Have you ever wondered how the world’s richest people spend their downtime? It’s safe to say that some of the most affluent men and women’s hobbies come with a hefty price tag.
From hitting the slopes to spending quality time in the sky, these are the top 10 leisure activities of the wealthiest folks in the world. Spoiler alert: Some of them might just surprise you.
Most Popular Hobbies of the World’s Richest People
1. Philanthropy
Believe it or not, the most well-to-do people often spend their free time giving to those in need.
Billionaire investor Warren Buffett regularly donates his time and money to the charities his three children run, as well as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Speaking of Mr. Gates, who is one of the world’s richest people, his charitable organization is the largest private philanthropic foundation in the world. Both Buffett and Gates give billions of dollars to charity each year.
2. Travel
It’s probably no surprise that the wealthiest people on the planet enjoy exotic vacations and spontaneous getaways. In fact, many well-known folks prefer spending their downtime on their very own private islands.
Virgin Group founder Richard Branson and millionaire magician David Copperfield are among the island-owning elite.
3. Collecting Art
Many well-off hobbyists are keen on art collecting. Why go to a museum when you can curate your own impressive collection at home?
The Office star Rainn Wilson, comedian Cheech Marin, and talk show host Oprah Winfrey are art connoisseurs.
4. Skiing
While we often envision the world’s most opulent people soaking up the sun and lying on the sand, some notably high earners opt to hit the slopes instead.
Millionaire film producer Peter Chernin is a member of the elite Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana, while superstar singer Phil Collins jet sets to Matterhorn Mountain in Zermatt, Switzerland when he’s in the mood for a skiing adventure.
5. Racing Cars
Some of the most rich and powerful folks enjoy the fast and furious world of car racing. The hobby is downright exhilarating, and draws an elite crowd.
Rich racers include actors Tim Allen and Patrick Dempsey. Rumor has it that the Grey’s Anatomy star schedules filming based on his racing schedule.
6. Wine
It’s no secret that the wealthiest men and women enjoy the finer things in life. Many enjoy collecting (and sipping) expensive wines and spirits.
Well-to-do wine aficionados include English musician Sting, and self-professed “wine snob” and singer Pink.
7. Boating
If you need to find actors Morgan Freeman or George Clooney, they can probably be found on the water. Both millionaires enjoy spending time at sea.
Freeman has described sailing as his “refuge and passion,” while Clooney enjoys entertaining friends on his collection of expensive yachts.
8. Golf
With so many gorgeous courses worldwide, it’s no surprise that the rich and powerful enjoy spending time on the green.
Millionaire actor Clint Eastwood can often be found on the fairway, as well as actresses Jessica Alba and Nicole Kidman
9. Running
Ironically, this inexpensive hobby attracts some of the world’s richest and most influential people.
Noteworthy runners include actress Reese Witherspoon, funnyman Will Ferrell, and celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.pop
10. Hunting
They don’t have to forage for food, but some of the most prosperous people enjoy hunting game.
Actor Chris Pratt describes himself as “obsessed” with the sport, while songstress Avril Lavigne enjoys hunting with her dad and brother.
For the rest of us: check out our list of 100+ hobbies that you can do this year!