This post: 70 Cool Hobbies for Teens That Aren’t Boring
Written by: Raising Teens Today
I’m a firm believer that every teenager needs a fun, interesting, healthy outlet to break free from the relentless demands of school, life, and well… “teenagering.” That’s where hobbies come in!
Hobbies offer a fun, “no pressure” way for teens to explore their interests, express their creativity, and enjoy some much-needed stress-free downtime. Plus, it helps remind them that there’s SO much more to life than scrolling on their phones.
So, whether your teen loves to hit the nearest mountain and hike to the top to clear their head or their idea of downtime is diving into a cool craft after a long day of being “on” at school, we rounded up a bunch of fun hobbies for teens that’ll get them off their phone and enjoying something that really interests them! The best part is, these hobbies for teens aren’t boring or lame!
70 Cool Hobbies for Teens (That Aren’t Boring)
The Benefits of Teens Having a Hobby
Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem
Hobbies can help teenagers develop a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. When they master new skills and see progress, they become more confident and self-assured.
Encourages Creativity
Hobbies allow teens to tap into their imagination and explore their creative side. Whether it’s painting, writing, playing an instrument, or any other form of self-expression, hobbies provide an outlet for artistic expression.
Great for Downtime and Stress Relief
Being a teenager can be really hard, especially with academic and social pressures that can wear them down. Having a fun hobby can give them a welcome escape from these stressors, giving them an opportunity to relax and unwind.
Fosters Independence & Time Management
When teens enjoy hobbies, little do they know that they’re learning to take responsibility for their own interests and pursuits and managing their time to actually enjoy those things they love. This can help them develop a greater sense of independence and self-reliance.
Builds New Skills
Many hobbies require learning new skills. Whether it’s playing an instrument, coding, or cooking. These new skills can translate into other areas of teens’ lives, including school, relationships, and even their future careers.
Promotes Mental and Physical Well-Being
It really doesn’t matter what the hobby is, that time to get away from it all and hit the reset button has a way of having a positive impact on both a teen’s mental and physical health. Physical activities such as sports or dance can help teens stay active and maintain good health, while mindfulness practices such as meditation and journaling can improve mental well-being. Either way, hobbies are a win!
Helps Them Make Friends
When you’re involved in a sport, take a dance class, or join a hiking club you’re surrounding yourself with other kids who love the same things you do which can foster great friendships. The more involved you are, the more friends you’ll have!
It’s Just Plain Fun
Can we all agree that teenagers today need way more fun in their lives? Having a hobby, regardless of what it is, will help strip away the stress and put a smile on your teen’s face, and, boy… do they need that!
70 Best Hobbies for Teenagers
With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult for your teen to know where to start. To help, here’s a list of the top 70 hobbies for teenagers. Some are cheap to try while others might cost a bit more, but all of them are fun and interesting! Encourage your teen to try more than one!
1. Photography
Taking photos, learning how to get the best pictures, and diving into all the cool accessories that are available to take top-notch pics can help teens develop an eye for composition, and also provide a way to capture amazing memories.
2. Art
Whether it’s drawing, painting, or sculpting, getting involved in art is a great way for teens to express their creativity and challenge their artistic talent.
3. Cooking or Baking
Tons of teens love cooking and baking! It’s a great way to test their culinary skills, have fun and let’s face it, you’ll have the comfort of knowing your teen won’t starve when they move out!
4. Singing
Does your teen love to sing in the shower? Are they always humming a song or singing when they’re getting ready in the morning? Getting them a few singing lessons might be just what they need to hone in on a hidden talent. Plus, it’s just plain fun!
5. Sports (Team or Individual)
Whether it’s a team sport like football, basketball, lacrosse or soccer, or it’s an individual sport like skiing, snowboarding, running/track, or frisbee, sports are a fantastic way to get (and keep) your teen moving, challenge them physically (and mentally) and teach them important life skills, including how not to give up, even when it’s hard. Need ideas? Check out this list of 800+ sports from around the world!
6. Writing/Journaling
Writing, poetry, and journaling are great ways to develop your teen’s storytelling skills, and this hobby can help them process their thoughts and emotions, which is great for their mental health.
7. Hiking
Want to foster real confidence in your teen? Encourage them to take on a few hard hiking trails or a tough mountainside. The fresh air, pushing themselves physically, and feeling SO awesome when they reach the top will give them the self-assurance they never knew was possible.
8. Camping
Camping is a great hobby for teens, especially if they round up a few friends and camp together. It’s fun, it’s adventurous and it’s a great getaway from the rigor of life. Don’t forget the s’mores ingredients!
9. Reading
What better way is there to decompress and drift off into another world than by diving into a great book? If your teen doesn’t love reading, chances are they just haven’t found books that inspire them … don’t give up! There are books out there they’ll love – you just have to help them find them!
10. Martial Arts
Karate and other forms of martial arts can be great outlets for teenagers. It helps promote self-discipline, builds strength, flexibility, and agility, and it’s great to instill values of honor, hard work, and respect. It’s also a fun way to learn self-defense techniques and build self-confidence.
11. Playing an Instrument
Playing an instrument, writing music, or being in the band or orchestra at school is such a fun way to learn something – a skill your teen can carry with them throughout their entire life. Plus, it helps them become part of their school and studies have shown the more connected our kids feel to their school, the happier and more academically successful they are!
12. Crafting (So Many Crafting Hobbies to Choose From!)
There are so many hobbies that are “crafty!” From sewing and knitting to crocheting and jewelry-making – really anything goes as long as your teen finds joy in it. Plus, the cool part about crafting is they can sell their item(s) at craft fairs and make a few bucks if they choose to! Stumped on what to try? Here is a list of 75 crafts you can make and sell!
13. Coding
Coding is amazing because it can drastically improve problem-solving skills which can help teens solve problems in other aspects of their life and improve their overall self-confidence.
14. Gardening
Hey, tell your teen, “Don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it!” Gardening is a fun and relaxing way to get in touch with nature and teens can test how “green” their thumb is. Plus, how cool is it that they can eat those tomatoes or strawberries they grew themselves?
15. Rock Climbing
Not only is rock climbing a fun hobby, but it’s also an awesome way to build strength and endurance, and build self-esteem. After all, when you made it to the top of a mountain, you’re bound to feel incredible.
16. Fostering Animals
Fostering kittens or puppies or elderly dogs that are awaiting adoption can be fun and rewarding for any teenager who loves animals. Teens might have to work with their parents on this (since shelters may have a minimum age requirement), but it’s a great way to have fun and be responsible for another living creature.
17. Yoga
If your teen has never tried Yoga, they might be surprised just how challenging it is. It’s a great way to improve their flexibility, increase their strength, and relieve stress.
18. Start a YouTube Channel
Does your teen have a skill they can share? Why not launch their own YouTube channel and share their expertise with the world? Whether it’s tips on how to braid their hair, video gaming tips and tricks, how to study better and more efficiently, or anything else they’re passionate about, the world is always looking for the next big YouTube influencer.
19. Blogging
I think your teen might just be surprised to learn how easy it is to start a blog. They can literally be up and running in a day or so. Your teen can share their life stories, share tips and tricks about, well… anything, or write about their recent travel adventures. Really... any topic goes when you’re blogging.
20. Acting
Whether they take an acting class or try out for the school play, acting is a fantastic outlet for teens – they get to be someone they’re not for a while!
21. Paintball
Who says paintballing can’t be a hobby? Teens can challenge themselves to better their scores and spend time with friends.
22. Kayaking/Canoeing
Seriously, a great way to get outside, explore lakes and rivers, and get an amazing workout at the same time.
23. Nail Art
All those amazing designs – doing nail art is truly a skill! Teens can have an absolute blast coming up with designs because the possibilities are truly endless. Then, once they master the art, they can do all their friends’ nails.
24. Makeup Application
My daughter, who was in late middle school at the time, loved anything having to do with makeup. The funny thing was, she wasn’t very good at applying makeup. So, I bought her several books to help her learn and showed her a few amazing YouTube tutorials. Let’s just say, she’s an expert now!
25. Rock Collecting
Collecting rocks and minerals is actually a super cool hobby – full of fun, adventure, and hands-on opportunities to learn more about our world’s geology, all while building an important anecdotal and historical record.
26. Magic
Any hobby that involves entertaining and making others smiles is sure to boost confidence in kids, and magic fits the bill.
27. Movie Making/Film Production/Editing
With so much information on the Internet, your teen can learn many of the basics to get them started in making movies and editing. If they want to continue, they can take a class in school, look for outside classes and clubs or even take an online class. It’s a very cool skill to know!
28. Learning a New Language
There are so many benefits to learning a new language. Experts even say that because the language center in the brain is so flexible, learning a second language can develop new areas of your mind and strengthen your brain’s natural ability to focus, entertain multiple possibilities, and process information,
29. Chess
From the practical benefits of cognitive thinking and problem-solving to the subtle benefits of doing something fun and engaging in something competitive, chess is a fabulous hobby for teens who love a challenge.
30. Volunteering
Yes… volunteering can be a hobby! Everything from volunteering with animals and helping the homeless to working with kids and cleaning up the environment, there are so many volunteer organizations that could use your teen’s help.
31. Scrapbooking
Aside from the fact that your teen will be creating something amazing to record all their wonderful memories, scrapbooking is a fun and creative way to pass the time.
32. Fishing
There may not be any other hobby out there that allows you to enjoy the outdoors and catch dinner at the same time.
33. Puzzles/Games
Break out the 5,000-piece puzzle, board games, or even cards – such a fun and relaxing way to unwind by yourself or with a bunch of friends on a Friday night. (Don’t forget the snacks!)
34. Aviation/Pilot Training
My son wasn’t into sports and struggled to find a hobby he loved until he joined a pilot training class for teens at a local airport. The rest is history… on his 16th birthday, he secured his private pilot’s license. A GREAT hobby for guys and girls that teaches so many amazing skills that can be carried over to their future careers.
35. Creating Apps
Let’s face it, your teen knows more about technology than you probably ever will. If you have a techy kid who’s passionate about taking technology to a new level, encourage them to take an app development class which can help their brain develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Plus, who knows? Maybe they’ll design the next HOT app!
36. Master Modern Teen Hairstyles
Got a teen who loves trying new hairstyles? Make it a hobby! Encourage her to read up on the latest trends, watch tutorials and try new hairstyles on her friends. It’s a fun and creative hobby she’ll enjoy her entire life. (Actually, guys can do this, too!)
37. Robotics
38. Fitness/Weight-Lifting
Whether they want to tone up a bit, adopt a healthier lifestyle or really bulk up and get strong, teens can’t go wrong by making fitness and weightlifting the hobby of their choice.
39. Horseback Riding
Learning how to ride and care for a horse can be a terrific hobby and just about all major towns and cities have horse stables offering lessons.
40. Website or Graphic Design
Between dozens of learning platforms, hundreds of blogs, and YouTube, there’s an endless amount of web design courses and learning materials available online that can teach your teen the basics of website and/or graphic design. It’s fun and creative, and they could be learning a skill they might use in their future career.
41. Drone Flying
Not only is learning to fly a drone a cool skill to know, but some businesses will actually pay you for your done-flying services. It might be a cool way to bring in a few extra bucks and it’s fun! (My son made a couple of cool videos for realtors who wanted to showcase houses they were trying to sell… they paid him big bucks!)
42. Stand-Up Comedy or Improv
If your teen has that witty way about them – you know, the one who bolts out those one-liners that always seem to catch everyone off-guard and get them laughing – then stand-up comedy could be for them!
43. Wildlife or Bird Watching
So much to see. And, so much to learn! The great outdoors offers a ton of adventure for teens. Add some friends to the mix and maybe a couple of nights of camping out in the wilderness and they’ll create memories of a lifetime.
44. Woodworking
Woodworking can be a broad topic. Thankfully, there are plenty of resources to tap into to get your teen started. From YouTube video tutorials and informative posts on the internet to classes and clubs they can join, if you have a teen who loves making things from scratch and working with their hands, this is the hobby for them!
45. Travelling or Vacation Planning
Whether you hand them the reins and let your teen plan the next family vacation or they dive into “dream” vacations they aim to take one day, learning about what amazing places they’d like to visit (and adding them to their bucket list) can be a fun and exciting hobby.
46. Pool or Billiards
Wondering if playing pool is a good hobby? If you ask the 46 million people who play pool, the answer would be YES!
47. Doodling
Yep… that favorite pastime that gets your teen through those boring history lectures in class can actually be a super fun and relaxing hobby! Some doodling projects are amazing!
48. Calligraphy
A true art form, calligraphy writing takes a lot of patience, attention to detail, and a very steady hand. But the outcome is gorgeous! (Once they master this skill, teens just might be able to sell their services, too!)
49. Investing
Not just a life skill, it’s actually a ton of fun for teens to see how the market works, to learn about the ins and outs of investing, and the excitement of seeing their investment (no matter how small) grow.
50. Astronomy or Stargazing
Do you have a teenager who’s curious about the night sky? Astronomy can be one of the most satisfying hobbies to pursue. After all, what could possibly be more mind-blowing than having the entire universe as an object of study?
51. Thrift Shopping
Such a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon with friends and oh… the deals your teen can find! Thrifting is a great way to pass the time, spend time with friends, and find deals of the century.
52. Model Building (Airplanes, Cars, Trains, etc.)
Whether they build a model car or try their hand at building an intricate model airplane, you’re never too old to build something.
53. Legos
Our kids may have loved building with Legos when they were young, but this hobby is one that stands the test of time. You’re never too old to play with Legos!
54. Scuba Diving
There is so much to explore in our oceans! If you have a teen who loves the water, scuba diving is a great hobby that they can enjoy their entire lifetime.
55. Golfing
A huge pastime for SO many people, golf is becoming incredibly popular with tweens and teens. The initial investment to get started isn’t too costly and hitting a bucket of balls won’t break the bank, but getting on the course for play is a tad more expensive. Still, it’s a pastime and skill they can enjoy and perfect for years to come!
56. Podcasting
Does your teen have a great idea for a podcast? Are they great at storytelling or do they have a skill or knowledge others would love to know? Then starting a podcast might be a great hobby for them!
57. Learn Sign Language
There are numerous ways to learn American Sign Language (ASL) outside a classroom. From free online lessons to video tutorials, a world of possibilities is open for any teen aspiring to teach themselves how to sign.
58. Survival Prepping
Who knows when your teen will need to know how to survive in the wilderness or post-disaster? Creating a survival preparedness kit is a fun way to get prepared and learn great lifelong skills.
59. Building Rockets
Building rockets is an inexpensive hobby that’s great for teens. Not only do they get to design and build the rocket, but they get to launch it which can be a fun thing to do with friends and family.
60. Set Up an Aquarium
When you set up your own aquarium, the possibilities are literally endless. From setting it up, choosing the colorful fish to fill it, and maintaining it, this hobby will open up a whole new world for any teen.
61. Cake or Cupcake Decorating
Just a few cake-decorating accessories are necessary to master this art and it’s truly a blast to try! Look out… once they get really good, plenty of people will be asking your teen to make them a fancy cake or a batch of specialty cupcakes! (Think side business!)
62. Stamp Collecting
It might sound a little old-fashioned, but stamp collecting is a slightly addictive (and fun!) hobby that explores history, geography, art, and politics. It’s especially fun when you join clubs with people who share your passion.
63. Entertaining (Event Planning)
Does your teen adore having their friends over? Do they love planning the games, food, movie, or activities everyone will do when they’re together? Entertaining (or event planning) can be such a fun hobby and it’s a fantastic skill they’ll have for the rest of their life!
64. White Water Rafting
Adventure at its best, teens can grab their friends, find the nearest river and raft down for a crazy fun time that’ll remind them that there’s so much more to life than scrolling through their phone.
65. Sky Diving/Parasailing
When it comes to hobbies for teens, this one is reserved for those who crave adventure! Even though you might have to take a huge deep breath when they take the jump, mom and dad, it’s a fun hobby that will give your teen something really exciting to look forward to when planning their next jump.
66. Self Defense
Our world isn’t quite as safe as it used to be. That’s why ANY teenager would benefit from rounding up skills to defend themselves if they’re ever in a sticky situation. It’s a great hobby that can help them get physically fit, too!
67. Organization
Although most teens are really messy, there ARE a few teens out there who enjoy order and organization. If that’s your teen, then an organization hobby is for them! Not only will it help them learn how to organize their own bedroom, but they can sell their services to friends whose bedrooms, closets, and bathrooms are a disaster. Plus, it’s fun to find just the right organization accessories!
68. Visiting Museums
The number of museums in the U.S. and the world is mind-boggling. So much to see and learn! For any teen who loves learning, exploring, and visiting new places, encourage them to make this their hobby!
69. Playing Spikeball
What started out as a casual backyard game has actually become a fun and highly creative pastime for many! Get good at this game and your teen will be the talk at the beach this summer!
70. Fashion Design
If your son or daughter has a passion and flare for fashion and they’re always scribbling fashion designs on napkins, they could be a fashion designer in the making! Encourage them to make it their hobby by taking a class in your nearest city or by taking an online class – there are several to choose from!
So, get your teen moving! Encourage them to explore different hobbies to find which one(s) brings them joy and fulfillment.
Remember, this is not an exhaustive list and every teen is unique, so encourage your teen to try different things and see what they enjoy the most!
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