100 Unique Ideas for What to Do in Retirement

For many, retirement marks a fresh chapter filled with positive possibilities. After years in the workforce, you’re finally free to spend your time doing what you truly enjoy.

But as many new retirees soon discover, you might have more free time than expected. To make retirement more enjoyable and fulfilling, it’s often a good idea for seniors to plan ahead for activities to enjoy during their golden years.

In this blog, we’re sharing 100 fun and fulfilling ideas for what to do in retirement. Not only will these activities help fill your days, but many also come with added wellness benefits.

“Retirement is an opportunity to redefine how you spend your time. For many older adults, this new chapter offers the chance to rediscover passions, pursue long-held interests, or simply enjoy a slower pace with purpose. But with so much freedom, it’s easy to feel unsure where to start. This guide is here to help inspire action.”

Rachel Azure-Kochanek
Writer at StoryPoint Group

Reignite Old Hobbies (or Try New Ones)

If you’re wondering what to do in retirement, consider returning to a hobby you enjoyed in your youth, or better yet, explore new ones! Many experts agree that retirement hobbies can keep your hands busy and your heart happy. If you don’t have a hobby, try out a few activities that interest you until you find something you enjoy doing.

Here are some cool options worth checking out:

1. Gardening: Try growing your own small garden. In addition to being a soothing pastime, gardening has been shown to have many other valuable benefits for older adults.
2. Birdwatching: Thinking of what to do in retirement? You might enjoy watching birds. Consider setting up a bird feeder in your backyard to attract some feathered friends.
3. Photography: Start taking photos of people you love or interesting places you visit. You don’t need expensive gear; most smartphones are good enough.
4. Cooking: If you like spending time in the kitchen, make some tasty meals to enjoy with people you love, or try out new recipes. You can find plenty of great ideas online. Just be mindful of any allergies or dietary restrictions.
5. Baking: Start baking fresh bread and warm cookies in your free time. If you haven’t baked before, consider signing up for senior-friendly classes in your area.
6. Own a Pet: Adding a pet to your life can bring extra joy to your retirement. Gentle animals, like smaller dog breeds or cats, are often the best fit for seniors.
7. Writing: Writing is a relaxing and rewarding hobby to pick up at any age, including retirement. You might enjoy keeping a journal, writing short stories, or even starting a blog.
8. Playing a Musical Instrument: If you’re a music lover, consider picking up an old favorite or learning a new instrument. You can attend an in-person class or search for senior-friendly courses online.
9. Pottery: Use clay to make practical items like mugs, bowls, or decorative pieces for your home. Just be ready to get a little messy; it’s part of the fun!
10. Fishing: Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors as a retiree. Just be sure to follow local fishing regulations and observe safety protocols.

Travel Ideas for Retirees

For many older adults, seeing new places is one of the best things to do in retirement. You can explore solo or join senior travel groups for some added fun with friends.

Here are some cool travel ideas you may try:

11. National Park Road Trips: Try exploring national parks across the country. Many of them even offer discounts for older adults.
12. River Cruises: If you’re wondering what to do in retirement, try going on a river cruise vacation. Many companies offer senior-friendly itineraries.
13. Scenic Train Rides: Take in beautiful Midwest landscapes by rail. The Amtrak Empire Builder route offers breathtaking views from Chicago through Wisconsin and Minnesota to the northern plains — a perfect way to relax and enjoy the journey.

14. Historic Tours: If you’re a history buff, visit popular landmarks, monuments, and cultural sites nearby. You might unlock some hidden gems.
15. Beach Resort Vacations: Enjoy beach life at your favorite coastal destinations. Popular choices for retirees include beach towns like Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and Naples, Florida.
16. Culinary-Focused Trips: Explore new areas and discover what their culinary cultures have to offer. You can visit local markets, take cooking classes, or enjoy meals at local restaurants.
17. Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Visit popular cultural and natural wonders around the globe, like the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, and the Taj Mahal.
18. Wildlife Safaris: Go on a safari to see incredible wildlife in its natural habitat. Be mindful of the weather before traveling.
19. Cross-Country Rail Journeys: Explore the American landscape with a cross-country train ride. Here are some scenic routes you might enjoy with someone you love.
20. City Walking Tours: Explore your favorite cities on foot. Many places offer guided tours with well-paved, wheelchair-accessible routes.

Get Physically Active

Regular physical exercise has many valuable benefits at any age. However, some medical conditions or natural effects of aging can make certain workouts challenging for some older adults.

Still, there are plenty of exercises that are generally safe for most older adults, including:

21. Pickleball: Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, and is perfect if you want some light competition with friends. You can check out local pickleball courts or nearby senior living communities.
22. Water Aerobics: Water aerobics involves gentle exercise routines in a swimming pool. They’re perfect for someone with joint pain or arthritis.
23. Chair Exercises: For those who prefer seated options, there are many chair exercises for you. A few good options include seated leg lifts, arm raises, or gentle stretches.
24. Walking: Walking is a great way to enjoy fresh air and get some exercise. Even just a few minutes of regular walking can have immense benefits for your physical and mental health.
25. Cycling: Cycling is a low-impact workout for lower-body strength and good heart health. You can use an upright or recumbent stationary bike at home or ride outdoors.
26. Swimming: If you have access to a pool, swimming is a great option for getting a full-body workout while putting minimal strain on your muscles and joints.
27. Tai Chi: Tai Chi involves a series of slow, controlled movements and is excellent for improving balance and flexibility. You can join a senior-friendly Tai Chi class or follow along with beginner videos online.
28. Yoga: Yoga offers a gentle way to enhance flexibility and combat stress, making it an excellent option for most seniors. Try looking for senior-friendly yoga classes in your area or senior living community. You can also find plenty of guided sessions online.
29. Bowling: If you want to enjoy social fun with a bit of light movement, try bowling. You can ask for a lighter ball if needed.
30. Golf: Golf is a relaxing way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with friends. You can play a full round at a local course, practice your swing at the driving range, or join a community golf league to combine exercise with social time.
31. Dancing: Dancing to your favorite songs can also help improve coordination and balance, which can significantly reduce the risk of falls. You can dance at home or sign up for dance classes in your area.

Stay Mentally Sharp

As our bodies age, so does the brain. However, research shows that keeping your mind active can support cognitive health and may even help delay the onset of memory-related conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Here are some enjoyable, brain-healthy activities you can try during retirement:

32. Reading: Reading is great at any age. You’ll find many options, including novels, magazines, and biographies covering various topics and interests. You can even enjoy digital formats on your phone or tablet.
33. Learn a New Language: A new language can open the door to new cultures and friendships, especially if you love to travel. Sign up for a class online or use mobile apps like Duolingo to learn at your own pace.
34. Crossword Puzzles or Board Games: If you have free time, try solving puzzles like crosswords or Sudoku. You can find them in newspapers, magazines, or online using your phone. Another great way to give your brain a gentle workout is by playing simple board games like Scrabble or Rummikub with friends and family.

35. Take an Online Course: If you’re running out of things to do in retirement, try taking an online course. There are plenty of low-cost and free options that cover a wide range of subjects, from technology and fitness to arts and humanities.
36. Writing: Writing offers an excellent way to express yourself and share your knowledge or story with others. You can journal, write fictional stories, or even create your own biography.
37. Drawing and Painting: Visual arts, including painting and drawing, involve reasoning and fine motor skills, making them an excellent way for seniors to stay mentally sharp.
38. Card Games: Card games like bridge, rummy, or solitaire can offer a gentle brain workout while being a ton of fun. You can enjoy them with friends and loved ones, or play online.
39. Trivia Games: If you like to recall facts and learn new ones, you might enjoy playing trivia games. They typically involve answering questions about history, music, or sports.
40. Attend Lectures or Workshops: If you’re a lifelong learner, consider attending talks that interest you at local museums, universities, or libraries. You’ll have the chance to learn from experts on various topics.
41. Try Creative Crafts: Try creative crafts such as knitting, crocheting, quilting, or woodworking. There are lots of beginner-friendly tutorials you can follow online.
42. Public Speaking: Become a guest speaker on topics you’re passionate about. Many schools and universities often invite senior speakers.

Ways to Earn Income in Retirement

If you’re a new retiree wondering what to do in retirement, try a small side hustle business. Besides filling up your free time, you’ll earn some extra income, too.

Here are some ideas worth trying:

43. Create an Online Craft Shop: If you’re good at crafting, you can turn it into a part-time business. Consider setting up an online craft store on sites like Etsy or Shopify.
44. Start a Consulting Service: Even after leaving the workforce, you can still put your time and skills to good use. One way to do this is by using your years of experience to help businesses in your field for a fee.
45. Teach a Skill Online Via Zoom: You don’t have to leave your home to make extra income. If you’re a former teacher or instructor looking for what to do in retirement, consider offering online classes through platforms like Zoom.
46. Create a YouTube Channel: Start a YouTube channel to share stories or hobbies with the world. To start, sign up for an account, choose a niche you enjoy, and begin shooting and uploading content.
47. Offer Pet-Walking Services: If you love spending time with animals, consider offering pet-walking services. You’ll earn extra income and get a gentle workout while spending time with animal friends.
48. Become a Tour Guide: Share your knowledge of local history and attractions by leading guided tours in your city or town. Many organizations welcome part-time or seasonal guides, including seniors.
49. Offer Tutoring Services: If you’re a retired teacher or have expertise in a subject, you can tutor students for a fee. Many schools and universities welcome older tutors.

Get Creative

Looking for what to do in retirement using your artistic skills? Check out these hands-on projects that are great for retirees:

50. Make DIY Home Décor Projects: If you have some free time and your home could use a little sprucing up, try taking on simple DIY home décor projects. Some fun ideas include making a personalized picture frame, painting flower pots, or creating seasonal decorations.

51. Create Handmade Greeting Cards: It’s normal for our social circles to shrink after retirement. If you have free time, try creating and mailing a handmade greeting card to an old friend to reconnect and brighten their day.
52. Make Simple Jewelry: Create simple jewelry like beaded bracelets, pendant necklaces, and earrings. Large-holed beads are often easier to work with for seniors or individuals with vision challenges. Handmade jewelry also makes a great gift for someone you love!
53. Start a Blog: If you want to share your knowledge with the world, consider starting a blog. It can be a great way to express yourself creatively, stay mentally active, and connect with others. To start blogging, choose a niche that interests you, design a user-friendly blog, and start writing. Platforms like WordPress, Blogger, and Wix offer beginner-friendly tools for creating and publishing content.
54. Scrapbooking: Scrapbooking lets you tell visual stories by creatively decorating photos of special moments. You can even invite friends and family to share their favorite pictures with you to include in your projects.
55. Arranging Flowers: Arranging flowers is a gentle and soothing activity for most seniors, including individuals with memory challenges or limited mobility. You can experiment with fresh or dried flowers to make seasonal or themed arrangements.
56. Acting Classes: Seniors who love acting can explore performance arts during retirement. Many art centers and senior living communities also offer acting classes specifically designed for older adults.
57. Candle Making: Candle making is both therapeutic and social, making it a wonderful hobby for many retirees. You can explore different shapes, scents, and colors to create candles for your home or as gifts for friends and loved ones.
58. Paper Crafts: Paper crafts like origami are fun and offer therapeutic benefits. They can also help improve fine motor skills and boost cognitive function. Simple origami models, like a heart or butterfly, can be a great starting point.
59. Fashion Design: If you have skills in fashion and design, try making clothes, hats, or accessories you love. It’s a great way to refresh your wardrobe while keeping your mind active.

Self-Improvement Ideas

With so much free time, many retirees ask: “What does the average retiree do all day?” or “How do I stop boredom in retirement?” Consider using your free time to work on your well-being.

If you’re looking for things to do while retired, try these self-improvement ideas:

60. Establish a Consistent Routine: While you may no longer have as many responsibilities, adding some structure to your day can help make your retirement days more purposeful. You can start by setting regular times for meals, daily chores, physical activities, and things that bring you joy.
61. Work With a Life Coach: Retirement may also bring its own set of challenges. If needed, consider seeking out a life coach. They can help you navigate the unique challenges and opportunities that arise in later life, like what to do in retirement, health changes, and redefining your purpose.
62. Declutter Your Space: Being retired likely means you don’t need some of the things you’ve accumulated over the years. If you have some time to spare, sort through your belongings and set aside items you no longer need. These might include old clothes, unused kitchen gadgets, duplicate tools, outdated electronics, or extra furniture. Discard anything broken, and consider selling or donating the rest.
63. Eat Healthy: Eating a healthy diet can have tremendous benefits at any age, including during retirement. Try gradually incorporating more nutritious alternatives into your meals. For example, eat an orange instead of drinking processed orange juice, a bowl of oatmeal instead of sugary cereal, or snack on plain yogurt instead of flavored ones. For more filling, unprocessed snacks, try options like unsalted nuts, sliced apples with peanut butter, carrot sticks, or hard-boiled eggs.

64. Learn Basic First Aid: Basic first aid skills are essential for everyone, including seniors, and may come in handy during an emergency. You can find plenty of free courses online.
65. Join a Debate Group: If you want to sharpen your reasoning and quick-thinking skills while enjoying good company, consider joining a debate group on a topic you enjoy. It’s also a great way to meet and connect with others.
66. Study Local History: For history lovers looking for what to do in retirement, studying your town’s history can be a fulfilling and enriching experience. Try joining a local history society, visiting archives and museums, or exploring nearby historical sites.
67. Take Computer Classes: Even in retirement, learning computer skills can be highly beneficial. Many organizations offer classes specifically for seniors, covering topics like basic computer operation, internet navigation, and online safety.

Connect With Others

Numerous studies show that connecting with others may bring many important benefits for seniors.

Here are some things to do in retirement that might give you plenty of natural opportunities to meet new friends:

68. Join a Social Club: Most activities are even better with friends. If you want to enjoy things to do in retirement with others, consider joining clubs based on your hobbies and interests.
69. Participate in Community Events: Most senior living communities offer a rich social activity calendar with festivals, concerts, and opportunities for residents to celebrate occasions together. Participating in these activities and programs can help residents connect with others.
70. Host Game Nights: Organize a game night with friends or loved ones. Offer a variety of games to keep things interesting, and include drinks and snacks for a more enjoyable experience.
71. Attend Events: Consider attending senior-friendly events in your area. Check local community centers or library bulletin boards for upcoming activities. Many retirement communities also offer a fun, activity-packed calendar for residents to enjoy.
72. Reconnect With Old Friends: After years of raising a family or focusing on your career, retirement can be the perfect time to reconnect with old friends. You can call them, send a text, or even reach out on Facebook. You’ll likely be glad you did.
73. Join a Local Choir: If you love singing, consider joining a choir or music group. To get started, try searching online for local community groups or music organizations for seniors in your area.

You can also contact senior centers or senior living communities, as they often host or are aware of local singing groups. You can also ask friends or neighbors for recommendations or inquire at local churches.

Rediscover Your Purpose

When looking ahead, many older adults often wonder, what is the secret to a happier retirement? While there’s no magic pill, research shows that seniors who find a sense of purpose tend to enjoy a more fulfilling and satisfying retirement.

Here are some helpful ideas to bring more meaning to your daily life:

74. Teach Others: Try sharing your skills by offering classes or workshops in areas you’re knowledgeable about. You can teach online via platforms like Zoom or host in-person courses.
75. Adopt an Animal Friend: Giving an animal friend a second chance can be a fulfilling experience, particularly if you’re an animal lover. Many animal shelters have pets that could use a new home.
76. Craft for a Good Cause: Create meaningful handcrafted items, such as handwritten letters, cozy sweaters, and warm blankets, and donate them to those in need, including children’s hospitals and homeless shelters.
77. Volunteer: If you love to help others, consider donating your time and skills to a good cause. Reach out to organizations like your area’s senior centers, hospitals, food banks, and environmental groups. Many of them frequently welcome senior volunteers.
78. Look After Grandchildren: Wondering what to do in retirement? Spend quality time bonding with your grandkids. You’ll have a chance to share your wisdom with younger generations while also giving their parents a helping hand.

79. Deliver Meals to the Less Fortunate: Delivering meals to less fortunate people can be a meaningful way to give back during retirement. Programs like Meals on Wheels let you help provide nutritious food to those in need, such as homebound seniors or individuals experiencing homelessness.
80. Become a Mentor: Use your experience and skills to mentor a young professional in your field. It’s a meaningful way to find purpose in retirement and make a positive impact on someone’s life.

Micro-Goals to Try for a Month

If you’re wondering what to do in retirement but aren’t ready to make a long-term commitment, that’s completely okay. Here are a few smaller goals you can try:

81. Take a 10-Minute Walk: While you may be eager to enjoy the benefits of exercising, it’s important to start slowly. If you’re new to exercise or haven’t worked out in a while, try going for a 10-minute walk outside when the weather is nice.
82. Read One Chapter of a Book Daily: Retirement can be the perfect time to get absorbed in a good book. Try reading one chapter each day, taking regular breaks in between.
83. Stretch for a Few Minutes Each Morning: Start your day with a gentle stretch. Adding stretching movements to your routine can reduce the risk of falls by helping increase flexibility, balance, and range of motion.
84. Watch Documentaries: Documentary videos offer a convenient way to stay educated and entertained in retirement. You can find plenty of free options online across a variety of genres.
85. Do a Puzzle Daily: Give your brain a gentle workout by solving a puzzle daily for a month. You can find plenty of free options online.
86. Try a New Hobby or Craft Activity Once a Week: If you’re wondering what to do in retirement, try exploring a new hobby or craft each week. You’ll learn new things and might discover something you enjoy!
87. Eat Fruit or Vegetable Snacks Daily: You’ve likely heard about the many benefits of eating fruits and vegetables. If you’re trying to eat healthy, try incorporating fruits and greens into your snacks instead of completely changing your meal plan.
88. Try a New Recipe Each Week: If you love cooking and experimenting with new recipes, try switching things up by making one new dish each week. It could be something you’ve never tried before or a healthier take on an old favorite.
89. Call a Different Friend or Family Member Daily: Many retirees, especially those living alone, often report feeling lonely. Take a few minutes each day to reconnect with someone you care about through a text, phone call, or video chat using apps like FaceTime, Zoom, or Google Meet.
90. Go Tech-Free for an Hour Each Day: While tech can be helpful for most seniors, too much screen time is bad for you. Try taking a break from screens for just one hour a day. Instead, you may use that time to read your favorite book, take a walk, or just relax.

Things to Do With Other Retirees

Friends can make just about everything more enjoyable. If you’re wondering what to do in retirement with other retirees, here are some fun group activities you might enjoy:

91. Join a Senior Sports League: If you enjoyed playing sports in your younger days, consider joining a senior-friendly sports league. Check with local community centers, senior centers, and organizations like the National Senior Games Association (NSGA) for listings of senior sports leagues.
92. Attend Local Concerts or Festivals: Concerts and festivals aren’t just for the young. Try attending a senior-friendly event with friends and enjoy music, food, and laughter together. Check local listings in newspapers, community centers, and online for events that are perfect for seniors.
93. Celebrate Special Occasions: Celebrating special occasions with other seniors is a fantastic way to stay connected during retirement. Gather with fellow retirees to mark birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays and enjoy meaningful time together.
94. Meditation Sessions: Meditation offers a gentle way for retirees to calm the mind and relax the body. To connect with others, consider joining a senior-friendly group session.
95. Attend Community Classes: Most senior living communities offer plenty of events to help residents learn new things and have fun, including fairs, markets, workshops, or talks. Attending classes with others is a great chance to try something different and meet new friends.
96. Join a Reading Club: Whether you’re an avid reader or just looking to get into reading, joining a book club can be an enriching way to spend your retirement. You’ll learn plenty of new things and might make some good friends along the way.
97. Host Movie Nights: Invite friends over for a movie night. Provide some tasty treats and enjoy a classic film for a touch of nostalgia.
98. Travel with Other Seniors: If you love to explore new places, consider joining a senior travel club. You can also check out local community centers, senior living communities, or online platforms for senior-friendly travel clubs or groups that align with your interests, physical abilities, and budget.
99. Play Cards or Board Games Weekly: Host a weekly game night with other retired friends. Have plenty of snacks and fun board games like Scrabble or Rummikub to keep the good times going.
100. Sign Up for a Fitness Class: Like many things in life, staying active is more enjoyable when done with friends. Many senior centers, active adult communities, and gyms offer group fitness classes designed specifically for older adults.

Senior Living With StoryPoint Group Communities

At StoryPoint Group communities, our residents’ needs are at the heart of everything we do. You might be looking for a relaxed lifestyle with convenient access to modern amenities and a fun-packed activity calendar. Perhaps you could use additional help with activities of daily living (ADLs). Or maybe you’re simply looking for a home where you’ll truly feel like you belong.

No matter where you are on your journey, our goal is to help you make the most of every day, your way.

To learn more about life with us or just to say hello, feel free to contact us or give us a call at 1-844-275-9990.