What Today’s Retirees Love to Do
Retirement is often imagined as a finish line. But in reality, it’s a starting point for a whole new phase of life — one filled with possibility, freedom, and opportunity. As work responsibilities wind down, many retirees look forward to diving into long-neglected passions or even discovering new ones.
This blog explores some of the most popular retirement hobbies and retirement activities that today’s retirees love. Whether you’re planning your next chapter or are already enjoying it, these ideas can help you build a fulfilling and engaging retirement lifestyle.
Why Hobbies and Activities Matter in Retirement
Choosing the right hobbies after retirement isn’t just about staying busy. It’s about:
- Maintaining mental sharpness
- Enhancing physical health
- Fostering social connections
- Providing a sense of purpose and accomplishment
- Lowering rates of depression and anxiety
As you plan your retirement, it’s also time to think beyond your financials. Planning retirement lifestyle choices is just as crucial to retiring comfortably and living with joy.
Top Retirement Hobbies and Activities
Here are eight hobbies and activities many retirees embrace — and why they love them.
1. Cooking and Baking
Many retirees rediscover the joy of the kitchen. With more time on your hands, you can finally dive into those cooking classes you’ve been putting off or master the art of baking a perfect loaf of bread.
Benefits:
- Creative expression
- Healthy eating habits
- Social opportunities (hosting friends and family)
Cooking is a perfect example of a hobby that keeps both your body and mind active.
2. Reading
Reading remains a favorite hobby for retirees. Whether it’s catching up on classics, diving into thrillers, or exploring new topics, reading stimulates the mind and fuels imagination.
Benefits:
- Mental engagement
- Stress reduction
- Endless learning opportunities
Audio books and e-readers make this hobby more accessible than ever! You can start a book club with friends or join a local book club to add a social element to your schedule (and a little accountability, too).
3. Gardening
Gardening is one of the best hobbies for seniors because it’s physically rewarding and mentally soothing. Whether you have acres of land or a small balcony, there’s a type of gardening for everyone.
Benefits:
- Physical activity
- Stress relief
- Sense of achievement
Plus, studies show that spending time in nature can improve your mood and reduce anxiety. Wondering where to start? Check out a local gardening center to learn about what plant might be best for you and remember- indoor gardening counts!
4. Travel
It’s no surprise that travel consistently tops the list of best hobbies for retirees. After years of hard work, many look forward to exploring new cities, cultures, and adventures.
Benefits:
- Expanded worldview
- Lifelong memories
- Opportunities for physical activity
Many retirees choose to frontload their travel, making the most of their energy and health during the early years of retirement. There are options for travel planning; you can plan your own trip, work with a trip planner, book a cruise. Choose your adventure!
5. Volunteering
Volunteering in retirement can be one of the most fulfilling ways to spend your time. Whether it’s helping at a food bank, tutoring students, or working with a charity, retirees find immense satisfaction in giving back.
Benefits:
- Sense of purpose
- New friendships
- Mental and emotional well-being
Many retirees say volunteering gives them structure and meaning, enhancing their overall retirement lifestyle ideas. Looking for ideas? Ask at your local library.
6. Photography and the Arts
Pursuing photography, painting, pottery, or other arts gives retirees a creative outlet. Even if you’ve never considered yourself “artistic,” this is the perfect time to explore.
Benefits:
- Creative expression
- Stress reduction
- Community and classes for social connection
Photography can even combine with travel for double the enjoyment! Whether you’re jumping back in or picking up some new skills, finding a local club or class can be a great place to start.
7. Lifelong Learning
Learning doesn’t end with a career. Retirement opens the door to new subjects, skills, and passions. Popular topics include:
- Technology (like AI and smart devices)
- History or literature
- Languages
Libraries, community centers, and online platforms offer countless classes.
Benefits:
- Cognitive sharpness
- Increased confidence
- Sense of accomplishment
On the other hand, if you have a knowledge base in a particular subject area and enjoy one on one connections, you can consider becoming a mentor. It’s a great way to meet people you may not have encountered otherwise, and a different way to share your life experiences. Ask at your local library.
8. Fitness and Outdoor Activities
Staying physically active is vital to retiring comfortably. Many retirees embrace new activities like:
- Pickleball (hugely popular nationwide)
- Walking groups
- Golf
- Swimming
- Yoga or tai chi
- Cycling
Physical activities don’t just improve health — they help form social bonds and boost your mood.
How to Find the Right Hobbies for You
Not every hobby will resonate with you, and that’s okay! Here’s how to explore your interests:
- Try one new activity per quarter. Low commitment, high discovery!
- Join a local group or club. There are groups for everything from hiking to book clubs.
- Use technology to research. AI tools and websites make it easy to find new hobbies and local opportunities.
- Take a class. Learning with others can spark inspiration and introduce you to new friends.
Remember, the goal is to find activities that excite and fulfill you, not to overwhelm yourself with obligations.
The Impact on Your Retirement Plan
Incorporating hobbies into your life can affect your retirement checklist in a few ways:
- Budgeting: Certain activities like travel or photography might require additional savings.
- Health Planning: Staying active can reduce healthcare costs.
- Social Security and Income Planning: Knowing your activities can help structure your income needs in retirement.
By weaving hobbies into your overall retirement planning, you’re setting yourself up for not just a secure financial future, but a vibrant, joyful one as well.
Final Thoughts: Secure Your Retirement Lifestyle
Retirement is your chance to embrace life in new and fulfilling ways. Whether it’s through learning, traveling, volunteering, or discovering a new passion, today’s retirees are proving that retirement is just the beginning.
Start exploring now. Try different activities. Dream big about your retirement hobbies and retirement activities. Your future self will thank you.
Schedule your complimentary 15-minute call to discuss how your retirement hobbies fit into your retirement plan.