Get a Life: 43 of the Best Hobbies for Men

A plethora of pastimes to give your life some meaning

Written by Catherine Nguyen

With the daily demands of life, it’s easy to get caught up. Our hectic routines can put us in a rut of work, eat, sleep, and repeat. However, this isn’t really living — unless you take some time for yourself, you’ll become the real Walking Dead.

You’re more than your job description. Adopting a hobby will enrich your life and leave you feeling more fulfilled. For a nudge in the right direction, check out our top 50 hobbies for men. You’re sure to find something up your alley.  

ART

If you’re looking for a creative outlet, these artsy hobbies will help you flex your imagination. 

Photography

If you’re looking to capture all of life’s great moments, then taking up photography may be for you. The best part is that the perfect shot is at every turn. This hobby pushes you to go out and live your life — not many great photos were captured from your couch. From landscape portraits to foodie pics, the possibilities are endless. Get started by investing in a great camera for stunning photos every time.

Making Films

These days, anyone can film a video with just a click of a button. Whether it’s a vlog, tutorial, or product review, making a video is a great way to express yourself and creativity. It can be as simple as shooting with your iPhone, but for a more high-quality shot, DSLRs and drones can provide the cinematic experience for your viewers. 

Classic Car Restoration

For automobile enthusiasts, renovating a classic car is a great way to change up a vintage ride. Not only will your hot rod be the talk of the town, but you’ll be sharpening up your mechanical skills. For these reasons alone, we’d like to think that this hobby is worth going the extra mile.

Woodworking

Woodworking is a hobby that’s both fun and productive. Not only do you get to create your own pieces, but you’ll become your own handyman for any repairs around the house.  

Model Building

Building miniature models of your favorite architecture is a great project to do in your free time. It requires precision and focus, which leads to better cognition overall. A cool skyscraper or rocket model also makes for great room decorations or collection pieces to showcase at your office.  

Museum Hopping

Lots of cities offer free admission to local museums, so take advantage! Even if they do have an entrance fee, check out their websites for their monthly free day. Explore the creative arts and immerse yourself in the history, quirkiness, and fantasy of it all. Who knows, these museum trips might inspire you to make some art of your own.

Collecting Art

If you’re more of an observer than a creator, then collecting art could be the hobby for you. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing your most treasured pieces grow in numbers. We’d like to think of this as a glorified scrapbook, with your collection acting as a great reflection of your artistic interests. 

MUSIC

Change it up with these music alternatives. They will get you listening to your favorite tunes in a new, fun-filled way. 

Music Festivals

If you’re an avid music fan, then there’s no better place to discover new bands and genres than in a festival setting. Not only are they exhilarating, but music festivals can be your answer to a new playlist. We aren’t just talking about the big name, big price tag events. Stay alert for local concerts, because you never know — your new favorite artist could be right around the corner.

Playing an Instrument

If you ever wanted to create your own sound, then picking up an instrument is the right way to do it. Whether you played as a kid or never made it past the recorder, this is a hobby that takes some serious time to master. With a lot of practice, this skill can be very worthwhile. After all, there’s nothing more attractive than a man who can strum a guitar.   

FOOD

Not for the faint of stomach, these appetizing activities are good for the soul.

BBQ

For any meat lovers, becoming a grill master is the start of a delicious pastime. Accompanied with the right marinade, your flavorful combination is sure to turn heads and have everyone coming back for more. Barbecuing bring people together, so grilling a scrumptious steak can make you the star of the party.

Beer Brewing

Skip the bar-hopping and whip up your own beer right in your living room. Beer brewing has become popular for its hands-on nature and convenience. Not only will you have a quality pint of ale, but you can expect to draw a crowd to share in the fun.

Mixology

Mix it up and learn how to make your favorite drinks as well as your local bartender. Not only does it make you look cool, but you’ll have the power to make up your own crazy concoction. Get creative and you might find yourself making the next Arnold Palmer.

Coffee Roasting

If you’ve never roasted your own coffee at home, then you’re missing out. A french-press or percolator takes little to no time, but still packs in the same roasted flavors. Your cup of brew will blow you away with its robust taste while getting your daily fix. Give it a spin and you’ll be a certified barista in no time.

Cooking

Even though the microwave is easy and reliable, there are many advantages to mastering the art of cooking. Having a great dish under your belt will always come in handy, especially when any unexpected guests come over for a hot meal. And for any bachelors out there, impress your date with a meal that’s cooked from the heart.    

Wine Tasting

Need a break from boxed wine? Head out to a wine tasting for an evening of casual wining and dining. This intimate experience is great for date nights or friendly get-togethers, so everyone can have a relaxing, good time. Because each wine is unique, research the different tasting notes — to get a sense of the ones you like beforehand. Make sure you remember the food & wine pairings as well, so you can enjoy your next meal even more. 

Culinary Adventures

If you are an aficionado of all things food, then exploring new restaurants can be an exciting adventure for your palette. Looking to try a whole bunch of new dishes at one? Food festivals also carry new dishes that are just waiting to be tasted. Look into what kind of cuisines they have to offer and if they offer any loyalty programs, so you can maximize the total experience. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.   

TRAVEL

Broaden your horizons with one of these hobbies that satisfy your wanderlust.

Road Tripping

If you like planning out your trips in advance, then road trips make the perfect getaways for any long weekend. Gather your buddies and with some research, set out an itinerary of what to bring, where to go, and what to do. The planning process is half the fun and, so if all goes accordingly, your adventure will be nothing short of an epic time. 

Motorcycling

If you want to cruise down Route 66 with the roar of a motor blazing, try out a motorcycle for your next drive down the highway. There’s something exhilarating about hopping on a motorbike, so give it a spin if you want a thrill. Prepare for the ride by looking at which motorcycle fits best to your comfort and style.

FITNESS

If staying active is your main goal, here are some ways to help you score.

Marathons

A true test of one’s mental and physical strength, running marathons can be a very empowering and rewarding hobby. This hobby isn’t for the faint of heart or those looking for instant gratification. Looking for something even more challenging? Keep training and work your way all the way to a decathlon.  

Hiking

For a fitness routine with a view, hiking is a great option to get the body moving. Not only will you be breaking a sweat, it’ll give you a chance to explore local landmarks and the outdoors around you. Once you start, it’ll be hard to stop yourself from jumping to the next hiking trail.

Cycling

Cycling can be done outdoors or at your local gym. Whether you’re riding down mountains or jamming out in a SoulCycle class, this workout will get the heart pumping to improve your cardiovascular health. If you’re a beginner, go at your own pace and feel the burn. 

Yoga

For a renewed sense of peace and balance, yoga provides the perfect exercise to release any pent-up frustrations. This exercise will also teach you the art of meditation, for better control over your mind and soul. It doesn’t hurt that you gain a little flexibility too.  

Martial Arts

Dating back to the Xia Dynasty, martial arts is a terrific way to learn self-defense while gaining spirituality through this comprehensive sport. Taekwondo, jiu-jitsu, karate, and other disciplines offer unique techniques, so pick one that suits interests. We know you’re dying to let out your inner Bruce Lee.  

Join a Sports League

There’s a reason the Olympics are so popular — sports are a universal unifier. You can either play by yourself or on a team, but partaking in sports is a fun way to stay active and develop a healthy lifestyle. Start a work league or join a rec club to find others that share the love of the game.        

Weight Training

Building muscle strength is the not only good for the body but great for the mind. Studies have shown that weight training can increase memory retention, so we can thank dumbbells for boosting our brain power.

Start adding a couple weights to your next workout, and you will be toner (and smarter) in no time.

OUTDOORS

Get in touch with nature with these outdoor challenges. You’ll be surprised at what a little fresh air can do for you.

Camping

For a much-needed break from the city, camping is the perfect getaway to bond with the great outdoors. There’s nothing like sleeping underneath the stars and sharing campfire stories. Have your family or friends join you for an unforgettable adventure in the wildness.

Skiing / Snowboarding

If you love to play in the snow, then skiing or snowboarding is the winter hobby for you. Skiing and snowboarding allow for a thrilling ride down the slopes, and there’s no harm in falling in the soft snow. Share your new-found hobby with your friends by renting a cabin at your local ski slope.

Fishing

There’s nothing like spending a day out in the sun and catching some fish. Fishing is not only relaxing, but the sun also provides a great source of vitamin D for a stronger immune system. To begin, grab a fishing rod, plastic worms, and feather jigs. With the worm, attach the colorful feathers to the shank of a hook with the worm. Dangling in the water, this will entice your next catch.     

Rock Climbing

Rock climbing will help you gain muscle strength and endurance. Not only is it physically rewarding, but it challenges your mental capabilities as well. With varying difficulty levels, you can start slow and build your way up. After all, solving ways to reach the top is a true testament to focus and determination.

Archery

Ever wanted to hit bull’s eye? Taking up archery will make you an expert at targets and dart boards by developing your hand-eye coordination skills. On top of that, this sport helps with increasing focus, patience, and balance. So take it from us — it pays to be the local Robin Hood.  

Flying Drones

Drones are the latest in flying tech. Whether you’re flying it or using the drone to capture video footage, this is a great hobby if you live somewhere with plenty of wide open skies.  Getting into drones can be a bit of an investment and you also should familiarize yourself with the basic rules and regulations of flying a drone. gm

TECH

For all things technology, these projects test both your creativity and attention to detail.

Video Games

If you’re looking to expand your gaming prowess, then you’re in luck. Video games have a been around and never faltered, so it’s never too late to pick up this hobby. With alternate realities and role-playing options, you will never be bored with your console.

Robotics

Robots can be a fun project for those looking to make a machine from scratch. If you have the components and cables, building robots is a great way to exercise your mechanics and imagination. Otherwise, you can build one with the help of your favorite Lego set. Either way, there’s never a dull moment when it comes to making these guys of steel. 

SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Stimulate your brain with these intellectual boosters that will improve your quality of life.

Learning a New Language

Picking up a language is not only valuable but a skill that will never go out of style. By learning a new language, you’ll be able to connect to more cultures and people around the world. This will undoubtedly broaden the mind and expand your horizons to try out more new, exciting things. 

Reading

There’s no such thing as reading too much, so adopting a regular reading schedule will do you some major good. You could say that books are food for your brain. By reading, you are learning something new and enriching your mind. It will also step up your vocabulary, memory, and writing skills — all fundamental for everyday life.

Writing

For a creative outlet, writing in a journal or a blog is very therapeutic. Jotting your thoughts down not only allows you to express yourself, but also gain clarity of your feelings. Whether it’s through poetry or short stories, you will relieve stress and provide a better sense of who you are as a person.  

Investing

For those trying to maximize their current expenses, investing money is the next logical step to financial security. Meet with a broker to set up an account and discuss the best option for your needs. By planning ahead, you will be more prepared to reap the benefits of your smart investment. Keeping up with financial news and checking your portfolio makes this hobby even more engaging.

Fashion

There’s a whole world of men’s fashion that most guys don’t pay attention to. Not only will you look good, but you will feel good and instantly gain a huge boost of confidence. Make the world your runway and you will see a noticeable difference in how you carry yourself.

Your style says it all, so adopting a passion for the way you dress is will leave a lasting impression.

GAMES

Gather some friends for a night of fun and games. A little competition never hurts anybody.

Card Games

Becoming a skilled card player raises the stakes for anyone that crosses your path. Card games improve your focus and analytical reasoning skills, so your mind will remain sharp. Mastering the game of probability will have the odds in your favor. 

Billiards

The game of billiards is not easy to master. It involves a degree of chance, not to mention a good understanding of geometry and physics. Billiards also provide a social aspect, since a friendly game of pool can make for a fun night out. There’s nothing more charming than a pool shark with a sharp mind if you play the game right. 

Board Games

There’s nothing like a little healthy competition from playing a good ol’ board game. With so many choices out there, you can choose from classics, brain-busters, or comedic games. Whatever you choose, playing these games is a great way to bond and have a good laugh with friends. 

Puzzles

Puzzles are both relaxing and challenging — not to mention how satisfying it is to put in that last piece. This laidback activity not only relieves stress but also improves your problem-solving skills. Pick up a puzzle and take a crack at it — especially if you want to challenge yourself in the comforts of your living room.  

Sports Fantasy League

If you want to bet for your favorite sports team, here is your chance to do so. Sports Fantasy Leagues are great for engaging with the sport while interacting with other enthusiastic fans. Raise the stakes for a friendly wager and hope that your team brings you to victory.

Live Outside Your 9-to-5

Don’t be left without an answer when you’re asked “What do you do for fun?”. Committing to a hobby is going to leave you a better human than scrolling through social media. Developing a passion will give you something to get excited about, which is what it’s all about. All it takes is a little soul-searching to find what’s right for you.

Which hobbies are currently on your list? Will you be trying out any new ones? Let us know in the comments.

Catherine Nguyen



SOURCE: THE GENTLEMANUAL