Explore Jacksonville

12 Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Jacksonville

Stop by the Museum of Science and History for interactive fun indoors.

(©Daron Dean)

Laura Lee
April 5, 2019

If you're visiting Florida sometime between April and October, chances are you'll experience one of our world-famous thunderstorms. Sure, there are plenty of bowling alleys, movie theaters and indoor playgrounds, but for a truly unique and local experience, we've put together a few of our favorite indoor attractions from Amelia Island down to St. Augustine. 

Museum of Science and History

This interactive children’s museum focuses on the science and history of Northeast Florida. Museum highlights include an Allosaurus dinosaur skeleton, live animal shows, daily science programs, KidSpace, planetarium and traveling exhibits. Admission $15 adults, $12 children, seniors, military, students and teachers.

Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville

Located in the hip downtown area of Hemming Park, MOCA has five changing galleries featuring contemporary artists as well as a permanent collection featuring Hans Hofmann, Alexander Calder, Joan Mitchell, James Rosenquist, Alex Katz and other masters.

Jax Ale Trail

Jacksonville is a major U.S. Budweiser hub as well as home to more than a dozen craft breweries. Join Visit Jacksonville on a fun tour to experience the growing craft brewery scene.

Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens

On the grounds of a private Tudor mansion on the St. Johns River, the museum holds a permanent collection with works dating back to 2100 B.C. and also American Impressionist paintings, 18th-century porcelain and Japanese woodblock prints. Admission $10, with discounts for seniors, students, military and children.

Amelia Island Museum of History

Housed in the old Nassau County jail, the museum covers history from the Timucuan Indians through its occupation under eight flags. The museum offers permanent and temporary exhibits, interactive children's areas, holiday home tours and Friday night ghost tours. Open daily.

World Golf Hall of Fame

Experience historic artifacts, personal memorabilia of famous golfers, interactive exhibits, an 18-hole putting course and Florida’s largest IMAX screen. Nearby is the World Golf Village featuring luxurious accommodations and two championship golf courses.

Lightner Museum

The former Alcazar Hotel constructed in the late 1880s is part of railroad baron Henry Flagler's legacy of grand Florida resorts. The property now serves as a museum of Victorian memorabilia such as stained-glass art by Louis Comfort Tiffany, paintings, sculpture, toys, porcelain and furniture. Open daily 9 am-5 pm.

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

Home of one of the world’s largest collections of authentic pirate artifacts and treasures. See the world’s only authentic pirate chest, its oldest wanted poster and one of only three Jolly Roger flags in existence. Fire a cannon, climb aboard a ship and learn about famous pirates.

Ripley's Believe It or Not

Witness mystical treasures, international oddities and exotic art forms that inspired the hit TV show. Located in a beautifully restored 1887 historic landmark, the country's original Ripley’s has three floors with hundreds of fascinating items.

The Escape Game

The Escape Game Jacksonville offers players 60 minutes to find clues, solve puzzles, and complete their escape. Free parking. Games recommended for ages 13 and up. Open 8:30 am to 11:30 pm daily. Reservations recommended.