35 Fun Ideas That Will Instantly Cure Your Boredom

Boredom sneaks up on everyone eventually. One minute you’re finishing the last good show on Netflix, and the next you’re wandering from the fridge to the couch, wondering how in the world you’ll fill the next few hours. But don't worry — you're not alone! Boredom comes for us all sometimes, and it can feel impossible to find creative ways to entertain yourself once you've gotten into that rut.

Instead of sitting on your phone getting lost on social media (ahem, doomscrolling), pivot to some fun things you can do at home or outside. We’ve rounded up the best things to do when you’re bored, many of which require little to no money or extra materials. Breaking out of that rut is easy with these jumping-off points!

1. Play an instrument. If you don't know how, this is the perfect time to learn how to pluck out your favorite tune on the piano or guitar.
2. Do a deep dive on a subject that interests you. If you find yourself continuously drawn to a specific subject like Impressionism or the animals of the Amazon rainforest, set up a queue of documentaries, articles or books on the topic.
3. Fill out a crossword puzzle. Go solo, or turn it into a fun family activity if everyone's just lying around.
4. Try Origami. Don't get intimidated — there are plenty of online tutorials to help you out.
5. Play a board game. Turn off the TV and challenge the family to a board game. Introduce the kids to a classic like Chutes and Ladders or Monopoly, or try a newer one like Settlers of Catan, and you can all figure it out together.
6. Put together a puzzle. When you've got lots of time on your hands, get your hands busy. It'll take your mind off boredom, and completing a big puzzle feels great.
7. Plan your next getaway. Don't just daydream about getting away from it all. Do one better and actually look up plane tickets and hotel rooms.
8. Try new outfits. Even if you haven't gotten new clothes in a minute, creating different outfits can make your wardrobe feel fresh. Mix it up so you'll be ready to wow on your next social outing.
9. Learn how to do a new hairstyle. We'd save anything involving scissors for the professionals, but French braids, creative ponytails and space buns are all super easy to master.
10. Start a new book. If you've run through your TV queue, go analog.
11. Make a custom photo book. You don't need Michelangelo's talent to create a memorable photo book. A variety of online services can help you collect your photos into a beautiful keepsake.
12. Whip up a new recipe. Stop opening and closing the fridge, hoping new snacks will magically appear. Take matters into your own hands and make your own tasty treat.
13. Craft a complex meal. To fill a dreary afternoon, dive into a complicated cooking project. Create a four-course meal, make pasta from scratch, or just try your hand at a cuisine you've never made before.
14. Bake cookies. Choose a healthy cookie recipe to learn a new way to throw down in the baking aisle.
15. Write out your goals. Drag yourself out of the present moment by looking to the future. Take some time to reflect on where you want to be in a year, five years, or beyond.
16. Take a bubble bath. Embrace your free time with a mountain of bubbles and a few drops of essential oil for extra relaxation. Bring a good book in there with you, if you don't mind it getting a tad damp.
17. Start journaling. Time will fly by as you jot down your thoughts in a journal. If you want to go even deeper, venture into the artistic world of bullet journals.
18. Listen to a meditation video. When your mind starts to spiral, turn inward. Meditation videos can easily guide you through mindful exercises and techniques to hop off the anxiety hamster wheel.
19. Meal prep for the week. Fans of this meal-prepping say it has helped them eat healthier in the long run, not to mention cut down on mid-week stress.
20. Wash your makeup brushes. When was the last time you cleaned all of your makeup tools? Yes, even your ride-or-die Beautyblender could use a scrub. It can help reduce breakouts, too.

1. Head outside. Even if it's just to check the mail or take the dog around the block, a change of scenery can also change your outlook.
2. Get lost in your hometown. Even if you think you know the area you live in like the back of your hand, there's probably a hidden gem or two right under your nose. Do a quick search for parks, walking tours or outdoor spaces near you — your new favorite spot could just be around the corner.
3. Set up a blanket and go stargazing. You don't have to wait for a meteor shower; dozens of constellations are visible on an average clear night.
4. Go for a jog. Believe it or not, the sights and sounds of the great outdoors are even more beautiful when your endorphins are rushing.
5. Light a campfire. Just don't forget the marshmallows for S'mores!
6. Watch a movie outdoors. With a projector and a couple of blankets, you can change the scenery for your movie night. Pop some popcorn and snuggle up if it gets chilly for a romantic evening.
7. Dine al fresco. Take your lunch to the backyard or patio to get a little vitamin D while you indulge. A glass of wine or a beer doesn't hurt either.
8. Go for a long walk. Plan a route past your favorite landmarks, a local park or just around the neighborhood. Stop and smell the flowers – literally.
9. Take your pet to the park. Whether you have a lively dog, an adventurous cat or even a sweet rabbit, they'll appreciate getting some fresh air with their favorite person.
10. Start a garden. Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty in the backyard or even your windowsill, if you don't have outdoor space. In addition to the de-stressing benefits, all that digging quickly turns into a workout.
11. Go for a bike ride. Take a tour of your surroundings and get some exercise in by taking your bicycle out for a spin.
12. Take a drive. You don't need a destination — just a great playlist and the open road.
13. Hit the beach. Slather yourself in sunscreen, grab a beach towel and make your way to the shore for a day of fun in the sun. And don't be afraid to swing by in the colder months — the crashing waves are the picture of zen.
14. Have a backyard campout. Pitch a tent and see your outdoor space in a whole new way. Or if the weather isn't cooperating, do the same in your own living room.
15. Go for a hike. Nature can be great medicine if you're feeling down about the world in general. Grab a pal, lace up your sturdy hiking boots and hit the trails.

Selena Barrientos

Entertainment & News Editor

Selena is the entertainment and news editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers the latest on TV, movies and celebrities. In addition to writing and editing entertainment news, she also spotlights the Hispanic and Latinx community through her work. She is a graduate of CUNY Hunter College with a B.A. in journalism and creative writing.

Lizz Schumer

Senior Editor

Lizz (she/her) is a senior editor at Good Housekeeping, where she runs the GH Book Club, edits essays and long-form features and writes about pets, books and lifestyle topics. A journalist for almost two decades, she is the author of Biography of a Body and Buffalo Steel. She also teaches journalism as an adjunct professor at New York University's School of Professional Studies and creative nonfiction at the Muse Writing Center, and coaches with the New York Writing Room.