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Miami is world-famous for its sunshine — the city averages about 250 sunny days per year, in fact. But anyone who lives here knows that stat accounts for biblical summer-afternoon downpours and winter storm systems that would yield snow were we not so close to the Equator.
Still, even when the skies decide to throw a random wet tantrum, the 305 isn’t short on indoor adventures that are as exciting as a Saturday night on Collins. Whether you’re dodging downpours on vacation or just need a solid escape from your soggy front porch, Miami offers an array of cool, covered hangouts to keep you dry (and delighted).
From axe-throwing and escape rooms to cosmic bowling and art galleries that will make you forget what blue skies look like, the Magic City has options for every type of rainy-day explorer. So, stash the umbrella, skip the beach, and dive into one of these ten fun rainy-day activities around town – each proving that bad weather doesn’t mean a bad time.
Axe Habits
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If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner lumberjack while sipping a beer indoors, you should head to Axe Habits. This Downtown Miami axe-throwing haven brings the primal fun – no flannel required. You’ll find well-lit throwing lanes, virtual reality escape games, and even traditional escape rooms to test your group’s smarts and strength. Whether you’re aiming for the bullseye or just looking to blow off some steam, Axe Habits is a therapeutic way to take out your rainy-day frustrations. Drinks, snacks, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments round out the experience. 540 N. Miami Ave., Miami; 786-708-5811; axehabits.com.
Basement Bowl & Skate
Who says you need clear skies to party? This multi-sensory wonderland inside the Miami Beach Edition is part neon-lit bowling alley, part retro-cool ice-skating rink, and all fabulous. Basement offers a four-lane boutique bowling setup perfect for dancing between strikes. Add some tasty cocktails, curated lighting, and a great soundtrack, and you’ve got the ultimate rainy night out. 2901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 786-257-4600; basementmiami.com.
The Citadel
Craving a low-key afternoon that still hits all the high notes? Head to the Citadel, where food hall meets cultural playground. It’s a stylish mashup of local eats, craft cocktails, and retail therapy – all under one very architecturally pleasing roof. Grab a bowl of ramen, chase it with a handcrafted cafecito cocktail, and check out live DJs or local pop-ups as the rain taps on the windows. Bonus: It’s family-friendly by day and date-night chic by dusk. 8300 NE Second Ave., Miami; 305-908-3849; thecitadelmiami.com.
The Edge Rock Gym keeps you active on bad weather days. Photo by Joshua Kruger via Wikimedia Commons
The Edge Rock Gym
When Miami’s streets turn into rivers, head indoors and scale a wall. This 14,000-square-foot climbing gym in Southwest Miami offers a literal way to rise above the weather. From bouldering to belaying, climbers of all skill levels can challenge themselves on routes curated by some of the best setters in the country. The community here is strong, the air is dry, and the adrenaline rush is real. 13972 SW 139 Ct., Miami; 305-233-6623; theedgerockgymmiami.com.
The Escape Game Miami
Featuring seven original storylines ranging from intergalactic crises to prison breakouts, Brickell’s immersive Escape Game Miami puts your logic and teamwork to the test. It’s family-friendly, big-group-friendly, and right inside Brickell City Centre, making it a prime spot to sandwich between shopping and tapas. Rainy day, solved. 701 S. Miami Ave., Ste. 367-C, Miami; 786-288-5904; theescapegame.com.
The Landmark at Merrick Park
This is not your average megaplex. Tucked into the posh confines of Coral Gables’ Merrick Park, Landmark brings indie cinema charm with a side of craft beer and plush seating. It’s a cinephile’s dream, offering everything from blockbuster hits to under-the-radar international gems. Plus, when the credits roll, you’re already steps away from shopping, coffee, or a cozy restaurant to complete your climate-controlled afternoon. Rain? What rain? 358 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables; 786-574-4116; landmarktheatres.com.
Escape the rain and lean into the nostalgia at Miami Roller Rink.
Photo by Amanda Julca
Miami Roller Rink
Rain clouds got you down? Roll it off at Miami’s legendary roller rink, a family-owned institution with more moves than that random TikToker you follow. With decades of local history under its wheels, the rink – formerly known as Hot Wheels and Super Wheels – delivers retro vibes, lively tunes, and enough colorful lights to outshine the dreariest day. Rent some skates, grab a slice of pizza, and glide your way back to a simpler time. 12265 SW 112th St., Miami; 305-702-0285; miamirollerrink.com.
Pérez Art Museum Miami
When the weather won’t cooperate, there’s no better place to soak up some culture than PAMM. Overlooking Biscayne Bay (which you can still appreciate behind glass), this sleek museum houses contemporary art from the Americas, thought-provoking installations, and a café serving up a mean cappuccino. The architecture alone is worth the visit – even if the rain keeps you from exploring the outdoor sculpture garden. 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami; 305-375-3000; pamm.org.
Putt the rainy day blues away at Puttery Miami. Puttery photo
Puttery Miami
Forget windmills and clown mouths – Puttery reimagines mini golf for the Instagram era. In Wynwood, this upscale adults-only lounge features three wildly themed nine-hole courses (a cozy ski lodge, a rooftop garden, and a library complete with a prehistoric surprise). Each course comes with signature cocktails and a polished lounge menu that feels more “mixology bar” than “concession stand.” Come for the putt-putt, stay for the vibe – the rain outside only adds to the moody aesthetic. 239 NW 28th St., Miami; 786-733-0770; puttery.com.
Superblue Miami
If you think museums are a snooze, check out Superblue Miami on the next stormy day. Immersive experiences created by different artists let you explore artwork from the inside. With mazes, mirrors, digital effects, screens, and thousands of lights, you get a whole-body art experience here. Exhibitions have included work by the famed light-based artist James Turrell, stage designer Es Devlin, and many other stars of the art world. 1101 NW 23rd St., Miami; 786-697-3405; superblue.com.
