Looking for what to do in Boston on a rainy day? Start here.

Indoor adventures, iconic attractions, and cozy escapes that make you forget the weather.

 

Rainy days in Boston aren’t detours - they’re an invitation to explore the city’s coziest corners, cultural treasures, and offbeat experiences. Whether you're a local or visiting for the weekend, there’s no shortage of indoor activities Boston has to offer. This guide covers the most memorable rainy day activities Boston visitors and residents love - including options you won’t find in basic lists.

From must-see museums to hands-on fun, here are Boston’s best indoor activities that feel like the main event, not a backup plan.

1. Take a Hands-On Cooking Class in Boston

When it’s gloomy outside, there’s nothing better than the comforting aroma of simmering sauces, the sound of clinking glasses, and the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. If you're wondering what to do in Boston on a rainy day that’s both cozy and hands-on, this experience is hard to beat. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Selfup Cooking Classes - a cozy culinary haven tucked into Boston’s Financial District.

 

Cooking Class Options for Rainy Days  

 

• Italian Pasta Making – Roll tagliatelle, shape ravioli, and savor the perfect carbonara.

• Dumpling & Dim Sum Class – Learn the art of pleating and steaming while exploring bold Asian flavors.

• French Bistro Experience – Master techniques like searing steak au poivre and whisking hollandaise.

• Mexican Fiesta – Make hand-pressed tortillas, tacos, and zesty guacamole from scratch.

• Brunch & Booze – A Sunday morning favorite: think eggs Benedict, mimosas, and good vibes.

• Date Night Dinner Party – Designed for couples, these evenings are full of romance, shared laughter, and chef-inspired menus.

Why It’s the Ultimate Rainy Day Plan:

You stay warm, you stay dry, and you leave with full bellies and great memories. Whether you come with your partner, your best friend, or by yourself, cooking classes bring people together over a shared love of food—and make the rain feel like a perfectly timed backdrop.

 

Location: 16 Beaver Street, Financial District

Extra tip: Gift cards are available and can be sent instantly—perfect for a spontaneous rainy-day surprise or a thoughtful last-minute gift.

2. Explore Boston’s Best Museums and Indoor Attractions

Boston is packed with iconic institutions that make for perfect indoor activities, especially when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

• Museum of Science: Packed with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a butterfly garden.

• Museum of Fine Arts (MFA): Explore one of the most comprehensive art collections in the country—from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Impressionist masterpieces.

• New England Aquarium: Watch penguins waddle, jellyfish float, and sea turtles glide in this waterfront gem.

• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: A Venetian-style palace filled with art, mystery, and charm. Don’t miss the lush indoor courtyard.

• Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library: Step inside a three-story stained-glass globe for a 360-degree global perspective.

• USS Constitution Museum: Located in the Charlestown Navy Yard, this interactive museum dives into the story of "Old Ironsides."

 

3. Family-Friendly Indoor Activities in Boston

For families searching for rainy day activities, Boston kids will love these indoor attractions that combine fun and learning.

 

 

 

 

 

• Boston Children’s Museum: Interactive play zones, STEM fun, and hands-on learning await curious kids.

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Just outside the city in Somerville, this indoor theme park is LEGO heaven.

• New England Aquarium: Engaging and educational for all ages.

• Museum of Science: Always a family favorite.

• Indoor Playgrounds & Trampoline Parks: Sky Zone (Everett) and Launch (Framingham) offer space to bounce off rainy-day energy.

• Indoor Waterparks: Great Wolf Lodge (Fitchburg) makes for a great weather-proof day trip.

 

 

 

4. Unique and Active Indoor Experiences in Boston

Move, play, and challenge yourself—no umbrella required.

• Indoor Rock Climbing: Brooklyn Boulders (Somerville), Rock Spot Climbing (South Boston).

• Escape Rooms: Trapology Boston and Room Escapers are top picks.

• Indoor Go-Karting: K1 Speed (Wilmington) brings speed without the storm.

• Bowling & Arcades: Kings Boston, VERSUS, and Lucky Strike for classic fun.

• Barcades: Roxy’s A4cade mixes arcade games with burgers and craft beer.

• Indoor Mini Golf: Try Puttshack or Monster Mini Golf for fun with flair.

5. Discover Boston’s Historic Indoor Landmarks

Step into the city’s storied past—rain or shine.

• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: Relive the revolution with interactive exhibits (yes, you can throw the tea).

• Old North Church: One if by land, two if by sea—step inside this legendary site.

• Paul Revere House: A preserved 17th-century home in the North End.

• John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum: Multimedia exhibits and sweeping harbor views.

• Faneuil Hall Marketplace: Covered shopping, history, and street performers under one historic roof.

6. Nightlife and Live Entertainment in Boston

Theater, music, and comedy to brighten any rainy evening.

• Theater District: Catch Broadway shows, indie plays, or a rainy day matinee.

• Live Music & Jazz: Scullers Jazz Club, The Beehive, and City Winery serve rhythm with your wine.

• Comedy Clubs: Laugh away the drizzle at Hideout Comedy or Improv Asylum.

7. Savor Boston’s Culinary Scene Indoors

 Food-focused indoor activities in Boston include not just restaurants, but immersive tastings and local markets.

 

Food Halls & Markets:

• Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market: Since 1826, this bustling historic food hall has served lobster rolls, New England clam chowder, Italian pastries, and more.

• Boston Public Market: A year-round indoor market with all-local vendors. Sample regional wines, fine cheeses, and seasonal treats.

• SoWa Vintage Market: A foodie favorite on Sundays with rotating food trucks, craft beverages, and unique local snacks.

 

Brewery Tours & Cozy Taprooms:

• Sam Adams Brewery (Jamaica Plain)

• Harpoon Brewery (Seaport)

• Trillium Brewing (Fort Point)

• Lamplighter Brewing Co. (Cambridge)

Unique Eateries & Cafes:

• The Beehive (South End)

• Green Dragon Tavern

• Barcelona Wine Bar

• Tatte Bakery & Café

Interactive Foodie Experiences:

• Taza Chocolate Factory Tour (Somerville)

• Roxy’s A4cade

• North End or Chinatown Food Tours

 

8. Performing Arts & Entertainment Escapes in Boston

Let the curtain rise on unforgettable indoor experiences.

 

Theater District

 

Boston’s Theater District is a rainy day dream. Cozy up in one of the city’s historic playhouses for a matinee or evening show—no umbrella required. The Wang Theatre, Boston Opera House, and Emerson Colonial Theatre regularly host touring Broadway shows, musicals, ballet, and concerts in stunning, gilded settings.

🌂 Why it works on a rainy day: You’ll go from rain-soaked streets to velvet seats in minutes, and emerge inspired and dry.

 

Comedy Clubs That Warm the Soul

 

Laughter is the best weather cure. Tucked into basements and side streets, Boston’s comedy clubs are intimate, high-energy escapes from the gloom outside.

• Hideout Comedy (Downtown)

• Improv Asylum (North End)

• The Comedy Studio (Somerville)

🍸 Bonus: Most clubs double as cozy bars—ideal for warming up with a drink before the show.

 

Live Music & Jazz Lounges

 

There’s something magical about live music on a rainy night. Boston’s music scene covers everything from intimate jazz clubs to eclectic lounges and seated concert halls.

• The Beehive (South End)

• Scullers Jazz Club (Allston)

• City Winery (West End)

🎷 Ideal for date night, solo outings, or low-key group hangs when plans go from rooftop to raincoat.

9. Relax and Recharge: Boston’s Best Spa Escapes

Pamper yourself with a little rainy day rejuvenation.

• G2O Spa & Salon: Facials, dry float therapy, and rooftop relaxation.

• MiniLuxe & Bella Santé: Mani-pedis that beat the blues.

10. Shop, Browse, and Stay Dry: Boston’s Indoor Retail Therapy

From luxury malls to indie boutiques, discover Boston’s shopping scene.

 

Copley Place & Prudential Center

 

Located in the Back Bay and connected by a weatherproof skybridge, these upscale malls offer luxury brands like Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and Neiman Marcus alongside popular favorites like Sephora and Under Armour. You’ll also find cozy cafes and great people-watching spots.

☕ Pro Tip: Grab a latte from Eataly’s café and enjoy a mid-shop break with a view of the city skyline.

 

Faneuil Hall Marketplace & Quincy Market

 

While known for history, Faneuil Hall is also home to an indoor lineup of local boutiques, souvenir shops, and artisan vendors. Quincy Market’s grand colonnade shelters dozens of kiosks offering handcrafted jewelry, Boston-themed gifts, and street-style snacks.

🎁 Pro Tip: Rainy days mean smaller crowds—perfect for grabbing locally made souvenirs without the hassle.

 

Boston Public Market

 

This all-local indoor market isn’t just for foodies—it’s a treasure trove of handmade goods, regional specialties, and edible gifts. Think New England maple syrup, small-batch skincare, locally roasted coffee, and more.

🎨 Bonus: Many vendors offer seasonal tastings, workshops, or demos—perfect for a rainy-day stop that feels more like an event.

 

SoWa Vintage Market

 

Hidden in the South End, this indoor Sunday market is a vintage lover’s paradise. Browse antique furniture, retro fashion, old-school vinyl, and one-of-a-kind oddities—all while staying completely dry.

📍 Insider Tip: Pair it with a visit to nearby art galleries and food trucks (many have covered seating even in the rain).

 

Local Indie Shops

• Trident Booksellers & Café (Back Bay)

• Black Ink (Beacon Hill)

• December Thieves (South End)

11. Immersive & Offbeat Indoor Activities in Boston

Try something new with Boston’s most unique rainy day adventures.

 

Escape Rooms That Break the Routine

Rainy days are the perfect time to put your problem-solving skills to the test. Boston’s escape rooms offer immersive environments that transport you from soggy sidewalks to crime scenes, space stations, or secret bunkers.

• Trapology Boston

• Room Escapers

🔐 Why it works: It's dry, adrenaline-filled, and ideal for couples, friends, or corporate groups looking for bonding beyond the boardroom.

 

Barcades & Arcade Lounges

 

Old-school arcade games, greasy grilled cheese, and craft beer? Yes, please. These hybrid hangouts are made for rainy days when you want to have fun without taking things too seriously.

• Roxy’s A4cade (Cambridge)

• VERSUS (Downtown)

👾 Best for: Adults reliving childhood favorites—with a side of truffle fries.

 

Get Active Indoors (Without Getting Wet)

 

For those who need movement no matter the weather, Boston offers indoor experiences that combine physical activity with adventure.

• Brooklyn Boulders (Somerville)

• K1 Speed (Wilmington)

• Sky Zone Trampoline Park (Everett)

🎯 Why go: These spots keep the energy high when outdoor plans get washed out.

 

FAQs & Tips for Navigating Boston on a Rainy Day

• Getting Around: Use the T (subway) to avoid parking and puddles.

• Discounts: Many museums offer reduced admission through local libraries.

• What to Pack: Umbrella, waterproof shoes, and layers.

• Stay Downtown: Easy access to top indoor attractions.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Rain, Discover Boston

Boston doesn’t just endure the rain—it thrives in it. With iconic museums, offbeat experiences, historic sites, and cozy corners to explore, gray skies are just another excuse to dive deeper into the city. Let the drizzle lead the way.

Next time you’re Googling what to do in Boston on a rainy day, bookmark this guide. From culture to cuisine, Boston’s indoor activities turn gray days into memorable experiences.