If you find yourself in Charleston during the rainy season, you might be wondering what to do to keep yourself and your family entertained. Charleston is known for its outdoor activities, but don’t let the rain put a damper on your plans. There are plenty of options for indoor activities that will keep you busy and dry.

From museums to trampoline parks, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a way to stay active or a more laid-back experience, you won’t have to travel far to find it. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best rainy day activities in Charleston that you won’t want to miss.

What Can You Do When It’s Raining in Charleston?

When the rain starts pouring in Charleston, it can be tempting to stay indoors and wait for the storm to pass. However, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy on a rainy day in Charleston. Here are 10 ideas to help you get out of the house and have some fun.

1. Bowling

Bowling is a classic rainy day activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. There are two great places to go bowling in Charleston: Ashley Lanes Tavern and The Alley. At Ashley Lanes Tavern, you can enjoy a casual atmosphere and a full bar while you bowl. The Alley, located in downtown Charleston, offers a more upscale experience with craft cocktails and a menu of gourmet snacks.

2. Climbing

If you’re looking for a more active way to spend a rainy day, consider heading to Coastal Climbing. This indoor bouldering gym is located on the peninsula and offers a fun and challenging workout for climbers of all skill levels. With color-coded routes ranging from easy to difficult, there’s something for everyone at Coastal Climbing.

3. Downtown Charleston’s Museums

Charleston is home to several museums that are perfect for a rainy day visit. The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center, Gibbes Museum of Art, Mace Brown Museum of Natural History, and The Charleston Museum all offer unique exhibits and experiences. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there’s a museum in downtown Charleston that will appeal to you.

4. Fun Park

Charleston Fun Park and Frankie’s Fun Park are two indoor amusement parks that offer a variety of activities for all ages. From bumper cars to virtual reality experiences, there’s no shortage of fun to be had at these parks. Plus, both parks have arcades and mini-bowling, making them great options for a rainy day.

5. Ice Skating

Carolina Ice Palace is Charleston’s premier indoor ice skating rink. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, you’ll have a blast gliding around the rink. The rink offers public skating sessions on weekdays and weekends, and you can rent skates on-site.

6. See a Movie

Going to the movies is a classic rainy day activity, and Charleston has several theaters to choose from. Citadel Mall Stadium 16, Northwoods Stadium Cinema, Regal Palmetto Grande, and Terrace Theater all show new releases and some older movies. Be sure to check the schedule before you go, and consider bringing your own snacks to save money.

7. South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is a great option for a rainy day visit. Located on the peninsula, the aquarium has a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Don’t miss the stingray tank, sea turtle hospital, and sea star and urchin touch tank.

8. Topgolf

Topgolf is a huge facility in North Charleston that offers a variety of indoor activities on a rainy day. With multiple food options on-site, you can easily spend an entire day at Topgolf. There are activities for children and adults of all ages, making it a great option for families.

9. Trampoline Park

Flight Adventure Park, Sky Zone Trampoline Park, and Summit Adventure Park are three large trampoline parks in the Charleston area. These parks offer a fun and active way to spend a rainy day, and are great for families with kids who need to burn off some energy.

10. Go Outside!

Finally, just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you have to stay inside all day. Walking on an empty beach on an overcast day can be a unique and memorable experience. Alternatively, put on your rain gear and go outside to splash in puddles with your kids. When you get back home, warm up with your favorite hot beverage and enjoy the cozy feeling of being indoors on a rainy day.

No matter what your interests are, there’s something to do on a rainy day in Charleston. So next time the rain starts falling, don’t stay cooped up inside – get out and have some fun!

More Options for Rainy Day Activities in Charleston

If you’ve exhausted the options we’ve provided so far, don’t worry, there are still plenty of things to do on a rainy day in Charleston without straying too far from home. Here are some more options for you to consider:

  • Visit a Museum – Charleston is home to several museums, many of which are perfect for a rainy day. The Charleston Museum, America’s first museum, is a great place to start. You can also check out the Gibbes Museum of Art, which has a collection of more than 10,000 works of art. If you’re interested in history, the Old Slave Mart Museum is a must-visit.
  • Try Indoor Rock Climbing – If you’re looking for something active to do on a rainy day, try indoor rock climbing. Coastal Climbing Gym is a great place to start. They offer a variety of climbing options for all skill levels and have a friendly staff to help you get started.
  • Go Bowling – Bowling is a classic rainy day activity, and Charleston has several bowling alleys to choose from. Check out The Alley, which has a retro vibe and serves food and drinks while you bowl. You can also try Stars and Strikes, which has a variety of games and activities in addition to bowling.
  • Visit a Bookstore – If you’re a book lover, a rainy day is the perfect excuse to visit a local bookstore. Blue Bicycle Books is a popular independent bookstore in Charleston, and they often host author events and book clubs. You can also check out Barnes & Noble, which has a large selection of books, magazines, and other items.
  • Take a Cooking Class – If you’re interested in cooking, a rainy day is a great time to take a cooking class. Charleston Cooks! offers a variety of classes, from basic cooking skills to more advanced techniques. You can also try The Coastal Cupboard, which has cooking classes and demonstrations as well as a retail store with kitchen gadgets and tools.
  • Visit an Aquarium – If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity on a rainy day, visit the South Carolina Aquarium. They have a variety of exhibits, including a touch tank and a sea turtle hospital. You can also check out the Charleston Harbor Fish House, which has a large aquarium in the dining room.
  • Explore a Historic Home – Charleston is known for its historic homes, and many of them are open to the public for tours. Try the Nathaniel Russell House, which has a beautiful garden and is filled with period furnishings. You can also visit the Aiken-Rhett House, which has been preserved to show what life was like for a wealthy family in the 1800s.

No matter what you choose to do on a rainy day in Charleston, remember to stay safe and have fun. And if you have any other suggestions for rainy day activities, let us know!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best indoor activities for adults in Charleston on a rainy day?

Charleston offers a variety of indoor activities for adults to enjoy on a rainy day. Some of the best options include visiting the Charleston Museum, exploring the Gibbes Museum of Art, or catching a show at the Charleston Music Hall. If you’re looking for something more active, you can try indoor trampoline parks like Sky Zone or Velocity Air Sports.

What are some engaging activities for families to do in Charleston when it’s raining?

Charleston has plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy on a rainy day. You can visit the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and participate in hands-on activities. Another option is the South Carolina Aquarium, where you can see a variety of marine life and even touch some of the animals. Additionally, you can check out the Charleston Fun Park, which offers indoor go-karts, mini-golf, and an arcade.

Can you suggest romantic indoor activities for couples in Charleston during inclement weather?

Charleston is a great destination for couples, even on a rainy day. Some romantic indoor activities include visiting the historic Dock Street Theatre for a show, exploring the art galleries on Gallery Row, or taking a cooking class together at Charleston Cooks. You can also relax and unwind with a couples massage at one of Charleston’s many spas.

Are there any cost-free options for enjoying a rainy day in Charleston?

Yes, there are several cost-free options for enjoying a rainy day in Charleston. You can visit the Charleston County Public Library, which offers a variety of books, movies, and other media to enjoy. Additionally, you can explore the City Market, where you can browse local vendors and artists. Another option is to take a self-guided walking tour of Charleston’s historic downtown area.

What indoor date ideas are recommended for a rainy day in Charleston, SC?

Charleston offers many indoor date ideas for a rainy day. You can visit the Charleston Tea Plantation for a tea tasting, take a painting class at Wine & Design, or enjoy a wine tasting at one of Charleston’s many wineries. Another option is to explore the historic homes in Charleston, like the Nathaniel Russell House or the Aiken-Rhett House.

Where can kids have fun indoors on a rainy day in Charleston?

Charleston has several indoor activities for kids to enjoy on a rainy day. You can visit the Charleston Fun Park, which offers go-karts, mini-golf, and an arcade. Another option is the South Carolina Aquarium, where kids can see a variety of marine life and participate in hands-on activities. Additionally, you can check out the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and participate in educational programs.