Looking for a new hobby to start? We’ve compiled a list of 101 hobbies to check out.
When I was in high school, I remember often feeling bored. The world was wide open with possibilities of creating and recreating myself. Yet, everything good in life seemed to be ahead of me. I was always waiting for that good part.
This past year, living in NYC was a challenge. Even though we felt fulfilled in our careers, we struggled to draw boundaries between work and life. Since our travel hobby became work, it almost became impossible to distinguish where to draw the line.
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Last Updated: November 12, 2024
101 Hobbies to Start in 2024 – Listed by Types of Hobbies
We also got swept up in the busyness and workaholic culture of NYC. One day, we made it a goal to take the evening off but went right back to work after realizing we didn’t know how else to fill our time.
The Benefits of Hobbies
Some reasons I want to find new hobbies next year:
- To play and relax – We need to find hobbies that can make us zero money and will bore everyone so that we do it for ourselves and not for content. Isn’t it weird that it’s become a prevalent part of the human experience today?
- To sharpen my mind – I have such terrible memory now and may well be on my way to having early onset Alzheimer’s (it’s in the family, and it freaks me out).
- For personal growth, enrichment, and emotional health – something I constantly need to work on.
- For better physical health – we already rock climb, but we need some activities with cardio.
Other benefits include:
- Learning a useful skill
- Socializing and making new friends
- Making extra money
Also, with our blog, you may already know we’re all about exploring our hometowns and greater backyards. We firmly believe that adventure starts within yourself by cultivating a spirit of adventure. Many of these can be done at home, and how much more local can you get?
“Find three hobbies you love: one to earn money, one to stay in shape, and one that allows you to be creative.” If there were a fourth, we’d add one to make the world a better place.
Which of these would you like to do next year?
Outdoor Hobbies
- 1.
Some of our friends are peak baggers (a form of collecting), where you summit a list of peaks (ie, the 14ers in Colorado).
- 2.
It’s a great way to work out without feeling like you are. We love visiting new climbing destinations and gyms in new cities. Here are some beginner climbing tips and a gift guide for climbers if you want to pick up some gear.
- 3.
Canyoneering
Start on a guided canyoneering trip, and read this canyoneering guide.
- 4.
Slacklining
Many climbers also slackline to work on balance, but some just slackline. This kit is great indoors, but this is the one we have that we set up over our pool outside.
- 5.
Mountaineering
Mountaineering is more technical, taking hiking to the next level. Pickup gear at REI since they have the best return policy. A great way to start is by going with someone who is experienced.
- 6.
Mountain Biking
Explore the outdoors on two wheels. Here are some mountain biking faves. We have some close friends who have recently gotten into this, and it’s been fun to watch. We also have a fat tire e-bike for our adventures.
- 7.
Camping can be as relaxing or extreme as you want. For example, we have this budget-friendly tent for car camping and this one for backpacking. If you’re car camping, don’t forget the essentials!
- 8.
Glamping is the way to go if you want to experience the outdoors but don’t want to rough it. See our favorite glamping spot.
- 9.
It lets you explore areas you can’t on foot. This was our favorite kayaking experience. We also have a SUP we hope to take out more often.
- 10.
Start first by rafting with a guide. Then, pick up gear when you want to go solo.
- 11.
Skiing or Snowboarding
We thought we knew what we were doing, but taking lessons helped so much!
- 12.
We finally took classes and got certified in San Diego. We’re whiskey divers now.
- 13.
Fishing, Crabbing, or Lobstering
Check out this beginner fishing kit. Also, read our guide on crabbing on the Oregon Coast.
See More: 25 Best Hikes in the World for Your Bucket List
Sport Hobbies
- 14.
Archery
Take lessons at a local archery club.
- 15.
Bowling
- 16.
Cycling
Cycling comes in different forms and is a great way to explore and challenge yourself. See cycling gear and advice.
- 17.
Golfing
Golfing is a fun way to travel the world. Read stuff every golfer should know.
- 18.
Horse Riding
You can become a full-fledged equestrian or do it for fun while traveling. We’ve done it a couple of times on trips, but recently, a girlfriend of mine has gotten super into the competitive aspect.
- 19.
Lutz Jump, Twizzle, and Salchow Jump around the ice. Or if you’re like us, try to learn skating backward first. If you’re in NYC, here are the best ice skating rinks.
- 20.
Martial Art of Kickboxing
I’ve been taking kickboxing on and off for 3 years. I borrow gloves but have my own hand wraps.
- 21.
Parkour / Ninja Warrior
Ever since Ninja Warrior became popular, gyms have popped up everywhere. You can even build a homemade course.
- 22.
Paintball
Some of our friends were semi-pro paintballers. There are arenas all over the world. Pick up a paintball gun to practice at home.
- 23.
Running
Jacob used to run a 10k every year with his dad until his knees got worse. It’s a great way to challenge yourself physically and mentally. We still have friends who travel all over for marathons and ultras.
- 25.
Here are the best surfing beaches in California.
- 26.
Swimming
Swimming is the best exercise, especially as you get older. It’s less stress for your joints.
- 27.
Join a Sports League
Join your local rec league. Jacob’s latest obsession is pickleball (we have a discount code for paddles on this post). He joins local pick-up games and even started a YouTube channel about pickleball.
- 28.
Yoga
We’ve never gotten serious about yoga, but we love using this yoga mat at home to stretch.
See More: 9 Wonderful Places to Go Ice Skating in NYC
Travel Hobbies
- 29.
Cruising
Cruising is a great way to get a taste of many cities. Best part? You don’t have to worry about meals and transportation. Check out our ultimate cruise calendar.
- 30.
Learn to Fly a Plane
Check out the local airport to take lessons. Jacob took his first flight lesson in Las Vegas.
- 31.
Road-tripping is a great way to explore your greater backyard. To help you get started, check out our classic American road trips, best day trips, weekend getaway guides, and road trip essentials.
- 32.
We loved our three months living in an Airstream and recommend it. Even if you’re not a full-timer, try RVing a few months out of the year or rent one to try it out. Here are the best new RVs this year.
- 33.
Sailing
Since I get seasick, we’ve never entertained the idea of sailing full-time, but we’re visiting some sailing friends this year. We’ll see if they change our minds.
See More: The Ultimate RV Checklist – Everything You Need For Your First RV
Traditional Arts
- 34.
Calligraphy
You can take classes online or pick up calligraphy workbooks to practice.
- 35.
Coloring
Coloring can be fun and therapeutic. We did it for a date night and colored in these beautiful travel books.
- 36.
Dancing
We started taking hip-hop classes last year, but after a few lessons, our teacher had to leave the city. Maybe next, we’ll try salsa, ballroom, or even pole dancing.
- 37.
Drawing
Whether you want to doodle, draw anime characters, or comics, this book is perfect for those who don’t believe they can draw.
- 38.
Musical Instrument
We both grew up playing the piano but lost much of what we learned. We still bring our books around, intending to start again. Right now, I’m enjoying relearning how to read music through Duolingo.
- 39.
Painting
I’ve always wanted to learn how to paint. I took art classes when I was younger, and Jacob recently bought me an easel.
- 40.
No matter what your camera is, you can always learn how to shoot better. If you’re looking for a beginner DSLR, check out this DSLR and our photography tips here.
- 41.
Pottery
Our potter friend has been teaching us the basics. You can take online courses and start with this toolset with high ratings.
- 42.
Voice Lessons
Consider getting voice lessons to take your singing to the next level. You can also find daily vocal exercises on YouTube.
- 43.
Writing
Writing can come in many different forms. Join a writing group, or NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) in November, where you write a novel in a month.
- 44.
Writing Music
Try your hand at writing music. You can even try performing it at local open mics once you are comfortable.
Other Creative Hobbies
- 45.
Beatboxing
All you need is some YouTube videos to start. No extra equipment required.
- 46.
Blogging
We started our blog as a hobby before it became our full-time gig (how to start a blog in 5 easy steps). Check out our e-course for monetizing your blog.
- 47.
Engraving
There are many mediums (some advanced). Start with this popular engraving pen kit for beginners.
- 48.
Graffiti Art
Street art has gotten popular over the years. Now, you can take online classes.
- 49.
Graphic Design
GIMP and Inkscape are free and great for beginners. Once you get serious, you’ll want Adobe Creative Cloud to step up your game.
- 50.
Impersonations
We suck at impersonations, but check out our amazing friend for inspo! Also, New York Vocal Coaching has a series where they teach you how to do various voice impressions.
- 51.
Improv Class
It’s a great way to overcome the fear of what people think.
- 52.
juggling
With a little bit of practice, you can do some impressive tricks. You can learn the most basic three-ball juggling pattern here.
- 53.
Latte Art
Release your inner barista by whipping up some latte art. If you fail, you can sip up your messy creation. We have some friends who are super into coffee, and they’ve tried teaching us. Here’s a great book for inspiration.
- 54.
Magic
Recently, we saw Shin Lim in Las Vegas. Now we need a nice deck of cards to practice our sleight of hand.
- 55.
Podcasting
We have a few podcaster friends. This set is all you need to get started.
- 56.
Puppetry
Did you know that Jacob and his brother created a kid’s puppet show? The initial plan was to learn how to puppeteer, but they quickly learned how complex it is. If you want to dabble, buy a couple of puppets or make your own if you’re feeling crafty.
- 57.
Videography / Filmmaking
Learn how to capture and edit videos so you can create beautiful memories of your own travels. Want smoother video? Try a gimbal.
See More: How to Start a Blog in 5 Easy Steps
Crafting Hobbies
- 58.
Balloon Twisting
I did not know this was a thing until one of our friends got into it before his kid’s birthday party. All it took was a basic kit and a bunch of YouTube videos.
- 59.
Learn to make candles with a DIY kit then enjoy your creations at home or give them out as gifts.
- 60.
Cross-Stitching / Embroidery
This is another great hobby with a ton of resources and kits so you can DIY.
- 61.
Flower Arranging
Have you ever tried arranging your own flowers? It’s a lot harder than it looks. If you love having fresh flowers at home, this could be the perfect hobby for you. Start with this book.
- 62.
Jewelry Making
I have some basic tools and have learned from friends who make and sell jewelry.
- 63.
Knitting / Crocheting
I go through intense phases where I knit and crochet all day, every day, and then nothing for years.
- 64.
Leather Crafting
This is a great starter kit for leather crafting.
- 65.
Origami
Start your love for Origami with a basic kit, or nerd out with Jacob by making these crazy Star Wars ones.
- 66.
Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking is a great way to work on something that you’ll cherish. With so many pre-made accessories, you can easily make it your own.
- 67.
Sewing
This is a great practical skill that will save you money. Since I’m short, I always need to hem my pants, which adds up. This is the sewing machine I use.
- 68.
Soap Making
I always think of Fight Club when someone brings up soap making, but I recently picked up succulent soap molds to make my own soap for gifts and to be more sustainable.
- 69.
Woodworking
Want to become friends with Nick Offerman? Get into woodworking so you can chat about one of his favorite hobbies. Here’s a book to get you started.
Food & Cooking Hobbies
- 70.
Want to become a home barista? This is another hobby with a steep upfront cost but can save you money in the long run. Here’s everything you need to know to become a home barista.
- 71.
Brew Beer or Kombucha
If you love craft beers or kombucha, why not try making your own? This is the kit we used for kombucha. Even our friend who says she prefers store-bought over homemade told me mine was the best she ever had.
- 72.
Canning / Pickling / Making Jam
Learn to can, pickle, and jam some of your favorite foods. This has over 350 recipes, or you can start with my mom’s kimchi recipe.
- 73.
Baking
Bread, brownies, cookies, scones… oh man, my mouth is watering just from these thoughts. Start with the Baking Bible.
- 74.
We’re all about easy recipes since neither of us likes cooking. I recently started a blog with my mom called Mom’s Korean Recipes.
- 75.
Food Styling
I’ve always wanted to learn food styling, especially since we take lots of food photos. Pick up a book or take local classes.
- 76.
Gardening
Did you know plants in your home can reduce stress and improve productivity? Even with two black thumbs, I’m using Aerogarden to grow herbs, which are still alive!
- 77.
Mixology
This is perfect for those who love hosting parties. We can make an old fashion, and recently, our Shaker & Spoon Cocktail Club introduced us to 3 new drink recipes from top bartenders. You can also check out the Ultimate Bar Book with 1000+ cocktail recipes.
- 78.
Wine Tasting
If you’ve ever wanted to become better versed in wine, try taking a wine-tasting class. You can also get this book to help you learn more about wines.
Games
- 79.
Board Games
There are endless board games, but our favorites are Telestrations, Guesstures, and Scrabble.
- 80.
Chess
You can learn tips via GothamChess or start playing on Chess.com (also an app). This is a popular wooden chess set that’s magnetic and has storage.
- 81.
Cosplaying
If you love dressing up, try cosplaying. I dressed up as Brook from One Piece this past Halloween.
- 82.
Gaming
Lately, we love playing Overcooked with friends and Animal Crossing solo.
- 83.
Poker
Have a weekly poker night with this 300-piece set or 500-piece set. If you’re serious, you could even join tournaments.
- 84.
Puzzles can be therapeutic. Want to see the most beautiful travel puzzles?
- 85.
Trivia Night
If only I had a team of professors… I used to love going to Trivia Night. Even if you don’t win, you learn some random, useless facts.
Collecting Hobbies
- 86.
Find the closest dark sky to stargaze or attend a star party. These are the stargazing events to watch for this year.
- 87.
Birding
During our travels, we met so many birders. If you get into wildlife photography, these flashcards can help you with birds.
- 88.
Foraging
Foraging is a great hobby if you love to cook. This book will help you identify, harvest, and prepare edible plants.
- 89.
Get a New Pet
I wouldn’t say we collect pets, but we love our two cats. We recently met some people who love breeding fish.
See More: 15 Incredible Weekend Trips from Las Vegas
Enrichment & Miscellaneous
- 90.
Book Club
This is a great way to do something social and help you reach your reading goals.
- 91.
Genealogy
Start by getting a DNA test and see how much of your genealogy you can track.
- 92.
Home Improvement
If you spend a lot of time at home, this is a great way to personalize your space.
- 93.
Bullet journaling is the best way to keep records of your day-to-day without the pressure of writing. After doing tons of research, I started with this bullet journal and picked up these pens and markers (they don’t bleed through the paper).
- 94.
I recently reviewed a bunch of language-learning apps and rated my favorite ones. I still do 5 of them a day.
- 95.
Learn How to Code
You can learn to code or design websites.
- 96.
Learn Sign Language
I started learning the ASL alphabet with the Drops app.
- 97.
Learn to Write with Non-Dominant Hand
I’ve always wanted to be ambidextrous. Practice writing or daily tasks with your non-dominant hand.
- 98.
Meditation
I use Simple Habit, a meditation app, to help me sleep. It’s become a great habit that I’ll continue next year.
- 99.
Minimalism / Declutter
- 100.
Public Speaking
Try Toastmasters to get over your fear of public speaking.
- 101.
Volunteering
Pick something you care about and find a way to get involved with a local organization.
Favorite Quotes on Hobbies
If you need more words of motivation to pick up a hobby next year, here are some more quotes I loved.
- “I can never read all the books I want, be all the people I want, and live all the lives I want. I can never train myself in all the skills I want. And why do I want? I want to live and feel all the shades, tones, and variations of mental and physical experiences possible in my life. And I am horribly limited.” – Sylvia Plath.
- “Legendary innovators like Franklin, Snow, and Darwin all possess some common intellectual qualities—a certain quickness of mind, unbounded curiosity—but they also share one other defining attribute. They have a lot of hobbies.” – Steven Johnson.
- Always find time for things that make you happy to be alive. – Unknown
Do you have any hobbies? What types of hobbies have you had in the past?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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