15 Things to Do in San Diego on a Rainy Day
People normally flock to San Diego for the sunny, 70 degree days that happen 75% of the year, but this year has been colder and rainier than usual! So, what is there to do in San Diego when it rains? A little drizzle doesn’t have to thwart your plans – there are a myriad of things to do all over the city to keep you entertained. Whether a fancy movie, walking a San Diego food tour with umbrellas in tow, or a trip to an indoor food market, we’ve got you covered!
#1 Catch a Movie at an Upscale Movie Theatre
Escape the heavy rain and catch a movie at one of San Diego’s upscale movie theaters. The luxury seating, gourmet food, and drinks will make you forget all about the weather outside. Check out The LOT at Liberty Station or La Jolla, or the Angelika Film Center in Carmel Mountain for a unique cinematic experience.
For those who prefer a more immersive experience, head to the Ruben H. Fleet Science Center’s IMAX theater, which offers a range of thought-provoking documentaries and movies on a massive screen.
Via San Diego Natural History Museum
#2 Explore the City’s Museums
San Diego is home to many premiere museums … and bonus, many are indoors! Balboa Park 15+ museums, such as the Natural History Museum and the Museum of Photographic Arts.
A must-see located in Downtown San Diego is The USS Midway Museum, which is housed in a retired aircraft carrier.
History buffs will love the San Diego History Center or the Maritime Museum of San Diego. For a more interactive experience, head to the Fleet Science Center or the New Children’s Museum.
#3 Go Bowling
You won’t “strike” out as the planner of a rainy day activity when you’re in the San Diego area by suggesting an afternoon or evening of bowling. Kearny Mesa Bowl and Mira Mesa Lanes are both popular spots, with affordable prices and plenty of lanes. For a more upscale experience, check out the Punch Bowl Social in East Village, which has bowling, arcade games, and craft cocktails.
And if you’re looking for something truly unique, try the neon-lit Bowlero in Chula Vista, which features a retro-inspired design, a full-service bar, and wide variety of food offerings like giant pizza slices and burgers.
#4 Visit Sea World
While Sea World may be known for its outdoor attractions, there are plenty of indoor exhibits and shows to enjoy on rainy days. The aquariums, animal exhibits, and live shows are all housed indoors, so you can stay dry while still experiencing the magic of Sea World.
Check out the adorable penguins at their ‘Encounter’ exhibit. Or, take a simulated helicopter ride to the Arctic Circle on the Wild Arctic Experience. And, of course, no SeaWorld trip is complete without watching a whale show (you may need an umbrella, but totally worth it!).
#5 Check Out Liberty Station Public Market
With 30+ vendors, Liberty Station Public Market is a must-visit on a rainy day. Grab everything from artisanal cheeses, craft beer, and custom-made desserts, and browse the nearby shops. One of our favorites, just across the street is Pigment, which has plants, home goods, and some of the best cards you’ll find!
Other food hall options include Little Italy Food Hall, Pacific Beach’s Backyard Kitchen & Tap, and the Del Mar Highlands Town Center, all of which offer a variety of cuisines and atmospheres.
#6 Check Out Local Breweries
A lesser known fun fact about San Diegans: they are craftsmen of craft beer. Use the rainy day as an excuse to explore what San Diego does best … brewing one-of-a-kind beers. Many local craft beer companies have indoor tasting rooms, where you can taste test a flight of beers and learn more about the process.
Some of the top breweries to check out include Epigg Brewing Company, North Park Beer Company, and Stone Brewing Company.
#7 San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is known worldwide for their menagerie of animals. Pay them a visit while still staying dry — most of the exhibits are covered or indoors.
You can see giant pandas in their element, or check out the Elephant Odyssey exhibit, which explores the history of elephants in San Diego. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a ride on the Skyfari aerial tram and see the zoo from a bird’s-eye view.
#8 Try New Restaurants
Rainy weather builds an appetite so why ignore the urge! San Diego has a vast selection of restaurants to fit every whim and dietary preference.
Little Italy is the must-stop destination for Italian food lovers, those who like a good meal with an IG-worthy aesthetic will LOVE Juniper & Ivy. If you want authentic, gourmet tacos, Puesto in La Jolla is the way to go! And, if you’re down to try some creative small plates, Trust in Hillcrest is a good place to start!
If you don’t want to do the homework for your restaurant outing, we’ll plan your food tour for you! Whether it’s La Jolla, Gaslamp, Little Italy, or even Coronado, our tour guides will give you a perfectly curated sampling of some of San Diego’s best food.
#9 Indoor Rock Climbing
Challenge yourself and get some exercise during heavy rain by trying indoor rock climbing. Vertical Hold in Mission Valley and in Mira Mesa are both popular spots, with a variety of climbing walls for all skill levels.
First-timers can take a beginner’s class or hire a private instructor, while experienced climbers can try their hand at bouldering or lead climbing. And if you’re looking for a unique combo workout experience, check out Grotto Climbing & Yoga in Golden Hill.
#10 Indoor Ice Skating
Add a little bit of ice to your rainy days. The UTC Ice Sports Center in La Jolla and the Kroc Center Ice Arena in Rolando both offer public skating sessions, as well as lessons and hockey programs.
#11 Comedy Shows
When the weather outside is dreary, laughter is the best medicine. Catch a show at the iconic Comedy Store and American Comedy Co. Both venues offer a variety of shows throughout the week, featuring local and national comedians. Grab a glass of wine or beer and get your laugh on!
If you’re in the mood for improv, check out Finest City Improv in North Park. Their talented performers create hilarious skits on the spot, making for a unique and entertaining experience.
#12 Spa Treatments
On a rainy day, it’s a prime time to treat “yo-self” to services by some of San Diego’s best spas. Each has their own flair for pampering that you’re sure to enjoy. Saffron & Sage, a holistic wellness center In Mission Hills, offers acupuncture, sound healing, and more. Four Moons Spa in Encinitas is another excellent option, specializing in facials, Yoga, Movement, Breathwork + Classes, and massages.
If you’re looking for something higher-end, head to Rancho Valencia Spa. The spa, located in Rancho Santa Fe, uses organic and all-natural products to promote healing, such as the Marine Mineral Wrap. If you want a romantic rainy day retreat, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar Spa offers an extensive menu of services, including couples massages and facials.
#13 Cooking Classes
On a rainy day, why not try to up your cooking skills? Sur La Table in La Jolla offers a variety of cooking classes, from knife skills to pastry making. Their pro chefs help you with each step of the cooking process and make sure you leave with the skills to confidently recreate this meal at home.
#14 Afternoon Tea
Experience High Noon Tea like the Brits at The Westgate Hotel’s afternoon tea service. Served daily in their picturesque Grand Lobby, the menu includes all the usual suspects for a tea party like pastries and scones. The beautiful French inspired decor, crystal chandeliers, and macarons make for a proper English rainy afternoon
#15 Cozy Hotel Bars
When it’s rainy, not much beats cozying up at a swanky bar with a craft cocktail or nice glass of wine. San Diego is teeming with hotel bars that have unique ambiance and drinks to sip on.
One of the best bars in San Diego downtown is the US Grant. It boasts a luxurious lobby bar, perfect for sipping cocktails and people-watching. Another must-see option is The Hotel Del Coronado’s Babcock & Story Bar, which has panoramic ocean views on the historic Hotel Del property and an extensive, and unique drink menu.
Take the cozy hotel bar hopping to the Gaslamp Quarter’s hotel, The Pendry. The hotel has several bars to choose from including the swanky Oxford Social Club and the more laid back Fifth & Rose. Gaslamp Quarter has several bars to choose from, including the upscale Oxford Social Club and the laid-back Fifth & Rose.
You haven’t done hotel bars in the San Diego area right until you’ve gone to one with panoramic city views. The Top of the Hyatt at the Manchester Grand Hyatt is the perfect place to watch the sunset while enjoying a drink.
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From visiting a San Diego museum and joining food tours to rock climbing and spa days, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained. So grab an umbrella and explore all that San Diego has to offer, rain or shine!
Written by: Melissa
Melissa hails from San Jose, CA, and has been a San Diego local for five years now after a 10-year long pit stop in Los Angeles. In L.A., she began her writing career crafting digital content for a wide range of clients, including The Real Talk Show, Sharon Osbourne, Hank Azaria, Time Life, and Cardinal Financial. She’s excited to be able to use her passion for writing to introduce people to some of the best spots in San Diego, many of which she has already frequented or has on her ever-expanding list of things to do … In her spare time, she enjoys taking her puppy Milo to all of the best dog beaches in SD, grabbing a glass of wine or a cup of joe at new places, and hosting watch parties for The Bachelor/ette TV show.
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