Rainy Day Activities: NYC (9 Fun Indoor Things to Do from a Local)
- Naureen Chhipa
- 15 hours ago
- 14 min read
Finding fun indoor activities in a bustling city like NYC can sometimes be challenging. The city that never sleeps is always full of exciting adventures. However, sometimes we get rained/ snowed in, or want to escape the scorching summer heat āthat's when a handful of fun indoor activities can save the day! As a proud New Yorker for 15 years, I've had the opportunity to explore the Big Apple and know it inside out. Today, I would like to share some rainy day activities you can do in NYC. Here's my curated list of 9 fun indoor things to do in New York City from a local, so that you can navigate the city like a pro!
New York City is a US must-visit destination regardless of the weather. No matter when you visit, you'll always have plenty to do, and I can assure you you won't get bored. Like any big city, this melting pot's vibrant culture will offer something for every traveler! Whether you seek a foodie destination, an escape through art and history, or a non-touristy thing to do in NYC, this article will help you overcome the challenge of a rainy day without hindering exploration. I want you, my dear reader, to enjoy NYC and discover its hidden gems, along with my favorite indoor activities. Because rainy days don't have to be boring!
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Ā Because rainy days don't have to be boring!
Rainy Day Activities: NYC (9 Fun Things to Do from a Local)
Table of Contents
Fun and Engaging Indoor Entertainment
1.1. Escape Rooms
1.2. Board Game and Trivia CafƩs
1.3. Indoor Rock Climbing in NYC
1.4. Indoor Skydiving
Exploring NYC's Indoor Cultural Attractions
Broadway Shows: What to Watch and How to Get Discounted Tickets
Cozy Indoor Food Experiences to Avoid the Rain in NYC
5.1. Tea Houses, CafƩs and Bakeries
More Things to Do in NYC on a Rainy Day
Fun and Engaging Indoor Entertainment
There are so many fun spots to explore in the city that offer indoor day activities and entertainment. Here are a few of my favorite ones in New York City:
Find Your Way Out of an Escape Room
If you enjoy problem-solving, puzzles, and board games, an Escape Room game is perfect! Escape Rooms come in different themes and difficulty levels. You and your team are locked in a room for a specific amount of time, and you have to use clues to figure out how to escape before the time runs out. The themes are epic; you can be stuck in the jungle, prison, cabin, or on a ship, and the possibilities are endless. Escape Rooms are a lot of fun; I did it once on my birthday with friends and would do it again. Click here for more info/prices
Play a Board Game at a Board Game CafƩ or Have a Trivia Night!
There are many board game cafƩs throughout the city! My favorite part is that it's usually free to play! All you have to do is buy a drink or food, and you can borrow a board game for the day; they have a huge selection, including some vintage games. One of my favorite board game cafes in Astoria is The Bier & Cheese Collective. I love this cafe because they have an excellent selection of craft beers, cheeses, and meats that make for a great charcuterie board. Not to mention trivia night and sip-and-paint events.
Go Rock Climbing at Chelsea Piers
Rock climbing is a great way to stay active and have fun while traveling! I love visiting the Chelsea Piers because, despite being indoors, it's next to the Hudson River, offering spectacular views. Chelsea Piers offers many fun activities and classes. You can find everything from golf, rock climbing, swimming pools, saunas, field sports, ice skating, fitness, bowling, and more. But my favorite activity at the Piers is rock climbing. Despite Chelsea Piers being a membership club, you can purchase a day pass for $100 to enjoy all its amenities and make a day of it! Chelsea Piers is also great for family activities when traveling with kids, as there are many indoor activities for everyone to enjoy.
There's an indoor art wind tunnel in Queens, New York, that simulates the feeling of skydiving without the risk! If you ever wondered what skydiving felt like, then this activity is for you. Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Exploring NYC's Indoor Cultural Attractions
There are so many cool museums, independent art galleries, and theater shows (on and off Broadway) in NYC to tour and visit. Here are a few of my favorite local places I frequent regularly, especially on a rainy day when I want to have a good time.
Visiting the Iconic Museum of New York City:
The Museum of Natural History:
The American Museum of Natural History is a fascinating natural history museum on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. I always enjoy visiting this museum after strolling through Central Park ā the location is perfect! The museum boasts an impressive collection of roughly 35 million specimens, including plants, animals, fungi, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, human remains, and cultural artifacts. What I love most about this museum is that you can explore different continents, dive into the underwater world, and even travel to space! On certain nights, you can experience sleepovers at the museum and sleep under the stars. Fans of the movie "Night at the Museum" (filmed here) can take a self-guided walking tour to see all the filming locations. You'll find plenty of things to do at this museum regardless of your age. Click here for more info and prices.
If contemporary art is more your thing, then spending a rainy day at the MoMA is the way to go. Here you'll find world masterpieces. Some of my favorites include Monet's Water Lilies, Warhol's Campbell's Soup Cans, Matisse's The Dance, and other great masterpieces by Gauguin, Dali, Picasso, Pollack, and more. Click here for more info on a skip-the-line ticket.
Walk through a timeline featuring the events of September 11, 2001, while listening to personal stories honoring the victims of the terrorist attacks that forever marked the city.
Immersive art installations are a very fun way of consuming modern art, in my experience. I love how laid-back the setting is. It's like watching and being part of the art itself! You see the art come to life at a larger-than-life scale through an immersive digital media art exhibition. I have to say I really enjoyed my experience. I felt like I connected to the art on a different level and really took in my surroundings, paying close attention to what was in front of me rather than walking by and searching for the next piece on a wall. We have several art immersive installations throughout the city. Click here for more info. & prices.
The Whitney is a museum I absolutely love visiting. It features contemporary American artists and American art, and everything about it is perfect. The location is ideal for sightseeing, and the building's architecture is truly impressive. On the 8th floor, you can enjoy some of the city's best views and grab a glass of wine while watching a lovely sunset. On Friday nights, the museum is free and open after hours from 5 pm to 10 pm, and the atmosphere is lively. There's a live DJ, drinks, exhibition tours, and even art-making activities! Click here for more information and skip-the-line tickets.
Discover Unique Small Art Galleries and Installations in NYC
In addition to the extensive collection of museums in NYC, you can also find small, independent art galleries. I love off-the-beaten-path, smaller art galleries because they showcase lesser-known, emerging artists that provide a fresh perspective on New York City's art scene. You can take a guided tour or explore these art galleries on your own, soaking in the art and checking out what will be popping in the years to come.
Here are a few of my favorite independent art galleries in NYC:
David Zwirner: Free Gallery with rotating exhibits and art installations.
The Frick Collection: For art from the Renaissance era to the late 19th century.
Woodward Gallery: Free contemporary fine art gallery and innovative contemporary art.
Perrotin New York: Free contemporary art center and abstract art gallery.
Jack Shainman Gallery: Offers a free indoor contemporary art gallery focused on artists from Africa, East Asia, and North America, for free things to do in NYC.
Countless immersive art experiences, events, performances, and exhibits regularly arrive in New York City. Spending an entire day indoors at one of these events is a fantastic way to enjoy yourself in the Big Apple. There are numerous options, including digital art scenes, interactive walk-throughs, and live performances that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly anticipating what will happen next. ARTEC HOUSE and Hall des LumiĆØres are my favorite immersive art spaces in NYC, apart from the art galleries mentioned above.
Attend a Broadway or Off-Broadway Show
A true visit to New York City is incomplete without experiencing a Broadway or even an off-Broadway play. There's something magical about walking over from Times Square to the Theater District, getting tickets to see a play, sitting down in a cozy or grand theater, and watching legendary actors bring your beloved movies and shows to life. From the rhythmic vocals of The Lion King to the nostalgic longing of The Phantom of the Opera to the razzle-dazzle of Chicago, there's always an unforgettable show for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some recommendations if you're looking for plays to watch on Broadway:
Aladdin The Musical on Broadway ā”ļø Click here for discount tickets and more info.
MJ The Musical on Broadway ā”ļø Click here for discount tickets and more info.
The Great Gatsby The Musical ā”ļø Click here for discount tickets and more info.
The Lion King on Broadway ā”ļø Click here for discount tickets and more info.
Wicked The Musical on Broadway ā”ļø Click here for discount tickets and more info.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child ā”ļø Click here for discount tickets and more info.
Go Wine Tasting at City Winery
Yes, it's true! There is a winery in New York City. I was just as surprised as you when I first heard about it. This winery is called City Winery, an indoor wine-tasting venue next to the Little Island in NYC. At City Winery, you can enjoy some of the best locally-produced wines, food pairings, and live music. Although you won't be able to walk through the vineyards, you can still enjoy the best local wine with city vibes and amazing views.
Cozy Indoor Food Experience to Avoid the Rain in NYC
It's no secret that NYC is a major foodie destination! There's no better way to avoid the rain, than sitting at a cozy cafƩ or indulging in a delicious meal. If it starts raining outside, then hit up one of these spots for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Visit Iconic NYC cafƩs and bakaries
I have a few cafƩs and bakeries in the city that I love to visit on a rainy day depending on what part of town a find myself in. I find having a cup of tea with a scone the perfect way of waiting for the rain to pass while indulging in some sweets and the warmth of a blended cimmanon tea. A very special tea shop for me is Alice's Tea Cup in the upper west side. I used to visit often when I was in school as this tea shop was within walking distance to the theater studio I studied at. I still now visit on rainy days and fondly remember with nostalgia the days of cookies, scones, tea, and glitter. P.S: The whimsical tea house of Alice's Tea Cup is perfect If you're traveling with kids, they'll love this spot!
Try an Indoor Food Market
I love visiting food markets on a rainy day because you have plenty of options and can walk around trying out different spots. Some of my favorite indoor food markets in the city are Chelsea Market, Time Out Market, and Mercado Little Spain, which I have a complete foodie guide video for that you can watch here. I spent an entire week eating everyday at Mercado Little Spain and share my favorite foods and stalls that are a must-try when visiting. Another plus for an indoor food market is that you can also do some shopping after eating. Mercado Little Spain, for example, sits at the ground level of the Hudson Yards Mall, and for more of a boutique artisinal shopping experience Chelsea Market if filled with local vendors and artists selling vintage, hand-made, and very unique items that make great souvenirs.
Partake in a Cooking Class in NYC
If its raining outside, you can always take a group cooking class and learn how to make iconic NYC staple dishes and even some international ones! New York City has plenty of cooking classes to choose from, but my personal favorites and tried are:
NYC: Midtown Hands-On Bagel Making Class ā”ļø Click here for more info and prices.
NYC: Hands-On Pizza Making Workshop ā”ļø Click here for more info and prices.
Jazz it Up! NYC Rainy Day Activities
New York City is famous for its Jazz and blues music. If you're a fan of this genre, then you're in luck! NYC is home to some of the best jazz clubs in the world, making visiting one, one of those amazing/unforgettable rainy day activities in NYC! Whether you're looking for an underground open-mic spot or a more sophisticated jazz joint (like The Birdland Jazz Club), NYC has a blend of up-and-coming musicians, along with some seasoned veterans that will for sure help you get your groove on indoors and leave the rain outside!
If you are interested in jazz history, you can also visit Louis Armstrong's old home in Queens. The house has been turned into a museum that showcases original furniture, instruments, and garments that once belonged to the musician. They also hold live jazz sessions and cocktail hour during the summer months.
Enter the Hidden World of Speakeasies
New York City is home to some of the best speakeasy bars in the world! Speakeasies are hidden bars usually located in a basement, accessible through a hidden door or passageway. During the prohibition era between 1920 and 1933, selling alcohol was illegal in the United States, which led to the rise of hidden bars. Speakeasy bars were kept a secret, and only a select few were given their location through word-of-mouth, usually requiring a password to enter. Today, these secret bars have regained popularity due to their unique atmosphere and style. Visiting some of NYC's top speakeasies is also on my list of non-touristy things to do in NYC to travel and visit like a local. There is so much history behind the culture of speakeasies and visiting one, or a few is one of those fun rainy day in NYC activities. You can find and visit these speakeasies solo or with a guided tour.
One of my favorite Speakeasy bars in NYC is Attaboy, which Vogue Magazine named the best bar in North America. Attaboy is an award-winning bar with some of the best bartenders in the world. The bartenders at Attaboy are so knowledgeable that they don't even have a menu. Instead, the bartender will ask you what you like (flavours, notes, spirits), and they'll make a cocktail for you on the spot! Having visited Attaboy several times, I can attest that the cocktails never disappoint. I always go for bubbles, gin, and citrusy.
Best NYC Guided Speakeasy Experiences and Tours:
Spend the Day in the Iconic Grand Central Station
Not only is Grand Central an iconic land mark in NYC, but there is so much to do there! I personally love visiting and gazing at the classic Beaux-Arts architecture, but there's also a food market here, high-end dining restaurants, shopping, and even a hidden speakeasy!
This 1.5 hour guided tour of Grand Central Termanial, takes you to hidden spots of the station with a local guide, sharing secrets of Grand Central Terminal's past.
Go Shopping at an Indoor Mall in NYC
When you think of shopping in NYC, staple landmark shopping streets like 5th ave, SoHo, Nolita, Williamsburg, and the Meatpacking district come to mind. But, did you know, we also have plenty of indoor shopping malls that offer the same experience, ranging from luxury to vintage. From designer name to independent boutique shops. Here are my favorite shopping malls to visit when its raining in New York City.
My Favorite Malls to Visit on a Rainy Day In New York City:
Brookfield Place: For Luxury Shopping. The mall is also beautiful!
The Oculus: A train station, an art installation, a shopping mall, and a landmark.
Hudson Yards: Modern shopping with a mix of luxury to Budget and dining.
The Shops at Columbus Circle: Although smaller, the mall is right across Central Park.
āØ Travel and Shopping Tip: There is no sales tax on clothing and footwear under $110 in New York City. So, next time you visit, do a little tax-free shopping!
More Things to Do in New York City on a Rainy Day...
Indoor Observation Decks
There are so many cool observation decks in NYC to get a great view of the city from. The reason why visiting an observation deck on a rainy day did not make it high on my list is because I rather visit them on a sunny day so I can get a clear sky view, or at night, to see the night glowing up! But if its raining and foggy out, then you just spent all that money to visit for an "ok" view. However, let's say the day you decide to visit is only partial cloudy, and you still want yo go (beause the views are pretty epic!) Here are my favorite ones to visit:
One World Observatory ā”ļø Click here for skip-the-line tickets and more info.
Top of The Rock ā”ļø Click here for skip-the-line tickets and more information.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt ā”ļø Click here for skip-the-line tickets and more info.
Edge NYC ā”ļø Click here for skip-the-line tickets and more information.
Home to the Rockettes and an iconic landmark in NYC. You can watch a live performance here or take a tour and travel behind-the-scenes of this iconic building and landmark.
Practical Tips for Navigating NYC on a Rainy Day
Use Public Transportation Efficiently
Avoid walking in the rain. Now, this one is hard for me, beacuse exploring a city by foot is my favorite way of getting around, even as a local New Yorker. I once walked all the way from the financial district to the Upper West Side-- that's about 6 miles! But it was great. I made a few stops along the way and made a day out of it. Now, in the rain, I don't recommend you do that. I love our train system in NYC. For a flat rate of $3 per ride you can go almost everywhere! Manhattan, Queen, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Long Island City, you name it! Download google maps and you're good to go for what train to take. Taking the bus is also an option, although I hardly use the bus. I don't know why, I prefer the train with one exception, when I'm traveling from the west to the east side of Manhattan. That's usually when I opt to take the bus instead. Uber is also available everywhere in NYC.
Dress Appropriately for Rain
Wear some waterproof shoes, bring an umbrella, and layers if it's a little chilly.
Check Event Schedules and Make Reservations
Some places might require making a reservation or getting an assigned time slot. Make sure you have all your passes/electronic tickets available digitally.. ahn technology :) No need to worry about your tickets getting wet! Also, being on time for required time slotted events is imperative. They won't let you in if you're too early or too late.
Thanks so much for reading this article. I hope I was able to give you some ideas of things to do in New York City if it starts raing outside. Now, I want to hear from you. What's your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
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