Things to do

11 Best Things To Do When It Rains In NYC

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Exploring New York City is an exhilarating experience, but what happens when bad weather strikes? Don't fret! There's no shortage of indoor activities to keep you entertained, from visiting museums to iconic landmarks.

Besides, New York City is a year-round destination, and rainy days don't have to dampen your spirits. With endless indoor activities available, you can explore museums, art galleries, shopping, and dining. 

For those seeking a unique experience, there are plenty of options for rainy-day entertainment. This article showcases the top things to do in NYC on rainy days, so you can enjoy your trip, come rain or shine.

1. Visit the Frick Collection

Things to do in New York indoors include a visit to Frick Collection. It is a renowned museum featuring Old Master paintings and European fine and decorative arts.

The Frick Collection is a magnificent museum that boasts paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, offering guests an exclusive insight into the world of Western art. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or a first-time visitor, you will undoubtedly enjoy exploring the Frick Collection.

Art exhibition at Frick Madison (photo by Cris Sunwoo)
Source : instagram

This popular tourist attraction welcomes over 500,000 visitors annually and is a sought-after venue for weddings and special events.

Likewise, you are encouraged to use the complimentary audio guide to enhance your experience and appreciate the art's history and significance. 

  • Address: 1 E 70th St, Upper East Side Manhattan
  • Rating: 4.6
  • Ticket price: $12–22

2. Explore 38 Food Hall

Things to do in NYC rainy day is incomplete without a food hunt. And if you are up for various cuisine options, 38 Food Hall is the place for you!

With over 20 vendors, various must-eat foods are available in the hall. Whether you're craving Japanese, Mexican, Italian, or American food, you're sure to find a dish that suits your taste buds.

Image of Gotham West Market (photo by Thomas C)
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This food hall is perfect for a quick and casual meal. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Plus, 38 Food Hall is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along to enjoy the meal with you.

If you're in Midtown West and looking for a convenient and delicious meal, 38 Food Hall is a great option. It's also a great spot to visit on a rainy day, as you can enjoy some delicious hot meals.

Address: 42 W 38th St, Midtown West

Rating: 4.5

Some vendors at 38 Food Hall:

  • Banh Mi Ngon
  • Chuko
  • La Esquina
  • Parma
  • Shake Shack

3. See A Broadway Theater

Things to do in NYC indoors summer is to catch a Broadway theater. No trip to New York is complete without experiencing the excitement of the Theater District.

There are many fantastic shows to choose from, including Hadestown, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Wicked, The Lion King, and Hamilton are just a few. Regardless of your preferences, you're bound to find a show that will capture your heart.

Bright theater lights at Great White Way
Source : viator

If you're looking for some tips on how to secure tickets, keep the following in mind:

  • Look for discounts: You can often find deals for Broadway shows, particularly on weekdays and matinees. Check online or visit the TKTS booth in Times Square.
  • Be flexible: If you don't have your heart set on any particular show, you may be able to find tickets for a better price by being open to other options.
  • Plan ahead: If you know which show you want to see, purchasing your tickets in advance is a good idea. This will guarantee that you get the best seats and avoid disappointment.

4. Spend The Day At Haven Spa

Things to do in NYC on a rainy day is treating yourself to a spa day. And Haven Spa, located in the heart of Soho, is a luxurious and ideal choice.

With a calming and serene atmosphere, Haven Spa offers a variety of treatments that will help you relax and rejuvenate. The spa is in a beautiful townhouse, providing a relaxing and luxurious environment for your pampering needs.

Beautiful and classic Poni Room at Haven Spa
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Whether you're in need of a massage, facial, or any other spa treatment, Haven Spa has got you covered. It's the perfect way to make the most of a rainy day in NYC.

Some of the treatments offered at Haven Spa include:

  • Massages
  • Facial
  • Body treatments
  • Nail care
  • Waxing
  • Hair removal

Address: 250 Mercer St, Soho

Rating: 4.3

5. Visit Comedy Cellar

In the mood for gags and laughter? The Comedy Cellar in New York City can never go wrong. It is the best thing to do in the rain.

This world-famous comedy club has been graced by Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, and Aziz Ansari. The small and intimate venue allows you to feel like you're right up close to the comedians, making it a perfect rainy-day activity.

Kevin Hart at the stage of Comedy Cellar (photo by @dopepickwan)
Source : instagram

Plus, indoor seating means you won't have to worry about getting wet. Best of all, tickets are usually around $20, so you can enjoy some great comedy without breaking the bank.

For a fun and affordable way to spend a rainy day in NYC, the Comedy Cellar is worth checking out.

Comedy Cellar Location: 117 MacDougal St, Greenwich Village

Rating: 4.7

6. Go To Museum Of Ice Cream

Things to do in NYC during rain are to go to an interactive museum that celebrates the deliciousness of ice cream and that is Museum Of Ice Cream.

The museum can be found in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood in New York City. It is divided into various sections, each featuring a unique theme based on a different flavor of ice cream.

Sprinkles pool at MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM
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You can enjoy the Sprinkle Pool, the Infinity Room, or the Memory Factory, among other areas. This museum is a unique and fun way to experience the joy of ice cream. It's a perfect spot for a birthday party, a date, or a fun day out.

Address: 558 Broadway, Manhattan

Rating: 4.1

Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., daily

Admission: $38 for adults, $32 for seniors and students, and $28 for children ages 3-12 (children below 3 for free)

7. Grab A Cocktail At Raines Law Room Chelsea

The sight of New York City in the rain is captivating. If you're looking to relish the raindrops in this lively city, why not visit a classic cocktail bar?

The Raines Law Room, situated in Chelsea, Manhattan, is a cocktail bar inspired by the Prohibition era. The bar has a speakeasy-style setting, a dimly lit interior, and a concealed entrance.

This cocktail bar is renowned for its classic cocktails, which are made using premium ingredients. Moreover, the bar has an extensive selection of whiskey, bourbon, and scotch.

Visitors enjoying cocktails at Raines Law Room (photo by @ericmedsker)
Source : instagram

The Raines Law Room is ideal for a night out with friends or a romantic evening. The bar has an elegant ambiance, and the cocktails are top-notch.

Address: 48 W 17th St, Chelsea

Rating: 4.6

Signature cocktails:

  • The Garden Paloma
  • The Old Fashioned
  • The Manhattan

8. Tour New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

Things to do in NYC on rainy day is to grab some books at the libraries. The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is an impressive Beaux-Arts landmark that should be on your list.

Well, this place is not only a popular tourist destination but also a major research center. It offers a variety of programs and services, such as classes, lectures, and exhibitions, and welcomes the public to explore its vast collections.

Stunning portrait of The Rose Main Reading Room at Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
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Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or literature, visiting the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is a must-see. Its beauty and wealth of knowledge are sure to inspire you.

Address: 476 5th Ave, Midtown Manhattan

Rating: 4.7

Admission: free

Hours: 10 AM to 8 PM

Highlights of the iconic building:

  • The Main Reading Room
  • The Rose Main Reading Room
  • The Astor Hall
  • The Children's Library

9. Play A Round Of Escape Games At PanIQ

Things to do in the rain in NYC must include a game day at PanIQ. This escape game center is the largest in the city and offers a variety of games, each with its unique theme and storyline.

Players must work together to solve puzzles and find clues to escape the room before time runs out. With mission-based play, expertly crafted puzzles, and large rooms designed by actual film and TV set designers, PanIQ Escape Rooms is the most exciting room escape center in NY.

Enjoy the best escape room experience at PanIQ
Source : tripadvisor

It's a great way to test your problem-solving skills and teamwork abilities and is perfect for groups of friends or family. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, PanIQ is an exciting adventure to share with loved ones.

Address: 39 W 32nd St 4th floor, Midtown

Rating: 4.7

Price: $25 to $35 per person

Ages: 12 and up

Group size: two to six players

10. Enjoy View The Edge

NYC in the rain can be enjoyed by visiting The Edge. Few cities offer an observation deck that is both as elevated and interactive as this one.

The Edge is an outdoor observation deck that offers 360-degree views of New York City. As the highest public outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, it's a great spot to take in the NYC skyline.

Night view of The Edge along with beautiful moon (photo by @captiv_8)
Source : instagram

Even on a rainy day, you can still enjoy the views from the enclosed glass enclosure while staying dry. The interactive elements of the glass enclosure, such as the glass floor, provide a unique experience.

Additionally, The Edge is less crowded on rainy days, providing more space to take photos and enjoy the views.

Address: 30 Hudson Yards

Rating: 4.6

Admission Tickets: $41.37

11. Play Classic Arcade Games At Barcade

What to do in NYC in the rain? Why not visit Barcade for some fun and exciting arcade games while sipping your favorite drinks?

This unique venue in Williamsburg combines an arcade with a full bar, offering a large selection of classic arcade games to enjoy while you sip on your favorite drink.

Whether you're looking to meet up with friends or family or just looking for a fun way to pass the time, Barcade is a great option. And because it's an indoor venue, you don't have to worry about the rain ruining your plans.

Game night in New Haven with great foods
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Best of all, the games are all free to play, so you can pay for your drinks and enjoy yourself. However, be sure to arrive early on weekends, as Barcade can get crowded quickly.

Don't let a rainy day in NYC get you down - head to Barcade for a guaranteed good time and fun in New York!

Location: 388 Union Ave, Brooklyn

Rating: 4.5