What Are Some Hobbies or Activities That Empty Nesters Can Do Together

When the kids leave home, it can feel like you don't know what to do with yourself. The house feels quieter, and routines shift.

For many couples in Broken Arrow, OK, this is an exciting time to take advantage of the city's attractions, but it's also a little overwhelming. You might be wondering, "What are some hobbies or activities that empty nesters can do together?"

Couple's activities for seniors include engaging in new experiences. If there's an activity or hobby you've wanted to try, now is a perfect chance to give it a whirl.

There are plenty of interests you can explore with your partner. Some of these hobbies are creative. Others focus on strengthening your connection.

Here are some ideas for hobbies that empty nesters can enjoy.

Take a Cooking Class

Food brings people together. Even if you're not a fan of cooking, taking a class can open you up to new possibilities and experiences.

Look for local cooking classes, activities, and events. You can spend time together while learning a new skill. Even if you know your way around a kitchen, you're guaranteed to learn a few new recipes.

Some spots to look for cooking classes include:

Local community centers
Culinary schools
Restaurants

You can try a new cuisine each time. For example, you may have Italian one week and Thai the next.

When embracing creative hobbies for seniors, you feel a sense of accomplishment and team building. Choose a new recipe, shop for the ingredients, and then pair it with a glass of wine.

You'll have fun while enjoying new food.

Join a Walking or Hiking Group

Other active aging ideas include physical activity. It's vital at any age, especially for seniors.

Consider walking or hiking with a group of people, meeting new friends while enjoying fresh air and exercise. Many towns have great spots to get out and move, including:

Trails
Parks
Walking paths

Some parks in Broken Arrow, OK, include:

Ray Harral Nature Park & Center
Nienhuis Park
Jackson Park
Crescent Park
Veterans Park

Some even have groups that meet regularly. These social activities for couples can be more fun, as you get to meet new friends.

Find a nearby nature preserve and spend the day walking and picnicking. When you walk side by side, you can have great conversations while enjoying nature.

Try Gardening Together

Gardening can be peaceful and rewarding, especially for empty nesters who love being outside. The great thing about gardening is that you can tailor it to any ability level. Consider raised garden beds or tabletop planters.

You don't need a ton of space; even a balcony is perfect for gardening. Plant any of the following:

Flowers
Herbs
Vegetables

Watching something grow can give you a sense of accomplishment. Plus, you can use your fresh produce for new recipes!

Couples may want to divide tasks. One person can water the plants while the other weeds.

Take turns. You can even care for houseplants in the winter to keep up with your gardening year-round.

Consider Traveling

Traveling isn't just a fun summer activity. When your kids are grown, you have more freedom to see the world.

A trip doesn't have to be expensive and extravagant. A small-town weekend getaway is great for bonding as a couple. You may want to explore different bed and breakfasts or try new restaurants.

If you want a bigger adventure, consider traveling abroad. You can even find travel groups and go with other seniors.

When you explore new cultures, you build shared memories with your partner and have stories to tell your kids.

Volunteer in the Community

This is a wonderful opportunity to give back while spending time with your partner. Volunteering gives people purpose and also helps them make new friends.

Empty nesters can volunteer at plenty of worthwhile organizations, including:

Food banks
Animal shelters
Libraries
Hospitals
Schools

What's great is that couples volunteer side by side. They can find roles that suit their skills or try something new. What matters is giving back together.

Start a Fitness Routine Together

Exercising with your partner can be incredibly motivating. You have an accountability buddy who helps you get in shape and focus on your health.

When you exercise together, it's easier to stay committed to a routine while also being motivated. Couples can try any of the following:

Join a gym
Try yoga
Take fitness classes specifically created for older adults

You don't need a membership to start exercising. It can be as simple as:

Walking
Biking
Stretching at home

What matters is consistency. Make exercise a goal you and your partner share.

When you're feeling unmotivated, encourage each other and celebrate small wins to make it a part of your lifestyle.

Play Games

Sometimes you just want to relax and have fun, so play games with your partner! Some great examples include:

Board games
Card games
Puzzles

These are all great games to help couples connect. You might even do the daily crossword together or play trivia games. A little bit of laughter and friendly competition are all you need.

Other great games are chess and Scrabble. You may even want to play Monopoly if you feel like getting a little competitive.

Video games are another unexpected choice, but why not give them a try? You might enjoy them!

You can also play them with your kids and grandkids when they come to visit.