Looking for indoor activities to keep you entertained when the weather isn’t ideal outside? Look no further than the NC Smokies, because we’ve got you covered with our TOP 20 rainy day activities! Embark on a whirlwind tour of indoor attractions and experiences that are perfect for all ages.
1. Unleash Your Inner Gamer
Visit Bearwaters – The Warehouse, a lively brewery and entertainment venue. Enjoy delicious craft beers, classic arcade games like skee ball and air hockey, and a round of axe throwing.
2. Skate the Night Away
Skate away those rainy day blues at the Smoky Mountain Sk8way. Lace up your skates and glide around the rink, enjoying music, games, and fun for the whole family.
3. Escape in Record Time
Put your detective skills to the test at the Maximum Security Escape Room. Can you crack the codes, solve the puzzles, and escape from a high-security prison?
4. Watch the Latest Flicks
Catch the latest blockbuster at the Smoky Mountain Cinema. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the big screen experience with a tub of popcorn in hand.
5. Learn about Haywood County History
Immerse yourself in local history with a visit to the Shelton House or The Museum of Haywood County History. Explore fascinating exhibits and learn about the rich heritage of the area.
6. Take an Art Class
Unleash your creativity with art classes at Cold Mountain Art Collective. Discover your inner artist as skilled instructors guide you through various techniques and mediums.
7. Attend a Leather-making Workshop
Dive into the world of artisanal craftsmanship with leather-making workshops at Axe & Awl Leatherworks. Create your own unique leather goods under the guidance of experienced artisans.
8. Take a Yoga Class
Find your inner zen with invigorating yoga classes at various studios in the area (Waynesville Yoga Center, Axis Yoga Studio, Even Star Yoga). From traditional practices to unconventional beer yoga at Frog Level Brewing, there’s a class for everyone.
9. Sign Up for a Paint and Sip Night
Unwind with a paint and sip session with Waynesville Art School or WNC Paint Events. Let your imagination run wild as you create beautiful artwork while enjoying a glass of wine.
10. Cozy Up with a Book
Rainy days are perfect for diving into a good book. Explore the extensive collections at the Canton and Waynesville Libraries or at a local bookstores like Blue Moon Books, where you can find literary treasures and cozy reading nooks.
11. Hit the Gym or Take a Dip in the Pool
Stay active even on rainy days at the Waynesville Recreation Center or Haywood Regional Fitness. Enjoy a range of indoor sports activities, hit the gym, or take a refreshing dip in the pool.
12. Explore a Collection of Vintage Motorcycles
Rev up your engines and step back in time at the Wheels Through Time Museum. Discover the fascinating history of motorcycles and admire a remarkable collection of vintage bikes.
13. Hit the Bullseye
Channel your inner lumberjack and try your hand at axe throwing in Maggie Valley. Set your sights on the target and see if you can hit the bullseye.
14. Solve a Mystery
Challenge your wits at The Puzzle Rooms, where you’ll be immersed in exciting escape room scenarios. Solve puzzles, unravel mysteries, and work together as a team to escape before the clock runs out.
15. Play Your Favorite Board Game
Wrap up your rainy day adventure with an evening of board games at 828 Market on Main. Gather your friends and family for a night of laughter, strategy, and friendly competition.
16. Shop Local in Quaint Downtowns
Indulge in some retail therapy by exploring the charming downtowns of Waynesville and Canton. These quaint towns are home to a variety of unique boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and more. Discover one-of-a-kind treasures, locally-made crafts, and stylish clothing as you support local businesses.
17. Listen to Live Music
Enjoy the vibrant music scene in the NC Smokies by visiting one of the breweries in the area. Check out The Gem, located below Boojum Brewing, where you can catch rotating artists and bands showcasing their talent. Don’t miss The Scotsman, another great spot for live music and a lively atmosphere. Sip on local brews while tapping your feet to the rhythm of the music.
18. Be a Kid in a Candy Shop
Indulge your sweet tooth at The Candy Barrel, located in the downstairs section of Mast General Store. This unique downtown emporium is a candy lover’s paradise, offering over 500 old-fashioned candies along with traditional fashions, comfortable footwear, outdoor and travel gear, rocking chairs, cast iron cookware, and more. Take a trip down memory lane as you explore the endless selection of sweet treats.
19. Sit Back, Relax, and Enjoy the Show
Catch a show at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre (HART), a stunning facility that showcases the talent and creativity of the local theater community. As one of the most active theaters in the Southeast, HART offers a year-round schedule of plays, musicals, and performances. From classic plays to contemporary productions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at HART Theatre.
20. Stay Comfy in Your Cabin
When the rain is pouring outside, there’s no better place to be than in a cozy cabin by the fireplace. Light up a fire, grab a blanket, and snuggle up with a good book or enjoy quality time with your loved ones. The crackling fire and warm ambiance will create the perfect atmosphere for the ultimate vacation relaxation.
