Spend a Day Exploring Museums & Art Galleries
Fort Lauderdale’s museums and art galleries are the perfect place to stay dry and still have a great time. If you’ve got kids in tow, the Museum of Discovery and Science is a must. It’s packed with hands-on exhibits, a giant indoor play area, and even a flight simulator. And yes, there’s an IMAX theater too, in case you want to sneak in a movie while they’re entertained.
Looking for a dose of culture and calm? Head to the NSU Art Museum for rotating collections of contemporary art in a beautifully designed space.
For something more experimental and immersive, MAD Arts in Dania Beach blends technology and creativity in a way that’s as Insta-worthy as it is thought-provoking.
Cost: Admission ranges depending on where you go. The Museum of Discovery and Science is about $28 per person, but totally worth it if you’ve got kids or want to make a day of it. The NSU Art Museum is usually $16 for adults, but if you time it right, it’s completely free on the first Thursday of every month.
Go Shopping
If the weather’s got you skipping the beach, why not trade flip-flops for shopping bags? Sawgrass Mills is a rainy day goldmine. It’s one of the largest outlet malls in the country, with over 350 stores, tons of dining options, and even a few indoor attractions. You can easily spend the whole day here without stepping outside.
Staying closer to downtown? The Galleria offers a more upscale vibe with popular brands and great restaurants, all under one roof.
And if you’re more into one-of-a-kind finds than big-name brands, Fort Lauderdale’s thrift stores are full of vintage gems, quirky home goods, and affordable surprises.
Cost: Browsing? Free. Leaving without buying anything? Unlikely. Whether you’re hunting for deals at Sawgrass Mills, splurging at The Galleria, or scoring vintage treasures at local thrift shops, plan to spend anywhere from $25 to… well, that depends on your self-control.
Play Indoor Sports
Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you have to sit still. Fort Lauderdale has plenty of indoor spots where you can burn off some energy and have a blast while you’re at it. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is a great place to bounce around (literally), while iFLY offers the thrill of skydiving without ever stepping outside. Xtreme Action Park has a bit of everything: go-karts, laser tag, bowling, an arcade, and even a roller skating rink. Off The Wall is another local favorite with trampolines, rock climbing, and more.
If you’re looking for something a little more chill but still active, grab a cue and play a few games of pool, or test your aim with a round of indoor mini golf.
If you’re looking for something a little more laid-back but still fun, grab a cue and play a few games of pool, hit up Bowlero for some classic bowling, or test your aim with a round of indoor mini golf.
Cost: Most indoor sports spots let you choose your own adventure. You can just hang out and grab a snack, or dive into all the attractions. We recommend planning to spend at least $20–$30 per person at places like trampoline parks, mini golf, or arcade-style venues. On the higher end, iFLY offers a full indoor skydiving experience starting at around $109 per flyer, making it the biggest splurge on this list (but also one of the most unforgettable).
Head to the Casino
Rainy day blues? Not when the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is just a short drive away. Whether you’re into slot machines, poker, or just want to wander through the massive (and world-famous) Guitar Hotel, there’s something for everyone. You don’t have to be a high roller either—there are tons of casual dining spots, bars, and live music options if you’re just looking for a fun indoor escape. Bonus: the whole place is indoors, air-conditioned, and open 24/7.
Cost: Technically, you can walk around for free. But let’s be real, you’ll probably want to eat, grab a drink, or try your luck. Expect to spend $20–$50 if you’re just going for food or drinks, and a bit more if you’re gaming or catching a show.
Smash Some Stress
Sometimes, a rainy day calls for smashing stuff (in a safe, satisfying, and oddly therapeutic way of course). The Smash!t House in Davie lets you gear up and go to town on everything from old TVs to glassware. It’s stress relief with a side of adrenaline, and it’s way more fun than yelling into a pillow.
Cost: Sessions at The Smash!t House start around $35–$40 per person, depending on the package and number of breakable items you choose.
Watch a Play or a Movie
Rainy days are made for popcorn and plot twists, or maybe a live performance that makes you forget about the weather entirely. If you’re in the mood for a movie, the Regal at Dania Pointe is a solid pick with comfy seats, great sound, and plenty of food options nearby if you want to make a night of it.
More into stage lights than screen time? The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Parker both host everything from touring Broadway shows to concerts, comedy, and local performances. All in beautiful, indoor venues right in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.
Cost: A movie at Regal Dania Pointe will usually run you around $13–$18 per ticket, depending on the time and seat type. For live performances, prices vary more. Local shows at The Parker might start around $30, while big-name concerts or Broadway tours at The Broward Center can range from $50 to $150+, depending on the show and seat location.
Browse Books, Comics & Hidden Gems
Sometimes the best rainy day plan is to slow down, unplug, and get lost in a good book. The Broward County Main Library downtown is a peaceful spot to curl up with a read, explore their huge collection, or even check out an art exhibit while you’re there.
There’s also Old Florida Book Shop. A charming little hideaway packed with rare, vintage, and antique books. It smells like history and feels like stepping into a time machine.
If you’re more into comics, graphic novels, or collectibles, Tate’s Comics in Lauderhill is a local institution that’s fun to browse whether you’re a hardcore collector or just comic-curious.
Cost: The library is totally free, of course. Old Florida Book Shop is free to browse, but you’ll probably end up finding something you can’t leave without. Books there typically range from $10 to $100+, depending on rarity.
Create Some Art
Rainy days are the perfect excuse to tap into your creative side. Painting with a Twist is a favorite for a reason. You can sip wine, follow along with an instructor, and leave with your own canvas masterpiece (even if you’re more “abstract” than accurate).
If you’re more into ceramics, Color Me Mine is a paint-your-own pottery studio where you can pick a piece, decorate it however you want, and come back later to pick it up once it’s been fired in the kiln. It’s relaxing, colorful, and a great way to make something personal.
Cost: Most sessions at Painting with a Twist range from $35–$50 per person, depending on the painting and if it’s a special event. At Color Me Mine, you’ll pay a studio fee (usually around $10–$12) plus the price of the piece you choose, which can range from $15 to $40+.
Check Out an Escape Room
Trapped indoors? Might as well make a game out of it. Escape rooms are a great way to turn a rainy day into an adrenaline rush. Team up with friends or family to solve puzzles, crack codes, and beat the clock before time runs out.
Lockbox Escape Room in Davie offers immersive, story-driven rooms that range from spooky to spy-level tricky. Escapology in Fort Lauderdale has a polished vibe with themed challenges like “Mansion Murder” or “Antidote,” all set in movie-quality environments that’ll make you forget it’s raining outside.
Cost: Escape rooms typically cost $30–$40 per person, depending on the room and day of the week. Most require a minimum of two players, and it’s more fun (and often cheaper per person) with a group.
