Retirement is one of the best parts of life. You’re out of the work force, no longer bound by a nine to five job, and free to pursue all the hobbies and activities you’ve always dreamed of! But where do you start? Wherever you are, check out local listings for clubs, classes, and volunteer opportunities for things you’ve been wanting to do but never had the time for. They’ll keep you active, engaged, and help you stay in touch with the people around you!
Volunteering at an animal shelter is a great way to help out your community and get out of the house, keeping some of the routine work hours you’d followed your whole life. At the SPCA in Eerie County, you can volunteer as an adoption greeter, animal care assistant, canine adoption assistant, foster care provider, and more! Help these cute creatures find their forever homes while simultaneously enriching your life.
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This 21 and over club kicks the boring out of shuffleboard. Forget all the stereotypes you’ve ever heard, and head over to Royal Palms. They feature a different food truck every night, and the schedule is on the calendar (so you’ll know if there’s something you like before you go). You can rent a cabana and a court for use in advance. And, while walk-ins are encouraged, availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. So bring your friends, get a court, and enjoy shuffleboarding like you never have before!
The Finger Lakes is arguably one of the most beautiful areas of New York and is a must-see location if you’re a nature-lover. Experience! offers four different waterfall sightseeing tours, from the natural history hike through Taughannock Falls to the one and a half hour driving tour that takes you to the fabulous falls in the City of Ithaca. And if you’d like to add in some wine, check out the three and a half hour Ithaca Wines and Waterfalls Tour that lets you experience the beauty of the region while simultaneously enjoying some local beverages.
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The Mohawk Antiques Mall works with over 15 different vendors to bring their customers new and exciting items every day! If you love old-fashioned furniture and unique décor, head on down to check out their selection. The mall also sponsors flea markets and auctions, giving you multiple opportunities to find a piece you’ll love!
If you’re in the Binghamton area and love reading, check out the book club at the Broome County Public Library. Discuss different books with a group of people and be able to share your insights, thoughts, and feelings about the plot and characters! Plus, book clubs are everywhere in New York. If you aren’t in Binghamton, check in with your local libraries and activity centers to see if they’re hosting any. You could even start one up yourself!
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is openly accepting volunteers for the guided tour program. Take museum-goers on a journey through the museum’s collection, all while getting to appreciate the pieces for yourself. Best of all, you don’t need any former work experience or an art history background. If accepted, they’ll train you and teach you everything you know in order to serve the needs of the visitors.
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With over 1,700 slots and table games, the Saratoga Casino is perfect spot for your night out (or weekend getaway) with the gals! Budget how much you want to spend so you don’t overdo it, and give yourself a hard-earned break from all those years of work! Enjoy the rush of the games and enjoy some delicious food—but remember, it’s all just for fun!
And, not that we’re ranking, but one of the best things about retirement is getting to enjoy more time with your siblings, children, and grandchildren. Picks a day when the grandkids are off from school, coordinate with everyone’s schedules, and visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. With plenty of exhibits (and, of course, a gift shop), you’ll see a variety of animals. It’s the perfect way to bond with your grandkids and teach them about some of the most gentle creatures nature has to offer.
Want to learn to knit but could never find the time? The Spinning Room in Altamont holds classes and private lessons with several different teachers where you can learn side by side with other people instead of at home on your own. The Spinning Room also hosts knit-ins every Tuesday and Wednesday for two hours, so you can drop on by and enjoy some communal knitting time!
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