The day your youngest packs their bags and leave for university, you will stand at the front door a little stunned. The house suddenly will feel quiet—too quiet. For years, every day had been filled with packed lunches, school runs, and noisy family dinners. Then, it’ll be just you and your husband, and your big, echoey house. You then will probably make yourself a cup of tea, sit down at the kitchen table, and think, What now? There’s where hobbies for empty-nesters come to play.
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If you’re in the “empty nest” season or soon to be, you’re not alone. This time of life can feel both freeing and strange. After spending decades putting others first, now’s your chance to rediscover what lights you up. And the best way to do that? Hobbies that make you feel joyful, purposeful, and alive again.
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Research shows that staying mentally and physically active as we age is key to long-term health. In fact, older adults who engage in hobbies have a 30% lower risk of depression. And another study found that creative hobbies improve memory and emotional wellbeing.
Here are 15 safe, budget-friendly hobbies that are perfect for any age—but especially fulfilling for empty-nesters.
15 Hobbies for Empty-Nesters That Bring Joy, Purpose, and Wellness
Ok, get prepared to take note of the 15 best possible ways you can be enjoying your new life after kids have left the nest.
1. Gardening
There’s something magical about digging in the dirt and watching things grow. Whether it’s flowers, herbs, or veggies, gardening brings peace to your hands and joy to your heart.
Gardening is a hobby that is a low-impact, hands-on way to enjoy the outdoors.
It can Lower stress levels, boosts mood, and provides gentle exercise.
If you’re planning to start your own home garden you can tart small with potted herbs or flowers. Join a local gardening club for tips and inspiration.
2. Walking Clubs or Nature Hiking
Fresh air, good shoes, and a nice path can do wonders for your mood. Walking is simple but powerful—and it’s even better with friends.
Walking or hiking helps you stay fit and feel connected. It supports heart health, improves memory, and lifts your mood.
Search for walking groups on Facebook or through community centres and local parks.
3. Painting or Drawing
You don’t need to be “good” at art to enjoy it. Painting and drawing let you express yourself without needing the right words.
Painting is creative and calming. It can also reduce anxiety, boosts focus, and enhances mood.
Grab some cheap supplies and follow free tutorials online or join a local beginner’s class.
4. Volunteering
Helping others gives your days a special kind of meaning. It reminds you that you’re still needed and valued in the world.
Volunteering is great because you get to give back while making new connections. This whole giving back thing increases happiness, lowers loneliness, and gives you purpose.
Reach out to local charities, food banks, animal shelters, or schools in need of support.
5. Pickleball or Low-Impact Sports
Never heard of pickleball? It’s like tennis but easier on the knees—and people love it!
It’s social, low-pressure, and fun. It improves coordination, balance, and keeps you active.
Try a beginner class at a recreation centre or ask your local park if they host games.
6. Cooking or Baking for Fun
You’ve cooked for others for years—now cook just for the joy of it.
Cooking can be a fun and delicious creative outlet for many. It encourages mindfulness and boosts your mood through sensory engagement.
Pick a new recipe each week or start a recipe swap with friends and neighbours.
7. Birdwatching
Birdwatching teaches you to slow down and look up. You’ll be amazed by what’s flying around your own neighbourhood.
This activity can be peaceful, meditative, and easy to do anywhere. It encourages mindfulness and reduces stress.
Use a free birding app like Merlin, grab binoculars, and visit your local park.
8. Writing or Journaling
Sometimes the best conversations are the ones you have with yourself.
Journaling can help you process your thoughts and memories. It supports emotional health and strengthens memory.
Start with five minutes of free writing a day, or try a gratitude or guided journal.
You can grab my FREE Gratitude Journal here, to get you started.
9. Learning a New Language
Always wanted to learn French or Spanish? Now you finally have the time—and your brain will thank you.
Learning a new language is a fun way to challenge yourself and prep for future travel. It can also improve memory, brain flexibility, and communication skills.
Try free apps like Duolingo or check your local adult education programs.
10. Playing a Musical Instrument
Music lights up parts of the brain no other activity can.
Fun, rewarding, and good for your brain, music boosts emotional wellbeing and keeps your mind sharp.
Try a second-hand keyboard, ukulele, or guitar. Many libraries even lend instruments!
11. DIY Crafting (Knitting, Woodworking, etc.)
Using your hands to make something is one of life’s quiet pleasures.
Pick up a hands-on hobby that relaxes the mind by reducing anxiety and supporting hand dexterity.
Pick up a beginner kit or check out a craft group at your community library.
12. Genealogy and Family History Projects
Digging into your family tree can feel like opening a treasure chest.
Connect to your roots in meaningful ways. These type of projects boost memory and gives a strong sense of identity.
Use free tools like FamilySearch.org and record stories from older relatives.
13. Dancing (Ballroom, Line, or Solo at Home)
When in doubt, put on music and dance it out. Dancing is Mmovement that’s full of joy.
Regular dancing supports heart health, balance, and happiness.
Join a local dance night or simply dance around your living room to your favorite tunes.
14. Reading and Book Clubs
A good book can be your best friend, your teacher, or your escape.
Reading can induce mental stimulation with a dose of adventure. This hobby or habit keeps your brain engaged and reduces stress.
Ask your local library about book clubs or join one online through Goodreads.
15. Photography (Even Smartphone-Based)
You don’t need a fancy camera to capture beautiful moments.
Photography inspires you to see the world differently. It improves focus, creativity, and appreciation for the little things.
Use your phone camera to take daily photos or join online challenges.
Combine Hobbies to Maximize Joy
Don’t be afraid to mix things up!
Pair walking with birdwatching, cooking with journaling your favorite recipes, or dancing with music you’ve learned to play.
This is your season to explore and enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Becoming an empty-nester isn’t the end of something—it’s the *start* of something new and exciting. You now have time to explore what brings you joy, fuels your spirit, and keeps your body and mind strong. Even just one hobby can make a big difference in your day—and your health.
Which hobby will you try first?
Let me know in the comments and inspire someone else to take that first joyful step!
Last Updated on 26th March 2025 by Emma
