Rainy days happen in Texas, especially during hurricane season. However, don’t think your day is ruined by the bad weather. Embrace the indoors during a rainy Texas day. These top rainy day activities in Texas will get you out of the house and enjoying Texas’ awesome indoor attractions.
Go Caving
What Is It? For those who are outdoorsy, rain can really put a damper on outdoor plans. However, caving is a great option for when rain hits the forecast.
Why Do It? There are a number of caves in Texas, and they span all over the state. A popular caving destination is the Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio. If you aren’t near San Antonio however, there are still numerous caves to explore, such as Longhorn Caverns, Cascade Caverns, and the Inner Space Cavern.
Good to Know: No matter what cave you choose to visit, caving is a remarkable experience and the perfect way to spend a rainy day.
Visit a Museum
What Is It? A visit to a museum is always a go-to activity to do during a rainy day. Lucky for Texans, there are great museums all over the state.
Why Do It? From large to small and from history to art, there is sure to be a museum in your area that piques your interest. The Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth is a great option since it’s one of the best art museums in the state.
Good to Know: For those who aren’t in the Fort Worth area, learn about Texas history at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin or explore the awesome exhibits at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
Go Indoor Rock Climbing
What Is It? Indoor rock climbing is another activity that will please outdoor lovers and exercise enthusiasts.
Why Do It? There are indoor rock climbing gyms all over the state that will work with anyone from beginner to seasoned climbers.
Good to Know: Austin Bouldering Project is one of the biggest climbing gyms in Texas. However indoor rock climbing gyms can be found in most big Texas cities.
Try an Indoor Adventure
What Is It? From laser tag to indoor skydiving to an indoor trampoline park to even an indoor go-kart racing arena, there are plenty of adventure parks in the Lone Star State to keep you occupied while rain is falling outside.
Why Do It? Head to iFly Indoor Skydiving Center, which has a number of locations in the state including Austin, for a thrilling rainy day.
Good to Know: With a number of options to choose from, a day full of adventure will make you forget all about the weather.
Visit a Theater
What Is It? Enjoy a great movie, an IMAX film or even live theater when the weather turns sour.
Why Do It? Alamo Drafthouse, an Austin institution, has now expanded to a number of locations not only in Texas but throughout the U.S.
Good to Know: Here you can enjoy a movie (or even a movie marathon), along with casual dining and beer and wine.
Play Indoor Games
What Is It? Have fun on a rainy day by indulging in some indoor gaming.
Why Do It? Now there are a few places in Texas that have not only a wide variety of arcade games but also a full bar and restaurant. Main Event, which has a number of locations in Texas including Houston, is a must-visit for a family-friendly rainy day.
Good to Know: Main Event has a full bar, an arcade, laser tag, and bowling.
Browse a Bookstore or Record Store
What Is It? Find your next favorite book on a rainy day in one of the state’s top bookstores.
Why Do It? Try an independent, locally-owned bookstore instead of hitting up a retail chain. The Wild Detectives, located in Dallas, is a great place to visit for books, coffee and music.
Good to Know: You may even find live music happening at this music and book cafe.
Eat at a Local Restaurant
What Is It? Texans love to eat, no matter if it’s Tex-Mex or barbeque. Therefore there are a number of top-notch restaurants all over the state.
Why Do It? Franklin Barbecue is an iconic barbecue restaurant in Austin that is known for having the best food around. Or hit up the Original Ninfa’s on Navigation in Houston from some great Mexican food.
Good to Know: With so many awesome places to eat, you’re bound to find a new favorite place on a rainy day.
Visit a Comedy Club
What Is It? Laugh the rainy day or night away by visiting a comedy club. Comedy clubs are found in nearly all of the major cities in Texas.
Why Do It? Austin has a great comedy scene. Visit Esther’s Follies for some good laughs.
Good to Know: Some cafes and theaters also host comedy open-mic nights too.
Relax at a Spa
What Is It? You’ll have no memory of the thunderstorm outside as you enjoy a relaxing massage or facial at a Texas spa resort.
Why Do It? If you’re looking for the best spa resort in Texas, visit Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, the Joule Hotel in Dallas, or the spa at the Houstonian Hotel in Houston.
Good to Know: From spa chains to hotel spas to one-of-a-kind, local spa resorts, there is sure to be a spa near you.
Go Shopping
What Is It? Shop till you drop the next time a rainy day comes along.
Why Do It? Texas has a number of great shopping malls, outlet malls, and even antique shopping areas to enjoy. Visit the largest mall in Texas, the Galleria in Houston.
Good to Know: With over 300 shops, along with high-end stores, dining, and even an ice-skating rink, it’s a great place to spend a rainy day.
