A little rain doesn’t have to wash away your Virginia Beach vacation plans. In fact, we believe some of the best vacation memories can happen indoors! From family-friendly adventures to grown-up fun, Virginia Beach offers plenty of ways to turn gray skies into memorable moments. And sometimes, you just need to get off the dunes for a day and see what the great indoors has in store when outside starts to feel a little too much like the surface of the sun!
Here are our favorite rainy day things to do in Virginia Beach, featuring popular attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites worth adding to your itinerary.
Dive Into Adventure at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
If there’s one rainy day activity you should see rain or shine, it’s the aquarium. Home to thousands of marine animals, interactive exhibits, and underwater viewing tunnels, this is an easy win for everyone in your vacation party. Plan to arrive early or secure a ticket online with your desired arrival time on rainy summer days as it can get pretty busy.
If the weather clears up throughout the day, book a boat tour of Rudee Inlet to see some of our legendary dolphins up close and personal. It’s truly an unforgettable experience of the marine life up close, coupled with calm waters and breathtaking views of our natural area.
Soar Indoors at iFLY Indoor Skydiving
Want to turn a gloomy forecast into the most exciting part of your trip? iFLY lets you experience the thrill of skydiving inside a safe vertical wind tunnel—no parachute required. It’s perfect for older kids, teens, and adventurous adults looking for something unforgettable. This is one of those vacation stories people talk about long after they go home.
Plus, where iFly is located, you can easily stroll to a great lunch spot like CP Shuckers or keep the adventure going and pop into Aura Theory next door! You’ll have your photo taken and your aura color read, a totally unique and something no one will forget! Your old-timey vacation photos just got a modern upgrade, and this is the ultimate rainy day experience all in one block, sign us up!
Get Shufflin’ at Beachside Social
One of the coolest newer spots at the Oceanfront, Beachside Social brings indoor shuffleboard, bocce, drinks, and casual dining together in a lively setting. It’s a fantastic rainy-day (or night) option for kids of all ages wanting something more fun than just dinner out, and for those who need to get the wiggles out.
Catch a Movie at Cinema Cafe
There’s something about a rainy day that calls for a trip to the movies! Luckily for you, dinner and a movie can happen all under one roof at our local Cinema Cafe! With two Virginia Beach locations to choose from and a multitude of showtimes, you won’t run short of options, literally! Their menu is stacked, their lounge chairs are oh-so-cozy, and you’re heading the right way for the great afternoon of potential snoozin'!
Explore the Arts at Virginia MOCA
Need a quieter pace? Spend a few hours browsing modern art exhibits at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, known as the MOCA. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the boardwalk and beach scene, and offers something for arts lovers of all ages. They recently relocated to a brand new home just a few minutes from the oceanfront in a state-of-the-art facility, and they frequently offer fun and exciting classes. All summer, enjoy the “Made in VA Biennial” exhibition where Virginia artists are on display loud and proud! Check it out, make a reservation, and get ready to dive into the world of contemporary art! You’ll thank yourself later!
Rainy Days Can Be the Best Days
Some folks end up loving their rainy day plans just as much as their beach days. Virginia Beach has a way of surprising people with how much there is to do beyond the sand.
When you stay with us, you’re never just booking a place to sleep—you’re booking a local home base for every kind of vacation day, sunny or not. Need recommendations during your stay? We’re always happy to help point you toward the perfect rainy day adventure.