Best Rainy Day Activities in San Diego
As a famous song once said, “it never rains in Southern California.” And while it’s true that rainy days are rare in San Diego, spring can nonetheless bring the occasional shower. Not to worry, though — “America’s Finest City” is so brimming with amazing things to do that not even the odd drizzly day can dampen our spirit. Looking for fulfilling rainy day activities in San Diego? We’ve got some great options that will keep you smiling until the clouds part.
Cozy Up With Some Ramen (various locations)
When the weather is less-than-ideal, there’s not much that soothes the soul more effectively than timeless comfort food. And for aficionados of Japanese cooking, that means Ramen — the huge, steaming bowls of rich broth, noodles, meats, and endless savory satisfaction aficionados love. Thanks to our melting pot “foodie” culture here in San Diego, there are some amazing spots to indulge locally. Take a look at this rundown of the city’s best ramen spots from our sister property The Dana on Mission Bay to find the best bowl for you.
Drop Some Quarters at Coin-Op Game Room (4.4 miles away)
(Photo: @coinopsd)
This North Park staple (which recently opened a second location in the Gaslamp Quarter) was the first barcade in San Diego, and it remains a mandatory stop for anyone on the hunt for beer, burgers, and bytes. Classically old-school gaming is always on offer here, as are specialty drinks like the “Kentucky Stucky” and “Guava the Hutt”. Hungry? Dig into a “Goomba Burger” (with a grilled mushroom cap), or a Shrimpy Boy po’ boy-style sub.
3926 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Visit Birch Aquarium (6.3 miles away)
(Photo: @birchaquarium)
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a must-stop for anyone with an interest in marine biology. This public education center offered by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography features interactive displays, a tide-pool exhibit, and 60-plus habitats housing a variety of fascinating and colorful sea life. The aquarium also offers seasonal whale-watching tours and snorkeling classes, so there’s truly something for everyone of any age.
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
Explore Liberty Station (7.9 miles)
(Photo: @shopeatlibertystation)
Located on the site of the former Naval Training Station, Liberty Station is a must-stop when visiting the city This public-market-style shopping center is where locals and visitors alike convene to meet, shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment. It’s a “town square” of sorts for the area, drawing millions of visitors every year. Drop in to discover dining, produce, fresh fish, meats, desserts, baked goods, wine, beer, liquor, art, and much more. Some of our favorite spots to check out while there include Pigment, Stone Brewing, The Lot, and Moniker Coffee.
2640 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
Try Indoor Rock Climbing (9.7 miles)
The varied topographical terrain of San Diego makes this a rock climber’s paradise. Of course, when the rain is falling, scaling a sheer cliff face isn’t exactly recommended. That doesn’t mean you can’t still experience it, though! Just head to Mesa Rim in Mission Valley, and they’ll get you going on a climbing wall that’s dry, safe, and all-indoors. If you’re an experienced climber, no problem. But they also cater to beginners.
405 Camino del Rio S. San Diego, CA 92108
Simulate a Skydive (10.4 miles)
Jumping out of a plane with a parachute can be a pretty terrifying experience — not to mention the lengthy amount of instruction involved. Still, if you’ve ever wanted a taste of skydiving without the commitment, San Diego has you covered. iFly San Diego offers a safe, indoor alternative that still gets the adrenaline pumping. Flyers suit up and head into a vertical cylindrical wind tunnel that lets you enjoy all of the thrills of a dive, but without having to jump out of an airplane.
2385 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego, CA 92108
Experience a Museum Tour (11.8 miles)
Beautiful Balboa Park is more than just a gorgeous urban green space. It also represents a centrally located opportunity to experience all the best museums in San Diego. Balboa is home to exhibit halls like Fleet Science Center, San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Air and Space Museum, Museum of Us, San Diego Art Institute, and Mingei International Museum. And we’re of the opinion that there’s no better way to avoid the rain than by taking in a show at the park’s famous IMAX Dome Theatre! So why not plan a day of mental stimulation as the rain falls?
1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Savor Some Speed (12.1 miles)
Go-karts were fun when you were a kid, right?.\ Well, here’s a shocker: they still are! If you’re looking for some old-school karting, look no further than the titanic tracks at K1 Speed San Diego. This fast-paced fun zone delivers revved-up karts with courses that will make you feel like a kid again. And since the racing here is indoors, you won’t have to worry about spinning out on a rain-slick hairpin turn. So on your mark, get set and race.
1709 Main St, San Diego, CA 92113
Visit the Carlsbad Flower Fields (26.6 miles)
(Photo: @the_flower_fields)
The breathtaking Carlsbad Flower Fields draw tens of thousands of visitors to a beautiful super-bloom of giant Tecolote ranunculus flowers every spring. Row after row of brilliant rainbow colors ripple across the landscape during the peak months. When visiting, guests are treated to not just the brilliant botanical display, but also a wide range of family-friendly activities (such as antique tractor rides, fruit picking, and much more).
5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Relish the Rain With Pacific Terrace
No need to let a rainy day get you down! Guests at Pacific Terrace enjoy plush accommodations, private balconies overlooking the ocean, and second-to-none service that won’t leave you high and dry. Take a look at our special offers, select the San Diego travel deal that’s right for you, and we’ll see you soon!