As someone who was born in the year 2000, I’m often asked about the interests of others of my generation. Generation Z is like no other generation, as our lives revolve around the internet, smartphones and technology.
Other than doing the “Tide Pod” challenge, there are some fun and popular hobbies that Gen Zers are interested in. With that being said, here are 35 interests & hobbies for Gen Z.
35 Hobbies & Interests for Gen Z
1. Gaming
It’s no secret that Gen Z guys and girls love gaming. Whether it’s gaming on the computer, Playstation or Xbox, gaming is super popular for Generation Z.
Gaming has become a hobby for many Gen Zers as they can chat with their friends online and play games together. A few times a week, my buddies and I play some Call of Duty together, and it’s always a good time.
Gaming brings people together, as there are communities on Reddit, YouTube and Twitch for different video games. Many people in Gen Z will talk online with people about their favorite game.
2. YouTube
Mainstream TV has been replaced by YouTube for Gen Zers. Personally, I’ve been watching YouTube since I was 10 years old. In fact, I can’t even remember the last time I watched a TV show that isn’t on Netflix.
Gen Z’s spend a lot of time watching YouTube, as there is so much entertaining content to watch. Whether it’s educational or entertainment, there is no shortage of videos to watch on YouTube.
Gen Z guys tend to watch car videos, sports videos and gaming videos. When it comes to Gen Z girls, many girls may watch lifestyle vlogs, makeup tutorials and commentary videos.
YouTube is only getting bigger and it is clearly the preferred form of entertainment for Generation Z. Gen Zers are more familiar with YouTubers like Mr.Beast, David Dobrik and Logan Paul than they are with mainstream celebrities.
3. Social Media
Social media is super popular among Generation Z. Nowadays, every Gen Zer is on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat.
TikTok is the newest big social media and has become extremely popular in the last two years. Gen Zers like to watch short form content and they are loving TikTok!
Social media has allowed for Gen Z’s to connect with people worldwide and has made it easier than ever to connect with friends. Generation Z will spend hours a day scrolling on social media.
With the rise of social media, it has led to opportunities to make money on social media. Many Gen Zers will have businesses on social media.
Social Media Business Ideas for Gen Z:
- Thrifting
- Tutorials (makeup, gaming, educational)
- Dancing
- Fitness
- Clothing Reviews
Related: How to Make Money as a College Student – Online & Real Life
4. Reading
This may come as a surprise, but Gen Zers actually do enjoy reading. No, I’m not talking about Facebook posts either!
Reading may not be as popular as it was for previous generations, but Gen Zers still like to read books or even listen to audio books.
Gen Z girls and guys like to read self-help books, business books, fantasy books and adventure books. Reading books is a great way to learn and expand your vocabulary.
5. Live Streaming
Live streaming has become one of the most popular forms of entertainment for Gen Zers. Watching a streamer play a video game, react to content and interact with the community is very entertaining.
Many Gen Zers follow their favortie streamers on Twitch as Twitch is the most popular live streaming platform.
Here are some popular live streamers for Gen Z’s:
- Pokimane
- Adin Ross
- xQcOw
- Shroud
- Ninja
Related: Is Gen Z The Dumbest Generation or The Most Misunderstood?
6. Podcasts
Generation Z loves listening to their podcasts! When I’m getting ready for work, I always play a podcast. Listening to podcasts are a great way to be entertained and even learn.
Nowadays, there are podcasts for literally everything. Whether it’s for sports, life advice, sex advice or business advice, there is information out there in the form of a podcast.
Here are some popular Podcasts for Gen Z’s:
- Joe Rogan
- Full Send Podcast
- Call Her Daddy
- My Favorite Murder
- TED Radio Hour
7. Football
Football is really popular for Generation Z. The game of football has been embraced by Gen Zers and is a huge part of American college culture.
It’s very common for Gen Z guys and girls to get together on a Sunday and watch some football. Football has a huge community of people who follow the game. On Instagram the NFL has over 24 million followers.
Related: 19 Hobbies for Teenage Guys That are Actually Fun
8. Traveling
A hobby that many Gen Zers are into is traveling. Whether it’s a roadtrip with friends, visiting New York City or Las Vegas or going abroad, Gen Z’s are interested in traveling.
It’s become very popular for Generation Z to get together with their friends and go on a roadtrip. A couple of times a year, I’ll go on a road trip with friends to Toronto. It’s a fun little getaway and cool way to see new cities.
Personally, traveling is one of my favorite hobbies and I’ve been fortunate enough to see some really cool places around the world.
Related: 10 Best Ways to Celebrate Graduation Without a Party
9. UFC
The UFC is huge and the most popular combat sport for Gen Z guys. Dana White (the president of the UFC) has done a great job, bringing tons of new eyes to the sport.
When there’s a big UFC event, Gen Z guys will get together, have a some drinks and watch it. Stars like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Connor McGregor and Jon Jones have been the face of the UFC for Gen Z’s.
The UFC is rapidly growing in popularity as Gen Z’s absolutely love following the sport.
10. Hiking
Hiking and going out in nature is very popular for Gen Z’s. Exploring natural parks and being outdoors is a very fun hobby that many Gen Zers are currently into.
Over the last few years, many Gen Z’s were isolated due to the pandemic. Going hiking was a great way for Generation Z to get together, go outside and explore the outdoors.
Hiking is a really affordable hobby to start. All you need is some hiking boots, outdoor clothing and you’re set. Most cities have natural parks and hiking trails within an hour away.
Related: Why Are Gen Z so Sensitive? – By a Generation Zer
11. Camping
There’s a steryotype that Gen Z’s never want to go outside and that they are always on their phone. In reality, there’s a lot of Gen Zers who are adventurous and love being outdoors!
Camping is a hobby that Generation Z is into. It’s pretty affordable to try out and it is a really cool experience.
As a Gen Zer myself, I’ve gone camping a few times and I find it really fun. As much as it does suck to sleep outdoors, being in nature is really nice.
12. Makeup
I’m not going to pretend like I know about makeup, but this article would lose all credibility if this was not included on the list. Many Gen Z’s are really into makeup.
Whether it’s watching beauty YouTubers, shopping at Sephora or just wearing makeup, Gen Z’s are really interested in skincare and makeup.
13. Cars
Whether it’s restoring old cars, souping up a car or just being interested in cars, cars are a popular hobby that many Gen Z guys are into. Personally, I’m not overly into cars, but my friends certainly are.
With how fast technology seems to be moving, car manufacturers are really pushing the boundaries in the car industry. New cars have ambient lighting, huge displays and auto pilot mode.
It is really amazing seeing the progression of what cars used to be like 20 years ago, to how they are today. Many Gen Z guys will watch YouTube videos and follow car pages to find out the latest new on new cars.
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla is loved by Gen Zers because he connects with us on a different level. Never before has the richest man in the world participated in meme culture and interacted with regular people on social media.
14. Fitness
Gen Z’s really value their health and fitness. Staying in shape is really important for Generation Z and there are so many different ways to get exercise.
Spin classes have become very popular among Gen Z girls. Spin classes are a great way to burn calories, work on your cardio and build up your leg muscles.
Boxing has also become a very popular way to workout for Gen Z’s. Twice a week, me and my buddy take semi-private boxing lessons where we will learn boxing technique and do a cardio workout.
If you’re a Gen Zer and have never been to the gym, consider working out with a private trainer. A private trainer is a great way to work out properly and avoid getting injured.
Related: 9 Ways to Look Bigger for Skinny Guys – Tips from a Skinny Guy
15. Healthy Eating
Gen Z’s are really into healthy eating and making good dietary choices. Personally, I’ll slip up and have some fast food every now and then. However, I do try to eat well most of the time.
It’s quite common for Gen Zers to become vegan or vegetarian. Eating organic is also something that many people in generation z try to do.
In school, we are taught a lot about where food comes from, why we should eat healthy and how we can become more sustainable through our eating habits. This definitely plays a big role in why Gen Z’s are interested in healthy eating.
16. Art
Whether it’s graphic design, painting or drawing, Gen Zers are into doing art. Those who are artistic (unlike myself) will create some really amazing images using all sorts of different mediums.
Nowadays, pictures can be drawn on the iPad and artists will make some really nice look drawings. Painting is also still popular and artists will create all sorts of different styles of art.
I even have a friend who draws and creates custom shoes and incorporates pop culture art into his shoe designs.
Related: 27 Hobbies for College Students that Are Actually Fun
17. Yoga
I’m no Yoga expert, but I know first hand that yoga is very popular among Gen Z’s especially Gen Z girls. Yoga is a great way to stretch, relax and it’s very healthy to do.
Many people love doing Yoga and it has so many positive health benefits. This is a great hobby for Generation Z to try out.
18. Environmentalism
Gen Z’s are very environmentally conscious and are interested in helping reduce climate change. There are many Gen Zers who do their best to be sustainable and reduce waste.
As a generation, we understand the importance of taking care of our planet and being a sustainable society. In school, we are often taught a lot about the environment and how we can slow down climate change and become more environmentally friendly.
19. Self-Care
Gen Z’s value self-care and take great interest in skin care, hair care, mental health and feeling good. It’s no secret that taking care of yourself pays huge dividends later on in life.
This can include self-care days at home or planning a day at the spa. Extending beyond this, Generation Z will take time for themselves to meditate, journal and destress.
Related: Best Sneakers for Gen Z, that Gen Zers Are Actually Wearing
20. Thrifting
A hobby that many Gen Z’s are currently into is thrifting. Retro styles are currently really popular and the best way to dress retro is by getting it at the thrift shop.
Some Gen Zers have turned their hobby of thrifting into a business. Reselling Retro clothing from the thrift shop, on the app “Depop” is very popular among generation z.
Related: Is it Worth Buying Designer? Clothes, Bags & Accessories
21. Online Shopping
Online shopping is something every Gen Z does. Whether it’s on Amazon or other online retailers like Fashion Nova or Shein Gen Zers do spend a lot of time shopping online.
Online shopping is pretty great because it’s convenient to do and the shipping process is actually really quick.
22. Making Music
I think I speak for all of Generation Z when I say that we’ve all gone to school with an aspiring rapper. Making music is a really popular hobby for Gen Z’s.
Now, it’s easier than ever to make music. You don’t need a fancy studio or load of musical instruments. Making music as a hobby can be done from a laptop and there are tons of tutorials online for learning how to make music.
23. Photography
With smartphone cameras being so good in recent years, amateur photography has become a very popular. Whether it’s taking pictures with friends, on vacation or at an event, many Gen Zers are interested in photography.
Instagram and Snapchat are two social media apps that are revolved entirely around pictures. There is no doubt that Generation Z takes more pictures than any other generation.
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24. Spikeball
Spikeball is a new game that is loved by Generation Z. This game is very portable and only needs 4 people to play.
It’s a really fun game and easy game to play. The rules are super easy to understand and the more you play, the better you get.
This game is huge among college and high school students and it is only getting more popular.
25. Binge Watching
Binge watching TV series is super popular among Gen Zers. Thanks to streaming services, Gen Z’s are never face with having to wait for the next episode of a show.
Streaming services like Prime, Netflix and Hulu have made so many shows that are so addictive!
26. Pickleball
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the United States. Although People of all ages can play Pickleball, it is extremely popular among Millennials and Gen Z.
The main reason why Pickleball is so popular is because it is affordable and very easy to play. All you need is a Pickleball set (which costs around $40) and a tennis court to play on.
27. Listening to Music
Gen Z loves to listen to music and enjoys various genres. Nowadays, every Gen Zer has Apple Music or Spotify downloaded on their phones. This means they can access millions of songs at their fingertips.
This has allowed Generation Z to listen to different music from previous generations and explore different genres.
28. Learning
Whether it’s through YouTube videos, reading books, listening to podcasts, or scrolling on social media, Gen Z enjoys learning. Gen Z is a generation that does their research and self-educates themselves.
Since Gen Zers were born in the age of the Internet, this has made it easier than ever to learn new things. Whether it’s learning an instrument, a new language, or a new skill, Gen Z loves to learn.
29. Content Creation
Content creation is a hobby that many Gen Zers have picked up. Whether its on Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok, Gen Z enjoys creating content that can entertain or be helpful to others.
Nowaday’s, it is easier than ever for a Gen Zer to pick up their phone and create content. Becoming a “content creator” is the dream job for many Gen Z’s as it is a way to share their passion while earning money.
30. Martial Arts
Martial arts is an activity that many Gen Zers have an interest in. Martial arts like boxing, jiu-jitsu, and MMA have become extremely popular among Generation Z.
As a Gen Zer who does martial arts, I enjoy it because it teaches discipline, self-defense, and fun. Believe it or not, going into a martial arts gym and fighting others is a humbling experience and something everyone should try at some point.
31. Meme Culture
Internet culture and memes are prevalent in many Gen Zers lives. Although it may be hard for previous generations to understand, memes are a common way for this generation to connect with others and express themselves.
Generation Z will send memes to their friends because they are funny and relatable.
32. Cold Plunge
The cold plunge is a trend that has become popular among Gen Z in the last few years. The cold plunge has various health benefits, such as enhanced recovery, improved circulation, and stress reduction.
Since we all know Gen Z is into their health and well-being, the cold plunge has caught on quickly. Now, Gen Zers in my city host cold plunge events where anyone can give the cold plunge a try to feel the health benefits for themselves.
33. DIY Projects
Gen Z is a generation that loves DIY projects whether it’s home decor, fashion customization, organization, or crafts, Gen Zers love it.
Generation Z has access to tons of content for the DIY project. Online, Gen Zers can find YouTube tutorials that will give them step-by-step DIY guides.
DIY projects are a great way for Gen Zers to test their creativity while making something awesome!
34. Online Challenges
Generation Z loves to take part in online challenges. Whether it’s a new dance trend or a fitness trend, Gen Z loves online challenges.
Gen Zers will film themselves doing an online challenge for amusement or to go viral. Although previous generations have taken part in online challenges, Gen Z is the generation that enjoys them the most.
35. Sleep
When I asked other Gen Zers what they love to do most, many said they love to sleep! Although sleeping isn’t one of my favorite activities, many members of Generation Z love sleeping.
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Final Thoughts on What Does Gen Z Do For Fun
For outsiders looking in, Generation Z may seem like a boring generation that are glued to their phones. However, Gen Zers have hobbies and interests that may look completely different from previous generations!
Gen Z’s have found ways to use technology and turn it into opportunity for both entertainment and to make money.
Are you part of Generation Z? Please let me know your favorite hobby or interest in the comments below.
You left one very important “hobby” off this list: Teaching non-Z’ers how to play said video games in item 1 lol.
A few years ago, three conspiring Z’ers whom I’m friends with decided that it would be a worthwhile and entertaining venture to try to get me into playing such games as “Halo” and “Call of Duty” 😂🙄😂
Despite both they and myself giving it our best efforts, the end result was inevitably the same: me retreating my character in a panic to some dark corner of a random building, hoping the enemies wouldn’t find me, and ultimately employing primitive, futile attempts at defending myself when they did 😂😭😂
Said Z’ers seemed to be infinitely amused by this innovative yet unsuccessful strategy of mine….”Dude you can’t just crouch in a corner and hideee, you’re supposed to go out there and fight!!!” Forget it, I wasn’t having it 😂😂😂
For the life of me, as I told them, I cannot figure out how you guys are so good at those games!!! I really did try my best, but the multi-tasking, quick-thinking coordination that it takes to utilize all the available fighting gear/options and play successfully is light years beyond me lol – AND you guys even manage to effortlessly have on-screen text conversations with other players/friends WHILE playing….I’m sorry, but that is all just way too amazing lol. These days, I have voluntarily relegated myself to watching in quiet fascination as they play said games on Twitch from time to time – and that’s good enough for me! 😁
Then they introduced me to a Virtual Reality headset…..yeah….let me tell you, I have never, ever experienced anything so epic. They said the look on my face when they first placed the headset on me and I started “walking” was priceless. I believe it, because even though I had no clue what I was doing in the game lol, that whole new VR experience was a-m-a-z-i-n-g !
Gen Z is just light years beyond anything I have ever seen before. I believe that by 2050, you guys and the even more advanced and smart gen that you bring into this world after you will have made being a human so much more fun and fulfilling, and you will have made this planet super legendary. It may not always be a smooth process, and there will undoubtedly be some bugs to fix along the way, but as a generation you guys are strong as heck and will ultimately make the future exactly what you want it to be – of this I have no doubt.
Yeah I am definitely a Z’er at heart lol, because these are the things I love and found in common on your list:
* YouTube/online streaming (literally endless entertainment)
* MrBeast!!!! (YES haha!)
* Twitch gaming live streams
* Reading (mysteries)
* Joe Rogan (a Z’er introduced me to his podcasts – the whole concept of “podcasts” and the term itself are sick btw)
* Road tripppps (the more random and unplanned the better!)
* Hiking/outdoors (conspiring Z’ers got me into this several years ago by “forcing” me on a hike with them part way up this ridiculously huge mountain lol and I have been at it on my own – albeit on much flatter trails lol – ever since!)
* Elon for the win!
* Learning/working on my own car
* Customizing Air Force 1’s (Angelus leather paints are my best friends lol)
* Self-care days (this is one of the intelligent habits I admire most about The Z’ers because such a great and giving generation needs/deserves to recharge from time to time. I can tell you for a fact that years from now you guys will be so glad you’re taking such good care of yourselves, mentally and physically – that is so respectable!)
* Binge watching (personally, I love watching 1980’s series because for me it was such a culturally bold, fun, classy decade – the same kind of class, fun, and boldness that Gen Z’ers are rekindling on a more high-tech, modern level now in the 20’s and I love it. The Z’ers have totally earned the right to rock those AF1’s yo)
* Learning (my goal for today: to find out what the heck this “Spikeball” is that you mentioned ha!)
* Occasional Sleep/Stay in bed days – work well with self-care days and always best when combined with plenty of snacks and said binge watching lol
Reading this article made me realize even more why I get along so well with The Z’s – I mean you know what they say about great minds thinking alike…..😎😁💯
Awesome post, Ethan.
LOL – I was driving cross town across campus today doing some errands…stopped at a crosswalk to let several students cross….4 crossed one way, then 2 the other way etc etc…then a squirrel that had climbed down from a tree ran across the road EXACTLY within the lines of the crosswalk behind the last of the students! 😂 It was one of those literal LOL great to be alive moments.
And yes, I continued to follow proper crosswalk etiquette and yielded the right of way to that last “pedestrian” 😁🐿