I’ve lived in San Diego for fifteen years, and it’s usually known for its sunny weather. However, it also tends to rain unexpectedly.
I have a habit of forgetting to check the weather since I’m so used to summertime vibes, ha! I decided to compile a list of fun, indoor activities I could do in San Diego. If you’re in the same position as I was, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
14 Things to Do in San Diego on a Rainy Day
With so many things to do in San Diego, it can be overwhelming to choose from all the options. I’ve done all the research for you and have been to each of these locations more than once.
Visit the museums at Balboa Park for Rainy Day Fun
I don’t know about you, but I find exploring museums a great activity to do on a rainy day.
Fortunately, the must-visit Balboa Park has over 16 museums & they are highly accessible. Just a few minutes’ drive from Downtown or North Park, you’ll get to immerse yourself in different cultures, history, science, and art.
Here are the top 4 museums I recommend checking out at Balboa Park:
1: The San Diego Museum of Art
1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102
If you’re an art lover, the San Diego Museum of Art is worth exploring. This museum features exhibitions of fine art, including European old masters, American art, and works by California and San Diego artists.
They regularly bring in new displays of art from all around the world, so you could easily go once a month and not see the same thing.
2: San Diego Air & Space Museum
2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
The San Diego Air & Space Museum features the history of air travel, displays of real aircraft, and artifacts related to space travel. Even if you’re not interested in aviation, this museum offers interactive and hands-on exhibits that are extremely interesting. I’ll probably bring my Dad back for Father’s Day since I enjoyed it so much!
As an avid traveler, I find it fascinating to learn about the history of air travel and how it was made possible.
3: San Diego Model Railroad Museum
1649 El Prado Suite 4, San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego Model Railroad Museum is the world’s largest operating model railroad museum, so of course, it’s a must-visit while you’re in San Diego! It showcases the art of model railroading and history with a bird’s-eye view of some of the most stunning landscapes and highly detailed train routes. Trust me when I tell you that this museum will blow your mind.
4: Fleet Science Centre
1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
If you’re into science and planetariums, you HAVE to go to the Fleet Science Centre. One of its many exhibits includes the Brain: The World Inside Your Head, where you get to immerse yourself in the interactive displays that provide an up-close look at the brain. If you’ve ever wondered how parts of the brain affect your other body parts, this exhibit displays everything that you need to know.
Oh & did I mention that it’s home to the Fleet’s iconic Heikoff Giant Dome Theater? Where IMAX Films and planetarium shows come to life, immersing you in a 360-degree tour of places, including the wonders of the planet. YES, that exists here. Kid-friendly and a fun day for all!
5: The New Children’s Museum for the kids
200 W Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
While this is not located in Balboa Park, I highly recommend this museum for families with children interested in art. The New Children’s Museum focuses on early learning through contemporary art and play. Kids can get creative in the immersive art studios and interactive installations, which encourage them to climb on the exhibits.
Next up: dining, relaxing, and my favorite: shopping.
6: Curl up with a book at DG Wills Books
7461 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
Residing in downtown San Diego in the neighborhood of La Jolla, DG Wills Books is home to La Jolla’s largest collection of new and used books. Being one of my favorite bookstores in San Diego, it’s perfect to go on a rainy day and get distracted by books. Nothing beats the rain like reading a book with a hot cup of hot chocolate on the other hand.
7: Have brunch and matcha at Holy Matcha
3118 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
If you’re looking for a place to have brunch that has Instagram-worthy snaps everywhere you turn with delicious and aesthetically pleasing dishes, this is your place. Holy Matcha is located in North Park and is an excellent place to take your girlfriends!
8: Ice Skate at UTC Ice
4545 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
If you feel like doing something more fun and challenging, UTC Westfield Shopping Center has an indoor ice skating rink where you can unleash your ice skating skills. It’s okay if you’re a first-timer or a beginner; all are welcome, and it’s really all about having fun. Every time I go here with my friends or family, we end up having so much fun (even if I end up falling most of the time- Ha!).
Hot tip: You can walk over to the other side of the mall to see a movie at Arclight Cinemas and have an incredible dinner at True Foods Kitchen.
9: Go shopping at Pigment
3801 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
This is absolutely my favorite gift and plant boutique in San Diego. Located in North Park (and Del Mar at One Paseo!) Pigment offers a wide range of items, including hilarious gift cards, cute clothes, jewelry, a DIY succulent wall & the best home decor! Honestly, I could spend hours in here! If you’re in San Diego, you definitely have to shop here!
Local tip: This is one of the top places to take Instagram pics in San Diego, too! Think pink walls, bamboo chairs, and succulent waterfalls.
10: Have a drink at Encontro North Park
3001 University Ave #3001, San Diego, CA 92104If you want to relax and have a couple of drinks with friends or family, this industrial-chic bar and grill is your spot. With its relaxed ambiance, amazing cocktails, and killer service, I always recommend this place. They also have a bomb brunch menu, and dogs are allowed!
Local tip: Order the Cardiff Crack Benedict! It’s a local favorite.
11: Visit Liberty Public Market
2820 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
But if you’re hungry and not sure what to eat, Liberty Public Market is an indoor market located in Point Loma’s Liberty Station with a variety of cuisines- Mexican, Italian, good old-fashioned American, Korean food, Thai, etc. You name it! Any type of food you’re craving for, Liberty Public Market has it all.
12: Birch Aquarium at Scripps
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
With more than 5000 fish in 60+ aquarium habitats and exhibits showing cutting-edge research from Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, Birch Aquarium is one of the most famous must-visit places while you’re in San Diego. And, I couldn’t agree more.
This aquarium, which continues to amaze people of all ages, brings you face-to-face with many interesting sea creatures and features interactive exhibits.
Local tip: Go to Carolines for lunch and enjoy a view of the ocean.
13: Rock Climbing at Vertical Hold
2074 Hancock St, San Diego, CA 92110
If you’re looking to challenge yourself or try something new, indoor rock climbing is SO much fun. You’re working out while having a blast, plus it’s a win for every age and level of climbing ability. No worries if you don’t have any experience in rock climbing!
14: Indoor Go-Kart at K1 Speed
1709 Main St, San Diego, CA 92113
I absolutely love this place! Located in downtown San Diego at East Village, K1 Speed is the place to go for indoor go-kart racing. It’s open late too, especially on Saturdays – perfect for a date night or fun with the family.
If your outdoor plans have been disrupted by the rain, there are still lots of fun and exciting activities you can do indoors! Pick any of the 14 activities that I’ve listed above, and I promise the day won’t be wasted.
Let me know below if you did any of the activities I’ve mentioned!! I’ve also got you covered on what to wear for these days.
You might also like Cozy Winter Outfit Trends and Best Walking Shoes for Traveling.
