19 Easy and Fun Hobbies For Couples Over 50

As an Amazon affiliate, I may earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our Disclaimer and Privacy Policy.

There are plenty of hobbies for couples over 50. The problem is deciding on the hobbies that are the best fit for you. Are you looking for physical activities, creative outlets, or leisurely pastimes?

It’s not hard to find fun hobbies for couples over 50, but you might find it difficult to find something you both enjoy.

My suggestion (because it’s worked for me) is to return to the things you loved as a child or a teenager or even a young adult.

I was always a writer, so I decided to start this blog. Maybe you loved bike riding, so why not take it up again? I think you get what I’m saying.

Of course, I’m well into my 50’s now and I completely understand that our bodies change. I don’t know about you, but my joints hurt alot these days!

My point is that you might need to find a work-around for some hobbies.

Having hobbies opens you to a whole new world. You’ll make new friends and acquintenances. You’ll have fun. And you’ll feel younger.

In this post, we’ll explore various hobbies categorized under different themes, offering something for everyone.

Why Hobbies for Couples Over 50 Are So Important

Hobbies challenge the mind, promote cognitive function, and can improve mental acuity.

I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “Use it or lose it.” It’s a great saying because it applies to many things, including brain function.

Games that get your brain in gear (crossword puzzles or creative pursuits like painting) are thought to reduce the risk of cognitive decline while keeping the brain sharp.

Additionally, hobbies that involve physical activity, such as tai chi or mountain biking, contribute to overall physical health. They improve mobility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.

Benefits of hobbies for couples over 50

According to WebMD, there are several health benefits to hobbies in later life. These can include:

1. Relaxation
2. Stress reduction
3. Creative expression
4. Improvement in overall being
5. Improved mental health
6. Potentially lower blood pressure (physical hobbies)
7. Improved confidence

Retirement hobbies for couples over 50 tend to bring people closer and strengthen their bond.

19 Hobbies for Couples Over 50

As I mentioned earlier, some of these ideas might not be right for you. You may even laugh out loud at some of the suggestions! That’s okay. The key is to finding a hobby (or hobbies) you both enjoy.

1. Road Trips

Engaging in road trips as a hobby can be a great way to explore new places and create lasting memories.

Of course, you want to be sure you’re up for long hours of sitting, unless you keep the road trips short.

It might sound crazy, but it’s a good idea to pack any necessary medications, first aid supplies, snacks, water, phone cargers, etc.

Honestly, you never know when or if you’ll need these items.

Other things to think about include:

• Vehicle maintenance (check tire pressure, oil levels, brakes, and gas tank)
• Naturally, you want to make sure you have any important paperwork in your car, particularly insurance papers.
• If you’re going to use an app like Google Maps, make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
• You might even consider packing blankets, entertainment (books, music, podcasts) to keep you comfortable.

The beauty of just hitting the open road is that you never know what adventure lies just beyond the horizon.

2. Hiking and Nature Walks

There’s nothing quite like spending quality time in the great outdoors. Personally, I’d rather hike in the summer with the bugs than trudge through heavy snow.

But that’s me.

If you’re into it, taking up hiking or nature walks as a hobby can be a great way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and explore natural beauty together.

Here are some considerations before starting out:

• Choose trails that match your physical fitness capabilities
• Research the difficulty level and terrain of the trails you’d like to hike.
• Prioritize safety and bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and navigation tools (map or GPS device).
• Pace yourselves and take frequent breaks to rest and hydrate. Enjoy the journey and take time to appreciate the natural surroundings.
• Minimize your impact on the environment with the Leave No Trace principle. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
• Be prepared for emergencies by carrying a fully charged cellphone, a whistle, or a signaling device.
• Let people know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

3. Bird Watching

If you had told me when I was in my 20’s that I’d be interested in bird watching I would have rolled my eyes and said something like, “As if”.

The truth is, birds are amazing. Now that I’m retired, I can actually slow down and appreciate the nature around me.

Read more about bird watching

Learn a lot more about bird watching for couples over 50 by reading: A Beginner’s Guide to Bird Watching For Couples Over 50.

Bird watching is a great activity that can be done in groups or solo. Before engaging in bird watching as a hobby, consider the following:

• Invest in basic bird-watching equipment such as binoculars, a field guide, and maybe even a spotting scope for observing birds from a distance.
• Choose light-weight equipment.
• Research local bird species and their habitats.
• Learn basic bird identification skills, including recognizing different species by their size, shape, color, behavior, and vocalizations.
• Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. Tuck your pants into your socks, especially when walking through tall grass, to potentially avoid tick bites.
• Bring sunscreen and insect repellant.
• Stay hydrated with lots of water.

4. Mountain Biking

Mountain biking definitely isn’t my thing, but it could be yours! Go big and hit the rough terrain or stick to tiny hills. The point is to just get out there and enjoy yourselves.

Depending on how hard you’re going to work, mountain biking demands a certain level of fitness.

Start with beginner-friendly trails if you’re just starting out. Gradually increase the difficulty as your fitness improves.

If you’re new to the sport, consider taking a beginner’s mountain biking course or hiring a certified instructor to learn the basic techniques.

Other considerations include:

• Invest in a good-quality mountain bike
• You’ll need a good-quality helmet, gloves, and protective eyewear
• Prioritize safety while mountain biking
• Carry a repair kit, first aid supplies, and sufficient water and snacks

5. Scuba Diving

Look, I don’t want to sound negative here, but I definitely don’t want to attempt scuba diving. I’ll stick to writing.

You, however, may be all for it. If you’re a traveller (or are lucky enough to live in an idyllic locale) you could take up snorkeling as well.

Here are some things to consider:

• If you’ve never gone scuba diving before, it’s a good idea to get medical clearance. Like any new physical activity, it can really take a toll on the body.
• Consider taking a scuba diving certification course.
• Choose the right gear. Invest in high-quality scuba diving gear that fits properly and is comfortable to use. This includes a mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, or dry suit.
• Start slowly and gradually.
• Learn proper dive techniques
• Never dive alone, and be aware of potential risks and hazards.
• Join a dive club or group.

6. Art Classes

Now we’re talking. I would definitely consider taking art classes. If you and your partner have already taken up a physical hobby, consider alternating days with art classes to give your body a rest.

Art classes are great. I’ve taken them before and they are a lot of fun. It’s okay if you don’t consider yourself an “artist”. Take the class anyway.

I find art classes bring out the fun and joy I had as a child. You get to experiment with colors, brush strokes, and so on.

Here are a few things to consider:

1. Consider painting classes using acrylics, watercolors, oils, or mixed media. Search online for workshops in your community, check local community centers and colleges, and visit art supply stores to see what workshops they may be offering.
2. Drawing workshops can teach fundamental techniques, such as perspective, shading, and composition.
3. Sculpture courses provide hands-on experience with three-dimensional art forms. Couples can work with clay, wood, metal, or other materials.
4. Pottery or ceramic classes can be a lot of fun. Couples over 50 can create functional or decorative pottery pieces together.
5. Printing workshops introduce couples to techniques such as linocut, etching, screen printing, and monotyping.

Unleash your creative side by taking art classes together, whether it’s painting, pottery, or sculpture.

7. Music

Again, I don’t want to be a negative Nancy over here but I did not like music classes when I was in junior high. I know, I know. I’m 56 now. Get over it already.

However, now that I’m a lot more mature (ah hem), I would definitely consider taking music lessons with my husband.

Learning to play guitar is a popular choice, but I know people who’ve learned to pick out a few tunes on the ukulele.

You do you!

8. Creative Writing

Bingo! This is right up my alley. I’m not sure if it’s one of the more popular choices of hobbies for couples over 50, but it’s an option.

Don’t let yourself be intimidated by the process. Just get out there and start writing.

You can write about your childhood, recall your best memories, or work on fiction. It’s really up to you.

A good creative art teacher will help you get started with prompts and inspiration.

You can search for online or in-person creative writing courses in your area, or just put pen to paper to see what you can create.

Don’t forget to check with your library, local Community College, or the continuing education department of universities near you. They may be offering creative courses right now.

9. DIY Projects

Warning, DIY projects could wreck your marriage. Just saying. If you’ve ever tried to renovate a bathroom together you’ll know what I mean.

If this is of interest, you might want to check with local Community College for woodworking classes, welding classes, etc. Sometimes the trades departments offer courses to the public.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider picking up a DIY project kit. Hey, you don’t have to build a shed!

10. Cooking and Baking

The best thing about cooking and baking is that you get to eat your own creations afterwards.

Experiment with new recipes and culinary techniques by taking cooking classes together or hosting themed dinner parties at home.

There are a million blogs out there dedicated to the art of cooking and baking.

A quick Google search will bring you plenty of results. You can start there, branch out on your own, or take classes to get started.

The most exciting thing about cooking and baking classes is when they offer competitions!

11. Yoga and Tai Chi

Feeling tight? If you decided to take up mountain biking or scuba diving, you may need a little yoga or tai chi to unwind.

Both options are a great way to keep the body toned and fit. It’s also a good way to safely keep your joints moving while improving your range of motion.

You don’t need a lot of “gear” to practice yoga or tai chi, either.

I would, however, recommend at least investing in a decent yoga mat. Sometimes a block or two and a strap are nice as well.

I love this type of yoga mat because it is nice and thick (easier on the knees!) and doesn’t slip around.

12. Dance Lessons

Spice up your relationship with dance lessons, whether it’s ballroom dancing, salsa, or tango, and enjoy the rhythm of the music together.

Ladies, I understand it might be hard to convince the husbands to take dance lessons with you. I wouldn’t resort to public humiliation, but a little bribery might work.

13. Martial Arts

Why not martial arts? It’s a great way to stay fit. It will help loosen your joints and free your mind.

Learn self-defense techniques and improve your fitness levels with martial arts classes like karate, judo, or taekwondo.

14. Mind Games

No, I don’t mean playing weird tricks on your spouse. I’m thinking of things like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or jigsaw puzzles.

Personally, I’d like to learn to play cribbage. I think that’s a fantastic hobby idea for couples over 50.

You may be interested in reading: 37 Best Adult Board Games For The Over 50 Crowd.

15. Continuing Education Courses

I used to work for a Community College and we always offered a variety of adult education courses.

You could take French, Spanish, Basic Carpentry, Baking, and much more. I can’t remember them all.

There were often couples over 50 who registered for classes every season. Look up your local community college online and search for the continuing education department to see what you can register for.

16. Book Clubs

Instead of reading your iphones together, why not join a book club and read something of mutual interest?

You can probably find book clubs online, ask your library if they offer one, or connect with friends and start your own.

I mean, just because it’s “book club” doesn’t mean it can’t turn into a “bitch and booze” session. Pardon the language.

17. Card and Board Games

Have fun and engage in friendly competition with classic card games like Bridge or board games like Scrabble or Monopoly.

My husband and I like Scrabble, but probably because we don’t have any other games in the house.

18. Wine Tasting

I guess too much wine tasting could turn into alcholism. And that’s not a good hobby. Still, you could consider a weekend of wine tasting at a local vineyard for fun.

What could be more fun than drinking in the afternoon with your husband.

If you don’t drink alcohol, you might want to host a mocktail party!

Having trouble getting your better half to agree to any of your hobby ideas? Read 69 Best Mind-Stimulating Hobbies For Men Over 60

19. Community Events

Before the pandemic hit in 2019, my husband and I spent every weekend at our local farmer’s market. It’s something we need to start doing again!

You may not look at it like a “hobby”, but it’s still a great thing to do together as a couple. Drive around looking for yardsales (are actual yardsales still a thing?), or visit an antique store together.

What to read next:

69 Best Mind-Stimulating Hobbies For Men Over 60

23 Ultimate Hobbies for People Over 50 to Enjoy

Summary

Fun hobbies for couples over 50 are there for the taking. All joking aside, participating in things you both enjoy is a great way to spend time.

Not only does it provide an opportunity to meet new friends and engage in social interactions, but it also offers a wonderful way to reap the health benefits of physical exercise.

Keeping mentally and physically active can go a long way in reducing stress, improving sleep, and bringing more joy into your lives.