55+ Creative Things to Do When You're Bored to Pass the Time

 

 

There's no shame in being bored. Whenever you find yourself with not so much to do — or not so many places to go — it's natural to get a bit antsy. The first day or so is gold: you sleep in, enjoy a luxurious breakfast, and, of course, watch your favorite TV shows. But then, it happens. You run through all the best movies on Netflix, find yourself pacing between the fridge and the couch, and the walls start to feel a little closer than they were before. You've started feeling bored. Instead of sitting around on your phone getting lost in the news and social media (and slowly losing your mind), pivot to some fun things you can do at home or in your own backyard. We’ve rounded up the best things to when you’re bored, depending on your mood. From board games and self care to indoor gardening and organizing, these exciting activities will keep you entertained no matter how long you're stuck

Fun activities to do when stuck inside

Play a board game. Turn off the TV and challenge the family to a board game. Introduce the kids to a classic like Chutes N Ladders or Monopoly, or try a newer one like Settlers of Catan that you can all learn together.

Put together an epic puzzle. When you've got lots of time on your hands, get your hands busy. It'll take your mind off boredom, and completing a big puzzle feels great.

Watch a rom-com marathon. We'll admit it, romantic comedies have stolen our hearts.

Sing along to some Disney songs. Get your endorphins flowing by taking it back to childhood. Belt out your favorite musical hits from Disney movies!

Plan your next getaway. Don't just daydream about getting away from it all. Do one better and actually look up plane tickets and hotel rooms.

Build a fort. Kids know this already: The couch cushions or a few chairs and blankets make an awesome wonderland. Embrace your inner child, or let your kids show you the way.

Get a workout in. You don't need a gym membership to sweat it out. Pull on your favorite leggings, choose a workout app, and get your blood moving.

Write a letter. In the age of text messages and FaceTime, we don't write out our feelings in long form. Get out some nice paper and spread some love to a friend or family member.

Watch a sports game. No sports on TV? Queue up some classic old games.

Call a friend. If you're usually a text person, pick up the phone or video call a faraway friend. The extra connection really makes you feel closer.

Watch a performance. Instead of turning on Netflix, watch an online opera, ballet, or symphony.

Learn a new language. Thanks to apps like Duolingo, you can stretch your mental muscles wherever you are.

Watch a movie solo. Getting whatever snacks you want, hoarding the couch, and laughing or crying as loud as you want: Movies make an excellent date for one.

Have a dance party. Turn on some tunes and get those socks hoppin'. Throw it back with oldies from your glory days or find some hot new stuff to shake your booty.

Learn a dance. Download the Tik Tok app and challenge yourself to learn one of the trending dances everyone is doing.

Play a video game. If you don't have a gaming console, try some of the fun new games that are added to the app store on your phone every day.

Creative things to do indoors

Start a new book. If you've run through your TV queue, go analog. Try one of the best books of the year to transport yourself to another world.

Download an audiobook. If you can't get out to the bookstore or want to lighten your load, try audiobooks for listening on the go. The best of the best will make the hours fly by.

Listen to a new podcast. If you've never tried podcasts, you're in for a treat. From true crime to comedy, there are endless options to choose from.

Try a coloring app. Adult coloring books are available in-stores and in mobile app stores, so no need to head to the store. Colorfy and Happy Color will help you get creative without any supplies needed.

Make a custom photo book. You don't need the talent of Michaelangelo to create a memorable photo book. A variety of online services can help you collect your photos into a beautiful keepsake.

Change up your décor. From the bedroom to living room to kitchen, we have countless ideas to help give your home a quick and easy makeover. Even just rearranging your furniture a little will feel fresh.

Make some wall art. You don't need to be a master painter to DIY some of these fabulous wall decor ideas.

Try a new recipe. Stop opening and closing the fridge hoping new snacks will magically appear. Take matters into your own hand and make your own tasty dish.

Bake cookies. Choose a healthy cookie recipe so you can feel good every time you reach for one.

Make homemade ice cream. Give Ben & Jerry a run for their money and beat boredom. Simply combine a few ingredients in an ice cream maker and you'll be in awe.

Work on your wish list. Go ahead, dream big for the next holiday. Put together a wish list of items (or experiences) you have your eye on, so you'll never be caught off guard.

Become a YouTube star. Pretend you're Julia Child and film your own cooking show, or teach the camera how to DIY a craft or organization technique. The lifestyle of the rich and famous awaits.

Put together a care package. Take the focus off your own predicament by making a friend or family member feel extra special. Mail them a package full of their favorite things, perhaps with a theme like self-care.

Indoor stress-relief activities

Paint your nails. Create an at-home spa experience with a mani-pedi. Choose a trending summer hue, add an interesting design, and finish it off with a shiny top coat.

Take a bubble bath. Embrace your free time with a mountain of bubbles and a few drops of essential oils. Bring a good book in there with you, if you don't mind it getting a tad damp.

Do a face mask. For a quick pick-me-up, apply a nourishing face mask. You can choose one to target a number of issues, including dry skin, acne, or to brighten up a dull complexion. Whatever ails you, there's a mask for that.

Start journaling. Time will fly by as you jot down your thoughts in a journal. If you want to go even deeper, venture into the artistic world of bullet journals.

Listen to a meditation video. When your mind starts to spiral, turn it inward. Mediation videos can easily guide you through mindful exercises and techniques to reach inner peace.

Try living room yoga. In addition to strengthening your whole body, yoga helps center your mind. You can do it at home with no equipment using a free app, too.

Do Zumba. There's something about this structured dance party that is sure to lift your spirits.

Organizing activities to pass time

Scour your whole house. When we get bored, we often feel helpless. But tackling even the simplest task, like doing the dishes, can boost your mood immediately. Start with these easy cleaning tips or try a full schedule to tackle every inch of the house.

Shine the windows. You'll be amazed how much brighter things look with sparkling clean windows. Let the sunshine in with these tips for the best results.

Wash your makeup brushes. When was the last time you cleaned all of your makeup tools? Yes, even your ride-or-die Beautyblender could use a scrub. Your skin will thank you.

Sort through your purses. As the seasons change, so do our purses. While switching between bags, we all leave stuff in the bottom (receipts, gum wrappers, pens, etc). Clean out your purses and you just might find that lost lipstick – or at least some spare change.

Clean out your closet. Go through your clothes to rediscover some old favs. If you haven't worn it in the past year, consider posting it on a clothing resale app so it can find a new home.

Organize your kitchen. Already mastered the KonMari Method? You're ready to dive into the wonderful world of drawer and cabinet organizers. Please hold the applause.

Refresh your mantel. Make the most out of your fireplace by thoughtfully decorating the mantel for the season. Rotate in a fresh crop of family photos or add a pop of color with fresh or silk flowers.

Spruce up your outdoor space. Out of sight, it's out of mind, but outdoor spaces also deserve a little TLC. Maybe now's the time to shop for new outdoor furniture and accent pieces for those summer get-togethers.

Spot-treat your white shoes. White shoes pretty much go with every outfit, but only if they stay that way. Making your Converse or Vans look like new is oh-so-satisfying.

Shop for new essentials. Whether you need to stock up on more cleaning products or your bed is ready for new sheets, grab a notepad or your Notes app and take a lap around the house to see what you need.

Give an old piece new life. Maybe you've got an old chair that never quite fit, or odds n' ends that could become something else. Go ahead, DIY it.

Tackle a trouble spot. You know that corner that hasn't been organized since you moved in? Use your free time to fix it.

Outdoor activities to do when you're bored

Enjoy food outdoors. Take your lunch to the backyard or patio to get a little vitamin D while you indulge. A glass of wine doesn't hurt either.

Go for a long walk. Plan a route past your favorite landmarks, a local park, or just around the neighborhood. Stop and smell the flowers – literally.

Take your pet to the park. Whether you have a lively dog, an adventurous cat, or even a sweet rabbit, they'll appreciate a wander with their favorite person.

Start a garden. Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty in the backyard or your windowsill, if you don't have outdoor space. In addition to the de-stressing benefits, all that digging quickly turns into a workout.

Go for a bike ride. Take a tour of your surroundings and get some exercise in by jumping on a bicycle.

Take a drive. You don't need a destination — just a great playlist and the open road.

Hit the beach. Slather yourself in sunscreen, grab a beach towel, and make your way to the beach for a day of fun in the sun. And don't be afraid to swing by in the colder months — the crashing waves feel like the picture of zen.

Have a backyard campout. Pitch a tent between your back gardens and see your outdoor space in a whole new way. Or if the weather isn't cooperating, do the same in your own living room.

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