BY TIO STAFF

A rainy day in Indianapolis doesn’t have to mean staying cooped up indoors. The city offers a wide variety of activities that are perfect for dreary weather, from cultural experiences to cozy spots where you can relax and recharge. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, here’s how to make the most of a rainy day in Indy.

1. Explore the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

Located just minutes from downtown, the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields is the perfect indoor escape when the weather turns wet. With an extensive collection of works ranging from contemporary pieces to European masterpieces, there’s plenty to see and explore. Don’t miss the rotating exhibitions, which often feature cutting-edge artists and unique themes. The museum also houses a beautiful indoor greenhouse, perfect for a peaceful moment surrounded by lush plants.

2. Visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is not just for kids—it’s the largest children’s museum in the world and offers interactive exhibits that appeal to all ages. You can spend hours exploring the immersive dinosaur exhibits, learning about space travel, or delving into pop culture at the museum’s rotating exhibitions. Rain or shine, the Children’s Museum provides an educational and fun experience for families or anyone looking to revisit their inner child.

3. Catch a Movie at Kan-Kan Cinema and Brasserie

For a more artistic movie experience, head over to Kan-Kan Cinema and Brasserie. This independent theater in the Windsor Park neighborhood showcases indie films, foreign films, and classic cinema, making it the perfect spot for film lovers looking for something beyond the usual blockbuster fare. The cozy cinema offers small, intimate screening rooms, and the adjoining brasserie serves up craft cocktails, local beers, and an eclectic menu perfect for a rainy afternoon or evening.

4. Relax at the Indianapolis City Market Catacombs

Step beneath the city streets and explore a piece of Indianapolis history with a visit to the City Market Catacombs. While the market above may be bustling with activity, the catacombs offer a more mysterious and atmospheric experience. Tours of the catacombs provide a glimpse into the hidden history of the city, with eerie passageways and stories of old Indianapolis. After your tour, grab a bite from one of the market’s diverse food vendors and enjoy a meal indoors as the rain pours outside.

5. Get Competitive at Pins Mechanical Co.

If you’re in the mood for some indoor fun, Pins Mechanical Co. offers a playful environment with plenty of activities to keep you entertained. This downtown hangout features duckpin bowling, pinball machines, and classic arcade games. Whether you’re looking to challenge friends to a game or simply enjoy the retro vibes, Pins Mechanical Co. provides a fun and lively atmosphere that’s perfect for a rainy day. With a variety of local beers and craft cocktails on offer, it’s a great place to spend a few hours.

6. Indulge in a Coffee Crawl

Rainy days are perfect for hopping from one cozy coffee shop to another. Indianapolis boasts an array of great cafes where you can relax, read, or catch up on work while sipping on a hot beverage. Start at Provider Coffee with a specialty pour-over, then head to Coat Check Coffee inside the historic Athenaeum building for an expertly made espresso drink. End your crawl at Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company in Fountain Square, where you can enjoy a pastry and support a café that gives back to the community. Each of these spots offers warm, inviting spaces to ride out the rain in comfort.

7. Tour the Indiana State Museum

Located in White River State Park, the Indiana State Museum is a great indoor destination for history buffs and curious minds alike. The museum showcases the state’s rich history, from prehistoric fossils to modern cultural milestones. Interactive exhibits on science, art, and natural history make the museum engaging for visitors of all ages. Spend your rainy day learning about Indiana’s past and marveling at the variety of exhibits on display, all while staying dry indoors.

8. Challenge Yourself at an Escape Room

If you’re looking for an interactive way to spend a rainy day, why not test your problem-solving skills at one of Indy’s escape rooms? The Escape Room Indianapolis, located downtown, offers a variety of themed rooms ranging from heist scenarios to supernatural mysteries. Gather your friends or family and work together to solve puzzles and make your way out of the room before time runs out. It’s an exciting and immersive way to beat the rain while having fun indoors.

9. Shop at the Fashion Mall at Keystone

Retail therapy can be the perfect antidote to a rainy day. Head to the Fashion Mall at Keystone, one of the city’s premier shopping destinations. The mall features a wide variety of high-end retailers, department stores, and specialty boutiques, so you can shop for the latest fashion, beauty products, or home decor. With plenty of dining options as well, including The Cheesecake Factory and Napolese Pizzeria, you can enjoy a full day of shopping and eating without ever stepping outside.

10. Relax at a Spa

Take advantage of the rainy weather to unwind and treat yourself to a day of relaxation at one of Indianapolis’s top spas. Woodhouse Day Spa and Studio 2000 Salon & Day Spa both offer luxurious treatments, from massages and facials to manicures and pedicures. Pamper yourself with a stress-relieving massage or spend the day enjoying a full spa package. A spa day is the perfect way to relax, recharge, and forget all about the rainy weather outside.

Final Thoughts

Rainy days in Indianapolis don’t have to dampen your plans. With a wide range of indoor activities to choose from, you can enjoy culture, entertainment, relaxation, and fun no matter what the weather is like. So, next time the rain starts to fall, try one of these activities to make the most of your day in the city!