Rainy Day Activities in Destin, FL for All Ages (2025 Guide)

The beach is closed, the skies are gray, and someone just suggested playing Monopoly. Red flag. But don’t worry—rainy days in Destin don’t have to be a total wash. Whether you’re wrangling kids, avoiding doomscrolling, or just looking for something to do while the storm passes, there are still plenty of fun ways to make the most of your day.

From sea life and shopping to scenic drives and spa time, these ideas are built to keep your vacation mood intact—no sunscreen required.

🐬 Hands-On and Educational Stops

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

Even in less-than-perfect weather, the Gulfarium is a great place to spend a few hours. Many exhibits are covered, and dolphin and sea lion shows often go on, rain or shine.

• Covered walkways and indoor exhibits

• Marine life up close—great for all ages

• Located near the Boardwalk

Book Gulfarium tickets →

Emerald Coast Science Center

Small but packed with hands-on exhibits galore, it’s one of our top activities for toddlers in Destin, along with kids up to about 12 (and curious adults).

• Interactive displays and seasonal exhibits

• Touch-friendly science zones and robotics

• Affordable admission and easy to navigate

Get Science Center tickets →

MAXIMUM MAGIC Show Starring Noah and Heather Wells

A fun and easy way to spend a rainy evening indoors, with no shortage of spectacular tricks.

• Held at HarborWalk Village

• Fast-paced illusions and audience- and family-friendly comedy

• One of our favorite things to do at night in Destin

See showtimes →

Air Force Armament Museum (Fort Walton Beach)

A free, indoor museum near Eglin Air Force Base featuring historic aircraft and exhibits.

Learn more about discounts and military-friendly things to do in our Destin military discount guide.

• Giant planes, missiles, and interactive displays

• Totally indoors and educational without being boring

• Great rainy day stop for all ages

Learn more →

🎳 Group-Friendly Indoor Fun

Escape Rooms

• A perfect way to stay dry and engaged indoors with a group.

• Great for families with teens or adult friend groups

• Options range from spooky to puzzle-based

Top-rated: Escapology and Gulf Coast Escape Room

Uncle Buck’s Bowling and Arcade

Not your typical bowling alley—this one’s under-the-sea themed.

• Glow-in-the-dark fish overhead

• Food, games, and full bar onsite

• Located in Destin Commons

AMC Destin Commons Movie Theater

Sometimes a midday movie is exactly what the forecast calls for.

• Recliner seating and reserved tickets

• Good variety of family and adult films

• Attached to Destin Commons for a full-day plan

🛍️ Rainy Day Shopping Spots

Destin Commons

Centrally located and great for all ages.

• Major brands like H&M, American Eagle, Sephora, Bath & Body Works, and Express

• Restaurant picks include Another Broken Egg, City Social Destin, Smashburger, El Jalisco, and Gulf Coast Burger Co.

• Good rainy day pairing with lunch or a movie

Learn more →

Silver Sands Premium Outlets (Miramar Beach)

The place for deals, even on soggy days.

• Name brands like Nike, Coach, Banana Republic, Under Armour, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and Columbia

• Dining options include Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Auntie Anne’s

• Easy drive from Destin and good for bargain hunters

Learn more →

Grand Boulevard (Sandestin)

More upscale, quieter, and very walkable.

• Luxe shops like Anthropologie, Lululemon, Pottery Barn, Vineyard Vines, Lilly Pulitzer, Southern Tide, and Williams Sonoma

• Great dining scene with higher-end restaurants like Emeril’s Coastal, Grimaldi’s, Tommy Bahama’s, P.F. Chang’s, Fleming’s, and Cantina Laredo, plus wine bars and cafes

• Clean, uncrowded, and classy

Learn more →

☀️ Scenic Drive: Explore 30A

Just because it’s raining in Destin doesn’t mean it’s raining everywhere. The weather can be hyperlocal and often shifts just a few miles down the road—and when it does, 30A is the perfect place to chase the sun (or at least escape the cabin fever).

This scenic highway hugs the coast and winds through a mix of upscale, quirky, and family-friendly beach towns. Every few miles feels like a whole new personality:

• Alys Beach – Clean lines, white buildings, and minimalist luxury with a polished, peaceful atmosphere

• Grayton Beach – Artsy, eclectic, and full of local character, including the iconic Red Bar

• Rosemary Beach – Cobblestone walkways, boutique shops, and European charm with beautiful courtyards and a walkable downtown

• Seaside – Colorful cottages straight from a postcard, food trucks, and Truman Show nostalgia

• WaterColor – Serene, beautifully landscaped, and great for walking trails and a peaceful lunch

• Blue Mountain Beach – Chill, low-key, and a great stop for smoothies, ice cream, or a quiet walk along scenic 30A

Even if you don’t get out of the car, you’ll catch glimpses of dune lakes, beach accesses, pastel storefronts, and Gulf views that beat sitting inside.

It’s a low-effort, high-reward drive that’ll get everyone out of the condo—and introduce you to the stretch of coast people put stickers on their SUVs for. 30A has a bit of a cult following, and once you see it, you’ll get why.

🧖‍♀️ Relaxing and Creative Rainy Day Ideas

The Spa at Henderson Beach Resort

One of the best spa experiences on the Emerald Coast—perfect for escaping the rain and the group chat.

• Massages, facials, and full-service treatments

• Luxurious, peaceful, and beautifully designed

• “My favorite spa of all time” (and we mean it)

Painting with a Twist (Fort Walton Beach)

Creative indoor fun that works for solo travelers or groups.

• Guided painting classes with take-home art

• BYOB adult sessions and kid-friendly options

• A fun twist on a typical rainy afternoon

Have questions about Fort Walton Beach vs. Destin? We can help!

Local Yoga or Pilates Studios

Drop-in classes are easy to find in town.

• Stretch, move, and reset indoors

• Great for solo downtime or couples looking to recharge

• Many studios also offer barre, strength circuits, or heated classes if you’re craving a challenge

🍤 Where to Eat or Grab a Drink

Jackacuda’s Seafood and Sushi

Solid mix of seafood, sushi, and kid-friendly plates—right in HarborWalk Village.

• Indoor dining with a view

• Casual but polished enough for a nicer meal

• Diverse menu = something for everyone

Crackings.

A brunch spot that feels like a treat. If you’re up early and the weather’s not cooperating, this is the place.

• Pancakes, omelets, and seasonal specials

• Indoor seating with a laid-back local vibe

• Friendly staff and quick service (even with kids in tow)

The Local Market

Great for breakfast or lunch, with simple fresh food in a cozy indoor setting.

• Sandwiches, baked goods, salads, and strong coffee

• Family-friendly, clean, and casual

• Quick in-and-out if you’re on your way to your next stop

Destin Brewery

Laid-back indoor taproom with rotating craft beers.

• Adult-friendly way to pass the time

• Occasional food trucks and covered outdoor space

• Try their popular East Pass IPA or the Destin Ale for a local flavor

🌧️ Quick Picks for Rainy Days in Destin

Rainy Day FAQs and Tips for Visiting Destin, FL

Can I cancel if it rains?
Most TripShock tours offer free cancellation with 24+ hours’ notice. Look for TripFlex to cancel up until the activity starts.

Is it worth driving to 30A or Fort Walton?
Yes—not only might the weather be better, but the scenery and shops make for a fun half-day.

What’s best for little kids?
Try the Gulfarium, science center, bowling, or a daytime movie. All are kid-approved and indoors.

Can I book something last-minute?
Absolutely. Many activities on TripShock offer same-day availability and mobile-friendly ticketing.

🦀 Things To Do in Destin After It Rains

Rain happens. But a good time in Destin doesn’t have to depend on the weather.

From checking out sea turtles, to sipping something local, or escaping to a spa—you’ve got options. And of course… if you’re stuck in your condo, still in your swimsuit with nowhere to go while scrolling this post, you’re in the right place here with TripShock.

Why not take this time to plan your dolphin cruise, look into parasailing, or figure out the best way to experience Crab Island on your terms? Whether you’re into relaxing on a sunset sail, tubing down a slide at Big Kahuna’s or reeling in the big one on a fishing charter, there’s something for everyone in Destin—and booking ahead means you’re ready the second the sun comes back out.

🎟️ Browse Destin’s top-rated tours and things to do →