Explore New Hobbies on Healthcare Travel Assignments

Travel nurses and healthcare travelers have front-row access to some of the most exciting landscapes in the country. Many travelers enjoy hiking, kayaking, climbing, and other high-energy adventures on their travel assignments—and it’s easy to see why when you scroll through their epic Instagram posts.

After all, one of the biggest perks to being a healthcare traveler is the chance to explore new cities, unwind in the outdoors, and even try your hand at something brand new.

However, not every traveler is looking for adrenaline-pumping excursions, and being new to some of these activities can feel intimidating. Maybe you’re interested in trying adventurous sports but don’t know where to start—or maybe you prefer something a little more low-key on your days off.  

Whether you’re looking for a low-key activity after a long shift or feeling ready to dive into something more adventurous, this guide offers inspiration for new hobbies to enjoy and the best places to try them during your healthcare travel assignment.

Best Hobbies for Healthcare Travelers

Low-Key Outdoor Activities for Unwinding After a Shift

These outdoor hobbies allow you to enjoy the fresh air without needing to train like an athlete. Perfect for solo time, low-pressure social fun, or decompressing in nature.

• Pickleball: This is one of the easiest sports to pick up while traveling. Despite being around since 1965, it’s had a recent surge in popularity, making it easy to enjoy wherever your assignment takes you.
  Where to play: Washington State is the birthplace of pickleball, and Tacoma is home to one of the most active pickleball scenes in the Pacific Northwest. Head to Chambers Creek Regional Park for some great courts and events.

• Disc Golf: A casual walk in the park with a side of fun competition. All you need is a disc and a place to play (many courses are free to use). It’s a great mix of light exercise and low-stakes competition.
  Where to play: Charlotte, NC, has beautiful public disc golf courses, such as Hornets Nest Park, which offers beginner-friendly layouts and local groups.

• Cycling: Whether it’s a cruiser through town or a rail trail, biking is a scenic way to explore your assignment cities.
  Where to ride: Portland, OR, is known for its extensive bike lanes, greenways, and cycling-friendly culture, making it a top pick for riders of all levels.

• Kayaking / Paddleboarding Calm-water paddling is both peaceful and beginner-friendly.
  Where to paddle: Portland, ME offers kayak rentals and guided paddles around Casco Bay—no experience needed..

• Urban Hiking/Walking: Discover local charm and history with self-guided tours or community strolls.
  Where to enjoy: Montgomery, AL features historic downtown walks and scenic trails along the Alabama River.

Getting Started with More Adventurous Outdoor Hobbies

Dreaming of hiking summits or trying rock climbing, but don’t know where to begin? These tips and starter-friendly destinations will help you ease into bigger adventures safely and confidently.

Start slow. Try beginner trails, indoor climbing gyms, or gentle paddling routes.
Take a class. Look for guided hikes, group kayaking tours, or intro rock climbing sessions.
Join a group. Local clubs are beginner-friendly and a great way to meet fellow explorers.
Know your limits. Start small and build confidence—you don’t need to summit a mountain on day one!

• Hiking
  Where to start: Greensboro, NC has accessible trails in the nearby Guilford Courthouse National Military Park and surrounding green spaces.
• Kayaking
  Where to start: San Diego, CA, offers calm-water tours at La Jolla Cove, great for first-timers.
• Climbing
  Where to start: Boulder, CO, offers introductory classes at The Spot Bouldering Gym and nearby guided outdoor routes.
• Mountain Biking
  Where to ride: Spokane, WA, has beginner-friendly mountain biking trails at Beacon Hill and Camp Sekani Park, with rentals available nearby.

Other Hobbies to Try on Assignment

Even if the outdoors isn’t your thing, there are plenty of low-pressure hobbies to try, whether you’re looking for a new creative outlet or a fun way to meet locals.

Social & Chill

• Bowling
  Where to bowl: Milwaukee, WI, is a historic hub for bowling, with retro alleys and casual leagues.
• Board Game Meetups
  Where to play: Chicago, IL, has board game cafés and Meetup groups that are perfect for newcomers.
• Trivia Nights
  Where to play: Shreveport, LA, has local bars and breweries with weekly trivia for all interests.

Creative Outlets

• Pottery & Ceramics
  Where to create: Asheville, NC, offers beginner classes at Odyssey Clayworks.
• Painting Classes
  Where to paint: Santa Fe, NM, has guided art workshops focused on Southwestern landscapes.
• Improv & Community Theater
  Where to try it: Chicago, IL—home of The Second City—offers workshops for all experience levels.
• Cooking Classes
  Where to cook: New Orleans, LA, is a dream for food lovers, offering plenty of hands-on cooking classes where travelers can learn to make iconic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines.

Try Something New on Your TNAA Assignment

You don’t need to be an adrenaline junkie to live an adventurous life as a healthcare traveler. Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences come from trying something small, fun, and totally new. Whether it’s your first round of pickleball, a pottery class, or a trivia night that leads to new friends, every city has plenty for you to enjoy on your next healthcare travel assignment!

Plus, when you travel with TNAA, you’re traveling with an agency that has your back every step of the way. Housing, credentialing, benefits, sick leave – we’ve got you covered. All you have to do is pack your bags and decide where you’re going.

Ready to secure your next assignment—and maybe a new hobby, too? Check out TNAA’s available jobs and apply today!