What do you do when the rain clouds decide to hang around and dampen your plans? Don’t worry, New Hampshire has plenty to offer on those gloomy days. From indoor activities that spark creativity to cozy spots that invite relaxation, you’re in for a treat.
Indoor Attractions
Sometimes, the best adventures are those that keep you out of the rain. New Hampshire’s diverse indoor attractions promise you won’t have to compromise on fun or excitement.
Museums and Art Galleries
Taking shelter in a museum or art gallery lets you soak up some culture while staying dry. Here are some fabulous spots to consider:
| Location | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Currier Museum of Art | Features works from American and European artists. Notable for its beautiful architecture and sculpture garden. |
| Manchester’s Millyard Museum | Offers fascinating insights into the area’s industrial history. You’ll find engaging exhibits that are perfect for all ages. |
| The Museum of New Hampshire History | Dive into New Hampshire’s rich history with interactive exhibits that bring the past to life. |
Visiting these venues allows you to learn something new and appreciate the artistry and history that surrounds you.
Aquatic Fun
Even if the weather outside is frightful, you can still enjoy some aquatic adventures!
| Location | Features |
|---|---|
| Funspot in Laconia | Known as the world’s largest arcade, you can play games, mini-golf, and even try your hand at bowling. |
| Water Country in Portsmouth | Indoor water fun with slides and pools that become absolutely refreshing, even on a chilly day. |
Whether you’re dodging raindrops indoors or splashing in a pool, aquatic fun is a splendid way to lift your spirits.
Cozy Cafés and Bakeries
There’s something intrinsically comforting about curling up in a café or bakery on a rainy day. With a cup of steaming coffee or hot chocolate in hand, you can enjoy a bit of indulgence.
Local Favorites
| Café/Bakery | Specialty |
|---|---|
| The Works Bakery Café | Known for its artisan breads and pastries. Don’t miss their blueberry scones! |
| Tuckerman’s Restaurant | Offers a cozy atmosphere with hearty soups and delicious baked goods. |
| The Hotel Concord’s Bar | Great for a warm drink, with a view of downtown Concord’s rainy scene. |
Finding a cozy corner with a sweet treat can make any rainy day feel brighter.
Indoor Sports and Activities
If you’re feeling energetic and want to break a sweat, you can find numerous indoor sports activities across New Hampshire.
Bowling Alleys
Gather your friends or family and head to a nearby bowling alley for a classic game night that’s full of laughter and friendly competition.
| Location | Features |
|---|---|
| Merrimack Ten Pin | Offers various leagues and family-friendly options. Look for fun theme nights! |
| Bowl-O-Rama | Known for cosmic bowling and great pizza! |
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy time with loved ones and stay active.
Rock Climbing
Feeling adventurous? Indoor rock climbing is a perfect way to challenge yourself while enjoying a safe environment.
| Location | Features |
|---|---|
| Vertical Dreams | Offers climbing walls for all levels, including bouldering options and classes for beginners! |
| The Edge | Features a variety of climbing routes and hosting events. Great for groups looking for fun! |
It’s not only a workout but also a great way to build confidence and resilience.
DIY Projects at Home
Sometimes staying in is the best option when the rain is just too much. Why not get creative with some DIY projects?
Crafting
You don’t need to be an expert artist or crafter to enjoy making something special. Here are some fun ideas:
| Project Type | Materials Needed |
|---|---|
| Personalized Mugs | Plain mugs, sharpie markers or ceramic paint |
| Scrapbooking | Old photos, decorative paper, glue, and scissors |
| Homemade Candles | Wax, wicks, and essential oils for scent |
Getting crafty can be a fun way to spend time alone, or you could invite friends over for a crafting party.
Cooking and Baking
If crafting is not your thing, perhaps cooking or baking is more your style. You can try out new recipes or bake your favorite treats.
| Recipe Type | Ingredients Needed |
|---|---|
| Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies | Flour, sugar, chocolate chips, butter |
| Hearty Vegetable Soup | Fresh veggies, broth, spices, and herbs |
| Homemade Pizza | Pizza dough, sauce, toppings of your choice |
Cooking can be an enjoyable way to unwind, and the best part? You get to savor the delicious results!
Movie and Game Nights
Rainy days are made for cozy nights in, so why not host a movie marathon or a game night?
Setting Up Your Movie Marathon
Choose a theme—maybe you want to revisit some classic comedies or get lost in a fantasy world with all the Harry Potter films. Make sure you have:
- Snacks: Popcorn is a must-have. Maybe you can even try making your own flavored popcorn with cheese, caramel, or chocolate!
- Comfy Seating: Make your space inviting with plenty of cushions and blankets.
Organizing a Game Night
You can plan an evening filled with board games, video games, or card games. Some popular choices include:
| Game Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Board Games | Try classics like Settlers of Catan or Monopoly. |
| Card Games | Uno and Cards Against Humanity are always crowd-pleasers! |
| Video Games | Consider multiplayer options for group fun—think Mario Kart or Smash Bros! |
It’s the perfect way to bond with family and friends while staying comfortable indoors.
Shopping Escapades
When the weather is wet, shopping can be a delightful distraction.
Local Shops and Malls
New Hampshire is home to unique boutiques, local shops, and even larger malls that can entertain you for hours.
| Shopping Center | Highlights |
|---|---|
| The Mall of New Hampshire | Great for retail therapy with multiple stores and eateries. |
| Settlers Green Outlet | Perfect for some bargain shopping on popular brands. |
Whichever venue you choose, a little retail therapy can lighten up any dreary day.
Embrace the Nature Indoors
Just because it’s raining outside doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate the natural world indoors.
Botanical Gardens and Conservatories
Experience the beauty of nature without getting drenched. If you’re near an indoor botanical garden or a conservatory, take a stroll through its lush surroundings.
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center | Offers educational programs with an indoor planetarium and science exhibits focused on space and Earth science. |
| The Manchester City Library’s Garden | Check for seasonal blooms that brighten any dreary day. |
Surrounding yourself with plants and flowers can create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for mindfulness.
Attending Events
New Hampshire hosts various events throughout the year, even when it rains.
Indoor Festivals and Fairs
From arts and crafts to culinary festivals, an indoor event might be happening nearby.
| Event Type | Overview |
|---|---|
| Craft Fairs | Typically found in local towns featuring handmade goods from local artisans. |
| Indoor Farmers Markets | Perfect for discovering local produce and specialties even when the rain pours. |
These events offer a chance to support local vendors while enjoying your community, rain or shine.
Reading Nooks
What’s better than curling up with a good book while listening to the pitter-patter of rain?
Find Your Favorite Spot
Seek out a local library or a cozy nook at home where you can immerse yourself in a new story.
| Reading Location | Atmosphere |
|---|---|
| Local Library | Offers a quiet space with numerous genres to choose from. |
| A cozy corner at home | Set up with blankets, lighting, and hot cocoa, perfect for a reading marathon. |
Reading can be therapeutic, allowing you to lose yourself in different worlds without stepping outside.
Learning Opportunities
Rainy days are wonderful for learning something new or honing existing skills.
Online Classes and Workshops
Consider taking an online class. Platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer a range of subjects you can learn from the comfort of your home.
| Class Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Cooking Classes | Learn new recipes or plating techniques from expert chefs. |
| Art Tutorials | Engage in drawing, painting, or digital design. |
| Fitness Courses | Explore yoga, pilates, or even dance classes. |
Both engaging with a new hobby or sharpening existing skills can enhance your day, turning a rainy day into a productive one.
Conclusion
There you have it! Even when the rain pours down in New Hampshire, you have plenty of options to keep you entertained and engaged. From cozy spots for sipping a warm drink to informative museums and active fun indoors, a rainy day can be just another opportunity to create wonderful memories. Next time the forecast looks gloomy, think about what you’re most excited to try—whether it’s catching up on that book you’ve been meaning to read or gathering friends for a game night, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of those rainy hours. Your day may just turn out to be one of the best yet!
