“52% argued that it’s actually harder to have fun than it was 10 years ago.”

“They believe it’s largely because they can’t afford the same activities (51%), their social circle has shrunk (45%), or that they have more responsibilities (42%).”

“The survey also identified that fun plans are most often barred because of cost and budget (57%), personal schedule (34%), work schedule (31%), friends and family not having time to do anything (29%), general burnout (22%), and not knowing what to do (16%).”

“Over a third (37%) frequently think of a fun activity, but have to tone it down or cancel because something comes up.”

“33% said they frequently have to cancel fun plans because adult responsibilities get in the way.”

“People said they’d be more motivated to prioritize fun in their life if it was a low-cost experience (55%), had more free time (41%), had more exciting things to do (32%), had better planning with their friends (29%), felt like it was “worth it” (29%) and had less work stress (22%).”

“Talker Research surveyed 5,000 American adults, 100 per state who have access to the internet; the survey was commissioned by Dave & Buster’s and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Apr. 21 and May 1, 2026.”