Things to do in Philadelphia on a rainy day

Rain can change your plans for outdoor fun in Philadelphia. The city offers many indoor activities with museums, art galleries, food halls, and entertainment options to keep you dry.

This guide shares the best rainy day attractions and unique experiences for all ages. Keep reading to find new things to do in Philadelphia on a rainy day!

Key Takeaways

• Philadelphia offers many indoor attractions for rainy days, including museums like the Franklin Institute and the Academy of Natural Sciences, both with hands-on exhibits that appeal to families.
• The Philadelphia Museum of Art houses over 240,000 works from different eras and cultures; the Barnes Foundation displays more than 4,000 Impressionist and Modern art pieces by artists such as Renoir and Cézanne.
• Families can enjoy interactive experiences at places like Please Touch Museum for children or LEGOLAND Discovery Center with play zones and a 4D cinema show. Sky Zone Trampoline Park provides active fun indoors too.
• Indoor food markets like Reading Terminal Market feature over 80 vendors offering local favorites such as cheesesteaks and soft pretzels; Spruce Street Harbor Park’s food hall also offers a variety of cuisines under one roof.
• Entertainment options include visiting SugarHouse Casino or Parx Casino for gaming and shows, joining dance classes taught by professionals in studios across the city, treating yourself to spa days, or attending live performances at venues such as Kimmel Center or Walnut Street Theatre.

Indoor Museums and Attractions

Indoor museums and attractions in Philadelphia offer rich experiences. You can explore art, science, and history all under one roof.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art houses an impressive collection spanning over 2,000 years. Visitors can explore more than 240,000 works of art. This museum features pieces from many cultures and eras, including European paintings, Asian sculptures, and American artwork.

Don’t miss the iconic steps that Rocky famously climbed in the movie.

Families will find activities for all ages here. Kids can participate in hands-on workshops and interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year to engage visitors with arts and culture.

Enjoy a day indoors while immersing yourself in history and beauty.

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” – Thomas Merton

Mütter Museum

Mütter Museum features fascinating medical history and unique collections. Located in Philadelphia, this museum showcases anatomical specimens, antique medical instruments, and historical documents.

Visitors can see a variety of items, including preserved human skulls and the famous Soap Lady. The museum highlights how medicine evolved over time.

Families will enjoy learning about health and science through engaging exhibits. This venue offers a mix of education and entertainment for all ages. The interactive displays encourage curiosity about the human body.

Exploring Mütter Museum on a rainy day provides an unforgettable experience that blends education with intrigue. After visiting this intriguing site, check out more family-friendly activities nearby like Please Touch Museum.

Franklin Institute

After exploring the Mütter Museum, head to the Franklin Institute. This vibrant science museum offers a range of interactive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. You can learn about space in the Fels Planetarium or discover mechanics in the hands-on engineering lab.

The museum also features engaging displays on topics like electricity and biology. Families will enjoy the “Your Brain” exhibit, which allows you to explore how your mind works.

Be sure to check out current special exhibitions for even more fun activities. The Franklin Institute serves as a thrilling indoor attraction perfect for a rainy day in Philadelphia.

Museum of the American Revolution

The Museum of the American Revolution invites visitors to explore America’s fight for independence. This museum features engaging exhibits and artifacts from 1760 to 1783. You can see items like George Washington’s tent and a full-size replica of a Continental Army battlefield.

Interactive displays help bring this pivotal time in history alive for everyone.

Plan your visit around their exciting programs and special events. These experiences make it perfect for families looking for educational fun on rainy days in Philadelphia. Before you move on to family-friendly activities, consider checking out more historical sites nearby as well.

Barnes Foundation

After visiting the Museum of the American Revolution, consider heading to the Barnes Foundation. This art museum showcases an impressive collection of Impressionist and Modern paintings.

You will find works from renowned artists like Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse.

Explore over 4,000 objects in a unique setting. The foundation emphasizes education and appreciation for art. Visitors can take part in guided tours or workshops to enhance their experience.

Families with children will enjoy engaging activities that make learning fun. Art lovers will appreciate this gem as one of Philadelphia’s top cultural attractions on rainy days.

Penn Museum

The Penn Museum showcases ancient artifacts from around the world. This museum offers a vast collection of more than one million objects. Visitors can explore exhibits on Egypt, Rome, and Mesopotamia.

Each exhibit tells stories of past civilizations. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the interactive displays.

Special programs run throughout the year, making this a great place for family-friendly activities. Take part in workshops that teach about art and history. You can also join guided tours to learn more about the collections.

Rainy days become exciting as you uncover historical treasures at this amazing attraction in Philadelphia.

Academy of Natural Sciences

The Academy of Natural Sciences stands out as a top indoor attraction in Philadelphia. This museum showcases an impressive collection of fossils, plants, and animal specimens. Visitors can explore the dinosaur exhibit featuring real skeletons and life-sized models.

The butterfly room offers a colorful experience with live butterflies fluttering around you.

Families will enjoy hands-on activities at the Academy. Kids can engage in interactive displays that make learning about science fun. Educational programs run throughout the year, providing insights into nature and conservation efforts.

Indoor activities like these ensure everyone has a memorable time on rainy days while discovering more about arts and culture through science.

Family-Friendly Activities

In Philadelphia, children can enjoy exciting experiences at various indoor venues. Attractions like the Please Touch Museum and LEGOLAND Discovery Center offer fun and educational activities.

Families will find plenty of entertainment options to keep everyone engaged on a rainy day. Kids love bouncing around at Sky Zone Trampoline Park too. Explore these family-friendly adventures to make lasting memories in the city!

Please Touch Museum

Please Touch Museum stands out as a top choice for family-friendly activities in Philadelphia. This interactive museum allows children to explore and play while learning. Kids can touch, climb, and create in various exhibits designed just for them.

The museum features areas dedicated to art, nature, and history.

Parents appreciate the hands-on experiences that encourage curiosity. Activities include water play stations and imaginative role-playing spaces. Engaging workshops foster creative thinking and teamwork among young visitors.

Please Touch Museum ensures fun indoor activities while keeping everyone entertained on rainy days.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers a fun indoor experience for families in Philadelphia. This attraction features numerous interactive exhibits and rides that will delight children of all ages.

Guests can explore themed areas filled with colorful LEGO bricks. They can create their own structures and enjoy the thrilling 4D cinema show.

Kids love the play zones where they can build, climb, and even drive LEGO cars. Special workshops allow them to learn new building techniques from expert model builders. LEGOLAND Discovery Center is perfect for family-friendly activities on a rainy day in Philadelphia.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Transitioning from LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Sky Zone Trampoline Park invites visitors to jump into fun. This indoor facility features wall-to-wall trampolines, making it an exciting choice for families.

Kids and adults alike can bounce freely or join a game of dodgeball.

Sky Zone also offers special foam pits where you can practice flips and tricks safely. The park hosts fitness classes designed to make exercising enjoyable. Enjoy all these activities while staying dry on a rainy day in Philadelphia.

Other Indoor Activities

On a rainy day in Philadelphia, you can explore unique experiences that cater to various interests. From visiting vibrant markets to testing your skills at escape rooms, the city offers plenty of engaging indoor options.

Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market offers a vibrant indoor experience. This market features over 80 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. Tourists can sample local favorites like cheesesteaks and soft pretzels.

Visitors will find a wide variety of cuisines under one roof.

Explore shops that sell unique gifts and handmade crafts. The bustling atmosphere creates an exciting backdrop for shopping and dining. Enjoy the art galleries nearby or relax in a café with your favorite snack.

Rainy days turn into fun adventures at Reading Terminal Market, making it one of Philadelphia’s top indoor attractions.

Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary draws visitors with its rich history and haunting architecture. This historic site opened in 1829 and became famous for its innovative design. The penitentiary housed many infamous criminals, including Al Capone.

Today, tourists explore its crumbling walls and learn about prison reform.

Guided tours provide engaging insights into the facility’s past. You can hear stories of life behind bars from knowledgeable guides. Various exhibits showcase themes related to justice and incarceration.

On rainy days, this unique attraction offers an intriguing escape into Philadelphia’s history while expanding your understanding of criminal justice issues.

Escape Room Philly

Escape Room Philly offers an exciting way to spend a rainy day in Philadelphia. Teams of friends or family can tackle various themed rooms filled with puzzles and clues. Each room presents unique challenges that test your problem-solving skills.

You have 60 minutes to escape, creating a thrilling experience for everyone involved.

Choose from multiple themes, including mystery and adventure. The immersive atmosphere adds to the excitement of escaping together. This indoor activity provides fun for both locals and tourists alike.

After wrapping up your escape, you might want to explore Reading Terminal Market for some tasty treats or browse unique shops nearby.

Indoor Golf and Axe Throwing

Indoor golf and axe throwing provide unique experiences for visitors in Philadelphia. Enjoy state-of-the-art golf simulators that let you play on famous courses. These setups offer a fun way to practice your swing without worrying about the rain outside.

Axe throwing offers a thrilling challenge for anyone looking for something different. Participants can learn proper techniques from trained staff and compete with friends or family members.

Both activities are perfect indoor options, combining skill and entertainment in one exciting location. Next, explore the diverse selection of food halls and markets nearby, where you can satisfy your cravings after some friendly competition.

Indoor Bowling

After enjoying some fun at Indoor Golf and Axe Throwing, consider heading to an indoor bowling alley. Philadelphia offers several great spots for a lively bowling experience. Enjoy the classic game in a vibrant setting with friends or family.

Bowling alleys provide entertainment options for everyone. Many venues also feature food halls and cafés where you can grab a bite between frames. Combine this social activity with friendly competition to make your rainy day exciting in the city.

Food and Entertainment

Philadelphia offers plenty of indoor markets and food halls to explore. You can savor local flavors, enjoy live performances, or take part in dance classes on a rainy day.

Indoor Markets and Food Halls

Indoor markets and food halls offer a lively atmosphere for visitors. Explore Reading Terminal Market, one of the most popular spots in Philadelphia. It features over 80 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and local specialties.

Taste cheese steaks or grab some soft pretzels while you stroll.

Find more delicious options at Spruce Street Harbor Park’s food hall or the new Franklin Food Hall nearby. These locations provide diverse menus from various cuisines, perfect for families and groups.

Enjoy sampling different flavors while staying dry on a rainy day.

Casinos

Philadelphia offers exciting casino options for visitors. You can try your luck at the SugarHouse Casino or Parx Casino, both known for their vast gaming floors and variety of table games.

Each location features slots, poker rooms, and entertainment choices to keep you engaged on a rainy day.

Many casinos host events and live performances. Enjoy a night filled with laughter at comedy shows or immerse yourself in live music acts. Dining options also abound; savor delicious meals from various restaurants within the casinos.

Check out these entertainment spots for an enjoyable experience amid the rain while visiting Philadelphia.

Dance Classes

Casinos offer great fun, but dance classes provide a unique way to spend a rainy day in Philadelphia. Various studios across the city welcome dancers of all skill levels. You can choose from styles like salsa, ballroom, or hip-hop.

These classes often last an hour and are taught by experienced instructors.

Join a class at places like the Koresh Dance Company or the Philadelphia Ballet for high-quality instruction. Many studios also host workshops that deepen your understanding of various dance forms.

Engaging in these activities not only improves your skills but also provides entertainment and a chance to socialize with others who share similar interests.

Spa Day

Enjoying a spa day in Philadelphia is a perfect way to relax, especially on a rainy day. Many spas offer treatments like massages, facials, and body wraps. You can find options that focus on wellness and relaxation.

Some places even provide special packages for couples or groups.

After your treatment, indulge in refreshment at nearby food halls or cafes. A spa day not only rejuvenates your body but also revitalizes your mind. Exploring various indoor activities like this gives you the chance to unwind while staying away from the rain outside.

Treat yourself to some pampering; it’s an excellent addition to any visit here!

Live Performances

After a relaxing spa day, explore the vibrant live performance scene in Philadelphia. The city boasts numerous venues showcasing various entertainment options. Visit the Kimmel Center for concerts and Broadway shows.

This iconic space hosts world-class performances year-round.

The Walnut Street Theatre offers an array of musicals and plays that captivate audiences. For those interested in comedy, head to Helium Comedy Club for laughs from both local and national talent.

These live performances create memorable experiences, making them perfect rainy day attractions for tourists looking to enjoy arts and culture in Philadelphia.

FAQs

1. What are the best indoor activities in Philadelphia on a rainy day?

You can visit museums, explore art galleries, try escape rooms, or go bowling. These attractions offer fun and entertainment without worrying about the weather.

2. Which museums should I visit during bad weather in Philadelphia?

The city has many museums such as science centers and history exhibits. These places provide arts and culture experiences while you stay dry indoors.

3. Are there familyfriendly things to do inside when it rains in Philadelphia?

Yes, families can join interactive workshops, enjoy food halls with local dishes, or take historical tours of famous sites that have indoor sections.

4. Where can I find good entertainment options if it’s raining outside?

Philadelphia offers plenty of entertainment like live shows at theaters and hands-on activities at creative studios; these make great choices for rainy days.

5. Can I still experience historic sites when it is raining in Philadelphia?

Many historic places offer guided tours inside their buildings so you can learn about the city’s past even on wet days.