When I think about finding a hobby that makes everyday life more enjoyable, I believe you don’t have to look far to discover something that truly fits your personality.
Des Plaines hobbies offer plenty of ways to spend your free time, whether you want to get creative, learn a new skill, stay active, meet people, or simply relax after a busy day. From quiet indoor activities to social and outdoor pursuits, you can find options that match your interests, schedule, and budget. In this guide, I’ll help you explore different hobby ideas in Des Plaines so you can discover something you’ll genuinely enjoy and look forward to doing.
Best Des Plaines Hobbies at a Glance
| Hobby | Starting Cost | Social Level | Space Needed | Good For |
| Model railroading | Moderate | Low–High | Moderate | Detail-oriented hobbyists |
| Arts and crafts | Low–Moderate | Low–High | Low | Creative beginners |
| Reading | Low | Low–Moderate | Very low | Quiet leisure |
| Photography | Low–Moderate | Low | Low | Exploring and creativity |
| Walking and hiking | Low | Low–Moderate | None at home | Outdoor enthusiasts |
| Biking | Moderate | Low–High | Moderate | Active exploration |
| Fishing | Moderate | Low–Moderate | Low | Relaxed outdoor time |
| Pickleball | Low–Moderate | High | None at home | Social recreation |
| Gardening | Low–Moderate | Low | Outdoor space helpful | Plant lovers |
| Dancing | Moderate | High | Studio or home space | Active learners |
| Music | Low–High | Low–High | Low–Moderate | Creative learners |
| Board games and tabletop gaming | Low–Moderate | High | Low | Friends and families |
| Cooking | Low–Moderate | Low–High | Kitchen | Practical creativity |
| History and local research | Low | Low | Very low | Curious learners |
| Makerspace projects | Low–Moderate | Low–High | Low at home | Hands-on creators |
Costs vary substantially depending on equipment, classes, and how deeply you pursue a hobby.
1. Model Railroading
Model railroading is one of the most distinctive hobby options in Des Plaines.
Des Plaines Hobbies is located at 1524 Lee Street and specializes in model railroad products and related hobby supplies. Its current online catalog includes railroad equipment across multiple scales, scenery, tools, paints and supplies, wood models, rockets, plastic models, and other hobby categories.
For someone who enjoys detailed projects, model railroading can combine:
- Building miniature structures
- Designing scenery
- Painting and weathering models
- Electrical and track work
- Collecting trains
- Creating realistic miniature landscapes
- Learning about railroad history
A beginner does not need to build a huge layout immediately. Starting with a small train set, a simple scene, or a few modeling projects can make the hobby much more manageable.
Best for: People who enjoy collecting, engineering, miniature construction, history, and detailed creative work.
2. Arts and Crafts
Arts and crafts are among the easiest hobbies to start because the activity can be scaled to almost any budget or skill level.
Possible projects include:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Paper crafts
- Jewelry making
- Sewing
- Knitting
- Cricut projects
- Decorative crafts
- Mixed-media projects
- DIY gifts
The Des Plaines Public Library is particularly useful for residents interested in creative hobbies. Its resources have included Creativebug courses, sewing equipment through the Library of Things, craft-related resources, and other creative learning opportunities.
The library’s Canvas makerspace also provides access to a more specialized creative environment. Current information indicates that cardholders must complete an orientation and sign a waiver before using the makerspace machinery.
Best for: Beginners who want a creative hobby without immediately investing in a large amount of equipment.
3. Reading and Book Clubs
Reading is one of the simplest Des Plaines hobbies because it requires very little space and can be practiced almost anywhere.
You can turn reading into a more structured hobby by choosing a theme, such as:
- Mystery novels
- Science fiction
- History
- Biography
- Local history
- Travel
- Cooking
- Art
- Personal development
The Des Plaines Public Library is a natural starting point. The library provides books and other media, programs, special events, and discussion opportunities. Its materials and programs also extend beyond traditional reading, making it useful for people who want to explore several interests at once.
If you prefer social reading, look for current discussion groups and library events rather than trying to organize everything yourself.
Best for: Introverts, lifelong learners, people on a small budget, and anyone looking for a relaxing hobby.
4. Walking and Hiking
Outdoor hobbies are another strong option in Des Plaines.
The City of Des Plaines specifically highlights walking and biking trails as part of its recreational resources, including access to the Des Plaines River Trail and Cook County Forest Preserve locations.
Walking can also become more interesting when you give it a purpose. For example, you could:
- Photograph interesting buildings
- Look for birds
- Explore different neighborhoods
- Track seasonal changes
- Listen to audiobooks or podcasts
- Walk with friends
- Combine walking with photography
Unlike many equipment-heavy hobbies, walking has a very low barrier to entry.
Best for: People who want an inexpensive outdoor hobby that can be done alone or socially.
5. Biking
Cycling can turn local exploration into a regular hobby.
The city provides information about Des Plaines bike routes and the Des Plaines River Trail, making cycling an option for people who want to explore the area by bicycle.
You can approach biking in several ways:
- Casual neighborhood riding
- Trail riding
- Fitness cycling
- Photography rides
- Family cycling
- Longer recreational rides
A new cyclist does not need an expensive performance bicycle. A properly fitted, comfortable bike and appropriate safety equipment are more useful starting priorities.
Best for: People who enjoy outdoor exploration and want a hobby that can gradually become more active.
6. Fishing
Fishing provides a slower-paced outdoor hobby for people who enjoy spending time near water.
Lake Opeka is one local option. Des Plaines Park District information states that fishing is permitted there, while anglers still need to follow applicable Cook County and Illinois licensing requirements, as well as posted fishing rules and limits. Swimming in the lake is not permitted.
A beginner can start with basic tackle rather than buying an extensive collection of equipment.
Fishing can also be combined with other hobbies, including:
- Nature photography
- Bird watching
- Outdoor cooking where permitted
- Journaling
- Learning about local fish species
Best for: People who prefer patient, quiet outdoor activities.
7. Pickleball
Pickleball is a practical choice if you want a hobby that is both recreational and social.
Des Plaines has dedicated pickleball facilities, and the Des Plaines Public Library has also promoted pickleball through its Library of Things, including a pickleball set that patrons can borrow.
That makes the hobby easier to test before investing heavily in equipment.
For beginners, the biggest advantage is that you can approach pickleball casually. You can learn basic rules and technique first, then gradually become more competitive if you enjoy the game.
Best for: People who want an active hobby with a strong social component.
8. Gardening
Gardening is a flexible hobby because it can range from a few containers on a patio to a much larger outdoor project.
You can experiment with:
- Flowers
- Herbs
- Vegetables
- Native plants
- Container gardening
- Indoor plants
- Pollinator-friendly plantings
You do not need a large yard. A few containers can be enough to determine whether gardening suits you.
Lurvey Landscape Supply is a Des Plaines garden center that can be useful when you need gardening and landscape supplies locally.
For beginners, start small. Growing a handful of plants successfully is generally more useful than buying a large amount of equipment before understanding what you enjoy growing.
Best for: People who like hands-on projects, plants, seasonal changes, and outdoor time.
9. Dancing
Dancing combines learning, movement, music, and social interaction.
Move The Beat is a dance school located on Lee Street in Des Plaines, making dance a local option for people who prefer structured instruction.
Possible directions include:
- Social dancing
- Ballroom
- Contemporary styles
- Children’s dance
- Choreography
- Performance-oriented training
If you are new to dance, choose a beginner class rather than assuming you need prior experience.
Best for: People who learn well through instruction and want a hobby that combines creativity with movement.
10. Music and Learning an Instrument
Learning an instrument can become a long-term hobby because there is always another technique, song, or style to explore.
Possible beginner instruments include:
- Guitar
- Ukulele
- Keyboard
- Piano
- Harmonica
- Percussion
The Des Plaines Public Library has offered access to music-learning resources, including ArtistWorks, and has also made instruments such as ukulele available through its Library of Things resources.
This can make experimentation easier before purchasing an expensive instrument.
Best for: People who enjoy music and want a hobby with measurable skill progression.
11. Board Games and Tabletop Gaming
Board gaming is an excellent option if you want a hobby that is primarily social.
You can choose from:
- Strategy games
- Cooperative games
- Card games
- Family games
- Role-playing games
- Classic board games
- Collectible games
The Des Plaines Public Library has promoted board games, gaming systems, video games, Dungeons & Dragons events, and its Des Plaines Baduk (Go) Club.
The major advantage is that you can choose the level of complexity. A family might prefer a simple game, while experienced players can spend hours learning sophisticated strategy.
Best for: Friends, families, tabletop enthusiasts, and people looking for a structured social hobby.
12. Photography
Photography is a particularly flexible hobby in Des Plaines because it can be combined with outdoor exploration.
You can begin with a smartphone rather than immediately buying a dedicated camera.
Try photographing:
- Architecture
- Parks
- Wildlife
- Seasonal landscapes
- Trains
- Local events
- Food
- Street scenes
- Family moments
Once you understand composition and lighting, you can decide whether you actually need additional equipment.
Photography also pairs naturally with walking and biking. Instead of simply traveling through the city, you have a reason to stop, observe, and look for interesting details.
Best for: Creative people who enjoy exploring and documenting what they see.
13. Cooking and Baking
Cooking is a hobby with an immediate practical benefit: you can use the results.
You could focus on a particular area, such as:
- Bread baking
- Desserts
- International cuisine
- Homemade pasta
- Grilling
- Vegetarian cooking
- Meal preparation
- Cake decorating
- Coffee and specialty drinks
The Des Plaines Public Library provides cooking-related resources, including access to New York Times Cooking and a substantial collection of cooking and food books.
A good way to start is to choose one technique rather than trying to master an entire cuisine at once.
Best for: People who enjoy experimentation and want a hobby that produces something useful.
14. Local History and Historical Research
If you enjoy research, stories, old photographs, architecture, or genealogy, local history can become a surprisingly engaging hobby.
The Des Plaines History Center offers exhibits, educational programs, archives, and access to the Kinder House Museum. Admission to the History Center is free, while tours of the 1907 Kinder House Museum are available by appointment and may involve a fee depending on the visitor’s membership status.
The center also hosts Coffee Talks and other programs focused on history and education.
You can take the hobby further by researching:
- Historic buildings
- Former businesses
- Family histories
- Old maps
- Neighborhood changes
- Transportation history
- Des Plaines community history
Best for: Curious learners, history enthusiasts, researchers, and people interested in their local community.
15. Makerspace and DIY Projects
For people who like making physical things, a makerspace can be more useful than buying every tool for home use.
The Des Plaines Public Library’s Canvas makerspace provides a place to learn about and use specialized equipment. Its orientation program explains policies, safety procedures, guidelines, and the available machinery before users begin using the space.
Potential projects may involve:
- Crafting
- Fabric projects
- Digital fabrication
- Decorative objects
- Personalized gifts
- Small DIY projects
The main advantage is experimentation. You can discover which type of making you actually enjoy before investing in a home workshop.
Best for: Hands-on learners, DIY enthusiasts, makers, and creative problem-solvers.
How to Choose the Right Hobby in Des Plaines
With so many possibilities, choosing one can be harder than finding one.
A simple way to narrow your options is to start with the experience you want.
If you want a quiet hobby
Consider:
- Reading
- Model railroading
- Photography
- Gardening
- Local history
- Music practice
These can be pursued largely at your own pace.
If you want to meet people
Consider:
- Pickleball
- Dancing
- Board games
- Book discussions
- Community programs
- Group recreation
The library and local recreation facilities are useful places to look for current programs and groups.
If you want an outdoor hobby
Consider:
- Walking
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Gardening
- Nature photography
Des Plaines has access to trails, parks, waterways, and other recreational resources.
If you want a creative hobby
Consider:
- Painting
- Crafts
- Sewing
- Photography
- Music
- Makerspace projects
- Cooking
- Model building
The library’s creative resources can be particularly helpful when you want to learn without purchasing a full collection of supplies.
If you want a hobby for families
Look at:
- Board games
- Crafts
- Walking and biking
- Fishing
- Cooking
- Library programs
- Outdoor recreation
The best family hobby is usually one that can be adjusted to different ages and skill levels rather than one that requires everyone to perform at the same level.
Where to Find Hobby Resources in Des Plaines
Several local resources can make starting a hobby easier.
Des Plaines Public Library
Des Plaines Public Library is one of the most versatile starting points because it combines books, programs, digital learning resources, a Library of Things, gaming opportunities, creative resources, and the Canvas makerspace.
It is especially useful if you are still deciding what hobby you want to pursue.
Des Plaines Park District
Des Plaines Park District Administrative & Leisure Center is another important resource for recreational hobbies. The city notes that Des Plaines is served by three park districts depending on where a resident lives, so it is worth checking which district applies to your address.
Park and recreation resources can lead to activities involving sports, fitness, trails, aquatic recreation, golf, and other outdoor pursuits.
Des Plaines Hobbies
For model railroading and related hands-on hobbies, Des Plaines Hobbies is a particularly relevant local resource. Its online catalog covers numerous railroad scales, scenery, tools, paints, rockets, plastic models, and other hobby supplies.
Des Plaines History Center
The Des Plaines History Center is useful for anyone whose hobby involves history, archives, local research, or learning about the community. Its History Center admission is free, and it offers exhibits and educational programs.
How Much Do Des Plaines Hobbies Cost?
There is no single cost for a hobby because the starting point and the depth of participation can be very different.
Some hobbies can begin almost free:
- Walking
- Reading through the library
- Local history research
- Smartphone photography
- Library programs
Others require some initial equipment:
- Fishing
- Biking
- Music
- Gardening
- Pickleball
- Crafts
And specialized hobbies can become significantly more expensive:
- Model railroading
- Advanced photography
- Large-scale gardening projects
- Extensive DIY or makerspace equipment
- Collecting
A useful rule is to test the hobby before upgrading the equipment. Library resources, introductory classes, borrowed equipment, and inexpensive starter supplies can help you determine whether you actually enjoy an activity.
How to Start a New Hobby Without Overspending
You do not need to commit to a hobby for an entire year. Treat the first few weeks as an experiment.
- Choose one activity that genuinely interests you.
- Start with the minimum equipment necessary.
- Use local library or recreation resources where available.
- Try an introductory class or community program if appropriate.
- Give the hobby several sessions before judging it.
- Upgrade equipment only after you understand what you enjoy.
This approach is particularly useful for hobbies such as photography, model railroading, crafts, music, gardening, and fishing, where equipment costs can grow quickly.
Des Plaines Hobbies: Which One Is Best for You?
The best hobby depends less on what is objectively “best” and more on what you want from your free time.
If you enjoy precision and collecting, try model railroading.
If you want creative projects, explore arts, crafts, or the library’s makerspace.
If you want quiet leisure, reading, photography, gardening, or local history may be a better fit.
If you want social activity, consider pickleball, dancing, board games, or group programs.
If you prefer outdoor recreation, walking, biking, fishing, and nature photography provide several ways to spend time outside.
And if you are unsure, the Des Plaines Public Library is arguably one of the easiest places to begin because its resources cover so many different interests, from books and gaming to creative learning, music, sewing, cooking, and makerspace activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hobbies in Des Plaines, IL?
Popular choices depend on your interests, but good options include model railroading, arts and crafts, reading, photography, walking, biking, fishing, pickleball, gardening, dancing, music, board games, cooking, local history, and makerspace projects.
Is there a hobby store in Des Plaines?
Yes. Des Plaines Hobbies is located at 1524 Lee Street. Its inventory includes model railroad equipment across multiple scales, scenery, tools, paints, plastic models, rockets, and other hobby supplies.
Where can I find creative hobbies in Des Plaines?
The Des Plaines Public Library is a strong starting point. Its resources have included Creativebug, craft resources, sewing equipment through the Library of Things, and the Canvas makerspace.
What outdoor hobbies can I do in Des Plaines?
Walking, biking, fishing, gardening, and nature photography are several possibilities. The city highlights walking and biking trails, the Des Plaines River Trail, fishing, boating, kayaking, golf, and other recreational resources.
Can I find hobbies that are good for beginners?
Yes. Reading, walking, smartphone photography, basic crafts, gardening, cooking, and board games are relatively accessible starting points. For equipment-heavy hobbies, begin with a simple project rather than purchasing advanced equipment immediately.
Are there social hobbies in Des Plaines?
Yes. Pickleball, dancing, board games, book discussions, library programs, and other community activities can provide opportunities to interact with other people. The library has promoted gaming groups and events, while local recreation resources provide additional opportunities.
Does Des Plaines have resources for people interested in local history?
Yes. The Des Plaines History Center provides exhibits, educational programs, archives, and access to the Kinder House Museum. The center also hosts educational Coffee Talks.
Where should I start if I do not know which hobby I want?
Start with a low-cost activity that matches the type of free time you prefer. The Des Plaines Public Library is particularly useful for experimentation because its resources cover reading, arts, crafts, gaming, music, cooking, sewing, and makerspace activities.
Conclusion
Des Plaines’ hobbies extend well beyond traditional hobby shops. The city provides options for creative projects, model building, reading, music, gaming, outdoor recreation, gardening, history, cooking, dancing, and hands-on making.
For the easiest starting point, explore the Des Plaines Public Library and local park and recreation resources. If model railroading is your interest, Des Plaines Hobbies offers a particularly specialized local resource. For outdoor interests, the city’s trail, park, and recreational resources provide plenty of possibilities.
The best approach is simple: choose one hobby that genuinely interests you, start small, and give yourself enough time to discover whether you enjoy the activity before investing heavily in it.
I’m Sophia Carter, a writer who enjoys discovering interesting ideas and transforming them into helpful content. At Cognivoora, I write with a simple goal: to make information clearer, more accessible, and genuinely useful for readers. I value thoughtful research, easy explanations, and content that people can trust and return to whenever they need it.
Books:
- The Knowledge Journey
- Understanding the World Around Us