Hobbies for Empty Nest Couples

September 5, 2019 | Tom Peterson

Now that the kids have moved out and your free time doesn’t revolve around chauffeuring them to dance lessons, sports and school activities, you now have more time to take up some new hobbies. These activities are fun solo or with a spouse.

Date Your Spouse

We all like to feel special, and you can make it your new “hobby” to show your partner you care regularly. Set aside one day a week for a date night for just the two of you. Check out our date night ideas for couples over 50 for some romantic inspiration.

Take up a Sport 

Have you ever been interested in sports like volleyball, basketball, or kickball, but never had the time to get involved? Now that you are an empty nester, you’ll have more time to take up a sport with your partner.

Volunteer Together

In every community, there are so many ways that you can get involved and give back to those who are in need. The Hands On Twin Cities organization provides opportunities to volunteer for a variety of agencies across the Twin Cities. Serve the community by collecting school supplies for kids in need, volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, participating in a blood drive, assisting at the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life or volunteering time at a local nonprofit like Interfaith Outreach.

Travel (in Minnesota)

So often we don’t get the chance to experience everything there is in our own backyards. Take the time now to travel around Minnesota and experience all of those attractions you’ve been saying “Honey, we should check that out” for years. Explore Minnesota is a great place to start for some ideas.

Learn to Play an Instrument

Learning how to play an instrument and read music is not only enjoyable and rewarding, but it is also mentally challenging. It can be a lot more fun if you have a partner along for the ride. Take lessons and learn to play the guitar, piano, ukulele or any other instrument of your choice.

This is the perfect time in your life to take up a new hobby, and perhaps even find a passion you never knew you had.