City Cast Salt Lake logo
Advertisement image

Unique New Hobbies To Pick Up in 2026

Posted on January 16
Terina Ria

Terina Ria

USA bobsled on track at 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics.

This could be you: bobsledding at Utah Olympic Park. (David Madison/Getty Images)

In the mood to shake up your routine? 2026 is the year for trying something totally new (whether you follow through or not). Here are a few unexpected hobbies worth adding to your goals list.

Olympic Fencing

Because why not? The University of Utah offers a myriad of continuing education courses, both single-day and multi-week, with everything from Olympic fencing to raising backyard chickens.

Pickling

Craft Club SLC is made for meeting other creatives who love to dabble in different mediums. On Feb. 3 they’re hosting a pickling party: Good for your gut and great for adding to your roster of hobbies.

Chess

Growing up I was more of a checkers gal, but I feel myself inching toward my chess era. Luckily, there are so many chess clubs around Salt Lake City including Sundays at Woodbine and Mondays at T.F. Brewing.

Papermaking

I don’t know about you, but in this digital world all I want to do is make something with my hands. Papermaking is a tangible art form that helps you slow down and get a little messy.

Bobsledding

On the opposite end of the spectrum is adrenaline-packed bobsledding at Utah Olympic Park in Park City, a chance to live out your “Cool Runnings” dream.

Share article

Hey Salt Lake

Stay connected to City Cast Salt Lake and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

Salt Lake's Best

See All
Salt Lake's BestApril 24

The Best Indie Bookstores

This Saturday, April 25 is Independent Bookstore Day! The best day of the year for book lovers across the nation. Find out how to celebra...

Books on shelves at Lovebound Library.
Salt Lake's BestApril 17

Where To Make Friends in Salt Lake City

It’s hard to make new friends as an adult. But the good news: Salt Lake is booming with social clubs. Here are some for you to try!

Table tennis.
Salt Lake's BestApril 1

Your Guide to Salt Lake in April 2026

In Salt Lake, we’re all fools for April. Collectively, we’ve decided it’s spring whether or not the weather agrees. Here’s what to check...

Stained glass flowers.
Salt Lake's BestMarch 20

Salt Lake’s Best Patios for Every Occasion

It feels like fool’s summer in Utah! So if you’re looking to lay out like a lizard and soak up the sun this weekend, here are some recomm...

Loki Coffee patio.
Salt Lake's BestMarch 13

The Best Pies for Pi Day

It’s pie day! Or Pi Day. Or 3.14159265 … Day. Whatever you call it, any excuse to celebrate a good slice is a win in my book. Here are so...

Blueberry pie surrounded by blueberries and lemons.
Salt Lake's BestMarch 6

The Best Houseplants for People Who Are Bad at Plants

Salt Lake City isn’t the easiest environment for houseplants. But here are a few plants that do best in Salt Lake City homes.

Pothos plant and other plant on a bookshelf.
Salt Lake's BestMarch 3

Free & Cheap Things To Do in Salt Lake This Spring

Looking for free/inexpensive things to do for spring break in Salt Lake City? We’ve got some ideas to keep you plenty entertained on the...

Hand holding a shovel digging in a garden.
Salt Lake's BestMarch 2

Your Guide to March in Salt Lake City

March is here and bringing the end of Ramadan, its usual Madness 🏀, and maybe even some snow. Check out these ideas for making the most...

Synchronized skaters in blue uniforms lifting two performers in front of a crowd.