Best Indoor Hobbies to Try in a Small Space This Winter

When temperatures drop and winter weather ensues, you may feel less inclined to leave your apartment. However, just because you’re stuck inside doesn’t mean your interests and hobbies have to fall to the wayside. In fact, winter is an opportune time to find a new pastime or revisit old ones.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best indoor hobbies to try in a small space this winter. Whether you’re in a spacious corner unit or a tiny studio, here are some indoor pastimes that will keep you entertained, engaged, and productive from the comfort of your home.

Key Takeaways:

• Cozy, compact hobbies like embroidery, journaling, and candle-making are ideal for winter and can be done from the couch or bed — perfect for small-space living.
• Wellness-focused pastimes like yoga, meditation, and reading help renters recharge mentally and physically, requiring only a quiet corner or small routine setup.
• Winter is a great time to rediscover apartment-friendly entertainment like cooking themed meals, solving puzzles, or diving into audiobooks — all easily enjoyed without leaving home.

Creative Hobbies That Fit in Small Spaces

Winter is the perfect time to tap into your creative side. And usually, that shouldn’t require a ton of space. Whether you live in a compact apartment or share a space with roommates, here are some creative indoor activities to try out this winter:

DIY craft projects

If you’re searching for a hands-on hobby, DIY crafting is a great place to start! Think embroidery, needlepointing, origami, or even candle-making. These cozy, rewarding, and space-efficient crafts are easy to do at home. In fact, most of these projects can be done from your couch, dining table, or even in bed! Plus, they can make great gifts for family and friends during the holiday season.

Journaling or creative writing

Journaling or creative writing is another way to get the creative juices flowing. Whether writing poetry, plotting a novel, or just reflecting on your day, this simple yet satisfying pastime is a great way to release stress and express yourself. You can make journaling part of your morning or evening routine, or simply do it whenever inspiration strikes. Regardless of how often you write, it’s a perfect indoor hobby to relax and recharge.

Balcony or Indoor herb gardening

Even in the dead of winter, your apartment can be full of life when you add some greenery. Indoor gardening is an easy, space-saving hobby that revives your mind and home without ever stepping outside. Consider starting with winter-hardy herbs like rosemary, thyme, mint, or parsley. A sunny windowsill setup with a few pots is all you need.

If you have a private patio or outdoor space, you can also expand your garden there. Just make sure to choose plants that will thrive in your climate and can withstand the outdoor elements.

Hobbies That Boost Wellness and Mindfulness

Winter can be mentally and physically draining, especially when you're spending more time indoors. That’s why many renters prioritize hobbies that promote relaxation, stress management, and self-care. Some examples of these hobbies include:

Indoor yoga or stretching routines

Yoga and stretching can be great for your physical and mental well-being. And luckily, they can be done within your apartment’s four walls! Simply roll out a yoga mat, make a little floor space, and feel yourself reconnect with the body and mind. To really set the vibe, add a candle, a calming playlist, and soft lighting to your yoga or stretching routine.

Meditation and mindfulness activities

Another indoor hobby that benefits both body and mind is meditation. Meditation is a highly effective hobby for cultivating calm and reducing anxiety, and it’s tailor-made for small spaces. All you need is a quiet spot and a few minutes of your day. You can enhance the experience by creating a simple mindfulness zone: a floor cushion, soft lighting, and a favorite scent (like lavender or eucalyptus) can help set the mood without taking up much room.

Cozy reading challenges

Reading is another great pastime for sharpening your focus and mindfulness. If you’re not the biggest bookworm, consider setting a winter reading goal for yourself or joining an online book club. Another way to make reading more enjoyable is to create a reading ritual. Set up a cozy reading nook with plush pillows and throws, light a candle, and pour yourself some tea. This will elevate your reading experience and make you never want to put your book down!

Hobbies that Entertain and Engage

When cold weather keeps you inside, it's the perfect time to explore hobbies that are both fun and mentally stimulating. Whether you’re flying solo or spending time with roommates or a partner, these apartment-friendly hobbies are sure to keep your spirits high and your brain engaged:

Cooking and baking in a small kitchen

If your kitchen’s been feeling more like a storage space lately, winter is the ideal time to rediscover the joy of cooking. For some culinary inspiration, try themed cooking nights like “Meatless Mondays” or “Soup Sundays,” or challenge yourself with a new recipe each week. To save space, consider investing in multi-purpose tools like an Instant Pot or a compact air fryer, which are ideal for small kitchens with limited storage or counter space.

Puzzles, board games, or brain teasers

Winter is the perfect time to dust off those old games in your closet. Whether you reach for a deck of cards, set of dominoes, or your favorite childhood board game, these activities are perfect for keeping your mind sharp and having some fun while staying indoors. Depending on the activity, you can indulge in this hobby solo or host a game night with friends/neighbors.

Music, podcasts, and audiobook exploration

Listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks is a great way to expand your world without leaving home. Whether you’re in the mood to relax, learn something new, or simply escape into a good story, this low-effort hobby is perfect for apartment living. It also allows for easy multitasking, so you can listen while tackling chores or enjoying other activities like yoga or crafts.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Apartment Space

Now that you have ideas for winter hobbies, let’s talk about how to make space for them. Certain activities demand more space than others. However, with the space-saving tips below, you should be able to make room for your hobby of choice all season long:

Incorporate multi-functional furniture

Need some extra storage for your hobby materials? Invest in some multi-functional furniture! A storage ottoman can house your knitting supplies or puzzles while doubling as a footrest or extra seating. A fold-out desk can serve as your writing station by day and tuck neatly away at night. Look for nesting tables, convertible shelves, and modular furniture to create flexible spaces for different hobbies without crowding your apartment.

Utilize vertical space

When square footage is limited, go vertical! Install removable wall hooks, use hanging organizers, or stack clear bins in your closet to store hobby gear like yoga mats, craft supplies, or kitchen gadgets. Wall-mounted shelves or pegboards are great for keeping things accessible without taking up valuable floor space (and they add a decorative touch, too).

Create hobby zones

You don’t need a separate room to create a dedicated hobby space. Even a corner of your living room or bedroom can be transformed with a small rug, lamp, or storage bin to signal that “this is my yoga/craft/reading spot.” Use folding screens or curtains to section off space if you need extra privacy or want to create the feeling of separation, which may be ideal if you have roommates.

Ace Apartment Living with Apartments.com

Apartment living isn’t always easy, particularly in the winter. However, with some creativity and space-saving strategies, you can cultivate indoor hobbies that beat the winter blues without taking up too much room. Explore our blog for more tips on making the most of your apartment living experience this winter.