Looking for fun things to do at home? This mega list has something for everyone ... whether you're hanging out alone, trying to entertain your kids, or simply feeling bored!
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I love spending time at home (major introvert here), but even I can start to feel a little bored after a while. Especially when I'm stuck at home, like many of us are these days.
Thankfully, there are tons of creative things to do at home that you've probably never even thought of. And if you're searching for something to do, I've got you covered!
This huge list of activities is packed with fun stuff for all ages and interests. You'll find unique ideas for everyone here, whether you're struggling to keep your kids busy, want to try something new, need to save a little money, or are simply planning a quiet night with your partner.
Ready to get started? Keep reading for 130 awesome boredom busters!
130 Things to Do at Home
I had so much fun coming up with this list of things to do when you're bored at home!
There are so many creative activities you can do without leaving the comfort of home. And whether you're feeling lazy (no shame there) or super productive, you're guaranteed to find something you'd like to try below.
I also create a free printable list if you'd like to print these ideas. Find it at the end of the article.
1. Start a 365 Day Project
A 365 day project is a small activity that you do every day for a year, and it's an easy way to add excitement to your routine. While you can do almost anything, here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Take a creative self-portrait
- Write in a journal.
- Reach out to a friend or family member.
- Meditate.
- Make a small piece of art.
- Create a second a day video.
- Anything else you can think of!
2. Treat Yourself to a Face Mask
After you wash your face, take a few minutes to enjoy a mud mask or a sheet mask. It's the perfect little bit of self-care.
3. Learn How to Cook Something New
Challenge yourself to master a new recipe, whether it's something super easy (like overnight oats) or something a little trickier (like croissants). Pinterest is a great resource, of course (follow me here), but I also love the online classes at Craftsy. They offers tons of video courses for everything from pizza to Moroccan food, plus crafts, photography, and more! I have an annual membership, which is an amazing value if you think you'll take multiple classes.
4. Start a Blog
Have you ever thought about creating a blog? The best advice you could ever receive is to stop thinking about it, and just do it! You'll figure it out as you go along, I promise. My How to Start a Blog guide walks you through the process step-by-step.
5. Create a Scavenger Hunt
If your kids are going stir crazy, create a scavenger hunt for them, or ask them to plan their own. Then, follow their cues and play along.
6. Take a Free Online Class
While there's nothing wrong with wiling the day away, sometimes it's nice to be a little more productive. There are tons of great courses online, and you can even find free classes from top colleges and universities like Harvard and MIT.
7. Put a Puzzle Together
A challenging jigsaw puzzle is an excellent way to kill time, either on your own or with your family.
8. Tackle Your To Do List
If you're anything like me, you probably have a few items on your to do list that you never seem to get to. Think of all the mental energy you'll free up if you check off just one of them!
9. Have a Paper Airplane Contest
Teach your kids how to make a paper airplane, then have fun seeing whose creation is most flight-worthy.
10. Read a Book
Getting lost in an amazing book is never a bad idea. Don't have a huge stack to catch up on? Check your local library's website... many allow you to check out ebooks online. If you already have an Amazon Prime membership, you can read one new release free every month, plus choose from many other books, too.
11. Clean Out Your Closets
There are few things more satisfying than organizing an out of control closet. If you need some inspiration, Marie Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up is a great read, and you can watch her TV show on Netflix, too.
12. Walk Around Your Backyard
Stuck at home and dying for some fresh air? Take a walk around your backyard. If you live in an apartment like I do, open a window or spend some time on your patio instead.
13. Teach Your Dog a Trick
If your pup already knows basic commands, like sit, stay, and down, it's the perfect time to take things to the next level. Check out this ultimate list of dog tricks to kick things up a notch.
14. Have a Tea Party
No need to head to a fancy hotel or restaurant for high tea. Simply brew your favorite tea, then serve it with petite sandwiches (cut off the crusts if you've up to it!) and something sweet, like Coffee Cake Muffins, Danish Puff, or this delicious Strawberry Banana Bread.
15. Binge That TV Show You've Been Meaning to Watch
Why leave the comfort of your couch? When you're stuck at home, sometimes the best thing to do is catch up on all those TV shows you've never gotten around to watching (or re-watch an old favorite). I'm currently binging The Sopranos, which has been on my list forever. Try one of these shows if you're not sure what to watch next:
- Hart of Dixie
- Call the Midwife
- Extras
- Luther
- The Only Way Is Essex
- Broadchurch
- Crazy Ex Girlfriend
- It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
- Claws
- The Americans
- The Last Man on Earth
- Breaking Bad
- Workaholics
- House of Lies
- Scandal
- Happy Valley
- The Queen
16. Find a Quiet Corner and Meditate
Meditation is an excellent way to bring a little clarity into your life. Not sure where to start? Check out this beginners guide to meditation or download an app like Calm.
17. Reconnect with an Former Colleague
Many of us spend more time with our coworkers than we do with our own families, yet it's easy to lose touch after switching jobs. Take a moment to catch up with a former colleague via LinkedIn or Facebook ... you may be surprised to learn what their up to!
18. Make a Pinata
Reconnect with your inner child by building a piñata or trying another paper mâché project. It's easier than you'd think. All you need is some flour (or glue), newspaper, and paint or tissue paper.
19. Play an Online Game
My husband has gotten me into games recently. I'm kind of cursing him (such a time waster!), but they're also really fun and a good way to kill time. Some of my faves are Fluffy Cuddlies and Bubble Charms, as well as the apps Design Home, Interior Story, and Wordscapes.
20. Start a Journal
We are living in fascinating times (to say the least). Keeping a journal is a great way to record your thoughts and day-to-day happenings, clear your mind, and manage stress and anxiety. Not to mention, it can be interesting to look back on later. Not sure you can keep up with one? A Line a Day Journal is low pressure and super fun ... there's only room for a sentence or two a day!
21. Do Something Crafty
Why not spend an afternoon doing something creative? I've got tons of fun DIY ideas here at Hello Little Home to get you started. If you want to learn a new skill, check out Craftsy, which offers classes (free and paid) on everything from sewing to photography. Skillshare is another great resource for learning creative skills ... sign up for a free month!
22. Take a Virtual Museum Tour
Stuck at home, but craving culture? With Google Arts & Culture, you can tour over 2500 museums and galleries around the world!
23. Update Your Resume, Then Look for a New Job
Searching for a new job can be a full-time job in and of itself. When you find yourself with some downtime (even if it's just a few minutes), use it to update your resume and LinkedIn profile. If you're not happy with your current career path, then use the time to research what you'd need to do to change fields.
24. Break Out Your Colored Pencils
Embrace your inner child and do some adult coloring. It's fun, easy, relaxing, and anyone can do it ... even my father-in-law is a fan! Here are some free resources to get you started:
- Free Ain't No Mountain High Enough Coloring Page
- Free Happy Fall Y'all Coloring Page
- How to Create Your Own Coloring Pages
- 10 Easy Ways to Use Coloring Pages
25. Play a Yard Game
Outdoor games are an awesome way to burn off some energy, and you don't need a huge backyard to do it. Check out this roundup of DIY Yard Games (and games you can buy if you're not handy) to get started.
26. Do Your Laundry
Why not stop procrastinating and check this one off your to do list right now?
27. Pull Out Your Yoga Mat and Do Some Stretches
Stretching is a simple exercise you can do at home that's helpful for your body and mind. These basic stretches will get you started. Want to try yoga? Check out this list of the nine best yoga YouTube channels.
28. Write a Love Note
Brighten someone's day (your kids, a significant other or friend, or yourself) by telling them how much you love them!
29. Have a Dance Party
An impromptu dance party is sure to cheer anyone up ... no fancy moves required. Here's a fun dance party mix that's guaranteed to put you in the mood!
30. Watch All the Star Wars Movies
It's official, you'll be able to stream ALL the Star Wars movies by the end of the year . So why not watch them in order? Turns out there are a few theories on how to do that (release order, chronological order, etc.). If you're not sure where to start, check out Fatherly for the four best ways to watch the Star Wars movies.
31. Go on a Date ... without Leaving Your House
Don't skip date night just because you're stuck at home! Pick one of these 40 creative at-home date night ideas, then plan a romantic evening.
32. Deep Clean Your Home
There aren't many things more satisfying than a sparkling clean home. The next time you find yourself with a free day, get scrubbing with this in-depth spring cleaning checklist. Don't have that much time or ambition? Clean your kitchen in 15 minutes instead!
33. Watch a Sunrise (or Sunset)
Set your alarm and wake up early to catch the sunrise. It's one of the best ways to start the day. If you're not an early riser, there's always the sunset.
34. Read Your Old Letters
Do you save old cards and letters? Pull out that box to read and reminisce! Then, hang up your faves on this DIY Memo Board so they can bring a smile to your face every day.
35. Make a Family Photo Album
If you're anything like me, you probably have a million photos cluttering up your phone. Gather your faves, then make a Yearly Family Photo Album (it's super easy to do online). If you'd rather do something crafty, make this DIY Accordion Book instead ... it's a great gift idea!
36. Take a Nap
Why not recharge your batteries by taking a lazy afternoon nap?
37. Go Through Your Junk Drawer
Is your junk drawer overflowing? Spend a few minutes cleaning out, keeping only the things you'll actually use.
38. Plan a Vacation
Just because you can't go on a vacation right now doesn't mean you can't start planning your next one. Start by making a budget, then go from there. If you're looking for ideas, check out my travel resources. You'll find everything from a National Parks Guide to a Road Trip Essentials list, New Orleans and Mexico City travel guides, and so much more!
39. Count All Your Change
Do you have a change jar in your house? Count it all out, then make a plan to cash it in. This is one of the most fun things to do at home for kids and adults!
40. Make Homemade Play Dough
When I was a kid, my mom made homemade play dough all the time. We always had so much fun with it, and it's super easy to make in any color you want.
41. Start a Garden
Growing your own food is super rewarding! Give it a shot, whether you have the space for a large garden or a few herbs. If you can't leave home, check with you local garden store ... they may deliver. If not, you can order everything you need (including seeds, plants, soil, and plants) from Amazon's Garden & Outdoor center.
42. Clean Your Makeup Brushes
When is the last time you cleaned your makeup brushes? Although you can purchase special brush cleaning tools, warm water and mild soap (like hand soap or a gentle face wash) will give you the same effect. Once you've washed the brushes, carefully squeeze them out with a clean towel, then set them aside to dry overnight.
43. Write a Movie or TV Script
Got some downtime on your hands? Sounds like the perfect excuse to write that script, book, poem, or essay you've been meaning to get around to. This is a creative way to keep your kids busy, too!
44. Catch Up on Your Favorite Celebs
Just what is so and so up to these days anyway? Spend a few minutes searching online to find out.
45. Create a Vision Board
Do you have a goal you want to achieve? Gathering related images and words can help you visualize the goal, then turn it into reality. Follow these easy steps to create your own vision board.
46. Make a Playlist of Your Favorite Songs
Music is a tried and true way to lift your spirit, especially when you're stuck at home. Rather than listen to someone else's playlist, make your own with all your favorite songs for an instant mood booster.
47. Rearrange the Furniture in Your Living Room
My mom was always shuffling around the furniture in our living room. It's a great way to redecorate for free! If you don't have anyone to help you, these furniture sliders make it easy to move even the heaviest pieces on carpet or hardwood floors.
48. Bake Cookies
Is there anything better than the scent of baking cookies? I can't think of much! Whip up your favorite recipe, or try my Coffee Cookies, Honey Cookies, Chewy Ginger Cookies, or Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies.
49. Clean Up Your Email Inbox
Keeping my inbox organized is something I always mean to get around to, but never seem to do. Please tell me I'm not the only one! If you're struggling like me, these tips can help you clean up your inbox in one hour.
50. Start Composting
Composting is a simple way to cut down on food and yard waste, while also reducing landfill space and being good for the environment. It's fairly easy to learn how to compost, and you can do it even if you live in an apartment with no outdoor space.
51. Learn Origami
Origami is a paper-folding craft that's enjoyable for kids and adults alike. You can do it with paper you already have (you just need to cut it in a square) or use special origami papers. Check out my tutorials for Puffy Hearts and Lucky Stars ... both are easy and neither requires origami paper. If you know you'll be home for a while, consider taking on an origami challenge, like folding 1000 paper cranes.
52. Catch Up on Your Favorite Magazines
Unexpected time at home is the ideal time to read your favorite magazines. If you don't already have a massive pile like me, visit the websites of your fave mags to subscribe or read articles. Amazon Prime members can also check out their favorite magazines at no additional cost through Prime Reading.
53. Meal Prep a Week's Worth of Dinners
Cut down on dinnertime stress by prepping a week (or few days) worth of meals today. Start by making a meal plan, and keep things simple by choosing ingredients that overlap into multiples dinners (like curry and rice for dinner Monday, and fried rice on Friday). Then block out a few hours to cook the food or prep the recipe components.
54. Mix and Match Your Wardrobe to Create New Outfits
Do you have a wardrobe full of clothes you never wear? Me, too! Rather than always relying on old favorites, spend some time in your closet coming up with new combinations. If you're feeling extra motivated, you could even create a capsule wardrobe.
55. Redecorate a Room in Your Home
I think we all have that one room (or maybe a few) that just doesn't feel complete. Well, maybe it's time for a makeover! To get started, think about how the room is used and how you want it to feel, then begin gathering inspiration. Avoid buying anything until you create a plan. Don't have a lot of money to spend? Challenge yourself to use items, like decorative pillows and accessories, that you already own. And check out my tips for decorating a small space and for finding affordable furniture, too.
56. Tackle that Home Fix-It Project
Why not check that nagging fix-it project off your list once and for all? You'll be so happy when it's done!
57. Cuddle Up on the Couch
Grab some blankets and a loved one and get cozy on the couch. Then, let the cares of the day fade away.
58. Make a Family Music Video
If you're looking for something different to do with your kids, why not make your own music video? All you need is a camera phone, a good song, and some creativity!
59. Give Yourself a Manicure
No need to leave your house when it's so easy to give yourself an at home manicure or pedicure.
60. Play the Quiet Game
Kids love playing the Quiet Game (everyone must be quiet, and the last one to speak is the winner), and it's a win for you, too! .
61. Make Hot Chocolate
This delicious drink is wonderful treat that's quick and easy to make from scratch with only three simple ingredients. Make my favorite dark, rich hot chocolate recipe (with four easy variations), then start sipping.
62. Learn a New Language
In just a few minutes a day, you can begin learning a new language. Duolingo is an excellent free resource with many different languages (30+ on their website) that you can learn through their app or online lessons. They also have Spanish and French podcasts, which are helpful for improving listening skills. I also love Rosetta Stone Unlimited, which gives you lifetime access to 25 languages! If you're trying to learn Spanish like me, I'd also recommend watching Spanish and Go on YouTube and studying these Spanish Fundamentals guides.
63. Create a Piece of Art
Sharpen your pencils, pull out your paint brushes, and grab that sketchpad. Doing something artistic can reduce stress, boost creativity, and give you a sense of accomplishment. Try to enjoy the process without placing any expectations on yourself ... no one's expecting a masterpiece!
64. Run Through the Sprinkler
If the weather is cooperating, put on your swimsuit and run through the sprinkler. Giggles are pretty much guaranteed!
65. Plan a Candlelight Dinner
A candlelight dinner is a fun (and romantic) way to break out of the norm. So whether your making a frozen pizza or a three course meal, turn off the lights and put away your phones.
66. Make a Time Capsule
Stuck spending a few days at home? Sounds like the perfect opportunity to make a time capsule to me. Here's a great checklist of things to include in a time capsule to you started. Don't have anywhere to bury it? Just stick it in the back of your least used closed ... you'll probably forget it's even there!
67. Break a Sweat
Don't quit your exercise routine just because your stuck at home. There are many opportunities to exercise both online or with an app. Read about my favorite at home workout essentials for ideas. If it's been a while since you worked, get your doctor's approval first, of course! Then check out my tips for easing back into working out.
68. Have Karaoke Night on Your Couch
You don't need a special system to enjoy a karaoke night at home. Simply choose something to use as a microphone (like a TV remote), open YouTube on your TV or phone, and sing along to your fave music videos. Forgot the lyrics? Tune into a dedicated karaoke channel, like Sing King on YouTube, for help.
69. Plan a Family Movie Night
Get cozy on your couch, then stream your favorite flicks. Choose a creative theme—like best 80s movies, crime capers, classic movies, scary movies, or cheesy romantic comedies—to make it more fun. Then, make a big bowl of popcorn ... this Parmesan Pepper Popcorn is my personal fave!
70. Make a Bucket List
Love making lists? Create a big bucket list of goals you want to achieve or things you want to do, like places to travel, life goals, 30 things to do before 30 (or 40, 50, etc.), seasonal list, career goals, or 100 goals in 1000 days. Not sure where to start, check out these lists for inspiration:
71. Treat Yourself to a Cocktail
Sometimes there's nothing better than kicking back and relaxing with a homemade cocktail (or two). Might I suggest a classic Mojito, Spicy Paloma, refreshing Chelada, or a simple, yet delicious Cuba Libre?
72. Make Pet Rocks
Not ready to commit to a real cat or dog? Help your kids make a pet rock instead. All you need is a smooth rock, a little paint, some glue, and a few other random craft supplies like paper and yarn. If you'd prefer to connect with others, make kindness rocks to share with your community (either in person or virtually) instead.
73. Take a Family Photo
If your family is stuck at home together, set up the self-timer on your phone and grab the opportunity to snap a few photos. The pics can be be goofy or well-coordinated ... it's up to you!
74. Learn Hand Lettering
Lettering is a super satisfying creative outlet that anyone can practice. Check out By Dawn Nicole for tons of free resources and help getting started.
75. Play Red Light, Green Light
This classic game is super entertaining and can be played almost anywhere.
76. Make a Handmade Card
It's so rare to get personal mail these days. Why not surprise someone you love with a handmade card? All you need is card stock and a few other crafty supplies, like stickers, washi tape, paint, or glitter. Need a little inspiration to get started? Check out these DIY Valentine's Day Cards ... the tutorials use simple techniques that can be applied to cards for any season.
77. Tie-Dye a T-Shirt
Tie-Dying is a fun activity for all ages, and getting started is easy. All you need is a Tie-Die Kit and a cotton t-shirt or sweatshirt.
78. Put the Kids in Charge of Dinner
Give your kids the task of making dinner. Keep it simple with a basic salad and frozen pizza, or if they're more experienced cooks, let them choose their own recipes.
79. Indulge in a DIY Beauty Treatment
Craving a spa day? There are so many different masks, soaps, and beauty treatments you can make at home ... using ingredients you already have in your cupboards. This Sugar Scrub is a favorite, and you only need two ingredients to make it!
80. Have in Indoor Picnic
Forget about the weather outside, because indoor picnics are fun anytime of year! Make some simple food, then spread a blanket on your living room floor. Grab a refreshing drink (like rosé wine, iced tea, or lemonade), turn on some tunes, and relax. Check out these Easy Picnic Tips for inspiration and recipe ideas.
81. Learn a Tongue Twister
Tongue Twisters are funny and challenging for adults and kids alike. Choose one from this huge list of tongue twisters, practice it a few times, then try to say it as fast as possible without slipping up. Up for a challenge? According to MIT researchers, this is the most difficult one of all: Pad kid poured curd pulled cod.
82. Have a Family Slumber Party
Break out those sleeping bags and have a slumber party in your living room! Don't forget to play classic sleepover games, eat lots of pizza and junk food, break out the Ouija Board, try to stay up all night, play Mad Libs, and watch a scary movie.
83. Catch Up with a Friend or Loved One
With our busy lives, prioritizing friends and family can be a challenge. Take a few minutes to facetime, text, or email someone you haven't talked to in a while.
84. Hang Up Your Favorite Photos
Get those prized photos off your phone and hang them up! It takes minutes to pop them into frames. If you want to get more creative, try making this easy DIY Photo Display or these Canvas Mounted Instagrams.
85. Have a Game Night
Dust off your favorite games and have a marathon game night. Check out my Game Night Party Tips for lots of fun ideas!
86. Upcycle Something
I love reusing stuff I already own to create something new. It's usually pretty easy, not to mention good for the environment. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- DIY Sweater Pillow Cover
- Cigar Box Chalkboard
- Cigar Box Photo Frame
- DIY Card Display (Using a Shutter)
- Map Coasters
- Turn a Picture Frame into a Chalkboard
- Cardboard Gingerbread Ornaments
- Acorn Napkin Rings
- Tote Bag Makeover
87. Learn to Play an Instrument
Whether it's a keyboard or another instrument, there are so many resources for learning an instrument online these days ... like YouTube, for starters. If you really want to challenge yourself, get a DIY Ukulele Kit, which has everything you need to build your own uke!
88. Set up a Sundae Bar
A DIY Sundae Bar is the perfect after dinner treat, and it's easy to set up. Grab whatever toppings and sauces you can scavenge from your cupboards, then start scooping.
89. Build a Fort
Round up some couch cushions, blankets, brooms, chairs, and whatever else you can find, then build the ultimate living room fort!
90. Master a New Makeup Technique
A lazy day at home is the ideal time to master a new makeup technique, like a Smokey Eye or Cat Eye Eyeliner. If you make a mistake, just wash it off and start over.
91. Clean Up Your Social Media
Do you know anyone on social media that annoys you, stresses you out, or simply makes you unhappy? Spend an afternoon going through your accounts and unfollow them.
91. Sign Up for TikTok
If you're looking for a new diversion on the other hand, why not give TikTok a try? It's the perfect place to show off your amazing (or maybe that's embarrassing!) dance moves.
92. Play Charades
Charades is a classic game for a reason, and it can be played by all ages. Gather the fam and get guessing!
93. Try Something You've Pinned on Pinterest
Do you pin a ton of stuff on Pinterest, but never actually make anything from those pins? Guilty! Take a few minutes to peruse your boards, then challenge yourself to create something.
94. Line Up a Bunch of Dominoes ... Then Knock Them All Down
Setting up a line of dominoes, then watching as they fall, can easily provide hours of entertainment for kids and adults. Especially once you start discovering domino chain reactions on YouTube!
95. Have an At-Home Wine Tasting
Wine lovers, all you need for an at-home wine tasting is a few bottles of wine, and someone to help you taste them. If you want to take things up a notch, try doing a Blind Wine Tasting or Pairing Wine and Chocolate.
96. Cook Breakfast for Dinner
If you've got a family of breakfast lovers, surprise them with their favorites at dinnertime. Try these Mexican Baked Eggs or these Egg and Potato Burritos!
97. Sing Your Favorite Songs Out Loud
Did you know that singing can actually help you reduce stress and anxiety? So turn on your favorite tunes, then sing out loud. Anything from pop music to Broadway show tunes to Disney songs will work!
98. Go Stargazing
If you happen to live somewhere with dark skies, head outside and spend some time enjoying the stars. Use a stargazing app to help you pick out the different constellations.
99. Discover a New Podcast
Podcasts are a great way to catch up on current events, learn more about an interesting topic, or just get a much needed laugh. There are many choices out there, but if you need a little inspo, check out 20 Podcasts Worth Binging here and some of my more recent faves in my February Diary.
100. Try an Intricate Hair Style
Use those extra hours at home to do something new with your hair, whether that's mastering your blow out technique or learning how to create a fish tail braid.
101. Celebrate Christmas in July (or in Any Month)
Who says your holiday cheer must be limited to December? Capture that fun, festive spirit year round by setting up your tree, making your favorite Christmas cookies, and exchanging simple gifts.
102. Hang a Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is the perfect way to show off your favorite photos and art. These easy Gallery Wall Tips and Tricks will help you get started.
103. Have a Make Your Own Pizza Night
Everyone loves pizza night, especially when they get to add their favorite toppings! Check my tips for Throwing a Homemade Pizza Party for inspiration.
104. Learn to Knit (or Crochet)
Knitting is a super rewarding hobby, especially once you master the basics. Get started by watching videos and make sure to do lots of practicing. Or check out this fun Intro to Knitting Class ... you'll learn how to make a scarf and a hat!
105. Reflect on Your Life and Goals
Do you ever feel like you're barreling through life, without stopping to pause, reflect, and recalibrate? Same here. Every once in a while, it can be helpful to set aside time to look back, then make plans for the future. Some questions to ask yourself:
- Are you where you want to be?
- Were your past goals realistic?
- What have you accomplished in the past five years?
- What do you need to do today, to get where you want to be tomorrow?
106. Go Camping in Your Backyard (or Living Room)
When I was a kid, I loved setting up our tent in the backyard and camping out with our neighbors. It was so fun ... even if we rarely made it through the night! If you don't have a backyard, create a tent in your living from a sheet and some dining room chairs (or whatever else you can find).
107. Catch Up on Last Year's Oscar Winners (and Nominees)
It's never to late to catch up on the top movies from last year, or even the year before. Make a list of must see award-winners (find past Oscar Nominees here), then start watching the movies and checking them off your list.
108. Start a Scapbook
Do you ever save movie tickets, letters, and other little bits of ephemera and nostalgia? A scrapbook is a fun way to collect everything in one place. Not sure where to begin? These easy tips for starting a scrapbook are very helpful.
109. Have a Cooking Competition
Why let the pros have all the fun? Gather your friends and family, choose a set of ingredients, set the clock, and start cooking. Who knows what you'll come up with!
110. Play Hide and Seek
The fun game is a classic boredom buster for a reason!
111. Create a Budget
Are you saving up for something big or trying to get your spending under control? Making a budget is the best way to accomplish these goals. Read these easy tips for creating a budget to get started.
112. Tell Scary Stories around a Fire
One of my favorite childhood memories is my uncle telling scary stories to my cousins and I on a warm summer evening. I was truly spooked as as he recited "The Telltale Heart" and other tales. He was such a good storyteller! You can easily recreate this scene ... all you need is a campfire (a fireplace or candles work, too) and some classic spooky stories.
113. Work on a Crossword Puzzle
A tough crossword puzzle can provide hours of head scratching entertainment. My favorite crosswords are from the New York Times. If you're a subscriber, you can do the daily puzzle online. Otherwise, try their free daily mini puzzle, or buy an inexpensive NYT crosswork puzzle book.
114. Master 25 Ways to Tie a Scarf
If you're anything like me, you love scarves, but you always wear them the exact same way. Watch this short scarf-tying video to learn some new tricks.
115. Make a List of Your Tried-and-True Recipes
Make meal planning easier by writing down a list of your favorite recipes. When you're done, you'll have in instant head start when it comes to creating your next grocery list.
116. Make a List of Must Try Recipes
Now that you've created a list of your fave recipes, make another one of recipes you'd love to try. The recipes can simple dinners or more complicated techniques, like learning how to make macarons. Then, slowly start checking them off your list!
117. Give an Old Piece of Furniture a Makeover
Making over an old piece of furniture is an easy way to update your home's decor, and it doesn't need to be complicated. Change the color with a little spray paint, recover chair seats with new fabric, or add a mosaic to a boring table top. Here are 36 DIY furniture makeovers to inspire you!
118. Take a Bubble Bath
A relaxing bubble bath is the perfect way to wash your troubles away!
119. Sit Outside with a Glass of Wine (or Cup of Tea)
A little sun is good for the soul, so if the weather's cooperating, grab a glass of wine (or a cup of tea) and head outdoors. Then put away your phone, kick up your heels, and watch the day go by. Don't have a backyard? All you need to try this idea is a patio, balcony, or even an open window.
120. Let Your Kids Stay Up Late
What kid doesn't love staying up past their bedtime? Treat your kids to a late night and plan a few fun activities. Then, cross your fingers they sleep in the next day!
121. Order Groceries Online
Have you ever tried ordering groceries? It is such a time saver! You can do it through Amazon Fresh (which has free delivery for Prime members) or order through a local store using (or another delivery service).
122. Build Something from a Cardboard Box
Don't throw out those empty cardboard boxes ... get creative and make something with your kids! If you have a large box (or can tape a few boxes together), turn it into a playhouse or castle. Use smaller boxes to build dioramas, wings, robot costumes, and more.
123. Play Hangman
Hangman is a fun game for kids and adults. My husband and I had quite a few laughs playing this game recently after we checked into a cabin for New Year's Eve. We realized we didn't bring anything to entertain us (i.e., keep us up until midnight!), so Hangman it was!
124. Become a Plant Mom
Keeping a few indoor plants is an easy and affordable way to brighten up your home. If you're a new plant mom (or dad), look for easy to grow plants that are hard to kill. The super hearty snake plant is one of my faves! Mine has survived multiple moves, and it's been subjected to many other indignities (like not being watered for over a month) ... yet it still thrives.
125. Indulge in a Lifetime Movie Marathon
Sometimes a cheesy movie marathon is all you need to make the world right again! Don't have the Lifetime channel? You can find plenty of similar movies on Hallmark, Netflix, Amazon, etc.
126. Collect Things to Donate
Planning to clear out your closets while you're stuck at home? Make a donation pile to give to a local nonprofit or thrift shop. Before you donate anything though, check their donation guidelines and ask yourself if it's something you'd give to a friend. If not, toss it instead.
127. Learn How to Juggle
It's not that hard to learn how to juggle ... if you put in the practice time. Plus, your newly found skill is guaranteed to impress pretty much anyone!
128. Start a Family Genealogy Project
Working on your family's genealogy is a super rewarding pastime. Begin by connecting with family members to find out if anyone has already worked on the family tree. You can also collect photos and talk to older relatives to capture their stories. Use online resources like FamilySearch (which is free) and to search historical records and fill in the gaps in your family tree, too.
129. Create a Signature Cocktail
If you enjoy experimenting with recipes, then why not create your own signature cocktail? Invent something totally new or perfect your favorite classic cocktail recipe ... it's up to you.
130. Take a Vacation without Ever Leaving Home
Are your travel plans on hold? Whether it's due to your budget or another reason, that doesn't mean you can't experience other cultures from the comfort of your own home. Here are a few ideas:
- Read books—both fiction and non-fiction—that are set in (or are about) the city or country.
- Watch a movie or documentary about your destination.
- Take a virtual tour of its museums and other attractions.
- Study maps of the country.
- Listen to music from local musicians.
- Check out YouTube videos about the location.
- Use a language app (like Duolingo) to start learning the language.
- Learn about their food, then plan and cook a feast.
Free Printable
Okay, if you're made it this far, you definitely deserve a treat! I hope you found this list helpful.
Click on the image below to get the printable list of activities. And make sure to leave me a comment with your favorite things to do at home ... I'd love to hear about them!
Thank you for sharing