As the temperature outside drops, the likelihood of me leaving the house for anything other than essentials decreases exponentially. If it’s below freezing? Yeah, I’m probably staying indoors. When it’s 10 degrees with a wind chill? Forget the groceries, see you next April. For the days (or months) when the weather is less than ideal, it’s easy for our productivity—and general satisfaction with life—to come to a screeching halt as we hole up with blankets, junk food, and a long, long Netflix queue.
Don’t get me wrong—relaxation and rest are super important, but long winter days can quickly lead to boredom without something to occupy your time. If you don’t want to spend all season feeling frozen in time, here’s a list of fun, fulfilling indoor hobbies you can start in the comfort (and warmth) of your own home.
1. Start journaling
The slower winter months are the perfect time to practice some gratitude and reflection. Journaling is a mindful way to check in with yourself, take stock of what you need, and steer yourself toward the person you’re meant to become this year. All you need to get started is a cute notebook and your writing utensil of choice. Shop on Amazon or roam the aisles of Target to find a journal that feels most like you. From there, don’t overthink it. No prompts required (unless you want a little nudge), no pressure to sound deep, just you and a pen. Before you know it, words turn into paragraphs, paragraphs turn into pages, and pages turn into rituals.
2. Study a random subject
Not everyone looks back on their school days with fond memories, but I low-key loved constantly learning something new. Now in adulthood, I miss the joy of learning, so this winter, I’m diving back in on my own terms. I love the idea of studying a new subject, not because I have to but just because I want to. It’s also a great way to keep the brain engaged during dull winter days.
Think about something you’ve always found interesting but never needed to know. Then give yourself permission to explore it. Maybe you’ve always wanted to know more about art history, what goes into growing our food, or why people think the way they do. Sign up for a few lessons on a platform like MasterClass, check out some books from the library, or bookmark some research-backed articles you found online. Follow your curiosity and see where it takes you.
3. Start a movie log
Winter is prime time for snuggling up with a cozy blanket and a movie. The next time you finish a film, take a moment to jot down what you noticed, what you loved, what surprised you, or what lingered after the credits. This low-key activity gives you a moment to actually sit with the experience instead of immediately moving on to the next thing. I started a movie log this year myself and love how much it’s helped me slow down and be more intentional about the media I’m consuming.
I am personally obsessed with the A24 movie log, but a blank notebook works just as well. Whether you’re re-watching Nancy Meyers classics or seeing the latest release in theaters, write down a quote that stuck with you, a character you can’t stop thinking about, or a scene that made you feel something unexpected. Treating movies this way turns something you already love into a more grounding, mindful activity that totally counts as a hobby.
4. Try your hand at mixology
Shake up those bitter winter days by dabbling in mixology. Whether you’re chasing the perfect martini, experimenting with fun mocktail recipes, or searching for your new go-to cocktail, it’s a fun way to make those depressingly dark-by-5 p.m. evenings a little livelier. Plus, you’ll level up your hosting skills in the process.
To learn the ins and outs of cocktail-making, I recommend starting with a book. Mixology guides are full of special techniques, flavor combinations, and inspiration to get your taste buds going. Invite a few friends over and try out a few recipes, or work your way through a recipe book solo. There’s no need for a special occasion to pour a good drink—the drink is the occasion.
5. Start a junk journal
I love the idea of turning the chaotic moments in my life into something to savor. Junk journaling lets you take all the little scraps you collect on a daily basis—like restaurant receipts, coffee cup sleeves, business cards, notes from loved ones, or even ticket stubs and photos—and memorialize them in a scrapbook of sorts. It’s one of those indoor hobbies you can really get messy and creative with. There are no rules, which is the best part.
Grab a notebook or even a stack of loose pages you can bind together later. Then collect, collect, collect. Glue or tape your “junk” into the journal along with paper or fabric scraps, stickers, and your own doodles. Over time, those fragments will stitch together into a highly personalized scrapbook of your everyday comings and goings.
6. Take on a home DIY project
If you’ve been plotting a little home refresh, now is the perfect time to make it happen. Whether you want to revamp a thrifted furniture piece, try out a new wall color, or create a cozy reading nook, you’re already inside—might as well, right? And since you’ll basically be hibernating at home for the next few months, making it extra inviting will pay off in the long run.
If you need some inspiration, head to Pinterest and get lost in it for a while. Then, workshop what you already have for an instant refresh, or browse Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores for that perfect piece to complete your vision. Even the smallest tweaks can make your space feel new again. It’s the perfect refresh project for the new year!
7. Start meditating
Whenever I take a yoga class, my favorite part is always the savasana at the end. Lying down, focusing on my breath, and giving myself permission to clear my mind—if only for a few minutes—is an unmatched feeling of peace. While I love meditating in class, I rarely do it at home. This year, I’m vowing to change that.
There are countless free guided meditation videos on YouTube and apps like Calm to help you get started (The Everygirl podcast even has one you can listen to on Spotify!). Follow along with a video, or simply close your eyes and take a few centering deep breaths. The beauty of meditation is that you can do it anytime, anywhere. The more you practice, the less your mind will wander, and you’ll be amazed at how peaceful even a few minutes can feel.
8. Get artistic
No matter your skill level, arts and crafts are a fantastic way to tap into your creative side. This is the perfect indoor hobby to keep your hands busy without resorting to endless scrolling. Plus, you’ll have beautiful, one-of-a-kind decor to display around your home.
There are so many ways to explore art, depending on your interests. You can start with something as simple as picking up an adult coloring book or trying watercolor painting, which requires minimal supplies. If you’re more advanced, you can challenge yourself with oil paints on canvas or charcoal sketches. Whatever medium you choose, once you start, you won’t be able to get enough of it.
9. Pick up an instrument
I’ve always envied the effortlessly cool people who can casually pick up an instrument and play a song. In 2026, I am finally becoming one of those people. If you’ve also been dreaming of learning to play an instrument, there’s no better time than now, when you’re holed up inside for the winter. By the time spring rolls around, you might just be ready for your own mini-concert.
First, you’ll need to get an instrument. If you’re not ready to buy one, look into local rental options. When you’re ready to start practicing, YouTube has an endless amount of free tutorials. For more hands-on guidance, consider signing up for lessons with an instructor. Whether it’s guitar, piano, or ukulele, you’ll be jamming before you know it.
10. Become your own nail tech
2025 was the year I swore off the nail salon and learned to do my nails at home, and I’m never going back. It saves time and money, and now my weekly DIY manicure has become a ritual I genuinely enjoy. You’ll never have to worry about leaving the salon unhappy with the color again.
If you already have a nail polish collection, you’re ahead of the game. Otherwise, Amazon has affordable gel nail kits with everything you need. If you are like me and dread removing gel polish, opt for regular polish or press-ons you can customize with painted designs. Once you’ve built up your collection of go-to shades, prep your nails by trimming and shaping, then get painting. After a few weeks, you’ll be recreating all your favorite Pinterest designs.
11. Make reading a habit
Is there anything better than cozying up with a good book on a cold winter day? I think not, which is why it’s a must on this list of indoor hobbies. Reading is a great way to escape from the day’s stress, take in some screen-free entertainment, or fuel your creativity at a time when you otherwise might feel like you’re in a slump. There’s something for every mood or need, so you’ll never run out of material.
Head to your local library and sign up for a library card if you don’t already have one. Start small with just one or two books that pique your interest, and find a way to work reading into your daily routine, whether that’s right before bed, during your lunch break, or on the commuter train to work. Even if you just read a few pages a day, you’ll be headed back to the library for a fresh set of books in no time.
12. Stay balanced with yoga
Even if you’re more of a HIIT or treadmill kind of girl, think of yoga as an exercise for stress relief rather than just physical benefits. Certain yoga poses can help relieve anxiety or lessen the effects of sitting at a desk all day. Try adding a yoga practice into your daily routine to deepen your breath, stay connected to your body, and make it to spring with as little stress as possible.
If setting aside time for yoga seems difficult to fit into your schedule, incorporate some flows and poses into your daily routine. For example, try an energizing flow first thing in the morning to wake you up, a wind-down flow before bed, or sit in child’s pose whenever you start feeling stressed.
13. Experiment with baking
If you’re anything like me, you’ve watched enough episodes of The Great British Baking Show to know that baking is harder than it looks. It’s a skill that takes time and lots of practice to master, and what better way to heat up your house in the dead of winter than by whipping up a bunch of tasty treats?
Pick a favorite treat that you’d love to master, like the perfect New York-style bagel or super-soft chocolate chip cookies. Find a recipe online or in a cookbook and get baking! When you try your creation, get really granular about how it tastes, looks, and feels. If needed, tweak the recipe and try again until you achieve your desired result. Bonus points if you brave the cold to share some treats with friends or neighbors!
14. Flex your cooking skills
If you dread making dinner every night, it might be time to reframe your approach to cooking. Turn it into a fun and creative activity by experimenting with new cuisines, trying new techniques, and perfecting some new recipes. Yes, the food you eat for nutrition, pleasure, and comfort can also be an enjoyable way to pass the time and get your creative juices flowing when you’re stuck indoors through the season.
If cooking anything beyond the basics feels totally out of your wheelhouse, try investing in a good cookbook first. As you get used to new recipes and flavor combinations, you’ll rely on your cookbooks less and less to whip up something great.
15. Learn a new language
Why not spend all winter learning a new language, then try out your newfound skills on your spring or summer vacation? This hobby will keep your mind stimulated and, if you keep it up, give your resume a major boost. Plus, you’ll challenge your mind and have a goal to work toward (like watching that French film without subtitles), which always makes hobbies more fulfilling.
Learning a new language doesn’t have to be complicated. Download a language app (like Duolingo) on your phone so you can pick it up anytime, whether you’re waiting for your laundry cycle to finish, standing in line at the grocery store, or chilling at home. Pick a language and start learning! It really is that simple.
16. Sharpen your writing skills
Maybe you’re one of the lucky ones with a natural talent for words, but writing is first and foremost a learned skill. Plus, it’s not just a fun, creative outlet—writing skills are also important for business emails, communication between loved ones, and as a way to express yourself. If you’ve ever wished you were a better writer, you’re in luck because you totally can be. You just need practice.
If you feel like you have a lot of learning to do, check out writing courses on a platform like Skillshare. If your goal is to get creative juices flowing, then make your own prompts (or find some online) and start writing. You can complete the prompt with as few or as many words as you want.
17. Unwind with knitting
Knitting is a classic hobby for a number of reasons. Once you’ve got the basics down, you can do it while also doing other things (like watching TV or listening to a great podcast or audiobook). This hobby actually makes a night in with Netflix productive because you can end up with a sweater, scarf, or hat at the end. Win-win!
You’ll need a pair of knitting needles, yarn, a crochet hook for picking up dropped stitches, and a yarn needle for joining pieces of knitting together. Then, you’ll want to pick a pattern to start. If you’re a total beginner, browse YouTube for tutorials to help you get started.
18. Start a new workout plan
I know, I know. You just rolled your eyes at the suggestion that a workout plan could actually be considered a “hobby.” But workouts don’t have to be forced, painful, or boring. In fact, your workout plan should feel like a hobby, whether it’s a relaxing yoga flow after a long day or an energizing dance class that reminds you of a GNO.
If you want to switch things up, try an at-home workout platform like Alo Wellness Club or Obé Fitness, where you can find tons of classes to stream live or on demand at home. Try a wide range of classes for everything from cardio to sculpt to yoga, so you can find the routine that works for you. Some online workout services also offer programs that’ll give you a goal to work toward.
19. Reconnect with your inner child with games
Remember when you were young and a night playing board games or doing puzzles was considered a night well spent? As adults, why can’t spending time with friends and family (with some good old-fashioned entertainment) be a hobby? You’ll bond with loved ones, stimulate the brain, and pass the time with some lighthearted (or ultra-competitive, if you’re into that) fun.
First, pick out some board games you loved as a kid or new ones you want to try. Then, on an evening you’d otherwise spend curled up watching TV, have a game night with your significant other, roommates, or friends. You could even make it a weekly tradition (complete with wine and cheese) among your group of friends. If puzzles are more your jam, order one from Amazon and get to work. If you don’t have kids or pets that will make a mess of it, leave your puzzle out on the coffee table to revisit it throughout the day whenever you need a brain break.
20. Start an indoor herb garden
Gardening doesn’t have to be an outdoor activity reserved for summertime. Keeping a few different herbs indoors not only adds a refreshing feel to your home (and makes for pretty decor!), but it also means more flavorful, healthy meals for a fraction of the price of store-bought herbs. The best part? It’s so easy to start and keep up an indoor herb garden.
First, decide which herbs you’d like to grow and where you’ll keep them. Parsley, cilantro, and basil are good herbs to start with indoors because they require less sunlight and give obvious signs if they need more or less water (AKA they’re pretty foolproof). If you are lucky enough to get lots of sunshine year-round, put plants right by the window to get 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. And if you really want to get legit or aren’t sure if you’ll get enough sunlight from the slit they call a window in your studio apartment (me!), try an indoor smart garden to take the guesswork out of it.
Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.
Madigan Will, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Madigan writes and edits content for every topic under the digital media sun. As the oldest of four siblings, she enjoys utilizing her big sister persona to connect and inspire readers—helping them discover new ways to maximize their everyday.
