Here are the best things to do on a rainy day in Miami—no umbrella required
Don’t let your afternoon be a washout. Keep the fun going strong with our list of things to do on a rainy day in Miami.
August 2019: We’re in the thick of rainy season in Miami, and even when the sun does manage to burn through the clouds for a few minutes, it can be tough remembering what dry land and clear skies felt like. Stormy days might seem endless, but so are our options for things to do during the deluge. From quirky dive bars and craft breweries to indulgent spas and food halls, we rounded up plenty of new things to keep you busy on a rainy day in Miami.
When the clouds come rolling in, we all immediately rack our brains for a list of things to do on a rainy day in Miami. Contrary to popular belief, that list includes more than just Netflix and ice cream, extending into best things to do in Miami territory. Sure, the best movie theaters in Miami or the best Miami museums will do the trick. And we won’t stop you if that’s your vibe. But it’s nice to spend a rainy day doing something a little less obvious, isn’t it? The crappy weather can provide an excuse to try something around the city that you’ve been putting off or procrastinating on. Check out some of the best rainy day options below and make the best of a soggy day.
Best things to do on a rainy day in Miami
Catch a movie at CMX Cinema
What is it? A super luxurious movie theater inside the equally luxurious Brickell City Centre. No creaky seats and stale popcorn here. Expect comfy recliners and an impressive menu.
Why go? It ain’t easy to beat Netflix and chill these days. But CMX gives you plenty of reason to leave the house with its full bar and tasty food, served to you in the comfort of your plush recliner.
Explore Frost Science
What is it? Miami’s popular waterfront science museum. The shining facility appeals to just about every curious member of the family with an aquarium, live animals and cool interactive exhibits.
Why go? Frost will give you your money’s worth (or score free admission with your Miami-Dade library card). It’s entertaining and informative from the ground floor all the way to the rooftop. Get your mind blown in the planetarium and don’t forget to pet a stingray before you leave.
Get cozy at Vicky’s House
What is it? A small milkshake counter located within the delicious burger joint LoKal. The kitchen’s concoctions are monuments to sugar-fueled indulgence.
Why go? There’s something comforting about being curled up in your mom’s kitchen during a thunderstorm, pigging out on ice cream. Vicky’s is modeled after the owner’s old ’80s kitchen and—no offense—serves sweets better than your mom ever could.
Fall down at Kendall Ice Arena
What is it? Miami’s largest indoor ice-skating rink where you can pretend, for a brief time, that winter exists!
Why go? If it’s an awful day outside, why not hit the ice for a change of atmosphere? Seriously, when’s the last time you skated? Pop in, rent a pair and swish around to music from a live DJ.
Browse the selection at Books & Books
What is it? Heaven for book-lovers. Books & Books is a superb independent, well-stocked store with bestsellers, small publishers, gorgeous coffee table gifts and reliably excellent staff recommendations.
Why go? The Gables location is the one to pick for a rainy day reading session. Its cozy rooms include a room for antiquarian rarities and another for kids’ books. There’s also a tasty café and regular author readings and signings.
Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami
What is it? A sleek museum showcasing three floors of spectacular contemporary art plus a lush sculpture garden in the heart of the Design District. Exhibits have shown work from big names like Judy Chicago as well as important local artists.
Why go? Museums and rainy days are a natural fit. Plus, the insane new Museum Garage (itself a piece of art) is right across the street, so you won’t have to walk in the rain. Oh, and admission to this museum is free!
Hit some balls at Topgolf
What is it? A driving range for the 21st century. This golf range features private bays for you and up to eight of your buds, as well as full service from the bar and kitchen.
Why go? Rain usually dampens sports, but at Topgolf, the weather isn’t a factor. The covered range allows you to hit no matter the moisture. Plus, you can order a bucket of spiked Arnold Palmer. The more you drink, the less you care about sucking.
Do more than window shop at Aventura Mall
What is it? With its recent 315,000-square-foot expansion, the Aventura Mall is officially an even better place to kill a rainy afternoon.
Why go? Shop around at Zara or browse fancy watches (Rolex, Breitling, TAG Heuer and Omega are all a stone’s throw from each other). Then, eat at Shake Shack, Luke’s Lobster and tons more choices in Aventura’s new food court to end all food courts.
Go crate diving at Sweat Records
What is it? Miami’s favorite record store. Sweat is a local treasure, where music lovers of all types gather to vinyl dig and nerd-out over espresso.
Why go? Aside from the intrinsic awesomeness of supporting your local record store, Sweat has a fantastic selection and great atmosphere. Afterward, maybe a beer or two at Churchill’s next door? It’ll help you deal with your weather-related blues.
Book a bowling lane at Kings Dining & Entertainment
What is it? A big, funky bowling alley in Doral. Bowling not your thing? Book one of the private karaoke rooms, order a couple cocktails and sing your heart out.
Why go? Bowling is a heck of a rainy day activity, and Kings is probably the most impressive bowling facility Miami has. Plus, you can snack on wings and burgers as well as some drinks from the rum lounge.
Nosh on the best food in the city at Time Out Market
What is it? A 17,000-square-foot food hall in the heart of South Beach that packs 17 kitchens, three bars, a demo cooking area and a video installation wall into one space representing the best dining and culture Miami has to offer.
Why go? Time Out editors spend a lot of time writing about (and drooling over) this city’s amazing food and drinks. So when we were tasked with curating a five-star dining destination, we knew we’d be up to the task. If there was ever a good excuse to get out of the rain and boredom eat, this is it.
Set the mood at one of Miami’s best jazz clubs
The best jazz clubs and Latin music venues in Miami
A rainy evening pairs great with a bottle of wine and live jazz.