What to Do in Retirement: 15 Ideas To Stay Active, Happy and Financially Secure
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GOBankingRates Staff
Edited by
Joe Evans
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Retirement brings you more free time than ever before, but figuring out what to do in retirement isn’t always easy. After years of structure, suddenly your days are wide open. That freedom is exciting, but without a plan, it can leave some retirees feeling restless or even stressed about money.
The good news? With the right mix of hobbies, travel, community involvement, and financial planning, retirement can be one of the most rewarding stages of life. This guide covers 15 practical and fun things to do in retirement so you can stay active, connected, and financially confident.
Why Staying Active in Retirement Matters
Your retirement years can last decades, which makes it important to plan how you’ll spend your time. Staying active both physically and mentally can have lasting benefits.
- The CDC reports that adults 65 and older who stay physically active are less likely to develop chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
- A National Institute on Aging study found that socially engaged seniors have a 50% lower risk of dementia.
- According to Fidelity, the average 65-year-old couple retiring in 2025 will need about $315,000 just for healthcare expenses. Staying active and healthy can help reduce some of those costs.
In short, retirement is healthiest and happiest when you combine fun with a plan.
Retirement Activities Comparison Chart
| Activity | Cost Level | Key Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel locally & abroad | $$$ | Adventure, new experiences, lasting memories | Retirees who want to explore |
| RV or camping adventures | $$ | Affordable long-term travel, nature immersion | Outdoor lovers, slow travelers |
| Start a new hobby | $ | Mental stimulation, creativity, social engagement | Anyone wanting new interests |
| Fitness & health activities | $ | Better health, mobility, lower medical costs | All retirees |
| Volunteering | $ | Purpose, social connections, giving back | Community-minded retirees |
| Family & friend time | $ | Stronger relationships, joy, support network | Grandparents, social retirees |
| Take classes or go back to school | $$ | Lifelong learning, brain health, new skills | Lifelong learners |
| Part-Ttme job or side hustle | $ | Extra income, structure, sense of purpose | Retirees wanting flexibility |
| Join clubs or community groups | $ | Friendship, routine, shared interests | Social retirees |
| Low-cost adventures | $ | Fun, exploration, affordable excitement | Budget-conscious retirees |
| Retirement bucket list | Varies | Motivation, life goals, excitement | Dreamers and planners |
| Downsizing & simplifying | $ (savings potential) | Reduced expenses, less stress | Minimalists, cost-cutters |
| Creative outlets | $ | Expression, mental health, potential side income | Artistic retirees |
| Local events participation | $ | Community involvement, belonging | Social and civic-minded retirees |
| Financial planning & review | $ | Long-term security, peace of mind | All retirees |
1. Travel Locally and Abroad
- Take road trips to nearby towns or national landmarks.
- Explore “bucket list” international destinations.
- Travel during off-peak seasons for lower costs and fewer crowds.
Fact: The U.S. Travel Association reports that one in three retirees makes travel their top retirement goal.
2. Explore RV or Camping Adventures
- RV living offers flexibility to see the country at your own pace.
- National parks and campgrounds are budget-friendly options.
- Slower travel lets you really enjoy each destination.
3. Start a New Hobby
- Try painting, woodworking or photography.
- Join local clubs or online communities to learn from others.
- Hobbies keep you mentally sharp and bring new purpose.
4. Focus on Fitness and Health
- Activities like walking, swimming and yoga are joint-friendly.
- Sign up for community wellness programs or senior classes.
- Fitness reduces medical costs and improves quality of life.
Fact: The NIH notes that just 30 minutes of daily physical activity can improve sleep, mood and mobility in older adults.
5. Volunteer Your Time and Skills
- Help at food banks, schools or animal shelters.
- Use your professional experience to mentor or consult.
- Volunteering adds purpose and builds social connections.
6. Spend More Time With Family and Friends
- Host weekly dinners or game nights.
- Plan family reunions or trips with grandkids.
- Reconnect with friends from your working years.
7. Go Back to School or Take Classes
- Enroll in local college courses or online platforms.
- Learn a language, music or new tech skills.
- Lifelong learning keeps your brain engaged.
Fact: The Pew Research Center found that 73% of adults consider themselves lifelong learners, with many retirees taking free or low-cost classes.
8. Start a Part-Time Job or Side Hustle
- Try seasonal work, tutoring or consulting.
- Freelance in an area you enjoy or sell crafts online.
- Earn extra money without full-time stress.
Stat: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that nearly 39% of adults 55 and older remain in the workforce, many through part-time roles.
9. Join Clubs or Community Groups
- Join book clubs, gardening groups or senior centers.
- Meet new friends with similar interests.
- Social groups keep loneliness at bay.
10. Try Low-Cost Adventures
- Explore local museums, hiking trails and parks.
- Take advantage of free community events.
- Use senior discounts for added savings.
11. Create a Retirement Bucket List
- Write down experiences you’ve always wanted to try.
- Prioritize one or two items each year.
- Keeps you motivated and excited for what’s ahead.
12. Focus on Downsizing and Simplifying Life
- Consider moving to a smaller home to cut expenses.
- Declutter and reduce stress by donating or selling items.
- Use savings from downsizing for travel or hobbies.
13. Explore Creative Outlets
- Write your memoirs, paint or play music.
- Join workshops or classes to improve your skills.
- Creative expression improves mental health and may even provide a side income.
14. Get Involved in Local Events
- Attend farmers’ markets, fairs or festivals.
- Volunteer to help organize local activities.
- Strengthens your sense of community.
15. Take Care of Financial Planning While Enjoying Life
- Review retirement savings regularly.
- Plan for travel and hobbies without overspending.
- Work with a financial advisor to maximize Social Security and minimize taxes.
Fact: The Social Security Administration notes that Social Security replaces only about 40% of the average worker’s pre-retirement income, so additional savings and planning are key.
Final Take to GO
Knowing what to do in retirement is about more than filling your calendar — it’s about building a life that keeps you active, fulfilled and financially secure. From travel and volunteering to side hustles and hobbies, retirees have endless opportunities to stay engaged.
Start small, try new things and make retirement the chapter where you thrive.
FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about what to do in retirement and how it works:- What are some free or low-cost activities for retirees?
- Walking, hiking, volunteering, community classes and library book clubs.
- How do I avoid boredom after retiring?
- Build a daily routine filled with hobbies, social activities and exercise.
- Can I work part-time and still collect Social Security?
- Yes, but benefits may be reduced if you’re under full retirement age and earn above annual income limits.
- How do I balance fun with my budget?
- Set aside a monthly “fun fund” and prioritize free or discounted activities.
- What are the best hobbies to stay active?
- Gardening, painting, cooking, yoga and photography are great options.
Information is accurate as of Sept. 2, 2025.
Our in-house research team and on-site financial experts work together to create content that’s accurate, impartial, and up to date. We fact-check every single statistic, quote and fact using trusted primary resources to make sure the information we provide is correct. You can learn more about GOBankingRates’ processes and standards in our editorial policy.
- CDC "Physical Activity Benefits for Adults 65 or Older"
- NIH National Institute on Ageing "Cognitive Health and Older Adults"
- Fidelity "Fidelity Investments Releases 2025 Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate, a Timely Reminder for All Generations to Begin Planning"
- CNN "‘A movement taking shape’: Many US retirees are looking to move abroad. Here are the best countries for them"
- NIH National Institute on Ageing "Health Benefits of Exercise and Physical Activity"
- The Pew Research Center "The joy – and urgency – of learning"
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics "38.3 percent of employed older Americans worked part time in 2024"
- U.S. Social Security Administration "Fact Sheet For Workers Ages 18-48"
