The 20s are the decade of self-discovery and exploration. You can do anything you want, be anyone you want, and experiment with new things that interest you. And one of the best ways to do this is by picking up a new hobby!
Pick something you think you’d like to do and go at it. If you don’t like it, try something else! It does not have to be expensive, time-consuming, or even require you to leave your house.
As long as it’s something you enjoy, go for it!
The possibilities are endless, as is the potential to grow and learn. Whether you’re a homebody or an outdoorsy type, there’s something out there that you’ll love.
Table of Contents
Here are some of the best hobbies to pick up in your 20s:
1. Reading
Whether you read for pleasure or as a way to learn more about something, reading is one of the most popular hobbies for young adults. Reading is also one of many low-cost hobbies. All you need is a library card and you can read all the books you want for free at your local library.
2. Paintballing/Airsoft shooting
Who said hobbies had to be done alone? Paintball and airsoft shooting are great ways to reconnect with friends and blow off steam!
3. Yoga
Yoga is a great way to improve flexibility and build strength and balance. It also helps with stress relief which sometimes can be a big problem in your 20s. Yoga is not easy though. The best way to get started is with small baby steps until you’re comfortable.
You can find classes at gyms, yoga studios, or on an app like FitOn to practice at home.
4. Biking
For those of you looking for a new outdoor hobby, this is one that requires no prior experience or training. Bike riding can be a great form of exercise and offers mental health benefits to those who do it.
Biking is a great all-around hobby. You can bike to work, for a date, or just because you want to get some fresh air.
5. Cooking
It’s never too late (or too early!) to learn more about cooking and try out new recipes. Cooking can be both fun and practical.
The process of cooking allows you to explore the food world, enjoy the process of creating a dish, and also save money on going out to eat.
6. Geocaching
This is the perfect hobby for any outdoorsy person who loves finding hidden treasures in nature!
7. Photography
Photography is a great hobby that will improve your creativity and ability to capture the world around you. You don’t need an expensive camera to begin. Most of the latest smartphones have great cameras that are comparable to DSLR cameras.
8. Singing
Whether it’s in a choir or just for yourself, singing is an awesome hobby that can really make you feel better!
9. Comic Book Illustration
This one takes some artistic talent but if you have it, comic book illustration is a fun hobby you can get into and is also a fun creative outlet.
10. Writing
There’s nothing better than writing to express your creativity and work out all of those thoughts in your head. My favorite thing about being a writer is that I get to make up my own rules.
Writing is a great way to express yourself and find your voice as an individual. This can be hard in today’s society where everyone is trying to fit in. In your 20s, it’s important to find yourself and not worry about what other people think of you. Let your creativity shine through your words.
11. Baking
Baking is a good hobby to pick up because it teaches people important skills in the kitchen. Baking also teaches people how to follow a recipe and focus on the details of what they are making, which is an important skill in most jobs.
One of the best things about baking is that there are a variety of recipes to choose from, so you don’t need to stick with one or two recipes.
Baking is a great way to express creativity and can be therapeutic because there are so many different ingredients that you can choose from. As you get better at baking you will find you’ll be able to come up with your own recipes!
12. Digital Painting
Digital painting or digital art has become extremely popular over the last few years. Apps like Procreate, Adobe Fresco, and Autodesk Sketchbook offer a range of creative tools for digital painters to use.
Whether you’re into anime or just like to draw from your imagination, this is a fun hobby that has the added bonus of being limitless in creativity.
13. Woodworking
Woodworking is both creative and practical. It can be used to create beautiful furniture, or it can be used to create practical items for things around the house like a shelf. This is a great hobby for DIYers.
14. Word Games
From Scrabble and Words with Friends, word games are a wonderful way to stimulate the mind. Word games are also fun to play on a game night with friends or family.
15. Gardening
This is the perfect hobby for those who love spending time outdoors! It’s so satisfying to watch your plants grow, harvest them, and create something beautiful with the fruits of your labor. You can get started with a gardening kit before investing in more tools and supplies that can become costly. Have no idea what to plant? These assorted vegetable and herb seeds will get you started.
If you don’t have a backyard, a balcony or porch might be a good place to start a small garden.
16. Jewelry making
If you’re a hobbyist or looking for a new side hustle, jewelry making is an awesome way to express your artistic nature in the form of beautiful, handmade creations.
You can even turn your jewelry-making hobby into a business. If you decide to sell your jewelry, Etsy is a great place to sell handmade goods.
17. Fashion Design
Fashion design is a great way to express creativity while also helping yourself build a career! You can create your own designs and make a business out of it if you choose. You never know when you will find the next big trend!
18. Play the guitar
Guitar playing can be an awesome hobby that will keep your hands and brain busy. You can learn new songs, play old favorites and even compose your own music.
19. Web Design
Playing with the codes of websites and making them your own can be a great hobby for the future! You can make awesome websites for yourself, your friends and even build a freelance business if you choose to.
20. Wine Tasting
If you’re into wine, this is a fun and rewarding hobby to pick up. You can learn about different regions and about the many types of wine while tasting delicious wines from all over the world.
21. Fishing
Fishing is a great activity to do outdoors and it will keep you active. Whether it’s freshwater or saltwater fishing, catching fish can be an awesome way to get some fresh air while also enjoying some solitude.
22. Genealogy
Learning about family history is both fun and fascinating! You can learn about your own family history or research the ancestry of someone else.
23. Calligraphy
Calligraphy is a beautiful and elegant art that has the added bonus of being exceptionally relaxing. This is a great hobby for people who like to keep their hands busy.
24. Art
Art is not just drawing, painting, or making sculptures. Being creative and making art can be such an important part of life as everyone expresses themselves in different ways.
25. Online Gaming
The online gaming community has grown significantly in the last few years. Online games are an awesome way to connect with friends and have a good time.
If you’re into online gaming and video games, this is an excellent way to keep your brain sharp!
26. Learn a language
It doesn’t matter if you want to become fluent or just learn a few phrases, learning a new language can be an extremely rewarding hobby. Learning a language is an awesome way to have fun while expanding your knowledge.
27. Graphic Design
Graphic design is another great way to express yourself creatively! You can create logos, posters, and even layouts for websites.
28. Volunteer at an animal shelter
If you’re a pet lover, this is a great opportunity to do some good while spending time with animals in your free time. Helping animals in need can be such a rewarding experience and will make you feel so good about yourself!
29. Coding
If you’re good with computers, learning to code is a smart and lucrative hobby. You can create your own apps or even find a job as a coder after you get really good at it.
30. Painting
Painting can be a great hobby for all ages and it’s never too late to start! Learning to paint can be extremely rewarding and enjoyable.
31. Organize your home
It might sound like an odd idea but organizing one room of your house every week is such a rewarding experience. In your spare time, you can start small by reorganizing a closet then work on bigger projects.
32. Rowing
If you’re looking for some exercise, rowing on the water or on an indoor row machine is a great hobby to pick up.
33. Knitting
Knitting is not an easy hobby but it takes lots of practice. You can make scarves, hats or even sweaters. If you need guidance, sometimes the local craft stores offer classes to get you started or find a tutorial on a knitting pro’s youtube channel.
34. Sewing
Sewing can be a fun hobby to pick up, especially if you’re into fashion. You can sew your own clothes or even start sewing for others.
35. Collecting
If you’re into collecting things, this is a fun hobby to pick up! You can collect figurines, stamps, or even bottle caps.
36. Jogging
Jogging can not only help you stay in shape but it can also help you clear your head and feel more relaxed.
37. Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to give back and feel good about yourself!
38. Tennis
If tennis is something that interests you then getting lessons might help take your game to the next level. It’s also a great way to stay active and fit.
39. Traveling
Whether it’s with your friends or solo, traveling is such a fun way to see the world and meet new people.
40. Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking is a great way to preserve memories. It’s also a great way to make memories if you do it with a friend.
41. Blogging
Blogging might seem intimidating but it can be an amazing way to express yourself and connect with others who share the same passions as you. If you enjoy writing, this is a great hobby to pick up.
42. Making Music
Whether you’re into singing, guitar, or piano this is a great hobby that will grow your skills while also giving you something awesome to do on weekends!
43. Pottery
Pottery is a great hobby for artists who like to be creative and make something with their hands.
44. Meditation
Meditation is such a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. It can also help with your sleep if you’re struggling with insomnia or other sleep-related issues.
45. Journaling
Try to take a few minutes every day to write in a journal about your thoughts and feelings. It can be a great way to get things off your chest and feel so much better about life.
46. Play the Piano
If you’re up for a challenge, learning to play the piano is a great way to express yourself creatively.
47. Hiking
Hiking is a great way to be outside and enjoy nature. It’s also a great workout that will help you stay in shape!
48. Rock climbing
If you’re looking for a hobby that will challenge your body and mind, rock climbing is perfect.
49. Candle making
Candle making is a great hobby for anyone who likes fun DIY projects.
50. Running
Running is a great cardio workout that will help keep you healthy. Whether you like running for fun or to stay in shape, this is a great hobby for your physical health. And the good thing about this hobby is it’s free!
51. Skateboarding
Skateboarding might seem like something only teenagers would do but this is a great hobby to try.
52. Soap making
Soap making is a really fun hobby and if you’re into natural products, this is the perfect one for you.
53. Drawing
This is a fun hobby that you can do anytime and anywhere! Drawing is a skill that will never go out of style so this can be a great hobby to pick up. If. you need some inspiration, you can find an online tutorial to follow along.
54. Crochet
From making blankets to crocheting your own clothes, this is a great hobby to try.
55. Cake decorating
Cake decorating is a creative way to make sweet treats and this skill can help you start your own business.
56. Podcasting
Whether you like listening to podcasts or want to make a podcast about your life or talk about something else, podcasts are an awesome way to share stories.
57. Weightlifting
Weightlifting might sound like something reserved for athletes but it’s a great hobby to try. You can use weights to help tone and change the shape of your body and is also great for your physical health.
58. Martial arts
Martial arts are a great way to stay fit while also learning self-defense.
59. Kickboxing
If you’re looking for a sport that’s both fun and challenging, kickboxing is the perfect hobby.
60. Embroidery
Embroidery is a great way to work on your needlework skills and it can also be really satisfying to see your work when you finish!
61. Ballroom dancing
If you’re looking for something new and unique to try, give ballroom dancing a shot.
62. Dancing
Whether you want to dance for fun or become a professional, dancing is a great skill to learn.
63. Mixed martial arts (MMA)
If you’re looking for a new sport to try out, mixed martial arts is perfect.
64. Canoeing
This hobby is perfect if you love being outdoors and want to try something new!
65. Theater
If you love acting and have always wanted to be on stage, this is a great hobby to try. Theater is such a fulfilling hobby that will make you feel amazing!
66. Fencing
Fencing is a really exciting activity that will give you the chance to work on your reflexes.
67. Darts
Shooting darts takes practice and hand-eye coordination but this is really fun. Darts might seem like something reserved for bars but this can be an awesome hobby to try.
68. Chess
This classic game can be played by anyone and you don’t need a lot of space to play.
69. Billiards
If you’re looking for a fun hobby, billiards is perfect!
70. Bowling
If you’re looking for something that’s super fun and easy or just something to do with your best friend bowling is perfect.
71. Playing an instrument
There are so many types of instruments you can try! From the flute to drums, this is a really fun hobby to pick up.
72. Boxing
Boxing is a really intense workout that will give you the chance to work on your agility. It’s also a great way to build self-defense skills.
73. Powerlifting
Powerlifting is another really intense hobby that will give you the chance to work on your strength.
74. Basket weaving
This activity sounds difficult and time-consuming but it can be a great way to learn some unique new skills.
75. DIY home improvement
If you’re looking for a new hobby, try out doing some DIY home improvement. You might not think this would be enjoyable but it’s a great way to get out your creativity.
76. Board games
Board games might not sound like something exciting but they’re a great way to spend more time with your friends and family.
77. Jigsaw puzzles
If you’re looking for a hobby that’s both fun and challenging, jigsaw puzzles are perfect.
78. Krav Maga
Krav Maga might be a difficult hobby to start but it’s an awesome way to stay in shape.
79. Crossword puzzles
Crossword puzzles can help keep your mind sharp and also help to increase your vocabulary.
80. Croquet
This is a really fun unique game to play with friends and family. It’s also one of the few games that you can have in your own backyard!
81. Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu-Jitsu might be an intense hobby but it’s another really good way to stay in shape.
82. Puppetry
Puppetry might not sound like a hobby that’s for everyone but this can be an awesome way to learn about theater.
83. Bird watching
Bird watching takes time but it is a really peaceful hobby. It’s also a really fun way to learn about the outdoors!
84. Table tennis
Table tennis is a great activity that can be done with friends and family.
85. Volleyball
Volleyball is an extremely fun sport but it’s perfect for those looking to stay active.
86. Archery
Archery will take some time to learn and master, but it’s a really fun hobby when you get the hang of it.
87. Plant care
If you want to learn more about plants or just have a new hobby, plant care is perfect.
88. Cross stitch
This might not sound like the most exciting hobby but it’s a great way to learn how to create beautiful pieces.
89. Zumba
Zumba might seem like something only reserved for fitness fanatics but this can be a great way to stay in shape. Even if you don’t know how to dance, Zumba is all about moving your body and just having fun!
90. Work out
If you’re really focused on your health, working out might be a perfect hobby for you.
91. Sailing
Sailing is a fun hobby that’s perfect for people who like to explore the ocean or being outdoors.
92. Bouldering
Bouldering might sound difficult but it’s a great hobby to try out.
93. Farming
If you’re looking for a hobby that’s both fun and educational, farming is perfect. It’s also a lot of work but farming can bring extremely rewarding returns.
94. Kite surfing
Kite surfing might not sound like a hobby for everyone but it’s an awesome activity to try.
95. Team sports
Team sports might not sound like a hobby for everyone but this can be an awesome activity to try especially if you like connecting with new people. Your local community may have events that you can participate in.
96. Motorcycling
Motorcycling might sound like something only for experienced people but this can be an awesome and thrilling hobby.
97. Crafting
The world of crafting is diverse and there’s always something new to make or learn about. You can make your own greeting cards, picture frame, or decorative jars and vases. Places like Dollar Tree and Micheal’s are great places to find crafting supplies.
98. Decoupage
You may or may not have heard about this one but although decoupage might sound like something only for DIYers this is a great hobby to try.
99. Golf
Golf might not be the most exciting sport but it’s perfect for those looking to stay in shape and make new friends.
100. Skiing
Although you won’t be able to ski year-round, it’s a great activity to try if you get the chance.
101. Quilting
Quilting is extremely relaxing and can be really fun if you love fun, bright colors. But quilting can sometimes be a very time-consuming hobby and can also be quite expensive.
102. Horseback riding
If you love horses, this is another great outdoor hobby that’s fun to try.
103. Home Brewing
If you love beer, home brewing can be a great hobby for you to learn how to make your own beer.
104. Swimming
Swimming is another awesome hobby that is fun and also keeps you in shape.
105. Lacrosse
Lacrosse is one of the oldest team sports in the United States and might be a hobby for you especially if you’re still in college.
106. Dodge ball
If you’re looking for something different, dodge ball is a fun and fast-paced sport that anyone can enjoy.
107. Croquet
Croquet might sound like something reserved for old people but this can be an awesome pastime.
108. Adult coloring books
Adult coloring books might sound like something for kids but this can be a great way to stay creative and it is extremely relaxing and great for stress relief.
109. Ballet
Ballet may not be an activity that you’ll master right away but ballet can be fun.
110. Hand painting
Hand painting can be an extremely satisfying hobby especially if you’re an introvert or like doing things by yourself.
111. Comedy & Improv
If you’re looking for a new hobby that’s perfect to do with friends, comedy & improv can be awesome activities to try.
112. Crossfit
Crossfit might not sound like the most exciting activity but it’s perfect for those who love high-impact activities or are looking to get in shape.
113. Trap Shooting
Trapshooting has been gaining in popularity, especially among women. The sport is friendly to all skill levels and can be done solo or with friends.
114. Cosplay
If you like dressing up as your favorite character or if you’re looking for a hobby that can be done with friends, cosplay might be perfect.
115. Slacklining
Slacklining can be dangerous and might not be a great hobby for everyone but it’s a good way to spend time outside.
116. Mountain biking
Mountain biking is great for those who love outdoor activities and love a challenge.
117. Pilates
Whether you want to learn how or just need an activity, pilates can be a great thing.
118. Scuba diving
If you’re adventurous and love to explore, give scuba diving a try.
119. Kayaking
If you love water, kayaking might be a fun hobby activity to try.
120. Coin collecting
Coin collecting might not seem like a hobby that everyone would enjoy but it can be a great way to learn more about history.
121. Animal rescue
Animal rescue might not sound like the most exciting hobby but this can be a great way to help animals that need it.
122. Marathon running
If running is your thing, marathon running might be an exciting hobby for you and also can be a great way to stay in shape.
123. Bowling
Bowling can be a great activity to do with friends and family.
124. Poker
Poker is a game of skill that is a great activity to do with friends.
125. Triathalon
Up for a challenge? Triathlons might be an exciting hobby for you especially if you’re competitive.
126. Interior design
If you have an eye for detail, interior design might be the hobby for you.
127. Camping
If you love the outdoors or just like getting away, camping might be a great hobby for you and can be an awesome activity to do with friends.
128. Budgeting
Good money management is something you’ll never regret learning or practicing. Getting in the habit of saving and budgeting our money will put you lightyears ahead of your peers.
129. Investing
People hear investing and think it’s something they can’t do because they don’t have the money to do so but this isn’t true. There are apps like Robinhood and Webull that you can use to start investing with as little as $5! If you can, it’s better to start investing early with as little as you have instead of waiting later on. The compound interest is worth it no matter how little money you may have.
Join Robinhood to get a free stock.
130. Join a book club
For some people, reading is more fun when they can discuss what they’ve read with like-minded people. It’s a great way to learn from others and see how people interpret what was read in different ways. You may learn something new or gain perspective on something you didn’t think about.
Conclusion
It’s never too late to start a new hobby!
Hobbies are perfect for busy people looking for something productive and rewarding.
If you’re not sure where to start, try searching blogs or websites that discuss hobbies of all kinds. Some also offer tutorials on how to get started with everything from ballet to sewing so don’t be afraid to try out something new!
Remember, the point of a hobby is to have fun and enjoy your time.
It’s never too late for a new adventure or experience.
The more you do it, the better you’ll get at it which will make every moment that much more enjoyable.
If this sounds like something you’re interested in, the best thing to do is start exploring and see what happens.
Who knows? You might find some new hobbies that are perfect for you! And even if you don’t you have the rest of your life to figure out what you love.
Read more: How to Better Yourself – Things You Can Do
