Turning 50 is a milestone, no doubt about it. But before you get caught up in clichés about ticking clocks, let’s flip the script. This is a time to celebrate reaching a half-century of experiences, wisdom gained, and (hopefully) a healthy dose of “been there, done that” confidence. So, how do you make the most of this exciting new chapter? Here’s my list of top 50 things to do when you turn 50 to inspire you!
Embrace the Great Outdoors
Trade in your four walls for wide-open skies. Inhale the fresh air and feel the sun on your skin — it’s time to embrace the great outdoors!
1. Hike a Mountain
Challenge yourself with a scenic hike and soak in the breathtaking views from the peak. Bonus points if you can share the experience with friends or family.
2. Go Camping (or Glamping)
Reconnect with nature under a blanket of stars. If roughing it isn’t your style, glamping offers a luxurious twist on the classic camping experience.
3. Learn a New Water Sport
Take up kayaking, paddleboarding, or surfing. It’s a fantastic way to stay active, cool off, and enjoy the beauty of the water.
4. Go on a National Parks Road Trip
Pack up the car, hit the open road, and explore the stunning landscapes of America’s National Parks.
5. Plant a Tree
Leave a lasting legacy and contribute to the environment by planting a tree. Watch it grow alongside you in the years to come.
Fuel Your Curiosity
Ignite your inner learner! Whether it’s a new skill or a faraway land, there’s a world of knowledge waiting to be explored.
6. Take a Class You’ve Always Wanted To
Calligraphy, coding, pottery — the possibilities are endless. Learning a new skill keeps your mind sharp and opens doors to hidden talents.
7. Travel to a Country You’ve Dreamed Of
Immerse yourself in a new culture, explore ancient ruins, or sample exotic cuisine.
8. Learn a New Language
Challenge your brain and open up new avenues for communication by tackling a new language.
9. Visit a Museum or Art Gallery
Get inspired by a different perspective. Museums and art galleries offer a window into history, culture, and the beauty of human creativity.
10. Volunteer at a Local Organization
Give back to your community and connect with a cause you care about. Volunteering is a rewarding way to use your time and talents.
Reconnect with Yourself
Dive inward! It’s time to hit pause, reconnect with your inner self, and discover the amazing person you’ve become.
11. Go on a Solo Retreat
Sometimes, you need a quiet space to reflect and recharge. A solo retreat can be a powerful way to reconnect with your inner self.
12. Start a Meditation Practice
Meditation is a powerful tool for reducing stress, improving focus, and promoting inner peace. There are many guided meditations available online or through apps.
13. Write in a Journal
Capture your thoughts, experiences, and dreams by starting a journal. It’s a fantastic way to track your progress and gain insights into yourself.
14. Try a New Yoga or Fitness Class
Explore different fitness options and find something you enjoy. Maintaining physical activity is crucial for overall health and well-being.
15. Schedule Regular Wellness Checkups
Make your health a priority by scheduling regular checkups with your doctor and dentist. Early detection is key.
Rekindle the Spark
Fan the flames of love! Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a handwritten note, here are some ideas to keep the romance alive.
16. Plan a Romantic Getaway
Rekindle the romance with your partner by planning a weekend getaway or a special night out.
17. Renew Your Vows
Celebrate your enduring love by renewing your vows. It can be a simple, intimate ceremony or a grand celebration with loved ones.
18. Learn a New Dance Together
Put on your dancing shoes and learn a new dance style together. It’s a fun way to bond, get some exercise, and express yourself creatively.
19. Recreate Your First Date
Take a trip down memory lane by recreating your first date. It’s a sweet way to reminisce about the early days of your love story.
20. Write Love Letters to Each Other
Express your love and appreciation for your partner by writing heartfelt love letters.
Strengthen Your Bonds
Laughter, shared experiences, and the joy of connection — cultivate stronger bonds with the people who matter most.
21. Throw a Themed Party for Friends
Gather your closest friends and throw a themed party. From a roaring 20s bash to a poolside luau, the possibilities are endless.
22. Plan a Group Trip with Friends
Go on an adventure with your besties. Choose a destination that caters to everyone’s interests and create lasting memories together.
23. Host a Game Night
Dust off those board games or plan a virtual game night with friends who live far away. Laughter and friendly competition are guaranteed.
24. Start a Book Club
Gather your friends and discuss a book you’ve all read. It’s a stimulating way to connect and share different perspectives.
25. Volunteer Together
Strengthen your bond with friends by volunteering for a cause you both care about.
Live a Life Less Ordinary:
Crave an adventure that breaks the mold? Step outside the ordinary and embrace experiences that will leave you breathless.
26. Go Stargazing
Escape the city lights and find a secluded spot to marvel at the Milky Way. There are even stargazing apps that can help you identify constellations.
27. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Soar above the clouds and experience breathtaking panoramic views from a hot air balloon.
28. Go Whitewater Rafting
Get your adrenaline pumping with a whitewater rafting adventure. It’s a thrilling way to experience the power of nature.
29. Learn to Scuba Dive
Dive into a whole new world by exploring the underwater realm with a scuba diving course.
30. Go on a Culinary Tour
Go on an adventure by taking a culinary tour in your own city or while traveling. Discover hidden gems and tantalize your taste buds.
Leave Your Mark on the World
Make your mark on the world, big or small! Here are some ways to use your experience and passions to create a positive impact.
31. Write a Book or Blog
Share your stories, experiences, and expertise with the world by writing a book or starting a blog.
32. Mentor a Young Person
Guide and inspire a younger generation by becoming a mentor. Share your knowledge and help them navigate life’s challenges.
33. Start a Charitable Foundation
Make a lasting impact by starting a charitable foundation that supports a cause you care about.
34. Plant a Community Garden
Contribute to your community by helping to create and maintain a community garden. It’s a great way to promote healthy eating and connect with neighbors.
35. Donate Blood or Plasma
Help save lives by becoming a regular blood or plasma donor.
Embrace the Power of “Yes”
Expand your horizons and say “yes” to new possibilities. Step outside your comfort zone and try things you might never have considered before.
36. Learn to Play a Musical Instrument
It’s never too late to learn something new! Take up an instrument and unleash your inner musician.
37. Take an Improv Class
Step outside your comfort zone and take an improv class. It’s a fantastic way to boost your creativity, confidence, and communication skills.
38. Go Skydiving
Take the plunge and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a skydiving adventure.
39. Get a Tattoo (or that Piercing You Always Wanted)
Express yourself through body art. Just remember, tattoos are permanent, so choose a design you’ll love for years to come.
40. Sing Karaoke
Belt out your favorite tunes and embrace your inner rockstar at a karaoke bar. Don’t worry, it’s all about having fun.
Focus on the Future
Chart your course for the next chapter. Here are some ideas to help you plan, grow, and make the most of the exciting years ahead.
41. Create a Vision Board
Manifest your dreams and aspirations by creating a vision board filled with images and words that represent your goals.
42. Learn a New Skill for Your Career
Invest in your professional development by acquiring a new skill relevant to your field.
43. Start a Side Hustle
Pursue your passions and potentially generate extra income by starting a side hustle.
44. Travel More
The world is your oyster. Make a travel bucket list and start checking off those dream destinations.
45. Reconnect with Old Friends
Reach out to old friends and rekindle lost connections.
Savor the Simple Things
Life isn’t all about grand gestures — sometimes, true joy lies in the everyday. Slow down, appreciate the present moment, and savor the simple things.
46. Have a Picnic in the Park
Pack a basket full of delicious food and enjoy a relaxing afternoon under the sun in your favorite park.
47. Have a Movie Marathon with Your Favorite Snacks
Curl up on the couch with your favorite movies, classic or new releases, and indulge in a delicious spread of snacks.
48. Spend Time in Nature
Reconnect with the natural world by simply going for a walk in the park, tending to your garden, or sitting by a river.
49. Stargaze from Your Backyard
Lie down in your backyard on a clear night and gaze at the stars. It’s a simple yet awe-inspiring reminder of the vastness of the universe.
50. Practice Gratitude
Take time each day to appreciate the good things in your life, big or small. Gratitude is a powerful tool for boosting happiness and overall well-being.
Wrapping Up
Turning 50 is not an ending — it’s a magnificent beginning. Embrace this new chapter with open arms! This is a time to celebrate your accomplishments, explore new possibilities, and savor the journey.
Remember, these 50 ideas are just a springboard. The most important thing is to embrace what truly excites YOU. So, chase your dreams, conquer your fears, and create a future that’s as vibrant and extraordinary as you are.