Rainy Day Guide: Indoor Activities in Northeast Ohio
When the clouds roll in and rain puts a damper on plans for an outdoor adventure, don’t let it wash away your fun! While Float the River might be taking a rain check, there’s no shortage of exciting indoor activities to keep you entertained. Let’s explore some of the best ways to spend a rainy day in Cleveland, Akron, and the surrounding areas.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Northeast Ohio boasts a rich cultural scene that’s perfect for rainy-day exploration. The Cleveland Museum of Art offers a world-class collection that’ll keep you dry and inspired, plus free admission. Music lovers can rock out at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and right next door, the Great Lakes Science Center will keep both adults and kids having fun for hours. The Akron Art Museum provides a more intimate art experience. For a touch of history, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens offers indoor tours of a stunning manor house.
Indoor Entertainment Venues
Looking for some showbiz sparkle? Playhouse Square, one of the largest theater districts outside of New York, has you covered with Broadway shows and local productions. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has several indoor exhibits where you can stay dry while watching the animals. For underwater adventures without getting wet, check out the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. In Akron, the historic Civic Theatre offers movies and live performances. If you’re after a more active evening, Punch Bowl Social combines bowling, arcade games, and tasty food all under one roof.
Educational and Interactive Experiences
Rainy days are perfect for learning something new. The Cleveland Museum of Natural History lets you travel through time and space without leaving the building. Space enthusiasts will love the NASA Glenn Visitor Center. In Akron, the Fossils & Science Center offers hands-on experiences for all ages. Step back in time at Hale Farm & Village with their indoor demonstrations of 19th-century crafts. The Cuyahoga Valley Environmental Education Center offers interactive programs that bring nature indoors.
Shopping and Markets
Retail therapy is a tried-and-true rainy day activity. Tower City Center in Cleveland offers many shopping and dining opportunities. The West Side Market, while partially outdoors, has plenty of indoor stalls to explore local foods and crafts. In Akron, the Northside District boasts dozens of shops and regional businesses and plenty of dining options when you need to recharge. For a unique atmosphere, visit the Cleveland Arcade, one of America’s first indoor shopping malls. Art lovers shouldn’t miss Don Drumm Studios & Gallery in Akron for one-of-a-kind pieces.
Indoor Sports and Recreation
Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you can’t get active. Try scaling new heights at Cleveland Rock Gym or glide across the ice at OBM Arena. Give Whirlyball Cleveland a shot for something completely different – it’s like bumper cars meet basketball. If you’re looking to bounce off some energy, Sky Zone Trampoline Park has locations throughout the area. And for those who enjoy a mental challenge, Trapped! Escape Room will keep your brain buzzing.
Food and Drink Experiences
Rainy days are perfect for culinary adventures. Take a Great Lakes Brewing Company tour to learn about (and taste!) craft beer. Food lovers can join a West Side Market food tour to sample local delicacies. Got a sweet tooth? Malley’s chocolate factory tour is a must. In Akron, visit the Akron Honey Company tasting room for a unique flavor experience. Or create your coffee shop and crawl among the many local cafes in the area.
Art and Craft Workshops
Get creative on a gray day! The Cleveland Institute of Art often offers workshops open to the public. At Akron Glass Works, you can try your hand at glassblowing. Pottery enthusiasts can throw some clay at Beachwood Ceramic Guild. For a laid-back, artistic experience, try one of the many paint-and-sip studios in the area. Even the Cleveland Metroparks Nature Centers offer indoor crafting activities on rainy days.
Relaxation and Wellness
Sometimes, a rainy day just calls for relaxation. Treat yourself to a spa day at one of the local hotels. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has indoor botanical gardens where you can zen out among the plants. Join a yoga class at 3 Sisters Yoga + Fitness, or explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park visitor centers. For a mindful experience, try a meditation session at Cleveland Mindfulness Center.
Have Fun Despite the Rain
As you can see, a little rain doesn’t have to ruin your plans. From world-class museums to unique interactive experiences, Northeast Ohio has something for everyone to enjoy indoors. So next time the forecast looks gloomy, remember this guide and turn that rainy day into an adventure. Happy exploring, rain or shine!