15 Best Things To Do In Destin When It Rains

Looking for what to do in Destin on a rainy day? From museums to adventure parks, this article will show you all the best things to do in Destin when it rains!

Destin is a top-choice holiday destination for sun-seekers, outdoorsy types, and cultural travelers in the sunshine state.

Its white sand beaches are spectacular as are the deep sea fishing excursions, shopping, and cultural attractions! But what happens if you find yourself in Destin on a rainy day?

Subtropical storms and rains are not uncommon on this side of Florida’s coast so don’t be too surprised at sudden thundershowers.

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The good news, however, is that Destin and its surrounding areas such as Fort Walton Beach and Miramar Beach are chock-a-block with things to do indoors.

From cuddling with baby crocs to flipping and spinning on gravity-defying trampolines, you’ll have your hands full at all times, even on gloomy rainy days.

So if you’re in the city on such days, this article will show you some of the best things to do in Destin when it rains. You can also check out our complete Destin bucket list.

 Best Things to Do in Destin When It Rains

Rainy days in Destin don’t mean hiding away in your hotel, especially if you only have a few days in the city. You can still take advantage of these indoor activities in Destin below for a fun trip.

1. Learn About The City at Destin History & Fishing Museum

One of the best indoor things to do in Destin is to check out the Destin History & Fishing Museum which sheds light on the history of this illustrious seaside city from the time it was just a small fishing village (hence its nickname as the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village) to where it is today.

The museum houses artifacts such as vintage photographs, old documents, and fishing equipment showcasing the exploits of the early pioneers including a fishing rod that was owned by the celebrated writer, Ernest Hemingway.

You’ll also have a glimpse of shark teeth and over 100 fish mounts that were caught by local fishermen.

They also organize exhibits including the Diving in Destin exhibit where you’ll learn about the early divers who arrived on Florida’s coast for scuba diving and snorkeling pursuits.

And while there, make sure you see the Primrose, which is Destin’s last seine boat built from juniper wood almost a century ago.

Related Post: Best Beachfront restaurants in Destin

2. Explore Natural Wonders at the Emerald Coast Science Center

Emerald Coast Science Center is a hands-on museum where visitors can enjoy interactive encounters with animals and increase their knowledge about science in a fun and creative way.

The center has both outdoor and indoor exhibits making it a great place to visit on a rainy day in Destin.

Some of the indoor exhibits you can enjoy include brain games, scientific exhibits that kids will enjoy, and robotics exhibits! There is also an animal room where you can interact with animals while learning about them.

And if it stops raining or you’re able to brave the light showers, the outdoor exhibits like the Marine Exhibit will take you on a learning journey and understand how boats are built and why they don’t sink.

3. Laugh Out Loud at the Maximum Magic Show

Destin’s indoor activities are thankfully varied and a top family-friendly activity not to miss out on on a rainy day is this 90-minute long show hosted by Merlin award winners, Heather and Noah Wells at the HarborWalk Theater.

You can expect blindfolded magic tricks, illusions, and plenty of witty dialogues and laughs to go around.

A standout element, however, is the mind-reading sessions that leave audiences gasping in disbelief.

The inimitable duo also often invites audience members on stage to be part of the spectacle — this may be your chance for those 15 proverbial minutes of fame!

Since Maximum Magic Show is the Gulf Coast’s longest-running magic show and one of the most popular, its tickets sell out soon, so we recommend booking your ticket here in advance.

>>> Click here to book your ticket to the funniest show in Destin.

4. Become a Wine Connoisseur at Emerald Coast Wine Cellars

How about sipping and swirling some of Northwest Florida’s finest muscadine wines in a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere? If you’re a wine lover, this is one of the indoor activities in Destin Fl you’ll enjoy.

This award-winning local winery at Miramar Beach has been around since 2001 and offers daily complimentary wine tastings.

Not sure what to try? The knowledgeable and engaging host will help you select and uncork bottles that match your taste — from whites and reds, specialty and seasonal wines, to the celebrated muscadine wines.

There is also a quaint gift shop that has a tidy selection of treats and personalized gift baskets to take back home.

This is also one of the most romantic things to do in Destin if you’re traveling with your loved one.

5. Chill out with Sea Creatures at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Destin when it rains, consider the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park with its covered walkways and intimate animal encounters.

Perfect for the entire family, Kids will love playing by the poolside with the curious Atlantic bottlenose dolphins while the adorable seals will melt their hearts with their funny antics. And if they’re lucky, they can even feed them for up to 10 minutes.

In addition to these, you can visit the CARE Center and meet rehabilitee turtles and tortoises from the sea that are being nursed to health.

At Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, you’ll not only have a close interaction with animals but you’ll also learn about them as the knowledgeable staff will tell you some interesting facts about them.

Related Post: Best Seafood restaurants in Destin

6. Have a Close Encounter with the Crocs at Gator Beach

Posing with baby crocs for photographs at the World’s Greatest Alligator Park is one of the fun things to do in Destin when it rains.

Besides posing with them, you can also feed them just by attaching croc food to the poles and lowering them down so it’s safe.

The best part about Gator Beach is that it is completely free to enter and watch shows though some activities will require a couple of bucks.

While here, don’t miss the Crocodilia Discovery Zone which houses a mesmerizing 3D underwater habitat, alligator nests, and even a giant skull of a prehistoric crocodile that once prowled Florida’s shores.

7. Have Fun at Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone

A short drive to Okaloosa Island is Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone, Northwest Florida’s biggest family entertainment center, and a top Destin rainy day activity.

Though it is mostly famous for its outdoor activities like the 60-foot Ropes Course, mini golf course, and go-kart, Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone also offers indoor activities to keep you busy as you wait for the rain to reduce.

Whether you choose to watch a movie in their 4D movie theatre, play games at the Redemption Arcade which features over 65 games, or test your aiming skills at Urban Assault Laser, you won’t run out of things to do at this place.

For an adrenaline rush, try any of the three go-kart tracks particularly the Gator with its dizzyingly winding curves.

8. Reflect on Native History at the Indian Temple Mound Museum

Among the many things to do on a rainy day in Destin is a visit to this hidden gem in the Fort Walton Beach area.

Indian Temple Mound Museum is dedicated to shedding light on the life of native groups of people who once called the South home.

Start by checking out ancient tools and prehistoric ceramics from the southeastern part of the US.

There are also artifacts of bone, stone, clay, and shell that trace 12,000 years of Native American occupation, the European Explorers who arrived later, and local pirates.

This child-friendly museum also lets kids dress as seafaring pirates and then pose for pictures.

While here, you can purchase replicas of exhibits as well as Native American Art, shell carvings, pottery, jewelry, and textiles to take home as souvenirs.

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9. Bowl your Heart Out at Hurricane Lanes

Other rainy day activities in Destin include a visit to this retro-style games arcade which features six billiard tables, crane games, and 26 bowling lanes to practice your swing at. There’s air hockey too and a selection of various games to enjoy.

If you work up an appetite, head to the in-house Strikezone Café which excels at making jumbo pretzels, fried pickles, jalapeno poppers, and cheese bites.

Hurricane Lanes also houses Rupert’s Sports Bar which offers exciting Happy Hour specials. In fact, this is one of the best bars in Destin to wind up a day from.

Once you’re done bowling, step inside Club LA, which is right around the corner to show off your dance moves on their dance floor or enjoy one of their entertainment events like comedy night.

10. Have Fun at Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park

If you’re traveling with kids, this is one of the best places to visit in Destin when it rains.

Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park has been voted BEST Gym in America for Kids by Shape Magazine.

This indoor adventure park has everything you can think of from thrilling attractions, to fun and safe physical activities, and educational games to not only keep the little ones entertained but also challenge their bodies and minds.

Kids can choose to jump as high as they can on the springy trampoline at the Slam Dunk Zone, have a little thrill at the Climbing Walls, or the Ropes Course with its gravity-defying obstacles, or test their balancing skills at Battle Beam.

And if your kid’s birthday is coming up, you can celebrate it in style at the park by entrusting the party planning process to the park’s management.

11. Grab Craft Beer at the Destin Brewery

If you’re the sociable type who enjoys the cultural aspect of travel and beer, then head down to the Destin Brewery, a gem on the Emerald Coast.

This award-winning brewery is as local as it gets, and even dogs and kids feel right at home.

There are art-related events, classes, discussions, and chili cook-offs that unfold over a round of rich stouts and ales.

Not sure what to try? Ask for beers made with honey and Florida citrus, or the popular blueberry pomegranate bee liner. You won’t regret your choice.

Destin Brewery assures patrons of a high-quality aging process of their beer that is done in meticulously chosen bourbon barrels. You’ll need to taste it to believe it.

12. Scale New Heights at Rock Out Climbing

This bouldering gym is very clear about what you can expect and that is “No Ropes, No Harnesses, Just Climbing”. 

But don’t worry, the holds are clearly labeled and there are varying levels of difficulty based on age and skill. Also, you can take a basic course before attempting to scale those walls.

Rock Out Climbing also has treadmills, rowing machines, and hang boards to keep you entertained. This facility is a great way to meet like-minded thrill seekers in a welcoming atmosphere.

13. Have A Magical Experience at Rainforest Black Light Golf & Arcade

This 18-hole golf course in Miramar Beach is one of the top rainy-day activities in the Destin area.

Florida’s No. 1 Indoor Black Light Golf facility assures you of some incredible photos as the glowing lights and rainforest animals (hippo and Royal Bengal Tiger among others) make for a truly surreal backdrop.

Golfing enthusiasts meanwhile will find that the holes here are surprisingly challenging considering this is an indoor facility.

Once you’re done with golf, check out the arcade room which boasts interactive video games and floor projection games.

There’s also air hockey, foosball, dodge ball and tons more to keep you entertained.

14. Fling an Axe at Axes and Ice-cream

Among the many unique things to do inside in and around Destin is a visit to this indoor axe house at the nearby Miramar Beach, a beautiful town near Destin.

The axe coaches will show you to your lane and explain the basics of axe throwing. Soon, you’ll be hurtling those guys right toward their target. Make sure you dress in loose-fitting clothing to ensure unhindered movement.

While adults have fun flinging axes, little kids can enjoy a game of mini basketball on the premises.

Afterward, treat yourself to creamy, delicious hand-dipped ice creams served in 24 flavors.

15. Catch the Latest Flick at the IMAX theater At Destin Commons

Last on our list of the best things to do inside in Destin on a rain-soaked day is to sink into a plush recliner seat at the IMAX theater.

The cinema offers viewers a premier digital 3D experience and shows various movies including blockbusters.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to do in Destin on a Rainy Day

Clearly, Destin has all bases covered when it comes to unpredictable weather patterns, and you’ll never run out of things to do whilst here.

Whether you’re a family traveling with kids, a group of friends, or a solo traveler, you’ll be able to find what to do in Destin when it rains be it making memories with all those croc and sea lion encounters, dinosaur discoveries, trampoline shenanigans, and a good ol’ dose of history at the city museum.

So with this list of indoor Destin activities, a rainy day doesn’t have to be that bad.

But before you go, consider sharing these things to do in Destin when it rains if you found the article helpful!

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