If you want to visit Destin, Florida, you will not be short of things to do. But even if Destin is blessed with sunshine most of the year, there are still rainy days since Florida is under a temperate climate. You have a high chance of catching rainy days in Destin if you visit during July and August.
We gathered the best things to do in Destin when it rains so you can still have an amazing time! Keep reading and you will never be disappointed by the weather again because you will know exactly what you can do, even if the sun won’t come out to play!
1. Visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
If the weather won’t allow you to spend time relaxing at the beach, one of the best things to do is check out the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park. The park was renovated with an impressive investment of $4 million and the improvements that were added to it became popular shortly.
The park has covered walkways, impressive exhibits, and areas of animal habitats so there are plenty of things to see here. You can admire dolphins and sea lions and there are even animal shows hosted here for public enjoyment.
You can check the show schedule and ticket prices on the park’s website or give them a call at (850) 243-9046. You will find this adventure park at the 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.
2. Check out the Destin History & Fishing Museum, Inc.
The Destin History & Fishing Museum is one of the best attractions in town. Here you will have the experience of going for a swim in the Gulf of Mexico but you will also learn a lot of information about the species of fish caught in this area.
The history museum includes old fishing equipment and even the reel of Earnest Hemmingway. You can find this museum at 108 Stahlman Avenue in Destin and contact them at 850-837-6611 or simply visit the website to find out everything you need to know.
3. Wild Willy’s
Wild Willy’s is a popular arcade area where you can enjoy several activities and easily spend an entire day here. The indoor arcade has a surface of 16,000 square feet and there are two putt gulf courses and a ropes course of 60 feet. Here there is also a Laser Maze, a 4D Movie Theater, and Inflatable Zone.
There are also places where you can grab a bite or even have a complete meal such as Salvati’s Pizza Factory or Yogo Mogo’s. You can find out more details about this entertaining area on their website and check it out at 1306 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE.
4. Indian Temple Mound
The Indian Temple Mound is also part of the National Register of Historic Places and one of the best places to go to when the weather is not in your favor. The Smithsonian Institution examined this area in 1883, and it soon became one of the most popular archaeological sites in the state of Florida. The site was excavated nine times and many objects found their place in the permanent collection of the museum.
Children will be fascinated to touch the objects and learn how ancient people were making tools out of stone. Find this interactive site at 139 Miracle Strip Parkway Southeast Fort Walton Beach or give them a call at (850) 833-9595.
5. Emerald Coast Science Center
If you want to spend some quality time indoors, the Emerald Coast Science Center is the perfect place. This center can be a great place for children as there are many interactive activities they can learn and join here such as creative art, exhibits, and hands-on guided programs.
The center is open daily, and you can visit it at 139 Brooks Street, Ft. Walton Beach. We recommend checking their website to be informed regarding the schedule of the events and activities you can join.
6. Bowling
Bowling is a popular activity in Destin and there are two great places for it: Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill and Hurricane Lanes. Both these bowling clubs have not only bowling lanes but also pool tables, sports bars, and other arcade activities. Plus, there are free ping pong machines that you can enjoy too.
The address for Hurricane Lane is 34876 Hwy 98, Destin, and Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl is 4251 Legendary Dr, Destin.
7. Create Your Souvenir
Creating your souvenir can be a truly interesting experience and it will give you a priceless memory for the rest of your life too. This is an activity that both children and adults will enjoy equally. You can enjoy such artistic activities at Mary Hong Studio Gallery or Fired Up Studio.
Fired Up is located at Seaside on Hwy 30A and here you can create your pottery piece by using one of the 500 models available. There is no need to make a reservation and the prices start at $14.
Mary Hong Studio is at 34940 Emerald Coast Parkway, Suite 114 and you can bring the objects that you want to customize. The studio will offer you everything you need to create unique designs and give value to your favorite objects.
8. Watch a good movie
If the weather is not ideal for spending your time outdoors, you can always catch a movie. There are several places to go see a movie but the AMC Destin Commons 14 is the most popular one. You can see 3D movies and enjoy the latest technology in the industry. There are 14 auditoriums available and you can check the schedule on their website to see what movie you would most likely prefer to see.
Another place to see a great movie is The Boulevard 10 where you can find 10 available screens with a total of 1,800 seats.
9. Panama City Beach Attractions
The indoor attractions at Panama City Beach are ideal for a rainy day. You can have a great time here with your family and friends and spend an entire day there. The area includes Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium, Dave & Buster’s at Pier Park, and a WonderWorks Indoor Amusement Park.
Play an interesting game, join an interactive attraction or check out one of the exhibits here and you will want to come back even when it is not raining.
10. Rainforest Black Light Mini-Golf & Arcade
This is one of the newest attractions in Destin and you will love spending your day at Rainforest Black Light Mini-Golf & Arcade. The rainforest, as well as the mini gulf arcade, are perfect for spending a fun time with your folks.
The entire place is rich in interactive activities and games such as coin arcade games, gulf areas, a Dodgeball arena, and criss-cross basketball, check out their website to learn more about this attractive place and go visit it at 11394 US Highway 98 W.
11. Rock Climbing
If you are a sportive person or you would like to try a new sport and maybe discover a new hobby, rock climbing can be one of the best options to spend some quality time in Destin when it is raining.
Check out the Rock Out Climbing Gym where you will find rock climbing walls of different levels of difficulty. The walls are 16 feet tall and they come in a fun pattern that you will love to explore. You will find this Rock Climbing gym at 2001 98 Palms Boulevard Suite 5 and you can give them a call at (850) 837-0526.
12. Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are entertaining. There are several places to join an escape room journey with your friends and challenge your mind and agility. You will love to do that when you need a break from the sun or when the weather won’t be the friend you’d like it to be.
Escapology is one of the most popular escape rooms located in Destin. They offer different rooms with attractive themes and activities to enjoy and explore. You can check out Escapology at 9375 US Hwy 98 W, Miramar Beach.
Conclusion
Destin has a lot to offer to its tourists and locals, regardless of the weather. And if you are open to trying new things and activities, you will not have a dull moment in this beautiful city. It is a great destination for a family trip but also the perfect place to get away with your friends and have your little adventure!
