Rainy day activities in Sydney

On those days when the weather isn’t living up to expectations and you need something to brighten up your day, turn to our list of indoor activities in Sydney that are fun, memorable and interactive. Whether you’re looking for something to occupy the kids on a gloomy day during the school holidays or you’re wanting to do something fun with friends that isn’t weather dependent, we’ve got you covered!

1. Explore art and culture indoors

Step into a world of creativity with NSW’s array of art galleries and museums, offering a feast for your imagination – and often free general admission, too! Wander through the free exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia in Sydney or lose yourself in the captivating collections at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

For those venturing into rural areas, the Maitland Regional Art Gallery is recognised as one of the best, boasting five exhibition spaces, a café with delicious food, and a gift shop to browse for the perfect creative keepsake.

2. Dive into a literary wonderland

It sounds like a cliché when looking for things do when it’s raining in Sydney, but some of the libraries here are cooler than ever, and they aren’t just about books; they’re havens of imagination, interactive discovery, and food! Some also offer fantastic indoor activities for a chilly weekend, where kids can dive into their favourite books – there may even be story times where they can socialise with other kids as they all go on fanciful adventures.

Take a trip to Woollahra Library in Double Bay, where innovative design meets literary treasures. With cosy reading nooks, an indoor slide, hanging plants clinging to almost every surface and even a herb garden, it’s a calming paradise for book lovers of all ages.

3. Book a karaoke booth

When it comes to fun activities in Sydney, this one is a firm favourite, especially for those wanting to head to a venue where they can get all the atmosphere in one place, that’s right – a karaoke bar! A fun twist on a night out, karaoke sure sets the tone for an unforgettable evening with friends.

A popular choice is El Primo Sanchez in Paddington, a cocktail bar that has a karaoke room full of iconic songs from Abba to Shania Twain, and we can’t forget to mention the tequila button you can press for a top up in between tunes.

4. Explore Paddy’s Markets

If you’re wondering what to do on a rainy day in Sydney, then take a stroll around the popular Paddy’s Markets in Haymarket, open Wednesday – Sunday 10 am till 6pm. An iconic market offering a variety of delicious food stalls to take-away or eat-in, along with lots of fashion, handbags, accessories, gifts and more! You can also shop here for a wide range of fresh fruit and veg, as well as some of the best seafood.

5. Enjoy some indoor entertainment

A must-do when looking for indoor things to do in Sydney is to visit a Timezone or Zone Bowling venue near you! Offering non-stop fun with unbeatable indoor activities. From classic arcade games to entertainment activities such as laser tag, bowling, bumper cars and even delicious food and drinks at selected venues. Whether you’re in Top Ryde, Rouse Hill, Mt Druitt, Parramatta or anywhere in between, there’s always a venue nearby!

6. See a movie

A go-to for when the weather is dull, cosy up and grab some snacks at the movies! With so many great cinemas to choose from in Sydney, you’re spoilt for choice on where to head to. IMAX, located near Darling Harbour, this theatre has one of the world’s largest cinema screens creating an immersive and unforgettable experience – sure to pick you up on a rainy day! For something more lowkey, the Golden Age Cinema Bar is a great choice, offering a unique, boutique experience.

7. Go for brunch

There are endless options for brunching around Sydney, from a cute café by Bondi beach, or a bakery spot in the CBD, get your friends together and catch up over delicious food and drinks. Why not spice it up with a bottomless brunch – with so many popular cafes to choose from, including Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel which offers incredible views, to Tucano’s in Surry Hills, offering impeccable vibes!

8. Have a shopping spree

You don’t have to tell us twice, a shopping spree is the perfect way to spend a rainy day in Sydney. Get some retail therapy at the popular Westfield in the city centre or grab lots of deals at Birkenhead Point, these shopping centres offer a great range of stores, delicious food and indoor entertainment to enjoy on those days when the weather is miserable.

9. Break out of an escape room

An enjoyable and interactive way to make the most of wet weather is to get your friends and family together to break out of an escape room! Various venues offer great escape rooms offering different experiences with fun themes, from breaking out the Templars fortress at Kingpin Macarthur Square to going back to the 1950’s with a New York style puzzle at the Cipher Room.

10. Do an obstacle course

This had to make it on to the list of fun things to do in Sydney, an assault course is the ultimate way to spend a rainy afternoon full of laughter, adrenaline and funny memories. A favourite is Ninja Warrior, which offers so much fun for youngsters and is a great activity to do on dull days.