Things to Do When You're Bored: 100 Ideas at Home and Out

October 7, 2026

Boredom can be the start of something good: a new hobby, a tidy cupboard or a long-overdue phone call.

Here are 100 ideas, most of them free.

At home

Bake something new
Rearrange a room
Start a jigsaw
Learn a TikTok dance
Try a new recipe
Sort old photos
Start a journal
Do a home workout
Make a playlist
Have a film marathon

Outside

Walk a new route
Go to a museum (many are free)
Have a picnic
Visit a charity shop
Go to the library
Try geocaching
Find a new café
Feed the ducks (oats, not bread)

Creative

Draw or paint
Write a short story
Learn an instrument
Make cards to post. Ideas: 30 day kindness challenge
Start a scrapbook
Try photography

With friends

Host a quiz. Questions: Pub quiz questions
Play board games
Have a games night. Ideas: Phone party games
Plan a trip
Try riddles. List: Riddles

With kids

Build a den
Treasure hunt
Baking
Science experiments
Easter or seasonal crafts
Puppet show

Key things to remember

Write ideas on paper slips and pick one from a jar.
Swap screens for something with your hands.

Frequently asked questions

What can I do when I'm bored at home?

Bake, start a jigsaw, read, tidy, learn something or call a friend.

What are free things to do when bored?

Walks, museums, the library, journaling and home workouts.

What is a good example of things to do when you're bored?

"Learn a TikTok dance" is one of 35 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

More ideas you might like

Funny Socks for Women "If You Can Read This Bring Me Wine" Socks

These playful socks feature a cheeky message on the soles, perfect for putting your feet up after a long day. They make a brilliant, lighthearted gift for any wine-loving woman in your life who appreciates a cosy night in and a good chuckle.

Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide: The 100% Official ultimate character guide to every Pokémon ever discovered. For Pokémon fans of all ages.

This official deluxe character guide is the ultimate comprehensive companion containing details on every single Pokémon ever discovered. It makes a truly wonderful gift for Pokémon fans of all ages, perfect for dipping into or reading cover to cover.