54 Fun Things to Do When Bored With Friends

We’ve all been there—those moments when you’re sitting around with your besties, everyone scrolling their phones, and someone asks, “What should we do?” Boredom with friends doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. In fact, it’s the perfect opportunity to create hilarious memories, play some fun games, and try new experiences together!

Whether you’re at home, outside, or planning a spontaneous hangout, there are countless things to do when bored with friends that go beyond the usual Netflix binge. From funny games for groups to creative bestie activities and challenges, boredom can actually lead to your next favorite memory.

This post is packed with fresh ideas and inspiration to turn any dull moment into a fun-filled adventure. You’ll find fun games to play with friends, clever activities to do with friends, and laugh-out-loud moments you’ll want to repeat. We’ve even included plenty of fun things to do with friends at home, so you can stay entertained without spending a dime.

So the next time you wonder what to do when you’re bored, you’ll have a go-to list to spark excitement and keep the good times rolling. Let’s dive into some seriously awesome ideas to do with friends and make the most out of your time together!

1. Play Charades

Charades is a timeless, laughter-inducing game perfect for any group. All you need is your imagination and a willingness to act silly!

How to Play:

• Split into two teams.
• One person acts out a word or phrase (no talking!), and their team guesses.
• Use a timer (60 seconds works great) for added excitement.

Tips:

• Use a charades app or make your own word cards.
• Add themes like movies, animals, or TV shows for variety.
• Get creative—exaggerated expressions make it more fun!

2. Try a TikTok Dance Challenge

Whether you’re seasoned dancers or just in it for fun, TikTok challenges are a great way to bond (and go viral!).

Steps to Join In:

• Pick a trending dance challenge on TikTok.
• Watch a few tutorials to get the moves right.
• Film it together and upload it—or keep it private for laughs.

Bonus Tip: Make it a mini competition and vote for the best dancer in your group!

3. Host a Themed Movie Night

Upgrade your movie night by giving it a creative twist!

Ideas to Try:

• Decade Night: Only movies from the ’90s or 2000s.
• Genre Night: Pick horror, rom-coms, or action flicks.
• Franchise Night: Watch multiple movies from one series like Harry Potter or Marvel.

Must-Haves:

• Popcorn bar with mix-ins like M\&Ms or caramel drizzle.
• DIY tickets for fun.
• Cozy blankets and mood lighting.

4. Bake Cookies or Cupcakes Together

Cooking with friends is not only productive—it’s deliciously fun!

Steps to Sweet Success:

• Choose a recipe everyone likes (or make multiple batches).
• Assign roles: mixer, decorator, oven master.
• Get creative with frosting, toppings, and colors.

Pro Tip: Make it a friendly bake-off and judge each other’s creations.

5. Organize a Home Spa Day

Turn your living room into a luxury retreat with DIY pampering.

Ideas for Your Spa Setup:

• Facemasks (store-bought or homemade with honey, oats, etc.)
• Cucumber slices for the eyes.
• Nail painting station.
• Scented candles and relaxing music.

Add-On: Create personalized spa “menus” and take turns treating each other!

6. Play “Would You Rather?”

This classic game sparks laughter, surprise, and even deep convo.

How to Play:

• Take turns asking silly or thought-provoking “Would you rather” questions.
• Everyone answers and explains their choice.

Sample Questions:

• “Would you rather be invisible or be able to fly?”
• “Would you rather never eat pizza again or never have ice cream again?”

Bonus: Use a free app or print a list of 100+ questions to keep it flowing.

7. Go for a Sunset Walk or Drive

Sometimes, the best moments come from the simplest things.

Why It’s Great:

• It’s calming and sparks meaningful conversations.
• You get fresh air and a mini adventure.

Tips for the Best Experience:

• Choose a scenic route or your favorite neighborhood spot.
• Play a sunset playlist in the car.
• Take photos together—golden hour lighting is perfect!

8. Set Up a DIY Photo Shoot

Capture your friendship in a fun and creative way!

Step-by-Step:

• Choose a theme (retro, floral, sporty, glam, etc.)
• Pick outfits and props.
• Use a phone tripod or take turns being the photographer.
• Edit photos together afterward for social media or a scrapbook.

Fun Add-On: Create your own “magazine cover” using Canva or mobile editing apps!

9. Try a New Board Game

Board games aren’t just for rainy days—they’re perfect for bonding and laughs.

What to Try:

• For laughs: Exploding Kittens, What Do You Meme?
• For strategy lovers: Settlers of Catan, Codenames
• Classic fun: UNO, Monopoly, Jenga

Pro Tip: Learn the rules together by watching a quick YouTube tutorial.

10. Create a Joint Playlist and Jam Out

Music always brings people together—so why not build your soundtrack?

How to Do It:

• Use Spotify or YouTube to make a shared playlist.
• Each friend adds 5–10 favorite songs.
• Hit shuffle and dance, sing, or relax together.

Idea: Name your playlist something unique to your group like “Vibe Squad Vibes.”

11. Have a Karaoke Battle

Let your inner diva shine! Karaoke is one of the best ways to break out of a bored slump.

Setup Options:

• Use YouTube karaoke videos or a karaoke app like Smule or KaraFun.
• Make it competitive: vote for best performance, most dramatic, funniest, etc.
• Bonus: Dress like a pop star to really commit!

12. Build a Blanket Fort and Chill

You’re never too old for a cozy blanket fort!

How-To:

• Use chairs, couches, and blankets to create your fort.
• Add pillows, fairy lights, and snacks inside.
• Watch movies, play card games, or just hang out in your cozy hideout.

Why It’s Awesome: It taps into childhood nostalgia and creates a calming space to unwind together.

13. Have a Backyard Picnic

Ditch the dining table and eat under the open sky!

Planning Tips:

• Bring a blanket, snacks, drinks, and Bluetooth speaker.
• Add card games, frisbee, or a photo session for extra fun.
• Optional: bring a book or sketchpad for quiet moments.

Food Ideas: Finger sandwiches, chips and dips, lemonade, fruit kabobs, and cookies.

14. Try a Viral Food Recipe

Put TikTok or Instagram recipes to the test and rate them together!

Examples to Try:

• Baked feta pasta
• Dalgona coffee
• Ramen hacks
• Mug cakes

How to Do It:

• Choose the recipe together.
• Gather ingredients and follow along with a video.
• Rate the final result from 1–10 and decide if it’s worth the hype!

15. Watch Funny YouTube Videos

Nothing cures boredom faster than shared laughter.

Where to Start:

• Search for “Try Not to Laugh” challenges
• Watch sketch comedians like Ryan George or Studio C
• Explore meme compilations or animal fails

Pro Tip: Make it a challenge—if someone laughs, they do a silly dare!

16. Write a Silly Short Story Together

Unleash your inner authors by writing a ridiculous short story as a group.

How to Play:

• Sit in a circle (or online if virtual).
• One person starts with a sentence.
• Each friend adds the next sentence, building on the story.
• No erasing—just go with the chaos!

Tip: Set a theme or genre: fantasy, horror, rom-com, or a wacky mashup.

Fun Twist: Print the final story or read it out dramatically for laughs.

17. Have a Water Balloon Fight

Nothing beats the thrill of a spontaneous splash battle—especially on a hot day!

What You’ll Need:

• Water balloons or reusable splash balls
• Buckets for refills
• Outdoor space (backyard, park, driveway)

Bonus Game Modes:

• Team vs. team
• Capture the balloon
• Obstacle course with splash zones

Safety Tip: Avoid hard throws and make sure there’s no slipping hazard.

18. Recreate Childhood Games

Nostalgia hits hard—and it’s even better with friends.

Games to Try:

• Freeze tag
• Duck Duck Goose
• Hide and Seek
• Simon Says
• Red Light, Green Light

Why It’s Fun: It gets you moving, laughing, and reminiscing about simpler times.

Challenge: Add funny adult twists to make it even more entertaining!

19. Host a Mini Talent Show

Time to let your hidden talents shine—or just have fun pretending.

How to Host:

• Set a 2–5 minute limit per act
• Perform anything: singing, dancing, jokes, magic tricks, or weird talents
• Use props and costumes for extra flair
• Record it and turn it into a memory reel!

Prize Idea: Give out silly awards like “Most Dramatic,” “Funniest,” or “Surprisingly Good.”

20. Paint or Draw Something Random

You don’t need to be Picasso to have a paint night!

What You Need:

• Paper, paint, colored pencils, or digital apps
• Random prompt generator (or write prompts on slips of paper)
• Timer (e.g., 15 minutes per round)

Prompt Ideas:

• “A cat doing yoga”
• “Aliens on vacation”
• “Your bestie as a superhero”

Fun Add-On: Create a mini gallery and vote on the funniest or most artistic!

21. Try Yoga or a Group Workout

Burn off boredom and boost endorphins with a wellness moment.

How to Get Started:

• Find a short YouTube yoga or workout video
• Clear a space, grab mats or towels
• Do it together and cheer each other on!

Options:

• Chill yoga flows
• High-energy HIIT
• Dance cardio (like Zumba)

Why It’s Great: It promotes bonding, health, and laughter—especially if you all get the moves wrong.

22. Host a Fashion Show with Each Other’s Clothes

Ready for a walk-off? Swap outfits and strut your stuff!

Steps to Slay:

• Set up a runway with music and lighting
• Pick categories: “Vacation Ready,” “Back to School,” “Red Carpet Disaster”
• Raid each other’s closets for funny or fashionable combos

Photo/Video Tip: Capture every moment—these looks are iconic (or hilariously awful).

23. Make Friendship Bracelets

Crafting brings out your creative side—and gives you something meaningful to wear.

What You Need:

• Embroidery floss or elastic string
• Beads, charms, or letter tiles
• Scissors and tape or clips

How-To: Look up easy tutorials online for braid styles or beaded patterns.

Make it Special: Include initials or favorite colors for a personalized touch.

24. Play a Video Game Together

Sometimes, all you need is a controller (or two) and some competitive energy.

Game Options:

• Co-op: Overcooked, Mario Kart, Minecraft
• Competitive: Smash Bros., FIFA, Fortnite
• Casual: Jackbox Games, Among Us, Fall Guys

Setup: Use a console, PC, or mobile—whatever you’ve got!

Tip: Create a tournament bracket for multiple rounds and crown a champion.

25. Do a Blindfolded Taste Test

Put your taste buds to the test—and prepare for hilarious guesses.

What You’ll Need:

• A blindfold
• Various snacks or mystery foods
• A scorecard for guesses and reactions

Ideas to Try:

• Sweet vs. sour
• International snacks
• Same color foods (like all red items)

Fun Twist: Let losers do a silly dare at the end!

26. Plan a Future Trip or Dream Vacation

Even if you’re not booking tickets yet, planning a trip is half the fun!

What to Do:

• Pick a destination
• Research hotels, local foods, activities
• Use Pinterest or Canva to make a visual mood board

Why It’s Worth It: It sparks excitement and gives your group something to look forward to.

Bonus: Start a shared savings jar or list to work toward making it real!

27. Host a Themed Potluck Dinner

Everyone brings something to the table—literally!

How to Host:

• Pick a theme (Italian night, breakfast for dinner, street food, etc.)
• Assign categories: appetizer, main, dessert, drinks
• Decorate and dress to match the vibe

Fun Add-On: Have a mini awards ceremony like “Most Creative Dish” or “Best Presentation.”

28. Have a Movie Marathon with a Fun Theme

Binge-watching, but better—with snacks and a storyline!

Theme Ideas:

• Superheroes (Marvel or DC)
• Animated classics
• Rom-coms from the 2000s
• Villain spotlight (Joker, Maleficent, etc.)

Setup: Prepare snacks, themed decor, and a watchlist in advance.

Movie Buff Bonus: Rate each movie and crown a marathon MVP at the end.

29. Learn a New Skill via YouTube (e.g., Magic Tricks)

Why not walk away from a hangout with a new talent?

Skill Ideas to Learn Together:

• Magic tricks or illusions
• Simple guitar chords
• Origami
• DIY crafts
• Balloon animals

Steps:

• Vote on a skill
• Watch a tutorial together
• Try it out, then perform it for each other!

30. Have a “PowerPoint Night” on Funny Topics

Hilarious, nerdy, and wildly entertaining—PowerPoint nights are a trend worth trying.

How It Works:

• Each friend creates a funny slideshow on a ridiculous topic
• Present it with confidence (even if it’s nonsense)
• Add memes, graphs, and dramatic transitions

Topic Ideas:

• “Why I’d Survive a Zombie Apocalypse”
• “Ranking Our Group’s Most Iconic Moments”
• “Conspiracy Theories About My Dog”

Tip: Use Google Slides or Canva for quick, stylish designs.

31. Create a Scrapbook or Photo Album

Capture your friendship memories in a creative and tangible way.

What You Need:

• Printed photos, tickets, notes, stickers, washi tape
• A blank scrapbook or album
• Pens and markers for doodles or captions

Ideas to Include:

• Group selfies and vacation photos
• Inside jokes and quotes
• Doodles, dates, or mini-stories

Why It’s Special: It’s both a fun activity and a lasting keepsake to look back on later.

32. Redecorate or Rearrange a Room

Bored of your space? Freshen it up together!

How to Start:

• Choose whose room or space to tackle
• Rearrange furniture for a new layout
• Add string lights, posters, DIY decor, or a vision board

Bonus Challenge: Only use what you already have—get creative with zero budget!

Tip: Play music and assign “design roles” to make it feel like an HGTV moment.

33. Film a Funny Music Video

Get dramatic, weird, or fabulous—it’s your music video, your rules!

How to Do It:

• Choose a song everyone knows
• Make up choreography or act out a parody
• Film using a smartphone and simple props
• Edit with CapCut, InShot, or TikTok

Ideas:

• Lip-sync drama
• Spoof music video
• Group dance video

Best Part: Even if it’s cringe—it’s hilarious later!

34. Go for a Hike or Nature Walk

Fresh air + good company = a perfect boredom cure.

Planning Tips:

• Pick a trail that fits everyone’s fitness level
• Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks
• Make it a photo adventure by capturing landscapes and selfies

Pro Tip: Use a hiking app to track your route or find hidden local spots.

35. Go Stargazing

Chill, dreamy, and surprisingly meaningful—stargazing is a vibe.

How to Prep:

• Find a dark, open space (away from city lights)
• Bring blankets, snacks, and a stargazing app
• Lay down and look for constellations or shooting stars

Conversation Starter: Talk about your biggest dreams or favorite space facts!

36. Visit a Museum or Art Gallery

Turn your hangout into a cultured and creative experience.

Why It’s Worth It:

• Learn something new
• Get inspired by exhibits
• Great photo ops!

Types to Explore:

• Art, history, science, pop culture, or niche collections
• Look for local student discounts or free entry days

Fun Challenge: Recreate your favorite artwork with funny poses!

37. Go Bowling or Mini-Golfing

Friendly competition and goofy fun, all in one outing.

Bowling Night Tips:

• Wear funky socks or matching outfits
• Create funny team names
• Add challenges like bowling backward or with your non-dominant hand

Mini-Golf Add-Ons:

• Keep a fun scorecard
• Add silly dares for each hole
• Pose with every obstacle

38. Try an Escape Room

Use your brain, teamwork, and adrenaline to beat the clock.

How It Works:

• Get locked in a themed room and solve puzzles to escape
• Choose a theme: mystery, horror, spy, fantasy, etc.
• Book ahead and prep to work as a team

Why You’ll Love It: It’s immersive, challenging, and perfect for testing your squad’s synergy.

39. Attend a Local Concert or Open Mic

Support local talent while having a spontaneous and musical night out.

What to Look For:

• Coffee shop open mics
• Small venue concerts
• Community center talent nights

Make It Special:

• Dress for the theme (rock, indie, retro, etc.)
• Dance or cheer for performers
• Discover a new favorite artist!

40. Explore a New Neighborhood

Adventure is everywhere—even in your own city.

How to Do It:

• Choose a nearby area you haven’t explored
• Look for murals, small cafes, bookshops, or parks
• Make it a photo walk or a food crawl

Add-on: Create a scavenger hunt list (e.g., spot 3 dogs, 1 red door, etc.) for extra fun!

41. Go Fruit Picking at a Local Farm

Get outdoors and enjoy nature’s sweetness—literally!

What You’ll Pick Depends on Season:

• Strawberries, blueberries, mangoes, apples, peaches, or even pumpkins!

Why It’s Awesome:

• It’s fun, relaxing, and productive
• You leave with healthy snacks or ingredients for a baking night

Tip: Take a group photo in the field—it’s peak aesthetic.

42. Do a Town-Wide Photoshoot

Turn your city into a backdrop and make memories with a themed shoot.

Steps:

• Choose a vibe: street style, retro, nature, all-black outfits, etc.
• Map out interesting locations (walls, parks, graffiti, rooftops)
• Take turns being photographer and model

Editing Tip: Use Lightroom mobile or VSCO for a cohesive look.

43. Go Swimming at a Lake, Pool, or Beach

Splash the boredom away with a water day.

Packing Essentials:

• Swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, goggles, snacks
• Waterproof speaker and floaties
• Games like water volleyball, frisbee, or pool races

Fun Twist: Host a poolside fashion show or synchronized swimming routine.

44. Try Geocaching

It’s like a modern treasure hunt using GPS—and it’s free!

What It Is:

• Geocaching uses apps to find hidden “caches” around the world
• You log your name and sometimes swap small items

Why Try It:

• Adventure + mystery + exploration
• Works anywhere (urban or rural)

Tips: Download the Geocaching app and bring a small trinket to trade!

45. Go to a Drive-In Movie

Experience cinema the old-school way—from the comfort of your car.

What You’ll Need:

• Blankets, snacks, and drinks
• A comfy car setup (pillows, bean bags, etc.)
• Check showtimes online and arrive early for the best spot

Pro Tip: Make it a double feature night and bring card games for intermission.

46. Visit a Farmer’s Market

A farmer’s market is more than just a place to shop—it’s a vibe.

Why It’s Great:

• Fresh local produce and homemade goods
• Try samples of jams, cheeses, or fresh bread
• Discover unique crafts or handmade gifts

Fun Twist: Challenge each other to buy one ingredient and later create a mini meal together!

Tip: Go early in the morning for the best selection and fewer crowds.

47. Try a New Sport Like Frisbee Golf

Step out of your comfort zone with a casual, quirky sport.

What to Try:

• Frisbee (disc) golf
• Pickleball
• Paddle boarding
• Badminton or spikeball in a park

Why It’s Fun:

• Low pressure and great for laughs
• Encourages movement and friendly competition
• Perfect for parks or open fields

Bonus: Make your own silly scorecards or mini trophies for the winners!

48. Go Roller Skating or Ice Skating

Glide into good times with music, movement, and maybe a few tumbles.

What You’ll Need:

• Skates (rental available at most rinks)
• Comfy clothes and protective gear (especially for beginners)
• A sense of humor!

Tip: Look for themed skate nights—80s disco, glow-in-the-dark, or couples skate!

Group Challenge: Learn a basic skating routine together and perform it as a group.

49. Visit an Animal Shelter

Spend quality time with furry friends and maybe even make a difference.

Why It’s a Great Activity:

• Petting and playing with animals is relaxing and uplifting
• Some shelters offer dog-walking or cat socialization volunteer shifts
• Great bonding opportunity with a shared purpose

Bonus: Bring treats or supplies to donate—and snap some adorable pics!

50. Go Thrift Shopping or Antique Hunting

Turn shopping into an adventure by hunting for hidden treasures.

How to Do It:

• Visit local thrift stores, flea markets, or antique malls
• Set a budget challenge (e.g., best outfit for \$5)
• Search for odd items, retro fashion, or old-school gadgets

Group Game: Vote on “Best Find,” “Funniest Item,” or “Most Unusual Treasure.”

51. Try a “Chopped”-Style Cooking Challenge

Bring the chaos of cooking shows into your kitchen—no pressure, just fun!

How It Works:

• Assign random ingredients to each friend
• Set a time limit (e.g., 30 minutes) to create a dish
• Present your creations and taste-test everything

Need Ideas? Use snacks, pantry leftovers, or choose a mystery ingredient for each round.

Award Ideas: “Most Creative,” “Surprisingly Delicious,” “Best Plating,” etc.

52. Create Vision Boards Together

Manifest your dreams and goals through this relaxing and creative activity.

What You’ll Need:

• Magazines, scissors, glue, poster board or canvas
• Printed quotes, photos, or goal prompts
• Music, snacks, and an open mind

How-To: Each person creates their own board focused on future dreams—career, travel, lifestyle, etc.

Bonus Idea: Share your boards and explain your vision—it can spark inspiring conversations.

53. Create a Time Capsule for Your Group

Preserve your current memories and open them together in the future.

Steps to Make One:

• Write letters to your future selves
• Add small items: inside jokes, group photo, a favorite snack wrapper, etc.
• Seal it in a box or jar

Where to Keep It:

• Hide it in someone’s home
• Bury it in a safe backyard spot (waterproof it first)
• Set a “reopen date” together (1 year? 5 years?)

Why It’s Special: It’s sentimental, fun, and gives you something meaningful to look forward to.

54. Play a Card Game You’ve Never Tried

A new card game is the perfect mix of challenge and discovery.

Games to Try:

• Exploding Kittens
• Sushi Go!
• Spit, Speed, or Egyptian Rat Slap
• Cards Against Humanity (for older groups)
• Coup or Uno Flip

How to Learn:

• Watch a YouTube tutorial together
• Use game apps for digital instructions
• Rotate game choice so everyone gets a turn to teach one

Pro Tip: Keep snacks and music nearby—it’s game night, after all!

See Also: 30 Pumpkin Carving Party Ideas for a Spook-tacular Night

Wrapping Up

Boredom doesn’t stand a chance when you’ve got the right ideas and great friends by your side. From playing funny games for groups to exploring creative bestie activities, there’s always something exciting to do—whether you’re lounging at home or out on the town.

These fun things to do with friends at home and beyond are not only great boredom busters but also fantastic ways to strengthen your bond, share laughter, and create lasting memories. The next time you’re asking yourself, “what to do when you’re bored?”, just revisit this list of things to do when bored with friends and try something new.

If you found these suggestions helpful, don’t keep them to yourself—share this post with your crew! And if you have your own go-to activities to do with friends, let us know in the comments. After all, the more ideas, the more fun we can all have together!