5 Retirement Hobbies to Keep You Active

Retirement looks so different for everyone, but one thing is certain – it's the perfect chance to do something special just for you. Take advantage of this opportunity and find yourself a fun retirement hobby. Think about all the new friends you could make, and maybe even a little extra cash. Because there are endless possibilities out there when picking an activity, we've narrowed down our top five favorites as starting points – give them a try. You can ask your pals or search online to see what classes are available near you, at a retirement community or a community college. All aboard on this exciting journey into retirement curiosity.

Learn to Sculpt

Art is the perfect way to express yourself and creating beauty from everyday materials is what sculpting does best. From clay to plaster, wood to metal, resin, and in between – each medium has its own unique technique that can really bring artwork alive. Or maybe you’ve thought about getting creative with ceramics or pottery. If you're looking for an experience close by, traditional classes with clay or plaster may be your go-to option; but if something a bit more nontraditional piques your interest, don't shy away from exploring other media as well – instruction might just take some extra scouting. No matter what you try, sculpting is an amazing way to express yourself. Try it today and start making something beautiful.

Learn to Draw or Paint

Retirees might consider taking a crack at painting and drawing. You can bring your favorite memories to life through landscapes of places you've been, create lasting representations of family members, or make a fun abstract. And if this is all new territory for you, don't worry – consider taking an introductory class with someone special to determine which art form suits you best. Get creative and have some fun together while creating beautiful works of art.

Maybe you’re seeking a fun way to get social. Check out "paint and sip" classes. Not only do they combine the pleasure of wine tasting with painting, but they're also all the rage. See if your area has any similar events going on – they can make for an enjoyable evening.

Learn to Cook

Whether you're a pro in the kitchen or just want to give cooking classes a try, it's time for an adventure. From Italian and Mexican dishes to vegetarian meals and Thai cuisine, there are so many ways to experiment with flavors. Plus, attending cooking classes is not only instructional but also a great opportunity for socializing – get your hands on one of these courses at local community colleges, adult education centers, specialized stores, or maybe even at your new retirement community. In addition, taking an online class can be a great way to learn something new right from your own home, especially if your home is a Del Webb home equipped with high-quality culinary tools and amenities so you can tantalize your taste buds. Get ready for a whole new level of cooking creativity as you whip up delicious meals in an upgraded modern space.

Learn a New Language

Retirement is your opportunity to explore the world. Having a working knowledge of other languages can transform an ordinary trip into something truly incredible, so you can reach out and make meaningful connections with locals at your destinations as you travel during retirement. If you're looking to explore the world, learning a foreign language as a new hobby can open up so many possibilities. For instance, if your sights are set on Mexico, then Spanish is key. Or maybe China and Taiwan sound more like an adventure – in that case, brush up on Mandarin Chinese. Reaching out to travel clubs may also be a great way to hear tips from seasoned travelers who have mastered their own lingo skills alongside discovering new cultures around the globe.

Learn a Musical Instrument

Maybe you want to make some beautiful music. Look no further than the piano or guitar. Both instruments are beloved, straightforward picks for any beginner – so perfecting those beginning chords won't be too difficult. For a jumpstart on your musical journey, consider investing in a one-on-one class or learning from experts through a course – an unbeatable way to get started. With a little bit of dedication and determination, you're sure to get the hang of something quickly. To make things easier on your wallet, you could look around for group lessons that give you great value.

If you’re looking to increase your party game, consider all you could do with a piano or guitar, or another instrument. It's easy to find used instruments and, if needed, you can even rent instruments from a local music store until you know this is the right hobby for YOU. Nothing livens up an event like having someone who knows how to play an instrument – develop and show off those skills in style by learning a fun instrument today.

Retirement is the golden ticket to being surrounded by friends, living life carefree, and engaging in new hobbies. Whether you’re at that stage of life or just planning for it – Del Webb communities offer a plethora of community activities designed specifically with active adults in mind. Come join us on this journey towards retirement bliss and explore Del Webb retirement communities today!