Grandma Core Is Trending: The Screen-Free Hobbies Gen Z Actually Loves

If you’ve been feeling the itch to unplug, you’re not alone. In a world of endless scrolling and quick dopamine hits, Gen Z is finding comfort in something surprisingly old-fashioned: grandma-inspired hobbies.

I’ve been making sourdough for a couple of years now (no shade to my starter, still love it), but lately I’ve been craving something new. Enter Grandma Core - cozy, nostalgic hobbies that are trending on TikTok. It’s all about slowing down, creating with your hands, and finding joy in little rituals. Think handwritten notes, puzzle nights, mismatched mugs of tea, and the simple joy of sitting around a table with friends.

To understand the movement, we researched the trend, tested products ourselves, and rounded up our favorites that make this unplugged lifestyle actually fun and worth your time.

Classic Games, Made Modern (Backgammon, Mahjong, Chess)

Games you probably remember from your grandparents’ shelves are making a comeback with a fresh, stylish twist.

GAMMN Backgammon Board Backgammon has always been a staple at family gatherings, but this design-forward board makes it aspirational, not dusty. I love how portable and photogenic it is. It’s a perfect pick for a casual night in with friends (and maybe a bottle (or 2) of wine).

💲 Price: $68
👉 Get it on  GAMMN

Ralph & Rose Omm Mahjong Tiles
I remember my boss telling me her girlfriends were getting Mahjong lessons, but all of a sudden, Mahjong is showing up at my friend’s dinner parties. I love the beautiful colorful sets, so this lemony-fresh tile stood out to me. One of my friends admitted she didn’t know the rules at first but said the set was so pretty it doubled as decor until she learned.

💲 Price: $360
👉 Get it on  Ralph & Rose

Nymzo Stanton Series Chess Set Chess has been having a cultural moment thanks to The Queen’s Gambit and TikTok streamers. This modern set makes strategy nights look chic. Even if you’re a beginner, it’s a conversation piece.
💲 Price: $99
👉 Get it on  Nymzo

Worth it if: You want to host stylish, screen-free game nights.
Keep in mind: Some games take time to learn if you’re new.

Cozy Comfort at Home (Slippers, Needlepoint, Knitting Kits)

Grandma core thrives on rituals that make home feel like a retreat.

CP Slippers Natural Leather Slippers Made in Spain from vegetable-tanned leather, these slippers feel stiff at first but soften beautifully. Each pair develops a patina unique to you.
💲 Price: $39
👉 Get it on CP Slippers

Penny Linn “I Cry A Lot” Needlepoint Kit Calling all swifties! Needlepoint may sound old-school, but Penny Linn makes it cheeky and has so many fun patterns. I had to have this Taylor Swift–inspired kit, it took a few evenings to finish, but it was surprisingly meditative! 

💲 Price: $42
👉 Get it on  Penny Linn

Purl Soho Learn to Knit Kit Knitting has become the ultimate mindful hobby. Purl Soho’s kit is beginner-friendly, with soft yarn and clear instructions. Bonus: you end up with a scarf or hat you’ll actually wear.
💲 Price: $98
👉 Get it on  Purl Soho

Worth it if: You want hands-on relaxation and cozy results.
Keep in mind: Projects can be time-intensive.

Puzzles and Screen-Free Games (Puzzles, Boards, Card Decks)

Puzzles are the ultimate slow-brain activity, and card decks keep the fun light and social.

Anthropologie Autumn in the Neighborhood Puzzle This 1,000-piece puzzle kept us entertained for a week. The artwork is so pretty that we framed it in our office afterwards.

💲 Price: $38
👉 Get it on  Anthropologie

Becko Portable Puzzle Board We tested this with a 1,000-piece set and loved how easy it was to slide the project away mid-progress. No more sacrificing the dinner table.
💲 Price: $56
👉 Get it on  Amazon

Fun Fact Co. “Would You Rather?” Card Game Not a puzzle, but a laugh-filled way to spark conversation. We tried it with friends, and it quickly became a go-to for game nights.
💲 Price: $25
👉 Get it on  Amazon

Worth it if: You want screen-free group activities.
Keep in mind: Puzzles take space and patience.

Gardening and Indoor Greenery

You don’t need a backyard to embrace your green thumb — balconies, windowsills, and hydroponic systems make gardening accessible.

Williams Sonoma Garden Tools & Bag This polished starter set made even small herb projects feel intentional. The bag is sturdy and keeps tools neatly in one place.
💲 Price: $129
👉 Get it on  Williams Sonoma

Indoor Hydroponic Garden System Perfect for apartments, this compact system grows herbs year-round without soil. I love how low-maintenance it is.

💲 Price: $99
👉 Get it on  Amazon

Worth it if: You want fresh herbs without fuss.
Keep in mind: Some systems require special pods or lights.

Pickleball Gear You’ll Actually Want to Show Off

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. and Gen Z has officially claimed it.

The Pretty Pickleball Company “Stroke of Midnight” Paddle Lightweight, durable, and designed by women, this paddle balances performance with style. It looks just as good on the court as it did on our feeds.

 💲 Price: $98
👉 Get it on  Pretty Pickleball

Quince Pickleball Paddles

‍ For a more affordable option, Quince makes paddles that are both aesthetic and functional.

💲 Price: $59
👉 Get it on  Quince

Worth it if: You want a social sport that doubles as a workout.
Keep in mind: Courts can get crowded in popular areas.

The Takeaway

Grandma core isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about choosing presence over distraction. From puzzles to pickleball, these tactile hobbies give you a reason to log off, reconnect, and make something with your hands.

My advice: start small. Pick one hobby that excites you — whether it’s hosting a Mahjong night, knitting your first scarf, or growing basil on your windowsill. The finished product is rewarding, but the real joy is in the ritual itself.

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