Rain in Fort Lauderdale? No problem. Our curated list brings you the best indoor activities that ensure your day is far from washed out. Discover top museums, indoor sports, historic sites, and more, all while exploring what to do in Fort Lauderdale when it rains, without setting a foot outside in the downpour.
Rainy Day Activities for Ft Lauderdale
- Fort Lauderdale offers a wealth of indoor activities such as museums, indoor sports, and family-friendly fun, ensuring a memorable experience regardless of the weather.
- Cultural experiences abound in Fort Lauderdale with historic sites, unique venues like the Wreck Bar, and the Stonewall National Museum & Archives catering to diverse interests and educational pursuits.
- Rainy days can also be about relaxation and indulgence, with opportunities like brewery tours, live performances, shopping sprees, and wellness center visits to rejuvenate the mind and body.
Indoor Adventures for Everyone
Fort Lauderdale is a haven for indoor activities, with a wide range of options to suit every interest. Whether you’re into museum hopping, family-oriented entertainment, or indoor sports, this South Florida hotspot doesn’t disappoint. Let’s discover the entertaining options available in Fort Lauderdale when rain clouds overshadow your outdoor plans.
Downtown Fort Lauderdale houses a variety of museums that appeal to diverse interests. Art lovers, history enthusiasts, or science fans will all discover museums to pique their curiosity. And the best part? Many of these museums offer hands-on exhibits that make learning fun and interactive.
Traveling with children? Fort Lauderdale boasts numerous indoor activities that promise endless fun for the young ones. From interactive exhibits at the Museum of Discovery and Science to arcade games and laser tag, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids in Fort Lauderdale. In fact, the variety of activities in Fort Lauderdale ensures a memorable experience for the entire family.
Museum Hopping
A fantastic way to utilize a rainy day in the Fort Lauderdale area is by visiting its art museums. The downtown Fort Lauderdale is home to several renowned art museums, each offering a unique and enriching experience. From the NSU Museum of Art in Fort Lauderdale to the Coral Springs Museum of Art and the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood, you’re in for a treat.
The NSU Art Museum in Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum features diverse collections and a continuous schedule of events, providing a rich and vibrant cultural experience. If you’re looking for a hands-on experience, consider visiting the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood. There, you’ll have the opportunity to create your own masterpiece. And don’t forget: the NSU Museum of Art offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month!
Family-Friendly Fun
For those journeying with children, Fort Lauderdale provides numerous indoor activities tailored for families. At the top of the list is the Museum of Discovery and Science, a two-floor space jam-packed with hands-on exhibits that will keep the kids entertained for hours. From exploring the mysteries of the Everglades to delving into the world of space and technology, this museum is a wonderful way to spend a rainy day in the Sunshine State.
If you’re looking for something a little different, why not try Monster Mini Golf or the Off the Wall Gamezone? Monster Mini Golf is a glow-in-the-dark mini golf course featuring animated monsters and comical artwork, while Off the Wall Gamezone is an indoor entertainment center offering a wide range of activities. Whether it’s laser tag, arcade games, or a climbing wall, there’s something for everyone in the family.
Indoor Sports and Games
If you’re more inclined towards sports and games, good news awaits you. Fort Lauderdale offers several indoor sports and games options, ensuring you can keep the adrenaline pumping even when it’s raining outside. From Xtreme Action Park to iFly indoor skydiving and projectROCK climbing gym, there’s plenty of indoor fun to be had.
Xtreme Action Park is a one-stop-shop for indoor thrills, offering go-karting, laser tag, arcade games, bowling, roller skating, and more. For a different kind of thrill, try indoor skydiving at iFly, where you can experience the sensation of freefall without jumping out of a plane. Or if you prefer a physical challenge, head to projectROCK, a climbing gym that offers walls, bouldering, and lead climbing.
You can also take some swings at Top Golf, where everything is covered and you won’t get wet.
Or, if you are really into gaming in the form of gambling, check out one of the Seminole Casinos.
As a pickleball fanatic, it’s also worth knowing that there are several indoor pickleball courts in Fort Lauderdale. Our favorite is the Diadem Complex, just north of Lauderdale.
Rainy Day Cultural Experiences
Beyond high-energy entertainment, Fort Lauderdale also presents an expansive cultural scene for exploration, regardless of the weather outside. From historic homes and sites to unique venues like the Wreck Bar, Fort Lauderdale is a city that embraces its history and culture, offering visitors a chance to delve deeper and learn more about its past and present.
Historic homes and sites offer a window into Fort Lauderdale’s rich history. These sites have been meticulously preserved and offer a unique perspective on the city’s past. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply want to step back in time, these sites are a must-visit.
And then there’s the unique Wreck Bar, a one-of-a-kind venue that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past. Nestled in a nautical-themed hotel, the Wreck Bar is designed to resemble a sunken Spanish galleon, creating a truly distinctive atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else.
And if you’re interested in LGBTQ+ history and culture, the Stonewall National Museum & Archives is a must-visit.
Historic Homes and Sites
Visiting its historic homes and sites is an excellent way to delve into Fort Lauderdale’s past. From the Stranahan House Museum to the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, these sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
The Stranahan House Museum is a wonderfully preserved residence dating back to 1901. Once home to Frank and Ivy Stranahan, the founding family of Fort Lauderdale, the house has been meticulously preserved and now serves as a museum.
Another gem is the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, a stunning historic estate listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Established by artist Frederic Clay Bartlett, the estate beautifully reflects the history of the region and the artistic legacy of its creator.
Wreck Bar
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, look no further than the Wreck Bar. This historic bar, located in the B Ocean Resort, boasts a design reminiscent of a sunken Spanish galleon and is famous for its daily mermaid shows. As you sip on tropical cocktails, you can watch mermaids gracefully swimming in a hotel pool through submerged windows. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
The Wreck Bar offers two amazing mermaid shows: the Aquamen show and the MeduSirena AquaBurlesque Dinner and SwimShow. These shows take place every Friday and Saturday, offering a family-friendly show and an aqua burlesque show for adults. So whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or a unique date night idea, the Wreck Bar has you covered.
Stonewall National Museum & Archives
The Stonewall National Museum & Archives in Fort Lauderdale is a wonderful cultural venue that celebrates LGBTQ+ history and culture. With exhibits on the Stonewall riots, queer literature, and art, the museum offers an inclusive space where everyone is welcome.
Visitors can look forward to exploring a diverse range of exhibitions at the museum, including:
- Exhibitions on the Stonewall riots
- Curated displays of queer literature and art
- Notable exhibitions on the joys and struggles of the Black LGBTQ+ community
- ‘Out of the Shadows,’ which focuses on gay life pre-Stonewall
Best of all, there’s no admission fee, although donations are always welcome.
Brewery Tours and Tastings
For beer enthusiasts, exploring Fort Lauderdale’s local breweries is a must. Some of the top breweries in the city include:
- Funky Buddha
- Tarpon River
- LauderAle
- Gulf Stream
The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene that’s sure to delight any beer lover.
One of the standout breweries is Funky Buddha, known for its innovative brews. Here, you can experience the thrill of a brewery tour and tasting, sampling exceptional-yet-unconventional drafts like a PB&J brown ale or a Maple Bacon Coffee Porter. After a day of touring and tasting, you can relax and unwind in the brewery’s laid-back setting, making it a perfect spot for a rainy day adventure.
Live Performances and Theaters
Rainy conditions provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a live performance or theatre show, and Fort Lauderdale offers a rich selection. From the Broward Center for the Performing Arts to The Parker and the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, you’re sure to find a show that suits your tastes.
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is a premier venue that showcases a diverse range of entertainment, from captivating musicals to breathtaking ballets. Over at The Parker, visitors can enjoy incredible performances such as Vicki Lawrence & Mama: A Two Woman Show, R&B Legends, and shows by the South Florida Symphony Orchestra. No matter your preference, these venues offer an indoor escape into a world of drama, music, and dance.
Shopping Spree on a Rainy Day
Who’s to say that rainy days aren’t suitable for shopping? Fort Lauderdale offers a number of shopping centers and malls that are perfect for a rainy day spree. From the Sawgrass Mills outlet mall to Broward Mall and the Galleria Fort Lauderdale, there’s something for every shopper.
Sawgrass Mills is a shopping haven, with over 350 stores housing sought-after outlet locations from brands like Nike and Calvin Klein. For a more upscale shopping experience, head to the Galleria Fort Lauderdale, which overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway and offers an array of high-end department stores and dining options. So why not grab your umbrella and treat yourself to a shopping spree?
Unique Indoor Date Night Ideas
Seeking an unconventional indoor date night? Fort Lauderdale presents numerous options. From candle-making classes at Candle Land to ax throwing at Chops + Hops Axe Throwing Lodge, there’s no shortage of unique experiences to make your date night memorable.
One standout experience is the candle-making class at Candle Land, where you can choose your favorite fragrance and vessel and then create your own beautiful candle under expert guidance. Or if you’re after a more adrenaline-filled date, why not try ax throwing? With several fantastic places in Fort Lauderdale offering this fun activity, it’s an experience that’s sure to make your date night stand out.
Museum of Discovery and Science
Worthy of particular attention is the Museum of Discovery and Science, noted for its extensive selection of interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater. Whether you’re traveling with kids or you’re a kid at heart, this museum is a must-visit on a rainy day in Fort Lauderdale.
From an aquarium section to a discovery center and an enormous shark on display, the Museum of Discovery and Science offers an engaging and fun experience for all visitors. After exploring the exhibits, you can kick back and watch a movie in the IMAX theater, making it a perfect destination for a rainy day adventure.
Indoor Skydiving Adventure
Adrenaline junkies must try indoor skydiving at iFly in Davie. Offering a safe and exciting way to defy gravity without jumping from a plane, iFly provides a unique indoor adventure that’s perfect for a rainy day.
The process begins with a thorough training session on basic safety and body control, followed by two thrilling flight rotations per person, each lasting approximately 1 minute. With strict safety measures in place, you can enjoy the sensation of freefall in a safe and controlled environment. It’s an experience that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping!
Escapology Escape Rooms
Challenge your problem-solving abilities at the Escapology Escape Rooms. Featuring themed rooms with puzzles and clues, these escape rooms offer an adrenaline-filled adventure that’s perfect for a rainy day, helping you beat those rainy day blues.
Whether you’re a seasoned escape room enthusiast or a first-timer, Escapology offers a challenge for everyone. With a range of different themed rooms, each featuring a unique mission to solve, you’re in for a thrilling experience. So gather your friends, put on your thinking caps, and see if you can escape before time runs out!
Relax and Rejuvenate
Following such excitement, a period of relaxation might be in order. And what better way to unwind than at a wellness center? Fort Lauderdale offers indoor wellness centers like Thermae Retreat and Float8 Wellness Lounge, providing the perfect spaces to relax and rejuvenate.
Whether you choose to unwind with a massage at Thermae Retreat or float freely in a warm salt bath at Float8 Wellness Lounge, you’re sure to leave feeling refreshed and reenergized. So why not take some time for yourself and indulge in a little self-care on your rainy day in Fort Lauderdale?
Of course, you can always take in a good meal at one of the many Fort Lauderdale dining options, as we have a diverse set of restaurants for all palates and budgets!
Summary
So don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits! As we’ve seen, Fort Lauderdale offers a plethora of indoor activities that cater to all tastes and interests. Whether you’re into history, art, sports, shopping, or just looking for a unique experience, you’re sure to find something that tickles your fancy. So next time the skies open up, don’t despair. Instead, grab your umbrella and dive into the indoor adventures that Fort Lauderdale has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do when bored and raining?
When you’re bored and it’s raining, consider activities like building a pillow fort, baking something delicious, playing board games, or having a movie marathon to make the most of your day at home. Embrace creativity and entertainment to have a fun and fulfilling time, despite the rainy weather.
Does Fort Lauderdale get a lot of rain?
Yes, Fort Lauderdale gets an average of about 60.95 inches of rain per year.
What are some good art museums in Fort Lauderdale?
You can explore the NSU Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale, the Coral Springs Museum of Art, and the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood for a fantastic art experience in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy your visit!
What can I do at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale?
You can explore over 200 interactive exhibits, including experiences with dinosaurs, Antarctica’s glaciers, and a five-story-tall IMAX theater at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale. Don’t forget to check out the otters in the Otter Habitat on the first floor!
What breweries can I visit in Fort Lauderdale?
You can visit Funky Buddha Brewery, Tarpon River Brewing, LauderAle, and Gulf Stream Brewing Company for a great brewery experience in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy your time exploring these local breweries!
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip.
