Have you ever found yourself wide awake at 12 am wondering what to do? Whether you’re a night owl or just can’t seem to fall asleep, there are plenty of fun things to do in the wee hours of the night. We’ve compiled a list of ideas to help you make the most of your late-night hours.
Watch a Movie
One classic way to spend your late-night hours is to watch a movie. You can either catch a new release or re-watch an old favorite. Grab some popcorn, turn the lights down low, and enjoy the show.
Movie Suggestions
- The Godfather
- The Shawshank Redemption
- Pulp Fiction
- The Dark Knight
- Forrest Gump
Play Video Games
Video games are a great way to pass the time and get lost in another world. Whether you’re into first-person shooters or RPGs, there is something for everyone. Plus, many games offer online multiplayer options, so you can join forces with friends or make new ones.
Popular Video Games
- Fortnite
- Call of Duty
- Overwatch
- League of Legends
- Minecraft
Have a Midnight Snack
Feeling hungry? Whip up a quick snack to satisfy your cravings. Whether it’s sweet or savory, there are plenty of late-night snack options to choose from.
Snack Ideas
- Pizza Rolls
- Popcorn
- Microwaveable Mac and Cheese
- Ice Cream
- Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches
Take a Walk
If you’re feeling restless, going for a walk can be a great way to clear your mind and get some fresh air. Just be sure to stay safe and aware of your surroundings.
Places to Walk at Night
- A Local Park
- A Hiking Trail
- A Quiet Neighborhood
- A Beach
- A Nature Reserve
Read a Book
If you’re looking for a quieter activity, why not curl up with a good book? Reading has been shown to reduce stress and improve cognitive function, making it the perfect way to wind down before bed.
Popular Books
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- 1984 by George Orwell
- Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
- The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Watch the Stars
If the weather permits, spending some time stargazing can be a beautiful and serene way to spend your late-night hours. Download an app to help you identify constellations or simply admire the twinkling lights above.
Stargazing Tips
What to Bring: | Blanket, Telescope or Binoculars, Water, Snacks |
Best Time to Stargaze: | 2-3 Hours after Sunset or Right Before Dawn |
Best Places to Stargaze: | Areas with Low Light Pollution: Rural Areas, National Parks, or Observatories |
Create a DIY Project
Feeling crafty? Why not try your hand at a DIY project? Pinterest is a great source of inspiration, and there are plenty of tutorials available online. Plus, you’ll have a unique creation to show off once you’re finished.
DIY Project Ideas
- Upcycling Old Clothing
- Paper Crafts (Origami, Scrapbooking, etc.)
- Painting or Drawing
- Jewelry Making
- Woodworking
Listen to Music
Put on your favorite artist or discover new music with streaming services like Spotify or Pandora. Music has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, making it a great way to unwind at the end of a long day.
Top Music Playlists
- Chill Hits
- Today’s Top Hits
- 80s Classics
- Country Mix
- Latin Pop
Conclusion
No matter how you choose to spend your late-night hours, be sure to prioritize self-care and safety. By trying out some of the late-night fun ideas we’ve suggested, you’ll be sure to make the most of your time.
FAQs
-
Is it safe to go out at 12 am?
It ultimately depends on where you are and the specific circumstances. If you do choose to go out, be sure to stay in well-lit areas and let someone know where you’re going. -
Are there any late-night cafes or restaurants open at 12 am?
Yes, there are many cafes and restaurants that are open late. Do some research or ask around to find out which places in your area stay open past midnight. -
Can I watch the sunrise at 12 am?
No, the sun does not rise at 12 am. However, if you stay up all night, you can watch the sunrise in the morning. -
Is it okay to eat late at night?
Eating late at night is generally okay, but it’s important to make healthy food choices and avoid eating too close to bedtime to prevent digestion issues. -
What are some other late-night activities?
Other late-night activities include playing board games, doing puzzles, taking a bath, or catching up on emails or work you didn’t have time for during the day.
References
-
“50 Best Sleep Habits For An All-Night Slumber.” The Sleep Judge, 2021,
https://www.thesleepjudge.com/healthy-sleep-habits/ -
“How To Stargaze: A Beginner’s Guide To Astronomy.” Space.com, 2019,
https://www.space.com/stargazing-guide.html -
“Late-Night Snacks: How To Be Smart About Midnight Munchies.” Cleveland Clinic, 2019,
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/late-night-snacks-how-to-be-smart-about-midnight-munchies/ -
“The Benefits of Reading: 7 Ways It Can Positively Affect the Brain.” Book Riot, 2021,
https://bookriot.com/benefits-of-reading/ -
“The Power of Music to Reduce Stress.” Healthline, 2019,
https://www.healthline.com/health/stress-and-music