25 things to do on a rainy day

April isn’t just defined by chocolate comas and fluffy bunnies – it’s also often the month we spend huddled up indoors, safe from the cold, rainy weather. But that doesn’t mean you need to miss out on the fun. Check out these ideas for things you can do if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Stay at home…

1. There’s nothing like snuggling up inside during a storm, so gather your cosiest blankets, grab the popcorn and host a movie marathon at home.
2. Don’t waste a rainy weekend sitting around waiting for the sunshine – learn a new skill, like knitting, sewing or crochet, that will keep you entertained for many rainy weekends to come.
3. Get out the paints and pencils – rainy weather is perfect for arts and crafts. Whether you’re painting, drawing or cutting and pasting, there’s no better time to create something than on a rainy day.
4. Hide away from the stormy weather in a cubby built by hand. All you need are a few chairs, some blankets and pegs, and plenty of cosy cushions and toys.
5. Why not embrace the wet weather and make a slippery slide in the back yard? Grab a tarp and some dishwashing liquid and turn your outdoor area into a slip’n’slide.
6. Create an activity cube or a jar full of different rainy day activities – with suggestions like ‘Hide and Seek’, puzzles, teddy bear picnics and board games, your kids will never be bored again.
7. Play dough provides hours and hours of entertainment, particularly when you make it from scratch.
8. There’s something extra special about swimming in the rain, so if you’ve got a pool, go for a swim.
9. Bake something warm to ward off the cold, rainy weather – muffins and cakes taste even better when eaten inside, watching a storm.
10. Dig up your old family photographs or videos and enjoy going through them with your kids – it’s rare to have a day when everyone is stuck inside together, so make the most of this precious time with some good old fashioned nostalgia.
11. Making a scavenger hunt using items around the house might take a bit of setting up for you, but it will mean hours of distraction for your kids.
12. Encourage your kids to play dress ups or put on a fashion show or concert – tell them that you will come back in an hour or two to judge the winner (promising prizes makes this even more appealing).
13. Play spa. Paint your nails, take turns giving massages and do a hair or face mask – you can even take a bit of extra time to make your own.

Head out and about…

14. There’s a lot of fun to be had at the museum, rain, hail or shine – but there’s something extra enjoyable about learning about history on a stormy day.
15. See a show – whether it’s a musical, concert or play – at your local theatre, which will certainly have no shortage of great performances to watch, particularly on school holidays.
16. Staying dry has never been so much fun – hit the bowling alley for some friendly competition while you wait for the rain to pass.
17. Art galleries were practically made for rainy days. Head to your local to soak up the art, and make sure you scope out the kid-friendly activities they have on.
18. You don’t have to stay home to learn something new – find an art or craft class that the kids can get involved in (or, hire a babysitter and try a ‘paint and sip’ class with your friends.)
19. Go for a drive and enjoy the rain from inside your car – no matter which state you live in, there are certainly plenty of great scenic routes near you so just pick one and hit the road.
20. Hit the ice for a fun day of ice skating – you’ll quickly forget about the dreary weather once you’re gliding around inside the rink.
21. Go to the library. Whether you’re checking out the book collection (we hear they’ve normally got some good ones) or taking part in the many activities on offer at libraries around town, you’re sure to have a fun day, whatever the weather.
22. Who says a rainy day has to mean staying dry? Don your gumboots and raincoat and go for a walk in the wet weather, being sure to enjoy that fresh rain smell.
23. Catch a new release at your local movie cinema – it’s a great excuse to pig out on popcorn and choc tops, too.
24. Check out a local attraction. Whether you live in a busy city or a smaller town, there is bound to be a historical building or indoor experience you can try for the first time.
25. Have fun in the rain – race paper boats down gutters, look for animals that come out in the rain, and just enjoy being outside.