
• Clarinet: A woodwind instrument with a single reed that produces a bright, clear sound.
• Contrabassoon: A larger version of the bassoon that produces an even deeper, richer tone.
• Dulcian: A Renaissance wind instrument that is similar to a bassoon.
• Flute: A woodwind instrument with a narrow tube and a range of about three octaves.
• Flutophone: A simple, lightweight wind instrument that’s easy to play, making it ideal for beginners and young children.
• Gasbah: A type of clarinet often used in Middle Eastern music, known for its unique timbre and distinctive sound.
• Harmonica: A small, handheld wind instrument that produces a distinctive, bluesy sound through the vibration of metal reeds.
• Jazz saxophone: A woodwind instrument used in jazz music, often featuring a smooth and sultry sound.
• Jingle Bells: A percussion instrument consisting of metal bells attached to a strap or frame, producing a festive and cheerful sound.
• Kazoo: A small wind instrument that creates a buzzing sound when the player hums into it.
• Khloy: A type of bamboo flute used in Thai classical music.
• Khlui: Another type of bamboo flute from Thailand, typically smaller and higher pitched than the Khloy.
• Koudi: A Chinese flute made from bamboo, with a distinctive buzzing sound.
• Musical box: A small mechanical instrument that plays a tune when wound up, using metal pins on a rotating cylinder or disc.
• Oboe: A woodwind instrument with a double reed, used in classical and orchestral music.
• Opera singing: A style of singing that emphasizes dramatic expression and high vocal range, typically performed in an operatic or theatrical setting.
• Recorder: A woodwind instrument with a whistle mouthpiece, often used in early music or educational settings.
• Saxophone: A woodwind instrument with a single reed, used in jazz, classical, and popular music.

Think you might want to start playing an instrument? Check out our guide: The Best 12 Easiest Instruments To Learn, Right Now!

Sports & Fitness Hobbies Lists

Everyone seems to have some kind of competitive nature – something we learn to embrace from an early age in school, and many times all the way through high school and college!

Below is a big list of activities, interests, and games that many people find competitive (and fun!) in their free time.

Stay Active and Healthy with These Fun Sports and Fitness Hobby Ideas

The first type of competitive hobby was expressed in the form of athletic sports and being active. 

Just look at the many games played during both the winter and summer Olympics.

Our list of competitive hobbies below is filled with individual sports, team sports, or even a mixture of both!

Here’s what you can explore in this section:

• Team Sports: Unite with friends and enjoy a game of soccer, basketball, or any team activity that gets your heart racing.
• Individual Sport & Recreational Hobbies: From martial arts to shooting sports, discover activities that challenge and excite you.
• Fitness Hobbies: Dive into the world of fitness with activities like running and weight-lifting, perfect for keeping you in shape and energized.

A great thing about these hobbies are they are fun ways to meet new people, get exercise in, and hopefully get you outside for some fresh air!

Team Sports

To get us started – let’s take a quick look at team sports!

Team based activities are some of the few hobbies that allow allows you the opportunity to be active, meet new people, and express your competitive side!

Take a quick look at our list of team sports below or explore our more in-depth list of team sports guide!

• Australian football: A unique team sport combining elements of rugby and football, played with an oval ball on a large oval field.
• American football: A competitive sport played between two teams with the objective of scoring points by advancing the ball into the opposing team’s end zone.
• Baseball: A classic sport where two teams take turns hitting a ball and running around a diamond-shaped field.
• Basketball: A fast-paced, high-scoring game where players shoot a ball through a hoop on a court.
• Beach volleyball: A variation of volleyball played on sand, often in sunny beach settings.
• Cricket: A bat-and-ball game played between two teams on a circular field with the objective of scoring runs.
• Dodgeball: A fast-paced game where players try to hit their opponents with a ball while avoiding being hit themselves.
• Field hockey: Field hockey is a field sport that involves two teams of eleven players. The aim is to hit a ball into the opponent’s goal with a stick.
• Flag football: A version of American football, flag football is a fun and less intense version of the game. Instead of tackling, players remove a flag from the opponent to stop them.
• Floorball: Floorball is a fast-paced and exciting indoor sport that involves a stick and a ball. It’s similar to ice hockey but played on a hard floor surface.
• Ice hockey: Ice hockey is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport that involves skating, passing, and shooting a puck into the opponent’s goal.
• Lacrosse: This hobby involves running, catching, and shooting a ball with a stick. It requires teamwork, speed, and good coordination. Lacrosse is a physically demanding sport and can be a great way to stay active and challenge yourself.
• Roller Derby: Roller derby is a contact sport played on roller skates. It’s a physically demanding hobby that requires speed, agility, and teamwork. Roller derby can be enjoyed as a hobby or as a competitive sport.
• Rugby: Rugby is a physically demanding sport that involves tackling opponents and scoring tries. It’s a great way to stay active and build strength and endurance.
• Polo: An activity played on horseback in which the objective is to score goals by hitting a ball with a long-handled mallet.
• Soccer / Association Football: Soccer players run around the field, trying to score goals and work as a team to defeat their opponents, improving their teamwork, coordination, and fitness levels.
• Ultimate Disc: Ultimate disc players pass a frisbee to their teammates, trying to score goals, improving their speed, agility, and teamwork.
• Volleyball: Volleyball players hit a ball over a net, trying to score points, improving their hand-eye coordination, speed, agility, and teamwork.
• Water Polo: A water-based sport that requires swimming skills and strategy, with the objective of scoring goals by throwing a ball into the opponent’s net.
• Team Handball: A fast-paced indoor sport where two teams pass a ball using their hands, aiming to throw it into the opponent’s goal.
• Futsal: A variation of soccer played indoors with a smaller, low-bounce ball and fewer players on each team.
• Korfball: A mixed-gender sport with similarities to basketball and netball, where teams aim to throw a ball through a high, narrow-bottomed basket.
• Quidditch: Inspired by the Harry Potter series, this sport combines elements of rugby, dodgeball, and tag, and is played by two teams with broomsticks between their legs.
• Sepak Takraw: A Southeast Asian sport that resembles volleyball, but players use their feet, knees, chest, and head to hit the ball.
• Kabaddi: An Indian contact sport that combines aspects of wrestling, tag, and rugby, and is played by two teams that take turns attacking and defending.
• Gaelic Football: An Irish sport that combines elements of soccer and rugby, where players can use their hands and feet to pass, carry, and score with a round ball.
• Wiffleball: Wiffleball is a variation of the sport of baseball designed for indoor or outdoor play in confined areas. The game is played using a perforated, lightweight, resilient plastic ball and a long, typically yellow, plastic bat.

Individual Sport & Recreational Hobbies

Next on our hobbies list are solo sports and other recreational activities. These are primarily done alone, or possibly with another person or two.

Largely though, they are activities you can do by yourself and have fun!

• Bicycling: A versatile and enjoyable hobby, bicycling involves riding a bike for transportation, exercise, or leisure.
• Billiards: A fun and competitive game played on a pool table with the objective of sinking all your balls before your opponent.
• Baton twirling: A form of dance and gymnastics where performers twirl and manipulate batons in a choreographed routine.
• Biathlon: Biathlon combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Participants race on skis and stop at a shooting range to hit targets. 
• Bodybuilding: A fitness hobby focused on developing muscular strength and size through weightlifting and diet.
• Bowling: A popular indoor sport where players roll a ball down a lane to knock over pins.
• Bull riding: A rodeo event where cowboys try to stay on the back of a bucking bull for as long as possible.
• Cheer-leading: An active performance activity involving dance, stunts, and cheers to support a team or event.
• Color guard: A performance art that combines dance, flags, and rifles to interpret music and tell a story.
• Cycling: A popular hobby where individuals ride bicycles for transportation, exercise, or leisure.
• Croquet: A lawn game where players use mallets to hit balls through a series of hoops.
• Darts: A game where players throw small pointed projectiles at a circular board, aiming for specific sections to score points.
• Disc Golf: A fairly cheap outdoor game where players throw a frisbee-like disc into a basket or target, trying to complete the course with the fewest throws.
• Dog Sports: A hobby that involves training and competing with dogs in a variety of sports.
• Duathlon: A combination of running and cycling, du-Athlon is an endurance sport that requires physical and mental strength.
• Falconry: A unique hobby that involves the use of trained birds of prey to hunt wild animals, falconry is an exciting and challenging activity.
• Fencing: Fencing is a highly competitive hobby that requires skill, agility, and speed. Participants use swords to score points on their opponent.
• Fish tournaments: Fish tournaments are popular among fishing enthusiasts. Participants compete to catch the biggest and most fish within a specified time.
• Golfing: Golfing is a leisurely activity that involves hitting a ball into a series of holes using various clubs. It’s a great hobby for those who enjoy the outdoors and a challenge.
• Gymnastics: Gymnastics is a sport that requires strength, flexibility, and balance. Participants perform various routines on equipment like bars, beams, and mats.
• Hacky Sack: A simple yet fun hobby, hacky sack involves keeping a small, bean-filled bag in the air using your feet and other body parts.
• Handball: Handball is a fast-paced and high-scoring game that involves throwing a ball into the opponent’s goal with your hands.
• Horseback riding (Equestrianism): Horseback riding involves riding and controlling a horse. It’s a great way to connect with nature and develop a bond with animals.
• Hot Air Ballooning: Hot air ballooning involves riding in a large, colorful balloon that is propelled by hot air. It’s a unique and exhilarating experience.
• Hunting: Hunting is a common hobby among those who enjoy spending time in nature and want to challenge their hunting skills.
• Inline skating: Also known as rollerblading, this hobby involves skating on inline skates (with wheels in a line rather than in a square like traditional roller skates). It can be done on a variety of surfaces such as streets, sidewalks, or dedicated skate parks. 
• Javelin throwing: Javelin throwing is a track and field event that involves throwing a spear-like object for distance. It requires strength, skill, and technique.
• Rock climbing: Rock climbing involves scaling vertical or near-vertical rock formations using specialized equipment. It’s a physically and mentally challenging hobby that requires strength, endurance, and technique.
• Scuba diving: Scuba diving is a hobby that involves exploring underwater environments using specialized equipment. It’s a great way to explore the beauty and diversity of the ocean while improving your swimming skills and physical fitness.
• Skateboarding: Skateboarding involves riding on a board and performing tricks and stunts. It’s a fun and exciting hobby that requires balance, coordination, and skill.
• Sailing: Sailing is a hobby that involves operating a sailboat or other watercraft. It requires skill and knowledge of wind and water currents, but it can also be a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend time outdoors.
• Shuffleboard: Shuffleboard is a game that involves sliding discs on a table to score points. It’s a fun and social hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
• Skateboarding: Skateboarding is a hobby that involves riding a skateboard and performing tricks. It requires balance, skill, and courage, but it can also be a fun and creative way to express yourself.
• Weightlifting: Weightlifters lift weights to build strength and endurance, improving their overall fitness and physique.
• Wrestling: Wrestlers try to pin their opponents to the ground, improving their strength, endurance, and technique.
• Yo-yoing: Yo-yo enthusiasts perform tricks and routines with a yo-yo, improving their dexterity, focus, and creativity.
• Long-boarding: Long-boarding involves riding a longer skateboard designed for cruising and carving. It’s a fun and relaxing hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
• Long jumping: Long jumping is a track and field event that involves jumping as far as possible from a running start. It’s a challenging hobby that requires technique and training to master.
• Mountain biking: an active hobby that involves riding bicycles off-road on rough terrain. It’s a physically demanding hobby that requires skill and balance, but it’s also a great way to explore the outdoors and stay active.
• Surfing: Surfers ride waves on a board, balancing and performing tricks, and improving their balance, strength, and concentration.
• Swimming: Swimmer’s stroke through water, building endurance, strength, and flexibility while improving their breathing and concentration.
• Triathlon: Triathletes compete in three different sports: swimming, cycling, and running, improving their endurance, strength, and stamina.

Shooting Sports

The next type of hobbies on our list is shooting sports and hobbies!

This giant list of shooting and gun sports is centered around activities that involve shooting a bow, gun, or other instruments that are used to hit targets.

• Airsoft: Engage in mock battles with realistic replica firearms in a safe, fun environment.
• Action Pistol Shooting: Compete in timed scenarios, shooting at various targets while under physical and mental stress, combining speed, accuracy, and problem-solving skills.
• Archery: Perfect your aim with a bow and arrow, a traditional skill that requires precision and patience.
• Archery tag: A combination of archery and dodgeball, players use foam-tipped arrows to shoot opponents or targets.
• Axe throwing: Test your strength and precision by throwing axes at a target, a thrilling and rewarding hobby.
• Benchrest Shooting: Shoot from a stationary bench or table using highly accurate rifles, focusing on exceptional precision, consistency, and small groupings.
• Biathlon: Combine cross-country skiing with rifle marksmanship in a timed race, showcasing exceptional endurance and marksmanship skills.
• Knife throwing: Knife throwing is a hobby that involves throwing knives at a target. It requires precision and concentration.
• Laser tag: Laser tag is a fun and interactive hobby that can be enjoyed by all ages. It involves using laser guns to tag opponents and earn points. Laser tag can be played indoors or outdoors and is a great way to get some exercise while having fun.
• Lasso throwing: Lasso throwing is a unique and challenging hobby that involves throwing a loop of rope to capture a target. This hobby requires practice and skill to master and can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors.
• Paintball: Paintball is a hobby that involves shooting opponents with paint-filled pellets using a paintball gun. It can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors and is a great way to stay active while having fun with friends.
• Practical Shooting (IPSC, USPSA): Participate in dynamic stages where you shoot targets while navigating obstacles, emphasizing speed, accuracy, and shooting on the move.
• Shooting: Shooting involves using firearms to hit targets, improve focus and aim. It can be done with different types of firearms and can be enjoyed as a hobby or as a competitive sport.
• Slingshots: Slingshot enthusiasts use various types of slingshots to shoot at targets, like rocks, cans, or fruits, improving their aim and concentration skills.
• Sporting Clays: Navigate a course with various shooting stations to simulate the unpredictability of bird hunting, honing your skills in hitting moving targets.
• Skeet shooting: Skeet shooting involves shooting clay targets with a shotgun. It requires concentration, skill, and precision. Skeet shooting can be enjoyed as a hobby or as a competitive sport.
• Steel Challenge Shooting: Engage in speed-focused shooting at steel targets arranged in different configurations, challenging your speed, agility, and accuracy.
• Trap Shooting: Shoot clay targets launched from a single machine, testing your ability to hit flying targets accurately.
• Long-range shooting: This hobby involves using rifles or other firearms to shoot at targets over long distances. It requires skill, precision, and knowledge of ballistics.
• Cowboy action shooting: Cowboy action shooting is a shooting sport that involves using firearms that were common in the American Old West, like revolvers, lever-action rifles, and shotguns. Participants dress up in period costumes and engage in shooting scenarios based on historic events.
• Black powder shooting: Black powder shooting is a traditional shooting sport that involves using muzzle-loading firearms and black powder. It requires skill and knowledge of historic firearms and their use.
• Precision rifle shooting: This hobby involves using high-precision rifles to shoot at targets over long distances. It requires skill, patience, and concentration.
• Three-gun shooting: Three-gun shooting is a shooting sport that involves using a combination of firearms, typically a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol, to engage targets in different scenarios. It requires skill, speed, and accuracy.

If you’d like more information on shooting sports and activities, check out our hobby guide: Shooting Sports List & Guide!

Racquet (Racket) & Paddle Sports

Who hasn’t tried ping pong (table tennis!) before? I know I always had a friend with a ping pong table in their basement.

This hobby type is focused on activities that require a racquet or paddle, and usually a net, enclosed space, and ball.

• Badminton – A racquet sport played indoors, badminton involves hitting a shuttlecock back and forth over a high net.
• Beach Paddle Ball: There are a few different beach paddle ball games you can try out (Matkot, Kadima, and Frescobol)! These are named differently based on the location they’re played – but the idea is the same. Keep the ball in the air as long as you can!
• Crossminton / Speedminton: Crossminton, also known as speed badminton, is a fast-paced racket sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and squash. Played without a net, crossmitton can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile and exciting sport for players of all skill levels.
• Pickleball: Pickleball is a fun and fast-paced paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
• Racquetball: Racquetball is a fast-paced sport that involves hitting a ball against a wall with a racquet. It’s a great way to stay active and improve hand-eye coordination.
• Squash: Squash players hit a small rubber ball against a wall, trying to make it unreturnable for their opponent, improving their reflexes and agility.
• Table tennis (ping pong): Table tennis players hit a lightweight ball back and forth on a small table, improving their reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and concentration.
• Tennis: Tennis players hit a ball back and forth over a net, improving their hand-eye coordination, speed, agility, and endurance. Probably the most popular and well-known of racket sports, you might already be familiar with this fun sport.

For more information on all racquet and paddle sports, explore our Racket Sports List: A Comprehensive Beginner’s Guide.

Racing Hobbies

I think racing is one of the most common hobbies that have existed since the dawn of time. Who didn’t chase their friends, siblings, cousins all over the yard or through the streets?

There are several types of racing hobbies that we have to go over.

I’ve broken this list of hobbies down by what type of race it is.

The fact of the matter is – we like to be NUMBER 1 when racing!

Nothing gives people a rush quite like a race, and this hobby type is a lot of fun for all ages.

Motorsport Racing

• All-terrain vehicle: An all-terrain vehicle or ATV is a type of vehicle designed for off-road use. Riding an ATV is an exciting and adventurous hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
• Board track: Board track racing is a type of motorsport that was popular in the early 20th century. It involves racing motorcycles on a steeply banked wooden track. It’s a fascinating hobby that offers a glimpse into the history of motorsports.
• Dirt track: Dirt track racing is a type of motorsport that involves racing on a dirt track in a variety of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and ATVs. It’s a thrilling hobby that requires skill, speed, and technique.
• Drag racing: Drag racing is a type of motorsport that involves racing on a straight track, typically over a quarter-mile distance. It’s a fast-paced and exciting hobby that requires skill and precision.
• Formula: Formula racing is a type of motorsport that involves racing open-wheel cars on a track. It’s a high-speed and adrenaline-fueled hobby that requires skill and precision.
• Offroad: Off-road racing is a type of racing that takes place on off-road tracks, including dirt roads, mud tracks, and rocky terrain.
• Open-wheel: Open-wheel racing is a type of racing in which the wheels of the car are outside the car’s main body, like in Formula One and IndyCar racing.
• Pickup truck: Pickup truck racing is a type of stock car racing that features modified pickup trucks competing on oval tracks.
• Production car: Production car racing is a type of racing in which modified versions of road-going cars compete against each other on closed circuits.
• Rallycross: Rallycross is a type of racing that combines elements of rally racing and circuit racing, with races taking place on mixed surfaces like tarmac and gravel.
• Sports car: Sports car racing is a type of racing that features high-performance, two-seater cars competing on closed circuits, with events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Daytona 24 Hours among the most famous races.
• Sprint car: Sprint car racing is a type of open-wheel racing that takes place on short oval tracks, with high-powered cars capable of reaching speeds over 100 miles per hour.
• Stock car: Stock car racing is a type of racing that features production-based cars competing on oval tracks, with events like the NASCAR Cup Series among the most popular and well-known.
• Touring car racing: Touring car racing is a type of racing that features modified versions of road-going cars competing on closed circuits, with events like the World Touring Car Championship among the most famous races.
• Truck racing: Truck racing is a type of racing that features modified trucks competing on closed circuits, with events like the FIA European Truck Racing Championship among the most well-known.
• Drag boat racing: Experience the thrill of speed on the water with drag boat racing, a high-octane racing activity that involves specially designed boats and challenging courses.
• Go-kart racing: For an adrenaline-fueled adventure on four wheels, try go-kart racing, a fun and competitive hobby suitable for all ages and skill levels.
• Snowmobiling: Get your winter adrenaline fix with snowmobiling, a fast-paced hobby that lets you explore the snowy wilderness on a motorized sled.
• Street racing (Note: we do not endorse illegal activities): Street racing, while illegal and dangerous, remains a popular and controversial racing activity among enthusiasts.
• Water skiing: For a fun and exhilarating water sport, try water skiing, which involves being pulled behind a boat while standing on skis.
• Jet skiing: Hit the waves with jet skiing, a thrilling water sport that combines speed, agility, and maneuverability for an unforgettable ride.
• Windsurfing: Combine the thrill of sailing with the excitement of surfing with windsurfing, a challenging and exciting water sport enjoyed around the world.

Cycle Racing

• Bicycle: Cycling is a versatile hobby that can be enjoyed in many different ways, whether it’s road biking, mountain biking, or just cruising around on a leisurely ride. It’s a great way to stay active and explore the outdoors.
• BMX (Bicycle Motocross): BMX is a type of off-road cycling that involves racing on a dirt track with a series of jumps and obstacles. It’s a thrilling hobby that requires agility, speed, and technique.
• Chariot: Chariot racing is an ancient sport that involves racing two-wheeled chariots pulled by horses. While it’s not a popular hobby today, it’s an interesting activity for history buffs and those interested in ancient sports.
• Road bicycle: Road bicycle racing is a type of racing in which cyclists compete on paved roads, with races ranging from short criteriums to multi-day stage races like the Tour de France.
• Track cycling: Track cycling is a type of cycling that takes place on banked tracks, with events like the individual pursuit and the keirin among the most popular.
• Mountain biking: Mountain biking is a type of off-road cycling that involves riding on rugged terrain, such as mountains, hills, and trails. It’s a fun and adventurous hobby that requires skill and endurance.

Orienteering

Next on our huge list of hobby ideas, is orienteering!

Orienteering is an underrated activity that more people should explore in their free time.

“Orienteering” races are sports that combine elements of navigation, with a specific method of travel.

• Mountain Bike Orienteering: A fast-paced and adrenaline-pumping hobby that combines mountain biking with orienteering challenges.
• Mountain Marathon Orienteering: A rigorous and exciting hobby that combines orienteering with long-distance running in challenging mountain terrain.
• Racewalking Orienteering: A lesser known but equally challenging hobby that combines the speed of walking with the strategic challenges of orienteering.
• Radio Orienteering: A hobby that involves using radio equipment to locate hidden transmitters in a race against the clock.
• Regaining: A team-based hobby that involves navigating through rugged terrain using a map and compass, with the goal of finding as many checkpoints as possible within a set time limit.
• Ski Orienteering: A winter sport that combines skiing with the strategic challenges of orienteering in snowy, mountainous terrain.
• Sport Labyrinth / Indoor Orienteering: A fun and unique hobby that involves navigating through a maze-like course, with twists and turns that test your orienteering skills.
• Swimming Orienteering: A challenging hobby that involves navigating through open water using only a map and compass to guide you.
• Trail Orienteering: A hobby that involves navigating through a course on foot using a map and compass, with a focus on accuracy and precision.

Want to learn more about Orienteering? Check out our What is Orienteering Beginners Guide!

Animal Racing

This type of racing hobby is well known for horses (think the triple crown!), but there are a few other interesting animals that people enjoy trying to race to the finish with.

Some of these hobbies are pretty uncommon and niche’, but you never know what might catch your eye.

Just make sure you treat the animals with respect and dignity, OK?

Below is our list of hobbies, activities, and interests involving animal races:

• Camel Racing: A traditional sport popular in the Middle East, where camels are raced in tracks while ridden by jockeys.
• Kambala: A traditional buffalo race from Karnataka, India, where the animal is ridden by a person on a wet paddy field track.
• Karapan Sapi: A traditional bull race from Madura Island, Indonesia, where two bulls race side by side in a straight track, ridden by jockeys on a wooden sled.
• Lobster Racing: A unique animal racing sport where lobsters are placed in a water-filled track and bettors predict which one will reach the end first.
• Ostrich Racing: A novelty animal racing sport where riders mount on ostriches and race them in a track.
• Pig Racing: A fun and entertaining animal racing sport where pigs race around an enclosed track to reach the finish line.
• Pigeon Racing: A unique hobby where homing pigeons are released from a distance and timed as they fly back to their home loft.
• Horse racing: Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just enjoy the excitement of watching horses race, horse racing is a popular and prestigious sport enjoyed worldwide.
• Skijoring: A unique winter sport where a person on skis is pulled by a horse, dog, or motor vehicle through a snow-covered track.
• Snail Racing: A fun and entertaining animal racing sport where snails race around a circular track to reach the finish line.
• Steeplechase: A horse racing sport where horses race on a track that includes obstacles like hurdles, water jumps, and ditches.
• Turtle Racing: A fun and unique animal racing sport where turtles race on a circular track, with the first turtle to reach the finish line declared as the winner.
• Zebra Racing: A novelty animal racing sport where riders mount on zebras and race them in a track, often seen in amusement parks and zoos.

Drone & RC Racing

Who said the motor you race with had to be a big one? Or even something you had to sit in?

Grab a remote control and get racing with an interesting model for this hobby list (a drone perhaps?)!

Models you can race:

• Drone racing: A thrilling hobby that involves piloting small, high-speed drones through challenging courses, often with first-person view technology.
• RC car racing: This hobby involves using remote-controlled cars to race against others on tracks and courses.
• RC plane racing: Similar to RC car racing, this hobby involves racing remote-controlled planes through courses and obstacle courses.
• RC helicopter racing: A challenging and exciting hobby that involves racing remote-controlled helicopters through various courses.
• Model boat racing: This hobby involves racing miniature boats, often powered by electric motors, on bodies lakes and ponds.
• Model rocketry: This hobby involves building and launching model rockets, often to high altitudes with small motors.
• Slot car racing: This classic hobby involves racing small, electric-powered cars on tracks with grooves for the cars to follow.
• Model train racing: This hobby involves racing miniature trains on tracks and courses, often with intricate scenery and landscapes.
• RC truck racing: Similar to RC car racing, this hobby involves racing remote-controlled trucks through various terrains and obstacle courses.
• Drone freestyle: A new type of drone hobby that involves performing acrobatic stunts and tricks in the air with small, agile drones.

Fitness Hobbies

• Aerobics: A form of cardiovascular exercise that combines rhythmic aerobic exercise with stretching and strength training routines.
• Barre: A workout method that combines elements of ballet, Pilates, and yoga to target and tone specific muscle groups.
• Bodybuilding: The practice of strengthening and enlarging the muscles of the body through regular exercise and weight training.
• Boot Camp Workouts: Group physical training programs designed to build strength and fitness through a variety of intense intervals over a 1-hour period of time.
• Circuit Training: A form of body conditioning that involves endurance training, resistance training, high-intensity aerobics, and exercises performed in a circuit, similar to High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT).
• CrossFit: A high-intensity fitness training program that combines elements of weightlifting, aerobic exercises, and high-intensity functional movements.
• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): A training technique in which you give all-out, one hundred percent effort through quick, intense bursts of exercise, followed by short, sometimes active, recovery periods.
• Hiking: Engaging in long walks, usually on trails or in the mountains, as a form of exercise and connection with nature.
• Jump Rope: A full-body workout that improves bone density and builds agility, strength, and endurance.
• Meditation: Although not physically strenuous, it’s a practice that many incorporate into their fitness routine to enhance mental clarity and relaxation.
• Parkour: The practice of moving fluidly through a physical environment, typically by running, jumping, and climbing.
• Pilates: A low-impact exercise method that focuses on core strength, flexibility, and overall muscle tone.
• Power Yoga: A fitness-based vinyasa practice that is an offshoot of Ashtanga Yoga, focusing on building physical vitality and mental focus.
• Rowing: Using a rowing machine or rowing outdoors as a form of full-body cardiovascular exercise.
• Spinning: Indoor cycling classes where participants use stationary bikes to perform high-intensity workouts, often accompanied by music and led by an instructor.
• Swimming (Lap Swimming): Swimming laps as a form of exercise, focusing on building endurance and improving cardiovascular health.
• Tae Bo: A popular fitness activity created by Billy Banks in the 90’s, that blends martial arts and dance for an intense cardio and physical workout.
• TRX Training: A form of suspension training that uses body weight exercises to develop strength, balance, flexibility, and core stability.
• Walking & Nordic Walking: Engaging in brisk walks as a form of low-impact cardiovascular exercise, with Nordic walking incorporating the use of poles to work the upper body as well.
• Yoga: A practice that incorporates physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to promote physical and mental well-being.

Running

Have you ever been curious about taking up a running hobby?

Take a look at our list of running hobbies below and also browse our article on the benefits of running!

• Cross country running: Cross country running is a common hobby, especially in school, that involves running on a natural terrain course, like fields, hills, and forests. It’s a challenging and rewarding hobby that requires endurance and strength.
• Fell running: Fell running is a type of running that involves racing up and down hills and mountains. It’s a challenging hobby that requires endurance, agility, and strength.
• Marathon running: Marathon running is an activity that involves running a distance of 26.2 miles. It’s a challenging and rewarding activity that requires dedication, discipline, and physical fitness.
• Road running: Road running is a type of long-distance running that takes place on paved surfaces, including events like marathons and half-marathons.
• Tower running: Tower running is a sport that involves running up the stairs of tall buildings or structures as fast as possible.
• Track running: Track running is a type of running that takes place on oval tracks, with events like the 100 meters and the 1500 meters among the most popular.
• Trail running: Trail running is a type of running that takes place on unpaved paths and trails, with races ranging from short distances to ultramarathons.

Martial Arts

Millions of people around the world enjoy mastering different forms of martial arts. An additional benefit is that it also serves as a method of self-defense and exercise!

This hobby type is awesome for a number of reasons, but it’s mainly a way to get active, meet other people, and learn some great ways to defend yourself.

Martial arts hobbies can be VERY competitive (if you’re into that!), and also have the benefit of being good for your physical health through training.

• Aikido: A Japanese martial art that focuses on redirecting an opponent’s energy, rather than using force against force.
• Arnis (Kali / Escrima): The national sport of the Philippines focused on weapon based martial are focused on self-defense.
• Boxing: A combat sport in which two people wearing gloves throw punches at each other in a ring.
• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): A Brazilian martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling and ground fighting.
• Capoeira: A Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music.
• Eskrima, Arnis & Kali: A Filipino martial art that emphasizes weapon-based fighting using sticks, knives, and other bladed weapons.
• Hapkido: A Korean martial art that emphasizes joint locks, throws, and dynamic kicking techniques.
• Iaido: The ancient art of Japanese swordsmanship, the signature style of the Samauri.
• Jeet Kune Do: A hybrid system and philosophy that was developed by Bruce Lee.
• Judo: A Japanese martial art that focuses on throws and grappling techniques.
• Jiu-Jitsu: A Japanese martial art that emphasizes grappling and ground fighting.
• Karate: A martial art developed in Okinawa, Japan, that focuses on striking techniques like punches, kicks, and knee and elbow strikes.
• Kendo: A Japanese martial art that uses bamboo swords and protective armor.
• Kenpo: A Chinese martial art that emphasizes rapid hand strikes and kicks.
• Kickboxing: A combat sport that combines elements of boxing and kicks.
• Krav Maga: A self-defense system developed by the Israeli Defense Forces that emphasizes practical techniques for real-world situations.
• Kyudo: Unlike a traditional martial art, this Japanense tradition is focused on archery and the ancient traditions of the Samuari.
• Military Martial Arts (MCMAP): A combat training system used by various branches of the military that incorporates techniques from multiple martial arts styles.
• Mixed Martial Arts (MMA): A combat sport that allows a wide range of fighting techniques, including striking and grappling techniques, both standing and on the ground.
• Muay Thai: A combat sport from Thailand that emphasizes strikes using the fists, elbows, knees, and shins.
• Ninjutsu: A Japanese martial art that includes a variety of techniques, including strikes, kicks, throws, and joint locks.
• Pankration: The ancient Greek martial art that uses a mix of techniques from boxing and wrestling.
• Pencat Silat: A self-defense martial art that traces its roots back to Southeast Asia
• Sambo: A Russian martial art that emphasizes grappling and ground fighting, as well as throws and submissions.
• Savate: A French martial art that mixes fluid movements with influences of boxing and kickboxing.
• Sumo: The traditional and spiritual art of Japanese wrestling.
• Shaolin Kung Fu: One of the original chinese styles focused on self-defense and self-improvement.
• Systema: A unique Russian martial art that encourages personal growth, on top of self-defense in any situation.
• Taekwondo: A Korean martial art that emphasizes kicks, particularly high kicks, and jumping and spinning kicks.
• Tai Chi: A Chinese martial art that emphasizes slow, flowing movements and relaxation techniques.
• Tang Soo Do: A Korean martial art that includes a range of techniques, including strikes, kicks, and joint locks.
• Wing Chun: A Chinese martial art that emphasizes close-range combat and quick, short-range strikes.
• Wrestling: A combat sport that emphasizes takedowns and grappling techniques, both standing and on the ground.
• Wushu: A Chinese martial art that includes a wide range of techniques, including strikes, kicks, throws, and joint locks.

For a COMPLETE list of martial arts, browse our guide: List of Martial Arts: All Types & Styles Broken Down.

Technology & Gaming Hobbies

This type of hobby might be an eye opener for those of you reading. Video game competitions, also known as E-Sports, are competitions of people playing their favorite video games.

And, obviously, playing video games is one of the more popular hobbies in the world and gaming has a number of benefits as well!

Here are some interesting numbers for video gamers (courtesy dataprot.net):

• There are 3.24 billion gamers across the world.
• The average gamer is 35 years old.
• 50% of Europeans play video games.
• Over 1.7 billion people are PC gamers.
• 46% of American gamers are female.
• Asia is the biggest gaming market, with 1.48 billion video game players.

Let’s take a look at this interesting list of video games that people play competitively below.

Video Games

Casual Gaming

• Mobile Gaming: Playing games on mobile devices.
• Browser Games: Games that can be played in a web browser.
• Social Games: Games that involve social interaction, often on social media platforms.

Competitive Gaming (eSports)

• Team-based eSports: Participating in team-based competitive games like League of Legends.
• Solo eSports: Competing individually in games like Fortnite.
• Fighting Games: Competitive games focused on combat, like Street Fighter.

Game & Content Creation

• Live Streaming: Broadcasting gameplay on platforms like Twitch.
• Game Reviews: Creating video or written reviews of games.
• Game Tutorials: Making how-to guides and walkthroughs.
• Game Community Management: Managing online communities or forums related to gaming.
• Game Programming: Writing code to create the functionalities of the game.
• Graphics Designing: Creating visual content and graphics for games.
• Sound Designing: Creating or selecting sound effects and background music for the game.

Specialized Gaming Hobbies

• Speedrunning: Completing games as quickly as possible.
• Achievement Hunting: Focused on completing all game achievements.
• Role-playing: Playing games in character, adhering to a role or story.
• Console Collecting: Collecting vintage gaming consoles.
• Retro Game Playing: Playing older games on original or emulated systems.

Programming & Coding

• Web Development: Creating and maintaining websites or web applications.
• App Development: Creating applications for various mobile platforms.
• Algorithm Design and Analysis: Developing and analyzing algorithms to solve complex problems efficiently.
• Jailbreaking: Learn how to modify your electronic devices and bypass restrictions for greater control over your technology.
• Open-Source Contributions: Contributing to open-source projects to improve existing software or create new features.
• Competitive Coding: Participating in coding competitions to solve problems within a specified time.
• Scripting and Automation: Writing scripts to automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency.
• Data Science & Machine Learning: Analyzing data to extract insights and developing machine learning models.
• Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Development: Working on blockchain technology and developing cryptocurrencies.

Robotics & Electronics

• Robotics: Build, program, and operate robots of all shapes and sizes and explore the endless possibilities of automation and artificial intelligence.
• Raspberry Pi Projects: Developing projects using Raspberry Pi computers.
• Drone Building & Programming: Building and programming drones for various applications like photography or racing.
• 3D Printing: Using 3D printers to create physical objects from digital designs.
• Circuit Design & PCB Layout: Designing electronic circuits and creating PCB layouts for various projects.
• Homebrew Computing (build your own computer): Building computers and computing systems from scratch.
• Ham Radio Operation: Setting up and operating amateur radio stations to communicate with other enthusiasts.
• IoT (Internet of Things) Projects: Developing projects that involve connecting various devices to the internet to create smart systems.

Collecting Hobbies

Ever felt the joy of finding that perfect piece to add to your personal collection of items? 

Welcome to the fascinating world of “Collecting Hobbies”! 

It’s a space where you can indulge in the delightful journey of gathering unique items, be it stamps, coins, or any collectible that piques your interest.

But the fun doesn’t just stop at the hunt; it’s a hobby packed with wonderful benefits! 

Did you know that collecting can enhance your organizational thinking, helping you categorize and arrange items in a way that brings satisfaction and joy? 

Yes, it’s a fantastic way to foster productive thinking, making you a pro in managing tasks both big and small!

Here’s what you can explore in this section:

• Historical Collecting: Dive into the past and gather items that hold historical significance.
• Art and Literature: Build a collection of beautiful artworks and literary pieces that resonate with you.
• Nature Collecting: Embrace the beauty of nature by collecting items like rocks, shells, or plants.

And here’s a bonus: engaging in these hobbies can be a pathway to mindfulness, helping you stay present and enjoy the moment to the fullest.

Let’s go!

Historical Collecting

• Antique Collecting: Gathering items over 100 years old, valued for their age and rarity.
• Coin Collecting: Acquiring rare or historical coins, sometimes focusing on specific eras or regions.
• Document Collecting: Acquiring historical documents, such as letters, manuscripts, or government documents, often valued for their historical significance and rarity.
• Gun Collecting: Collecting firearms, ranging from antique muskets to modern handguns, often based on historical significance.
• Stamp Collecting: Gathering stamps, often focusing on specific countries or eras, and seeking rare editions.
• Sword Collecting: Acquiring swords from different eras and cultures, popular among history enthusiasts.

Art & Literature

• Artwork Collecting: Acquiring and displaying various forms of artwork, including paintings and sculptures.
• Autograph Collecting: Gathering autographs of famous personalities, often on photographs, books, or memorabilia.
• Book Collecting: Gathering and preserving books, focusing on aspects like rarity or specific genres/authors.
• Comic Books Collecting: Acquiring comic books, often focusing on specific publishers or rare editions.
• Movie Memorabilia Collecting: Gathering items related to movies, often focusing on specific genres or franchises.
• Poster Collecting: Acquiring posters, often focusing on specific genres like movies, music bands, or vintage advertisements.

Nature Collecting

• Insect Collecting: Capturing and preserving insects for study, often focusing on specific types or their beauty.
• Fossil Collecting: Gathering fossils, which can provide insights into prehistoric times, often focusing on specific periods or types of fossils.
• Leaf and Plant Collecting: Collecting leaves and plants, often for study or to create herbariums, a hobby popular among botany enthusiasts.
• Mineral Collecting: Collecting minerals from various regions, appreciated for their beauty and diversity.
• Sea Glass Collecting: Searching for ocean-smoothed glass pieces for art projects or display.
• Seashell Collecting: Gathering seashells, often for display or crafts, popular among beachgoers.
• Stone Collecting: Collecting rocks and minerals, offering insights into geology and earth science.

Fashion & Accessories

• Button Collecting: Gathering and studying buttons, often categorized by time periods or designs.
• Hat Collecting: Acquiring hats for fashion or utility, often focusing on specific eras or designs.
• Jewelry Collecting: Acquiring jewelry, often focusing on specific eras, styles, or types of gemstones.
• Watch Collecting: Gathering watches, often focusing on vintage pieces, specific brands, or mechanical intricacies.

Hobbyist

• Card Collecting: Acquiring trading cards, either sports or non-sports, focusing on complete sets or specific characters.
• Diecast Cars Collecting: Gathering model cars made from diecast metal, focusing on specific brands or rarity.
• Elements (Periodic Table) Collecting: Acquiring samples of elements from the periodic table, often focusing on their properties or rarity.
• Metal Collecting: Gathering metal objects, often focusing on specific types of metal or their historical significance.
• Model Ship Collecting: Acquiring and building model ships, a hobby that combines craftsmanship with a love for maritime history.
• Puzzle Collecting: Gathering puzzles, often focusing on specific types, brands, or levels of complexity.
• Sports Cards Collecting: Acquiring trading cards featuring professional athletes, focusing on specific sports or rare cards.
• Tool Collecting: Gathering tools appreciated for their craftsmanship and design, often focusing on specific types.
• Toy Collecting: Collecting toys, often focusing on specific eras or types, a hobby that can evoke nostalgia.
• Train Collecting: Acquiring trains and building layouts, a hobby for train enthusiasts and model railroaders.

Media Collecting

• Music Albums and Records Collecting: Acquiring music albums and records, focusing on specific artists or rare editions.
• Photograph Collecting: Acquiring photographs, often focusing on specific eras, genres, or famous photographers.
• Vinyl Record Collecting: Gathering vinyl records, often focusing on specific genres, artists, or rare editions.
• Video Game Collecting: Collecting video games and related memorabilia, focusing on specific eras or rare additions.

Unique Collecting

• Deltiology (Postcard Collecting): Collecting postcards, documenting historical events or popular culture, categorized by eras or designs.
• Perfume Bottle Collecting: Acquiring perfume bottles, often focusing on vintage bottles or those with unique designs.
• Spoon Collecting: Gathering decorative or commemorative spoons, often as souvenirs from various places visited.

Animal Hobbies & Interests

If you made it to this portion of our hobby list, great! 

So now let’s talk about animals.

Who doesn’t like animals!

Well, below is the animal hobbies list for you!

Nothing beats hanging out doing something fun with our animal companions at a local park, walkway, backyard, or out in the woods.

It’s a space where you can immerse yourself in, be it through equestrian activities, wildlife photography, or simply enjoying the company of your furry friends.

So, are you ready to emBARK (get it? lol) on this heartwarming journey?

Let’s find out!

• Animal Fancy: This hobby involves breeding and exhibiting domestic animals like dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds in shows and competitions.
• Animal Rescue Volunteering: Engage in activities with animal shelters, rescue organizations, or wildlife rehabilitation centers to rescue and care for animals in need.
• Animal Sanctuary Volunteering: This involves working with animal sanctuaries to provide a safe and nurturing environment for animals in need.
• Animal Shelter Volunteering: Volunteer at animal shelters to help care for and find homes for animals in need.
• Ant Keeping: This hobby involves keeping and observing ant colonies in artificial habitats. Enthusiasts study their behavior, social structure, and feeding habits, offering a unique insight into the world of these tiny creatures.
• Aquarium Keeping (Freshwater & Saltwater): Create and maintain aquatic environments in tanks or aquariums, stocking them with a variety of fish, invertebrates, and plants.
• Dog Training: Dog training involves teaching dogs to obey commands and perform specific tasks.
• Herpetology: This is the study of reptiles and amphibians. It can be a hobby or a profession, and it often involves fieldwork to observe these creatures in their natural habitats.
• Pet Fostering: Provide temporary homes for animals in need until they can be adopted or returned to their owners.
• Pet Grooming: This hobby involves maintaining the hygiene and appearance of pets through bathing, brushing, and fur trimming.
• Reptile Keeping: This hobby involves caring for and maintaining snakes, lizards, and turtles.
• Wildlife Conservation Volunteering: Work with organizations dedicated to the protection and conservation of endangered wildlife and their habitats.
• Zoo Volunteering: Volunteer at zoos to assist in the care of animals and the education of the public about various species.

Reference – Some of these animal hobbies were found via the following articles:

• Animal Hobbies: The 10 Best Hobbies for Animal Lovers
• Retirement Hobbies for Animal Lovers

Indoor Hobbies

Having indoor hobbies is important when there are days you just don’t feel like going outside – especially when you are in an area with cold winters.

Many of the hobbies listed already in this article can be done inside – especially all of the ideas under the creative hobbies section above.

But some just couldn’t be covered already. 

Here’s what you can explore in this section:

• Games & Puzzle Hobbies: Challenge your mind with a variety of games and puzzles that foster cognitive development.
• Creative and Artistic Pursuits: Unleash your creativity through various artistic hobbies that nurture your talents.
• Community and Social Engagement: Engage with communities and social groups that share your interests, fostering connections and friendships.

So, let’s take a look at this fun list of games, puzzles, and other fun activities that are centered on being inside!

Games & Puzzles

From crossword puzzles to fun board games, these are some low-cost activities everyone can enjoy!

• Board Games / Tabletop Games: Playing various board games and tabletop games.
• Brainteasers: Challenging the mind with puzzles that require unconventional thinking to solve.
• Chess: Playing and mastering the classic board game of chess.
• Cryptic Crosswords: Tackling crosswords with cryptic clues that involve anagrams, homophones, and other wordplay elements.
• Crossword Puzzles: Solving crossword puzzles that involve clues and a grid of intersecting letters.
• Dominoes: Playing various domino games.
• Dungeons & Dragons: Participating in tabletop role-playing games where players embark on imaginary adventures.
• Escape Rooms: Solving a series of puzzles within a set time limit in a physical or virtual room.
• Go (Baduk/Weiqi): Playing the ancient board game known for its deep strategy, where the aim is to control the larger territory on the board.
• Hidato: Solving puzzles where you must fill a grid with consecutive numbers that connect horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
• Janggi (Korean Chess): Playing and mastering the traditional Korean board game.
• Jigsaw Puzzles: Solving picture puzzles that involve assembling various pieces to form a complete image.
• Kakuro: Engaging in a kind of numeric crossword puzzle where the sum of the digits must match the clues given.
• KenKen: Engaging in a grid-based numerical puzzle that combines the principles of Sudoku and arithmetic.
• Lateral Thinking Puzzles: Solving puzzles that require creative problem-solving and thinking “outside the box”.
• Magic: The Gathering: Delving into the collectible card game known for its complex rules and vast array of cards.
• Mahjong: Playing various variations of the traditional Chinese tile game.
• Picross (Nonograms): Solving grid-based puzzles where cells are colored based on numbers given at the side to reveal a picture.
• Puzzles: Solving various types of puzzles, including logic puzzles, brain teasers, and riddles.
• Rubik’s Cube: Mastering the art of solving the classic 3D puzzle cube.
• Shogi (Japanese Chess): Mastering the Japanese version of chess, known for its drop rule, allowing captured pieces to be returned to the board.
• Sudoku: Solving various Sudoku puzzles.
• Tangram: Solving puzzles that involve forming specific shapes using seven geometric pieces.
• War-hammer: Playing various tabletop war games.
• Xiangqi (Chinese Chess): Playing and mastering the traditional Chinese board game.
• Zentangle: Engaging in a kind of meditative drawing that involves creating images from repetitive patterns.

Did you know that games help learning? Find out how

Writing Hobbies

A lot of people love writing as a hobby.

Most authors and poets write because they love it, not just because they’re talented or want to make a living.

Writing is an excellent way to pass time with and stay busy.

…Let’s take a look at a list of writing hobbies to try!

• Blogging / Articles Writing: Writing articles for blogs or online publications is a great way to express your thoughts and ideas on various topics, from personal experiences to news events.
• Children’s Stories Writing: Writing stories that capture the imaginations of children is a rewarding experience for any writer. Children’s stories can range from picture books to chapter books, and can cover a wide range of themes.
• Creative Writing: Creative writing is a form of self-expression where writers can experiment with different styles and genres. It includes writing fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more.
• Fanfiction Writing: Fanfiction allows writers to explore their favorite characters and worlds from movies, TV shows, books, and more. It’s a fun way to take existing stories and put your own spin on them.
• Journalism: Journalism is the practice of collecting, verifying, and presenting news and information to the public. It involves writing news stories, feature articles, and investigative pieces for print or online publications.
• Memoir Writing: Writing a memoir allows you to share your own life experiences with others. Memoirs can cover a range of topics, from personal struggles to triumphs, and can be a powerful way to connect with readers.
• Mystery Writing: Mystery writing is a genre of fiction that revolves around solving a puzzle or crime. It involves crafting clues, red herrings, and plot twists to keep readers engaged and guessing until the end.
• Poetry Writing: Poetry is a form of artistic expression that uses language to evoke emotions, paint vivid images, and convey complex ideas. It can be written in a variety of forms, including sonnets, haikus, and free verse.
• Screenwriting: Screenwriting is the art of writing scripts for film and television. It involves crafting compelling characters, dialogue, and plot points that will bring a story to life on the screen.
• Songwriting: Songwriting is the process of writing lyrics and composing music for songs. It’s a fun and creative way to express emotions and tell stories through music.
• Technical Writing: Technical writing involves creating documentation and instructions for complex products, processes, or services. It requires strong attention to detail and the ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner.
• Travel Writing: Travel writing involves writing about places, cultures, and experiences from your travels. It can include everything from personal anecdotes to practical advice for other travelers.
• World Building: World building is the process of creating fictional worlds for novels, movies, video games, and more. It involves developing everything from the geography and history of a world to its cultures, languages, and political systems.

Community and Social Engagement

• Cosplaying: Dressing up in costumes and accessories inspired by characters from various media.
• Reading to Children: Reading various children’s books to infants, toddlers, and young children.
• Reading to the Elderly: Reading various books and magazines to elderly individuals.
• Tutoring Children: Helping children with various academic subjects.
• LARPing: Participating in live-action role-playing games for storytelling, social interaction, and immersive experience.
• Role-playing: Participating in various role-playing games for storytelling and social interaction.
• War-hammer: Playing various tabletop war games.

Unique Artistic Pursuits

• Con-worlding: Creating and developing fictional worlds for storytelling, gaming, or artistic purposes.
• Lego Building: Designing and building various structures, vehicles, and characters using Lego bricks.
• Magic Tricks: Practicing and performing various illusions and tricks.
• Podcasting: Creating and producing various podcast shows on various topics.
• Stand-up Comedy: Performing various comedy routines and jokes.

Entertainment & Relaxation

• Beach / Sun Tanning: a relaxing hobby that involves soaking up the sun on the beach or by the pool. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy some much-needed downtime.
• Gambling: Try your luck and skill in various games of chance like poker, roulette, and slot machines.
• Hammocking: Relax and enjoy the great outdoors by lounging in a hammock, often strung between two trees or posts.
• Home Theater: Building and designing a home theater system for high-quality audio and video entertainment.
• Reading Books: Reading various genres of books for entertainment, learning, and intellectual curiosity.
• Shopping: Whether online or in-person, shopping is a hobby enjoyed by many.
• Socializing: Spending time with friends, family, and acquaintances can be a fulfilling hobby. Socializing can involve going to parties, concerts, or simply hanging out and having conversations.
• TV Watching: Watching various genres of TV shows.
• Watching Movies: Watching various genres of movies.
• Watching Sporting Events: Watching various sports events.

Educational & Intellectual Pursuits

• Amateur Radio: Learning, practicing, and experimenting with radio communication equipment and techniques.
• Cryptography: Studying and practicing the art of secret writing, codes, and ciphers.
• Foreign Language Learning: Studying and practicing a foreign language or a new language. Commonly done through school or online learning classes / apps.
• Genealogy: Researching and tracing one’s family history and ancestry.
• History: Studying and researching various historical events, figures, and cultures.
• Meteorology: Studying and forecasting various weather phenomena.

Model Building

Like collecting, any list of hobbies worthwhile includes building models.

Making Miniature sized models of real-life items can be a really fun, creative hobby that can do wonders for mental health. 

It’s also a fun hobby to do indoors when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Model building as a hobby takes a lot of hard work that involves focus and attention to detail – though it can be done at the comfort of your own home!

I have two uncles that absolutely love models and exposed this fun activity to me at an early age. 

One has a huge train set, while the other builds model airplanes, cars, and rockets.

Take a look at the list of different kinds of model building you can do, below!

• Model airplanes: Create miniature replicas of airplanes with detailed designs, from vintage planes to modern fighter jets.
• Model cars: Build scale models of cars, from classic muscle cars to modern sports cars, with intricate details like engines, suspensions, and interiors.
• Model boats: Construct intricate models of boats, from historical sailing vessels to modern cruise ships, complete with detailed rigging and lifelike paint schemes.
• Model trains: Build miniature train sets with detailed locomotives, cars, and scenery, complete with working tracks and realistic landscapes.
• Model rockets: Create scale models of rockets, from small hobby rockets to detailed replicas of famous rockets like the Saturn V, with working rocket engines and detailed launch pads.
• Model buildings: Construct detailed models of buildings, from historical landmarks to modern skyscrapers, with intricate architectural details and lifelike textures.
• Model dioramas: Build miniature scenes and landscapes, complete with detailed models of people, animals, vehicles, and buildings, for display or play.
• Model ships: Create intricate models of ships, from historical sailing vessels to modern warships, with intricate rigging and realistic paint schemes.
• Model tanks: Build scale models of tanks, from classic WWII tanks to modern battle tanks, complete with intricate details like turrets, tracks, and weapons.
• Model helicopters: Construct miniature models of helicopters, from classic military helicopters to modern rescue choppers, with detailed rotor systems and lifelike paint schemes.
• Model spacecraft: Build detailed replicas of spacecraft, from classic NASA rockets to modern space shuttles, with working engines and intricate details like astronaut figures and cargo bays.
• Model motorcycles: Create miniature replicas of motorcycles, from classic Harley Davidsons to modern sport bikes, with intricate details like engines, suspensions, and bodywork.
• Model submarines: Construct detailed models of submarines, from historical WWII subs to modern nuclear-powered subs, with intricate details like periscopes, torpedoes, and sonar systems.
• Model steam engines: Build miniature working steam engines, from classic locomotives to modern steam-powered machines, with intricate mechanisms and lifelike details.
• Model military vehicles: Create scale models of military vehicles, from classic WWII jeeps to modern tanks and armored vehicles, with intricate details like guns, turrets, and camouflage patterns.
• Model tractors: Build detailed models of tractors, from classic farm equipment to modern industrial tractors, with intricate details like engines, wheels, and hydraulic systems.
• Model trucks: Construct miniature models of trucks, from classic pickup trucks to modern big rigs, with intricate details like engines, cabs, and trailers.

Competitive Card Games

One of the best competitive hobbies you can have is playing card games!

This list of hobbies involving card games is one of my personal favorites.

My grandfather and I are HUGE cribbage players – something we play on a very regular basis when visiting each other.

The following list of card games are played competitively all over the world.

• Poker: Poker is a popular card game that can be played casually as a hobby or competitively in tournaments. As a hobby, poker provides a fun and challenging way to socialize with friends or meet new people while testing your skills and strategy.
• B/RTR Spades: A partnership trick-taking game where players bid on the number of tricks they will take in each round.
• Bridge: A trick-taking game played with four players in two competing partnerships.
• Vanguard: A trading card game where players use their own decks of cards to simulate a battle between two fictional characters.
• Cribbage: A card game that involves playing and grouping cards in combinations to score points.
• Dominion: A deck-building game where players create their own decks of cards to gain victory points.
• Euchre: A trick-taking game where players bid on the number of tricks they will take in each round.
• Gin Rummy: A two-player card game where the objective is to score points by forming sets and runs.
• Hearthstone: A digital collectible card game where players use their own decks of cards to compete against each other.
• Kings in the Corner: A multiplayer game where players try to get rid of their cards first by playing them on a central pile in descending order.
• Legendary: Marvel: A cooperative deck-building game where players work together to defeat a villain.
• Magic: The Gathering: A trading card game where players use their own decks of cards to simulate a battle between two fictional wizards.
• Pinochle: A trick-taking game where players bid on the number of points they will accumulate in each round.
• Pokémon Trading Card Game: A trading card game where players use their own decks of cards featuring creatures from the Pokémon franchise.
• Poker: A family of gambling card games where players bet on the strength of their hand.
• Rook: A trick-taking game where players use a special deck of cards featuring colors and a bird trump card.
• Rummy: A group of matching-card games where the objective is to form sets and runs.
• Skat: A trick-taking game played with three players where players bid on the number of tricks they will take in each round.
• Solitaire: A single-player game where the objective is to clear the board by forming runs and sets.
• Speed: A two-player game where the objective is to get rid of your cards faster than your opponent by playing them in ascending or descending order.
• War: A two-player game where the objective is to win all of the cards.
• Werewolf: A multiplayer social deduction game where players try to identify the werewolf among them.
• Whist: A trick-taking game where players bid on the number of tricks they will take in each round.
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game: A trading card game where players use their own decks of cards featuring monsters and spells from the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise.

Culinary Hobbies (cooking & drinking!)

Cooking is something many of us do on a daily basis, but many others enjoy cooking as a relaxing hobby.

But how much do you actually enjoy cooking? Not as much as you probably could be!

Stop cooking the same old stuff and learn some new recipes or new ways to cook and bake.

Not only will cooking hobbies help kill some time, but they are low-cost hobbies that are easy on your pocketbook as well. Hobbies can be easy to spend money on, ya know?

If you love cooking (and drinking!), this list is probably right up your alley.

Beverages, Brewing, & Concocting Hobby Ideas

• Apple picking: Enjoy the fruits of your labor by handpicking fresh, delicious apples straight from the tree.
• Beer brewing: Create your own unique craft beer at home using quality ingredients and personalized brewing techniques.
• Wine making: Experience the joy of creating your own wine from start to finish, from grape selection to aging and bottling.
• Cocktail making: This cool hobby will help impress your friends or guests with your mixology skills, by crafting delicious and creative cocktails at home.
• Making homemade vinegars: Create your own flavorful and unique vinegars using simple ingredients like fruit, sugar, and vinegar mother.
• Juicing fruits & berries: Make your own fresh and healthy juices using a variety of different fruits and berries, and experiment with different flavor combinations.
• Coffee roasting: Roast your own coffee beans at home to achieve the perfect roast level and customize the flavor and aroma of your coffee.
• Cheese making: Experiment with different cheese making techniques and milk types to create your own unique and delicious cheeses at home.
• Sauces: Learn how to make a variety of delicious and versatile sauces from scratch, including tomato sauce, hot sauce, pesto, and hollandaise.
• Spices: Experiment with different spice blends to customize your own unique flavor profiles for your favorite dishes.
• Foraging for wild ingredients: Connect with nature and discover new flavors by foraging for wild ingredients like mushrooms, berries, and herbs.
• Condiments: Elevate your sandwiches and burgers by making your own delicious condiments like ketchup, mustard, and relish.

Baking

• Bread making: Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own bread at home using a variety of different techniques and recipes.
• Cake decorating: Express your creativity by decorating cakes with a variety of different techniques like piping, fondant, and edible decorations.
• Chocolate making: Producing homemade chocolates.
• Vegan making: Creating vegan-friendly baked goods.
• Doughnut making: Indulge your sweet tooth by making your own fresh and delicious doughnuts at home using a variety of different flavors and toppings.
• Making desserts: Indulge your sweet tooth by exploring the endless variety of delectable desserts you can create at home.
  • Brownies
  • Cupcakes
  • Pie
  • Tart
  • Cheesecake
  • Cookies
  • Bread Pudding
  • Cake
  • Muffins
  • Truffles
  • Scones
  • Biscotti
  • Macarons
  • Eclairs
  • Tarts
  • Soufflé
  • Mousse
  • Pudding
  • Crumble
  • Cobbler
  • Fudge
  • Baklava
  • Pavlova

Food Preservation

• Charcuterie: Master the art of preserving and preparing cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and bacon at home. 
• Smoking Meats and Fish: Infuse your favorite meats and fish with a smoky flavor using a variety of different smoking techniques and wood chips.
• Cheese Making: Learn how to make a variety of delicious cheeses from scratch, including cheddar, mozzarella, and feta. 
• Sausage Making: Master the art of making your own delicious and flavorful sausage at home using fresh ingredients and natural casings. 
• Bacon Crafting: Cure and smoke your own bacon at home by using a variety of different techniques and flavors. 
• Jelly/Jam Making: Create your own flavorful and unique jellies and jams using fresh fruits, sugar, and pectin. 
• Pickling: Dive into the world of pickling by learning how to preserve various vegetables and fruits in vinegar or brine. 
• Fermenting: Explore the fascinating process of fermentation, where you can create foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. 
• Canning: Master the technique of canning to preserve fruits, vegetables, and meats for long-term storage. 
• Drying/Dehydrating: Discover the art of drying and dehydrating foods, a method that removes moisture to prolong the shelf life of various foods like fruits, vegetables, and meats. 
• Syrup Making: Learn how to create your own syrups using natural ingredients like fruits, herbs, and spices. 

Cooking

• Grilling and barbecuing: Elevate your outdoor cooking game by mastering the art of grilling and smoking meat and fish to perfection.
• Sous vide cooking: Discover the precision of sous vide cooking, where food is cooked at a low temperature in a water bath to achieve perfect doneness.
• Meal prepping: Save time and eat healthier by prepping meals in advance and learn how to store and reheat them for maximum freshness.
• Making homemade pasta: Elevate your Italian cuisine game by mastering the art of making fresh, homemade pasta in a variety of shapes and flavors.
• Poi making: Connect with Hawaiian culture by learning how to make poi, a traditional Hawaiian staple made from taro root.
• Teaching cooking lessons: Share your passion for cooking by teaching others how to cook through classes and workshops.
• Bringing food to the disabled: Make a difference in your community by volunteering to bring food to those who are disabled or unable to cook for themselves.

Unique & Interesting Hobbies

Check out some of this ultimate list of hobbies and interests below to see if any of them pique your interest.

I couldn’t find a “home” for them in any of the other categories!

Money

I mean, how could saving (or making!) money not be one of the best hobby ideas you could have?

I also have an ultimate guide on money making hobbies as well, if you’re curious!

• Couponing: Save money and find great deals by collecting and using coupons from newspapers, websites, and mobile apps.
• Stock Market Investing: Engaging in the buying and selling of stocks to potentially earn profits.
• Cryptocurrency Trading: Trading digital currencies in the hope of making a profit.
• Real Estate Investing: Investing in properties with the aim of generating rental income or capital appreciation.
• Day Trading: Buying and selling financial instruments within a single trading day.
• Forex Trading: Engaging in the exchange of currencies in the foreign exchange market.
• Start a Blog: Starting a blog and monetizing it through various methods such as affiliate marketing or ads.
• Podcasting: Creating and producing podcast shows, potentially generating income through sponsorships or ads.
• Landscaping / lawn care: Design and maintain beautiful outdoor spaces with plants, flowers, and other elements of nature.
• Freelancing: Offering your skills and services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to earn money.
• Creating Online Courses: Developing and selling online classes on platforms like Udemy or Coursera.
• YouTube Content Creation: Creating YouTube videos and monetizing it through ads, sponsorships, or merchandise sales.
• Tutoring: Offering tutoring services in a field you are knowledgeable in, either online or offline.
• Consulting: Providing expert advice in a specific field to individuals or companies for a fee.
• Handicrafts and DIY Projects: Creating handicrafts or DIY projects and selling them online or at craft fairs.
• Photography: Offering photography services or selling your photos to stock photo websites.
• Gardening: Growing and selling plants, vegetables, or herbs locally.

Traveling

• Backpacking: The perfect hobby for traveling to various destinations, often staying in hostels or budget accommodations.
• Culinary Tourism: Traveling to different regions to explore and enjoy their culinary traditions and specialties.
• Cultural Immersion: Traveling to different countries to immerse yourself in their culture, learning their language, traditions, and customs.
• Historical Exploration: Visiting historical sites and landmarks in different regions to learn about their history and significance.
• Festival Tourism: Visiting different regions to participate in their traditional festivals and celebrations.
• Garden Tours: Traveling to different regions to visit their famous gardens and botanical parks.
• Yoga Retreats: Participating in yoga retreats in different regions, often in serene and beautiful setting
• Wildlife Safari: Traveling to wildlife reserves to observe and photograph wild animals in their natural habitats.
• Wine Tasting: Visiting various vineyards and wineries to taste different types of wines and learn about winemaking.
• Cycling Tours: Participating in cycling tours to explore different regions and landscapes on a bicycle.
• Urban exploration: Exploring abandoned buildings, tunnels, and other urban areas can be a thrilling hobby. However, it’s important to approach this hobby with caution and safety in mind.
• Volunteering Abroad: Traveling to different countries to volunteer in community projects or conservation efforts.

Miscellaneous Hobbies & New Hobby Ideas

• Astrology: a hobby that involves studying the movements and relative positions of celestial objects to gain insight into human affairs and natural phenomena. This is the perfect hobby is great for those who love to learn about the stars and the universe.
• Church going / Faith: Attend religious services and engage in practices related to faith, spirituality, and personal belief systems.
• Cigar smoking / Pipe smoking: Enjoy the art and ritual of smoking premium cigars or pipes, often accompanied by savoring fine wines, bourbons or whiskies.
• Driving: Whether it’s cruising down the highway or taking a scenic drive through the countryside, driving can be a fun and enjoyable hobby. It can also involve participating in car shows, rallies, or even racing events.
• Genealogy: Research your family history and trace your ancestry through public records, historical documents, and DNA analysis.
• Ghost hunting: Investigate paranormal activity and try to capture evidence of ghosts and other supernatural phenomena.
• Glow-sticking: Use glow sticks or other illuminated objects to create intricate and beautiful visual displays.
• Gnoming: Playfully rearrange or add decorations to garden gnomes, and document the results.
• Flying Drones: Involves piloting small, remote-controlled aircrafts and capturing aerial footage or images.
• Join a book club at the local library: Join other book enthusiasts and share your thoughts on the latest novels and classics.
• Juggling balls, pins, or other objects: Develop your hand-eye coordination and impress your friends with this classic circus skill.
• Lock-picking: Learn the techniques and tools used to pick locks and improve your knowledge of security systems.
• Microscopy: Observe the hidden details of the world around you with a microscope and discover a new perspective on life.
• Parkour: Develop your physical strength, agility, and creativity with this exciting urban sport that involves running, jumping, and climbing obstacles.
• People watching: Observe human behavior and social interactions in public places and develop your understanding of psychology and sociology.
• Protesting: Stand up for what you believe in and make your voice heard by participating in peaceful protests and demonstrations.
• Pyrotechnics: Create dazzling displays of light and sound with fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices.
• Renaissance Faire: Step back in time to a world of knights, dragons, and jousting tournaments and enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of a medieval festival.
• Tesla Coils: For those interested in electronics and engineering, building and experimenting with Tesla coils can be a fascinating hobby. These devices produce high-voltage electrical currents and spectacular visual displays.
• Treasure Hunting / Beachcombing: Whether searching for historical artifacts, lost treasures, or simply walking the beach, treasure hunting can be an exciting and adventurous hobby.
• Vehicle restoration: Restoring old cars, motorcycles, or other vehicles can be a satisfying hobby for those interested in mechanics and engineering. It involves repairing, refurbishing, and rebuilding classic vehicles to their former glory.
• Vintage cars: Collecting, restoring, and maintaining vintage cars can be a fascinating hobby for car enthusiasts. It involves searching for classic cars, restoring them to their original condition, and preserving them for future generations.
• Volunteering: Giving back to the community by volunteering can be a fulfilling hobby. It can involve anything from helping out at local charities to participating in global relief efforts.

Benefits of Hobbies

Hobbies are activities that we choose to engage in during our leisure time, driven by our personal interests and passions.

A hobby can offer a wide range of benefits, from boosting our mental health to improving our physical well-being.

Let’s take a look at what hobbies are and what benefits they can provide you:

• Enjoyment: Hobbies are typically activities that people engage in because they find them enjoyable or satisfying. They are not undertaken solely for their practical or functional value.
• Relaxation: Many hobbies are relaxing and can provide a way to unwind from the stresses of daily life. They may help individuals to reduce stress and anxiety and improve their overall well-being.
• Creativity: Hobbies often involve creative expression and allow individuals to explore their artistic side or try new things. They may provide an outlet for self-expression.
• Affordable: Hobbies can be pursued at varying levels of cost, making them accessible to individuals with different budgets and financial resources.
• Skill development: Engaging in a hobby can help business owners and individuals to develop new skills, or improve existing ones. For example, playing an instrument or learning a new language.
• Exploration: Hobbies can provide a way to explore new topics or areas of interest. They may lead individuals to discover new passions or develop a deeper understanding of a particular subject.
• Voluntary: Hobbies are activities that individuals engage in out of their own choice and free will, rather than for work or other external obligations.

Mental Health Benefits

Hobbies play a significant role in promoting mental health and reducing stress levels. By engaging in activities, we genuinely enjoy, we can disconnect from the daily grind, allowing our minds to unwind and recharge.

Hobbies also stimulate our creativity and cognitive skills, leading to a sense of accomplishment and increased self-esteem.

Moreover, they can help us develop problem-solving abilities, as many hobbies involve tackling challenges and overcoming obstacles.

• Stress relief
• Creativity stimulation
• Cognitive skill development
• Sense of accomplishment
• Problem-solving abilities

Social Benefits

Hobbies often provide opportunities for social interaction, whether through joining clubs or participating in group activities.

This not only fosters a sense of belonging but also enables us to make new connections and form lasting friendships. Sharing hobbies with others encourages collaboration, teamwork, and communication skills, which can have positive effects on our personal and professional lives.

• Social interaction
• Sense of belonging and community
• Networking and forming friendships
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Communication skills

Physical Health Benefits 

Many hobbies can also contribute to our physical well-being, especially those that involve physical activity.

Regular participation in such hobbies can lead to improved fitness levels, better cardiovascular health, and increased muscle strength.

Furthermore, hobbies like gardening or woodworking can help us develop fine motor skills, while activities like painting or playing musical instruments promote hand-eye coordination.

• Improved fitness levels
• Cardiovascular health
• Muscle strength
• Fine motor skills development
• Hand-eye coordination

Hobbies offer numerous benefits that enhance our overall well-being, encompassing mental, social, and physical aspects.

By investing time in activities, we are passionate about, we can experience stress relief, personal growth, and increased happiness. So, it’s time to explore new hobbies or revisit old ones and discover the many advantages they bring to our lives.

List of hobbies: A-Z

Are you looking for a list of hobbies based on the letter it starts with?

We have that too!

Click on the links below to go to a new page dedicated to ALL hobbies that start with that letter.

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