Super Fun Hobbies for Men Over 60 for 2026

This new chapter of life, whether that means retirement, a new career, or simply having more newfound freedom, is an amazing opportunity. But with it can come the big question: “What’s next?”

Finding fulfilling hobbies for men over 60 is one of the most important keys to a happy and engaged life. This isn’t just about “passing the time”—it’s about finding a new purpose, staying active, and keeping your mind sharp.

If you’re looking for inspiration, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled the ultimate list of hobbies—from active and social to creative and intellectual—to help you find a new passion and thrive in this fantastic chapter.

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The Best Hobbies for Men Over 60

The importance of having hobbies in our lives cannot be overstated. Hobbies provide a source of relaxation and entertainment and can also improve mental and physical health, increase social connections, and foster personal growth.

For men over 60, finding new hobbies or continuing to pursue existing ones can be a great way to stay active, engaged, and happy.

Related Article: 50 Creative Hobbies for Women over 50+

More Than a Pastime: Why a Hobby is a Game-Changer After 60

As you enter your 60s, your relationship with “free time” often changes, especially with retirement on the horizon or already here.

This new chapter is the perfect opportunity to invest in yourself. A good hobby is far more than just a way to fill the hours—it’s a powerful tool for building a rich, healthy, and satisfying life.

A hobby is your personal source of relaxation, growth, and joy.

Here are the real-world benefits you’ll find when you dive into a new passion:

• It Keeps Your Mind Sharp: The “use it or lose it” rule is real. Hobbies that involve learning, strategy, or new skills (like learning an instrument, a new language, or even chess) are fantastic for enhancing cognitive function, improving memory, and keeping your brain engaged.
  
• It Boosts Your Physical Health: Many hobbies get you moving without feeling like a chore. Active hobbies like gardening, golf, hiking, or swimming are essential for maintaining mobility, strength, and cardiovascular health, giving you more energy for everything else.
  
• It Gives You a New “Why”: A fulfilling hobby provides a powerful sense of purpose. It’s a project to look forward to, a goal to work toward, and a reason to get up and get going every day.
  
  This sense of accomplishment is a huge boost to self-esteem and overall well-being.
  
• It Builds Social Connections: This is one of the most important benefits. Hobbies are a natural, low-pressure way to foster social connections and build a sense of community.
  
  Joining a club, a class, or a volunteer group instantly connects you with people who share your interests, which is a key to happiness and reduces feelings of isolation.
  
• It’s a Powerful Stress Reliever: Engaging in an activity you love, whether it’s the creative flow of painting or the quiet focus of fishing, is a proven way to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve your overall mental health.

Quick Pick Hobbies for Men Over. 60+

Finding the “right” hobby is a personal choice. To help you get started, here are my top suggestions based on what you’re looking for:

• Best for Staying Active & Healthy: Pickleball, Swimming, Golfing, or Hiking
  
• Best for Keeping Your Mind Sharp: Learning an Instrument, Puzzles, Learning a New Language, or Investing
  
• Best Social Hobbies to Meet People: Volunteering, Joining a Choir, Learning to Dance, or a Golf Club
  
• Best Creative & Hands-On Hobbies: Woodworking, Cooking, Photography, or Model Building
  
• Best Low-Cost & Free Hobbies: Gardening, Hiking, Reading (with a library card), or Birdwatching

My List of 30+ Hobbies for Men Over 60

1. Embrace an Active Lifestyle

Staying active is one of the most powerful things you can do for your health and vitality after 60. This isn’t about becoming a “fitness junkie,” but rather about finding movement you genuinely enjoy.

This could include anything from taking brisk daily walks in your neighborhood to learning to use weights at a local gym or joining a group fitness class.

The goal is simple: to feel strong, have more energy, and maintain your health so you can enjoy this chapter to the fullest.

2. Enjoy the Green with Golfing

For many, retirement is the perfect time to finally lower that handicap. Golfing is so much more than just a sport; it’s a social event, a mindful walk in a beautiful park, and a fantastic low-impact exercise.

It’s a wonderful way to stay active, stimulate your mind, and share some quality time with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, you’ll discover that it’s a rewarding hobby that keeps you engaged and connected.

3. Master the Kitchen with Cooking and Baking

There’s a special kind of joy in creating a delicious meal from scratch. Cooking is a wonderful, creative hobby that engages all your senses.

It’s a practical skill that helps you eat healthier and a beautiful way to show love to friends and family.

Whether you’re mastering the art of the perfect steak, baking fresh bread, or exploring new global cuisines, this hands-on hobby is both a relaxing and a delicious way to spend your time.

4. Explore the World with Traveling

Traveling is an excellent way to create new memories. Your retirement years are the perfect time to finally take those trips you’ve always dreamed of.

Traveling is an incredible hobby that opens your eyes to new cultures, new foods, and new perspectives.

It doesn’t have to be a round-the-world cruise, either. Exploring the national parks in an RV, visiting historic cities, or even just being a “tourist” in your own state can be a source of great joy and lifelong learning.

5. Find Peace and Patience with Fishing

There’s a reason fishing is a timeless hobby for men. It’s a beautiful excuse to get outdoors, connect with nature, and enjoy some quiet mindfulness.

It’s a chance to unplug from the noise and just be, whether you’re on a boat, a pier, or the bank of a river.

The thrill of the catch is a bonus, but the real reward is the peace and patience you find while waiting for it. It’s the perfect low-stress, high-reward activity.

6. Capture Moments with Photography

This hobby is a rewarding way to document your life and share your unique perspective with the world. Photography is a beautiful blend of art and technology.

It’s a creative hobby that encourages you to look at the world differently—to notice the light, the composition, and the little details you might otherwise miss.

Whether you use a smartphone or a high-end camera, you can capture family memories, beautiful landscapes, or the birds in your backyard.

7. Unleash Your Inner Artist

We all have a creative spark, and now is the perfect time to explore it. Engaging in creative hobbies is fantastic for your mental well-being, providing a stress-relieving outlet and a wonderful sense of accomplishment.

This is your chance to try something new, like painting with watercolors, learning to draw, taking a pottery class, or even trying your hand at sculpting.

The focus isn’t on being perfect; it’s on the simple, mindful joy of creating

8. Keep Your Mind Sharp with Reading

Reading is a fulfilling and inexpensive hobby that offers lifelong returns. A good book is an adventure you can have from your favorite armchair.

Reading is one of the single best hobbies for maintaining cognitive function and keeping your mind sharp.

It’s a fantastic way to explore new worlds, learn about any subject on earth, or get lost in a great story. You can make it a social hobby by joining a local book club to discuss your thoughts, or enjoy it as a quiet, personal escape.

9. Build Something Lasting with Woodworking

There is a deep satisfaction in taking a simple piece of wood and turning it into something beautiful and useful with your own hands.

Woodworking is a fantastic hands-on hobby that builds patience and skill. You can start small, perhaps carving or building a birdhouse, or work your way up to crafting your own furniture.

It’s a pastime that engages your mind, hones your focus, and leaves you with a tangible, lasting result of your hard work.

10. Make Music by Learning an Instrument

It’s never too late to fill your life with music. Learning a new instrument is one of the best hobbies for keeping your mind sharp, as it challenges your brain to coordinate and create in new ways.

Whether you’ve always dreamed of playing the guitar, sitting down at the piano, or learning the ukulele, the process is gratifying.

Playing an instrument is a gift you give to yourself, one that you can also share with friends and family.

11. Find Purpose by Volunteering

Many men find that retirement is the perfect time to give back, and volunteering is a hobby that pays you back in spades.

It provides a profound sense of purpose, a regular schedule, and an excellent way to stay socially connected.

Whether you’re passionate about a local museum, an animal shelter, or mentoring young people, sharing your time and talents can make a huge difference—both in your community and in your own life.

12. Find Your Passion with Collecting

This is a hobby that truly taps into your personal passions, letting you connect with history, nostalgia, and the thrill of the hunt.

Collecting is about so much more than just the items themselves; it’s about the joy of researching a rare find, the satisfaction of curating a set, and the stories behind each piece.

This hobby is fantastic for keeping your mind sharp, as it turns you into a part-time historian and detective. You’ll learn to spot details, understand an item’s value, and connect with a community of fellow enthusiasts.

Whether you’re rediscovering the vinyl records of your youth, preserving sports memorabilia from your favorite team, tracking down rare books, or admiring the craftsmanship in antique tools or coins, this hobby provides a deep and lasting sense of accomplishment.

13. Share Your Story Through Writing

Writing is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to leave a legacy.You have a lifetime of experiences, wisdom, and stories. Writing is the perfect creative hobby to share them.

It’s a powerful way to find a new sense of purpose, whether you’re capturing priceless family history for your grandkids, finally starting that novel you’ve always thought about, or writing a memoir.

Daily, writing is also a fantastic way to keep your mind sharp. The act of organizing your thoughts and finding just the right words is an excellent mental exercise.

You don’t have to write a book, either. Starting a simple blog to share your passion for fishing or gardening, or even the simple, private practice of journaling, can be an incredibly rewarding way to reflect and express yourself.

14. Get Moving and Learn to Dance

Dancing is simply an exercise in disguise. It’s a joy-filled hobby that benefits your heart, mind, and social life.

This is a wonderfully social hobby, perfect for you and a partner. You can sign up for ballroom, salsa, or swing classes, or even enjoy line dancing at a local event.

It’s a fantastic low-impact activity that boosts your mood, improves your balance, and is, plain and simple, a whole lot of fun.

15. Stay Active and Explore with Hiking

If the outdoors is calling you, hiking could be an answer. This hobby is all about staying active at your own pace.

You don’t have to climb a mountain; a simple walk on a forest trail can do wonders for both your physical and mental health.

It’s a great way to explore your local area, get fresh air, and find a real sense of accomplishment. Additionally, it’s an ideal activity to enjoy with family, friends, or a loyal dog.

16. Play Video Games

Playing video games can be a fun and engaging hobby for men over 60. It provides an opportunity to escape reality, challenge oneself, and engage in interactive entertainment.

Many video games also offer a social aspect, allowing players to connect with others and make new friends.

As a bonus, video games can improve hand-eye coordination, reaction time, and problem-solving skills, which can be beneficial for overall cognitive health.

17. Learn a New Language

Learning a new language is a great way to keep your mind sharp and engaged, regardless of your age. But for men over 60, learning a new language can be especially beneficial.

Here are a few reasons why learning a new language is a good idea:

Improves cognitive function: Learning a new language requires your brain to work in new and different ways, which can help improve cognitive function and memory retention.

Keeps your brain active: As we age, we must keep our brains busy and engaged to prevent cognitive decline. Learning a new language is a great way to do this, as it requires constant learning and practice.

Opens up new experiences: Learning a new language can open up new opportunities for travel, cultural exchange, and social engagement. It can also help you connect with others who speak the same language, allowing you to expand your social network and make new friends.

Enhances career opportunities: Learning a new language can be valuable if you’re still working or looking to start a new career.

It can open up new job opportunities or help you communicate with colleagues and clients in different parts of the world.

Boosts confidence: Learning a new language can be a challenging and rewarding experience. It can boost your confidence and sense of accomplishment, positively affecting your overall well-being and mental health.

Whether you’re interested in learning a new language for personal or professional reasons, many resources are available to help you get started.

Online courses, language apps, and local language schools or tutors can provide instruction and support as you embark on this exciting and fulfilling journey.

18. Swimming

Looking for an exercise that gets you active without being hard on your body? Swimming is the answer. It’s a fantastic full-body, low-impact hobby that supports your joints while building strength and cardiovascular health.

Many men find a daily swim to be a meditative and refreshing way to start the day.

Check out your local community center or gym; a good pool can be a source of both health and relaxation.

19. Find Flexibility and Balance with Yoga

As we age, maintaining flexibility and balance becomes increasingly important for our long-term health. Yoga is a fantastic, low-impact hobby that directly addresses this.

It’s a gentle practice that meets you where you are, whether you’re a complete beginner or have been active for years.

It’s an excellent way to improve your balance, reduce aches and pains, and build core strength, all while giving you a peaceful moment to connect your mind and body.

20. Find Calm and Clarity with Meditation

Meditating is a rewarding practice that helps you stay present, focused, and calm through all of life’s chapters. In a world full of noise, meditation is a simple but powerful tool for finding quiet and mental clarity. This is a hobby you can do anywhere, anytime.

It’s not about emptying your mind, but rather about learning to focus it. Just a few minutes a day can dramatically reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve your overall sense of well-being.

Related Article: The Benefits of Daily Meditation

21. Engage Your Mind with Investing

For the man who loves strategy, research, and staying on top of current events, following the stock market can be a deeply engaging intellectual hobby.

This is less about high-risk “playing” and more about the stimulating challenge of learning.

It’s a fantastic way to keep your mind sharp, as it requires you to understand different industries, follow economic news, and make educated decisions.

Think of it as a strategic game where you get to apply your knowledge and see it in action. Whether you start by “paper trading” (with no real money) or investing a small amount in a company you believe in, this hobby is a perfect way to engage in lifelong learning.

Many resources are available to help you get started, from user-friendly online platforms and investment newsletters to online courses and financial forums.

Many resources are available for anyone interested in online trading:

Online trading platforms:

These platforms, such as E*TRADE, TD Ameritrade, and Robinhood, allow individuals to buy and sell securities online. In addition, they provide access to real-time market data, research tools, and educational resources to help traders make informed decisions.

Investment newsletters:

Investment newsletters like The Motley Fool or Seeking Alpha provide subscribers with market analysis and investment recommendations.

They can be a valuable resource for those new to investing or wanting to stay up-to-date on market trends.

Financial advisors:

Financial advisors can provide personalized investment advice and guidance based on an individual’s financial goals and risk tolerance. They can help make informed investment decisions and manage their portfolios.

Trading forums:

Online trading forums, such as StockTwits or Reddit’s r/stocks, provide a platform for traders to discuss and share information about stocks and other securities.

In addition, they can be a valuable resource for those who want to learn from others’ experiences and perspectives.

Online courses:

There are many online trading and investing courses available that can teach you the ropes.

These courses can range from basic to advanced and provide valuable knowledge and skills to help individuals make informed investment decisions.

22. i-Gaming or Online Gambling

“I-gaming” is a term commonly used to refer to online gambling, and it encompasses a wide variety of games and activities that can be played online.

From traditional casino games like poker and blackjack to sports betting and lottery games, i-gaming offers a range of options for men over 60 who enjoy the thrill of taking risks and potentially winning big.

One of the advantages of i-gaming is that it can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it a convenient and accessible hobby.

There are many different types of online gambling:

Casino games: This includes traditional games such as poker, blackjack, baccarat, and roulette, as well as slot machines and other electronic games.

Sports betting: This involves placing bets on the outcome of sporting events, including football, basketball, baseball, and more.

Lottery games: Online lottery games, such as scratch-off tickets and number games, offer the chance to win big payouts with relatively small bets.

Bingo: Online bingo games offer the same fun and excitement as traditional bingo games, with the added convenience of playing from anywhere.

Virtual sports: Virtual sports are computer-generated simulations of real sports events, such as horse racing, football, or basketball, which can be bet on just like real events.

Online poker tournaments: These are online tournaments that allow players to compete against each other for cash prizes, often with a buy-in fee to enter.

23. Become an Online Influencer

Becoming an online influencer is a hobby that has gained popularity in recent years, and it can be a fun and rewarding activity for men over 60.

An online influencer has a large following on social media platforms, such as Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok, and uses that following to promote products, services, or causes.

Building a following as an influencer can take time and effort, but it can also provide opportunities to connect with others and share your interests and passions.

To become an online influencer, it’s essential to choose a niche or topic you are passionate about and create engaging and authentic content that resonates with your followers.

This can include creating videos, writing blog posts, or sharing photos and stories on social media.

Types of online influencers that men over 60 can aspire to be:

Bloggers: Write about their personal experiences, interests, or expertise on their websites or blogs. They can cover various topics, such as fashion, food, travel, or health and wellness.

Related article: How to Start a WordPress Blog

YouTubers: These individuals create videos on YouTube and build a following based on their content. They can create content around a specific niche, such as cooking or fitness, or generate more general vlogs about their daily lives.

Instagrammers: Instagram influencers post photos and videos on their Instagram profiles to promote products or services, share their interests or hobbies, or provide inspiration and entertainment to their followers.

They can be photographers, artists, chefs, or creative individuals.

Podcasters: Podcasters create audio content that can be listened to on various platforms, such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts. They can cover multiple topics, from business and finance to entertainment and pop culture.

TikTokers: TikTokers create short-form videos on the popular social media app TikTok, which can go viral and gain a large following. They can create content around a specific niche, such as comedy or dance, or create more general videos about their daily lives.

24. Sing!

Singing can be a wonderful hobby for men over 60, allowing them to express themselves creatively, improve their vocal skills, and connect with others through music.

Whether you’re interested in singing alone, with friends, or even in a choir, there are many different ways to explore this fun and engaging hobby.

Many resources are available for men over 60 interested in singing, from local choirs and singing groups to online courses and instructional videos.

Some great ways to explore singing as a hobby include:

• Joining a choir: This can be a great way to connect with others who share your passion for singing and can be a fun and rewarding experience.
  
• Singing lessons: Taking singing lessons can be a great way to improve your vocal skills and receive personalized instruction and feedback.
  
• Singing karaoke: This can be a fun and lighthearted way to sing your favorite songs with friends or in a public setting.
  
• Participating in community singing events: including sing-alongs, open mic nights, or local talent shows.

Many resources are available for those interested in exploring singing as a hobby, including local choirs and singing groups, online courses and instructional videos, and even smartphone apps to help you practice and improve your singing skills.

25. Keep Your Mind Engaged with Puzzles

Puzzles are a perfect hobby for a quiet afternoon and a fantastic way to keep your mind sharp. This isn’t just about jigsaw puzzles (though those are great!).

Engaging your brain with daily challenges, such as crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or brain teasers, is an excellent way to maintain cognitive function. It’s a relaxing, meditative, and rewarding way to exercise your most important muscle.

26. Get Your Hands Dirty with Gardening

Connecting with the earth is good for the soul. Gardening is a wonderful outdoor hobby that gets you fresh air, light, low-impact exercise, and a tangible, delicious reward.

There is a deep sense of accomplishment in planting a seed and watching it grow into a fresh tomato or a beautiful flower.

Whether you have a large backyard or just a few containers on a patio, this hands-on hobby is a peaceful and productive way to spend your time.

Here are some helpful resources to get you started:

• The Old Farmer’s Almanac: The Old Farmer’s Almanac has been a trusted gardening resource for over 200 years. Almanac.com offers a wealth of information on gardening, including planting guides, gardening tips, and advice on soil preparation and pest control.

• The National Gardening Association: The National Gardening Association is a non-profit organization promoting gardening and horticulture.
  
• Gardenista: Gardenista is a website dedicated to all things gardening and landscaping. Their site offers a wealth of information on plant care, garden design, and outdoor living, along with a shopping guide for garden tools and supplies.

27. Discover the Joy of Pickleball

If you’ve been hearing a lot about pickleball lately, there’s a good reason! This fun sport, a blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has become a favorite social activity for many.

It’s an excellent low-impact exercise that’s easy on the joints but still gets your heart rate up. More importantly, it’s almost always played with others, making it a fantastic way to build community, laugh, and enjoy some friendly competition.

28. Uncover Your Roots with Genealogy

Have you ever wondered about your great-grandfather or where your family came from? Researching your family history is a deeply rewarding intellectual hobby. It’s like being a detective for your own life story.

This indoor hobby is perfect for keeping your mind sharp as you sort through records, connect dots, and piece together your legacy.

The sense of purpose you find in preserving your family’s history and sharing it with future generations is truly special.

29. Master a Craft with Model Building

There is a quiet, mindful joy in creating something intricate with your own hands. Hobbies like building model airplanes, cars, ships, or trains require patience and attention to detail, making them an excellent way to focus your mind.

This creative hobby for men offers a tangible sense of accomplishment as you watch a collection of small pieces come together to form a beautiful, detailed work of art. It’s a perfect hands-on activity for a quiet afternoon.

30. Connect with Nature Through Birdwatching

Birdwatching is an excellent way to practice mindfulness and appreciate the world around you.

You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy birdwatching. This gentle outdoor hobby simply starts with paying attention to the birds in your own backyard or local park.

It’s a peaceful, low-impact activity that encourages you to get outside, breathe fresh air, and connect with nature.

You might be surprised at how engaging it becomes to identify different species, learn their songs, and observe their behaviors.

31. Share Your Wisdom as a Mentor or Coach

Your lifetime of experience is a valuable gift. Many retired men find an incredible sense of purpose in giving back as a mentor or coach.

This could be through a formal program like Big Brothers or Big Sisters, by coaching a local youth sports team, or by advising a young entrepreneur.

This social hobby isn’t just about sharing your skills; it’s about building a meaningful social connection and making a real difference in someone’s life.

FAQs: The Best Hobbies for Men Over 60

What are some inexpensive hobbies for men over 60?

Many of the best hobbies are low-cost or free. Walking, hiking in local parks, and gardening (even in containers) are great ways to stay active on a budget.

Reading or joining a book club (using a library card) is a fantastic intellectual hobby. Other inexpensive hobbies for seniors include journaling, birdwatching, or learning a new skill through free online videos, like cooking or drawing.

How can men over 60 get started with a new hobby?

The best way is to “start small” and explore your curiosity. Look for local clubs, community center classes, or online groups (such as those on Meetup or Facebook) that cater to hobbies for older men.

You can also use free online tutorials to test a new skill, like woodworking or playing the guitar, before investing in expensive equipment. Don’t be afraid to try something completely new.

Can hobbies improve mental health in men over 60?

Absolutely. Hobbies are incredibly powerful for mental well-being. They can reduce stress and provide a strong sense of purpose, which is especially important for many retired men.

Engaging in a fulfilling activity, whether it’s a creative hobby like painting or a social one like volunteering, boosts self-esteem and provides daily mental clarity.

What are some social hobbies for men over 60?

Social hobbies are perfect for building community and staying connected. Consider joining a walking group, a sports league (like golf, bowling, or pickleball), or a local book club.

Volunteering for a cause you care about is another excellent way to meet new people. Even classes, such as cooking or learning an instrument, can be highly social.

Is it ever too late to start a new hobby?

It is never too late! The “beginner’s mindset” is powerful at any age. In fact, lifelong learning is one of the best ways to keep your mind sharp.

Learning a new, challenging skill (like a new language or a musical instrument) helps build new neural pathways in the brain and can be incredibly rewarding.

What are the best hobbies to keep your mind sharp after 60?

To maintain cognitive function, the best hobbies are those that challenge your brain. Strategic games like chess, bridge, or even complex video games are excellent.

Intellectual hobbies like learning a new language, studying a historical subject, or learning to play a musical instrument are all fantastic “brain-boosting” activities.

Related: The Best Hobbies for Keeping Your Brain Sharp

What are good low-impact hobbies for men who want to stay active?

Low-impact hobbies are ideal for staying active while protecting your joints. Swimming and water aerobics are top choices because the water provides resistance and support.

Other great options include cycling, yoga, Tai Chi (which is also great for balance), and gardening.

I prefer staying home. What are some fulfilling indoor hobbies for men?

There are many wonderful indoor hobbies for men over 60. Creative hobbies are very popular, including woodworking, model building, painting, and drawing.

You could start indoor gardening, learn to cook or bake gourmet meals, or dedicate time to writing (perhaps a memoir or family history).

Researching your family tree (genealogy) is another engaging indoor hobby that can connect you with your past.

Conclusion: Fun Hobbies for Men Over 60

And there you have it-30+ of the best hobbies for men over 60 to enrich your retirement years!

Whether you choose physical activities like swimming and yoga, creative hobbies like woodworking and photography, or social hobbies like volunteering and joining clubs, the right hobby can positively impact your mental health, physical well-being, and overall sense of well-being.

The benefits are undeniable: improved cognitive function, reduced stress, increased social connections, better fitness, and a stronger sense of purpose. It’s never too late to try something new!

Start with what genuinely interests you and don’t worry about being perfect-enjoy the journey.

Happy Hobbying!

XO, Christine