10 Unique & Weird Hobbies to Try

Are you tired of having boring hobbies that aren't engaging you? Whether you're looking to shake up your routine or dive into something totally new, this list has you covered. From outdoor adventures to atypical crafts, these unique hobbies aren't just fun - they're surprisingly fulfilling! And even if you don't vibe with any of these activities, you tried something new, and that's a hobby in and of itself.

Unexpected hobbies that stretch your mind

In this next section, we'll recommend hobbies that combine curiosity, creativity, and mental stimulation. These are perfect for those who enjoy strategic hobbies that require focus.

Mushroom foraging

You may not have thought about mushrooms much outside of a grocery store, but did you know there's a whole community out there of mushroom foragers (aka mushroom hunters) in rural and urban areas? Mushroom hunting especially appeals to those who enjoy slow, mindful activities and want to be in tune with nature.

To get started, find a local guidebook or an app like iNaturalist. It's essential that you learn how to identify edible mushrooms safely – some are edible, but many are not. Not only is mushroom hunting an entertaining activity that can function like a scavenger hunt for solo or group outings, but you'll even learn things about Botany, Ecology, and even a few cooking tips with the edible mushroom types.

Lockpicking

You've seen every heist and spy movie, and you've always wanted to learn how to pick a lock. Now you can learn without attracting any attention from the authorities. In fact, it's a totally legal hobby when it's practiced on your own locks or training kits. You can easily buy beginner kits online with transparent practice locks to see how the pins and tumblers work.

Lockpicking is a skill that requires patience, finesse, and understanding of mechanical systems, but you can think about it as comparable to solving a tactile puzzle. That partly explains why those who are engineers, tinkerers, and quietly focused people gravitate toward it. And maybe if you get skilled enough, you can even look into the "locksport" community, which hosts occasional meetups and even has competitions.

Creating miniature food

You may have painted miniatures before, but have you ever made miniature food?! This odd hobby involves sculpting tiny, realistic versions of meals – often with polymer clay, resin, or even real edible ingredients in proportions appropriate for a dollhouse. This strangely satisfying hobby can test your fine motor skills, creativity, and even your capacity for storytelling (some creators build bento boxes or imagine entire fake restaurants).

You'll find huge communities on YouTube and Instagram who specialize in tiny cakes, burgers, or sushi. If you have the appetite, you can find beginner kits online, and all you need is a small desk and a few tools. Do you enjoy hobbies that challenge your brain? Solitaire is a classic for a reason – check out all nine free variations on 247 Solitaire.

Hobbies with unusual hands-on creativity

This next section highlights tactile hobbies perfect for those who love using their hands to create something distinctive –and maybe a little weird.

Soap carving

Exactly what it says on the tin, soap carving really is just sculpting simple or elaborate shapes out of bars of soap. This safe, mess-free, and calming hobby is a great way to tap into your artistic side. And because of its accessibility, it's often used in classrooms or art therapy sessions.

All you need is a bar of soap and a basic carving tool like a spoon or butter knife, and you can get started. While advanced carvers may try to craft detailed figurines, beginners should try animals, flowers, or geometric shapes to get the hang of things. You'll never look at bar soap the same way again after making soap art.

Competitive duck herding

Did you ever imagine yourself as a competitive duck herder? Yes, us too! But seriously, this unlikely event is real and as hilarious as you'd expect. This unusual activity usually takes place in the UK and involves using trained dogs to herd specially raised ducks through obstacle courses. It's certainly not something that you're likely to practice every weekend, but it can be a great one-time hobby to try when travelling or even with a work group as a team-building activity.

During these competitions, participants use body language, soft vocal commands, and gestures to guide the ducks. It's an unexpectedly tricky goal and one that teaches communication, patience, and timing to the handler. Plus, how many people can say that they say they've seen or tried duck herding before?

Candle making with odd molds

For a tactile, sensory experience that's perfect for gifting or simply taking a break, you could also try making candles. Making candles isn't that strange on its own, but how about making them in strange molds? That's where the fun begins. Candle-making enthusiasts will use everything from orange peels and eggshells to LEGO minifigures and seashells to create wild, one-of-a-kind candles.

This eccentric hobby combines crafting and scent design as you choose your own wax color, shape, and even the fragrance. Starter kits for candle-making are widely available, and you can experiment endlessly once you've learned the basics. Not ready to make quirky candles or herd ducks? Solitaire is weirdly addictive and free to play anytime at 247 Solitaire.

A quirky hobby is just a click away

Sometimes it's the most bizarre activities that can bring you the most joy. Whether you're carving soap, making food miniatures, or just laughing about duck herding, hobbies like these remind us to always stay curious and open-minded about what you want to do. Of course, if you're looking for something just as entertaining but much easier to start, solitaire's available whenever you want it.

Play for free at 247 Solitaire—try nine unique versions with no sign-up required.

DISCLAIMER: The games on this website are using PLAY (fake) money. No payouts will be awarded, there are no "winnings", as all games represented by 247 Games LLC are free to play. Play strictly for fun.