Best Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Boulder

Boulder’s sunny weather and spectacular outdoor activities are what attract most visitors in almost every season. Boulder averages right around 300 days of sunshine per year. Whether you visit Boulder for one day or live nearby, there are those days though when the weather is just not cooperating to do outdoor activities. It may be that it’s a rainy day in Boulder, super windy, or simply too cold to enjoy the outdoors. It isn’t just kids who need a break from the outdoors though. This article shares 16 of the best things to do on a rainy day in Boulder Colorado to turn a rainy day into an adventurous or relaxing one.

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Best Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Boulder Highlights

• Explore the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
• Enjoy a Spa Day
• Visit the Boulder Public Library
• Climb at an Indoor Climbing Gym
• Catch a Show at the Boulder Theater
• Brewery Tour
• Cooking Classes
• Visit the Museum of Boulder
• Stargaze at Fiske Planetarium
• Discover Nature at CU’s Museum of Natural History
• Visit One of Boulder’s Recreation Centers
• Visit the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)
• Boulder Escape Rooms
• Go Bowling
• Indoor Ski and Snowboard Time
• Celestial Seasons Tea Tour

1. Explore the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art

One of our favorite Boulder indoor activities is diving into the world of contemporary art at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art. The museum features rotating exhibitions of both local and international artists, providing a fascinating glimpse into the vibrant art scene.

Admission is “based on your heart”–pay what you can by cash, credit, or Apple Pay. The museum is located just a few blocks off the Pearl Street Mall, and right next to the Dushanbe Tea House and the Boulder Farmer’s Market.

2. Enjoy a Spa Day

Treat yourself to a day of pampering and relaxation at one of Boulder’s luxurious spas. Whether it’s a massage, a facial, or a full spa package, you’ll find plenty of options to unwind and rejuvenate. Some of the top spas in Boulder include:

• St. Julien Hotel & Spa, often voted best day spa in Boulder;
• Dragontree Spa, for a sanctuary escape with massages, foot bath, and more;
• Spavia, for a more affordable massage experience.

3. Visit the Boulder Public Library

Spend your day at the Boulder Public Library, not just browsing books but also enjoying the stunning architecture and views of Boulder Creek. The main branch of the public library at 1001 Arapahoe Ave often hosts events and workshops, which can be a perfect way to spend a rainy day. Check out their website for the latest event calendar.

Some additional activities to consider are Boulder’s Makerspace areas. BLDG 61 makerspace at the main public library has an open studio with various tools and equipment ranging from computers with design software to sewing machines to vinyl cutters.

4. Climb at an Indoor Climbing Gym

Boulder’s reputation as a climbing hub extends indoors with several climbing gyms like Movement Boulder or The Spot. These facilities offer climbing routes for all skill levels, making it a great way to stay active when the weather isn’t cooperating. If you are just visiting in town, check out drop-in sessions or private lessons.

5. Catch a Show at the Boulder Theater

Check out the historic Boulder Theater for a movie or a live performance. This iconic venue hosts a variety of events, from film festivals to concerts and comedy shows. It is conveniently located just off the Pearl Street Mall. Before or after the show, enjoy dinner at one of the great farm to table restaurants in the area, such as the Black Cat. For a more casual meal, Gemini Boulder or Postino’s are a great choice.

6. Brewery Tour

Boulder is known for its craft beer scene. Many breweries like Avery Brewing Co. offer indoor tours and tastings. It’s a great way to learn about the brewing process while enjoying some local brews.

For a fun group experience, check out the Boulder Brew Tours, which specializes in private party bases visiting some of the outstanding local breweries in and around Boulder. If you’d like to explore Boulder’s breweries on a nicer day, consider the Hike and Brew tour, which, as the name suggests, includes a guided hike followed by relaxing at one of Boulder’s breweries.

7. Cooking Classes

Join a cooking class to spice up your culinary skills. Places like Food Lab and Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts offer classes ranging from baking to international cuisines, perfect for a fun and educational indoor activity. For a fun alternative, sign up for a private mixology class, learning to make your favorite cocktails.

8. Visit the Museum of Boulder

Explore Boulder’s history and culture at the Museum of Boulder. The museum offers a variety of exhibits that delve into the city’s past, present, and future, making it an enlightening experience for all ages. In addition to standing exhibits, there are temporary exhibits, such as the Proclaiming Colorado’s Black History exhibit, running through September 2025.

Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for children, college students, and seniors. Admission for children under 5 is free.

9. Stargaze at Fiske Planetarium

Experience the wonders of the universe at Fiske Planetarium on the CU Boulder campus. The planetarium offers shows and features that are both educational and captivating, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts. Check their website for the latest show schedule. Tickets are $13.50 for adults, $9.50 for children, though this may vary depending on the show.

10. Discover Nature at CU’s Museum of Natural History

Explore the natural world at the University of Colorado’s Museum of Natural History. With exhibits ranging from paleontology to zoology, it’s a fascinating place for visitors of all ages. Check the museum website for opening hours, as there are closures during some school holidays. Admission to the exhibit halls are free.

Some of the featured exhibits are the museums triceratops skeleton, an Antarctica exhibit, and horses of the American West. Be sure to check the schedule for lectures and events to see what’s on when you plan to visit.

11. Visit One of Boulder’s Recreation Centers

Boulder’s recreation centers offer a variety of indoor activities including swimming pools, fitness classes, and gymnasiums. They’re great for staying active and escaping the chilly or wet weather outside. Check the recreation center website provided above for the latest schedules, fees, and opening hours. The main centers are East, South, and North Boulder recreation centers.

12. Visit the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)

NCAR offers fascinating insights into weather, climate science, and more through its visitor center and interactive exhibits. It’s educational and perfect for weather buffs! Admission is free, and the facility is open every day of the week for public walk-ins weekdays from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm MT and weekends and holidays from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm MT. Note that the facility is closed 2 days a year, which are maintenance days and are posted in advance on the NCAR website.

Top indoor things to do include:

• Take a self-guided tour of the Mesa Lab using the NCAR app. There are programs staff available to answer questions onsite weekdays 9 am – 4 pm;
• Sign up for a NSF NCAR Public Tour Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 12-1. Tours are free and no reservations are needed, though you are welcome to reserve a free ticket in advance here;
• Super Science Saturday: held the 1st Saturday in November each year, this is a public science event with various demonstrations and activities ideal for families;
• NSF NCAR Explorer Series: check the website for dates of these evening lectures open to the public;
• Visit the Mesa Lab Café, which is open weekdays for breakfast and lunch. You are welcome to enjoy your own food in the café as well.

If the weather is good enough, take the Weather trail just outside the NCAR center, with signage to learn more about weather.

13. Boulder Escape Rooms

Test your problem-solving skills with friends or family at one of Boulder’s Escape Rooms. It’s a thrilling way to spend an hour, solving puzzles and deciphering clues to make your escape.

A few of the top rated escape rooms are:

• Boulder Escape Room: located on Pearl Street and 13th (right on the pedestrian mall), you can sign up for 1 hour escape room sessions. With 4 or more people, you will be assigned a private escape room.
• Enigma Escape Room: also located on the Pearl Street pedestrian mall at Pearl and 14th, the Enigma escape room also offers indoor sessions. One unique offering are outdoor puzzles, which lead you around various parts of the Pearl Street mall over a 1.5-3 hour period. This can be a wonderful way to get to know the area better on a decent weather day.

14. Go Bowling

Hit the lanes at Connections on your next Boulder rainy day. It’s the bowling alley located in the University Memorial Center at CU Boulder. It’s a fun, laid-back way to spend an evening, complete with food, ping pong, billiards, and arcade games. They will accommodate walk-ins when available, but reservations are recommended.

Prices are $5.00 per game per person; shoes are $3.00 per pair and socks are $3.00 per pair (discounted for CU students and staff).

While at Connections, enjoy their billiard and ping pong tables as well as bowling (these can also be reserved). There is a concessions stand with pizza, snacks, and drinks.

15. Indoor Ski and Snowboard Time

Don’t let bad weather keep you off the slopes. Shredder Ski & Snowboard School offers indoor ski and snowboard lessons and open gym time in Boulder and neighboring Lafayette. This is geared towards kids aged 3-10, and is perfect for brushing up on your skills or just having fun sliding around. Private lessons are available to children over 10 years old, but you must supply your own ski equipment to participate.

Open gyms last 40 minutes, and do require adults supervision and reservations in advance. The costs include all necessary ski or snowboard equipment.

16. Celestial Seasons Tea Tour

Take a tour of the Celestial Seasonings tea factory just north of Boulder, where you’ll dive into the aromatic world of tea. Get a glimpse into how teas and herbal infusions from around the world are blended and packaged. The famous Mint Room is a highlight of the tour, where the powerful scents of peppermint and spearmint make lasting memories. Don’t forget to sample some of the 100+ varieties of tea!
Visit the gift shop before leaving to purchase boxes of tea to bring home as a souvenir and enjoy lunch at the café on site after your tour.

This is just one of the top family friendly tours in Boulder.

Best Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Boulder Wrap-Up

No matter the weather, Boulder has plenty to offer. So, when you run into a rainy day in Boulder, grab your raincoat or your snow boots, and start exploring these wonderful Boulder indoor activities!

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