Things to Do in Galway When it Rains

Plan Your Rainy‑Day Getaway at The Connacht Hotel

For a stress‑free family escape, book a stay at The Connacht Hotel. With spacious accommodation options, on‑site dining, a leisure centre, and the Friendly Fellows Kids’ Club, it’s the perfect base for exploring Galway’s indoor attractions. Check the hotel’s website for current family package deals and seasonal discounts. When the rain falls – as it often does – you’ll be ready with an itinerary packed with the best indoor activities Galway has to offer. Plus, we have lots of family discounts on our website.

Wildlands Adventure Park (Moycullen)

On a wet day, Wildlands becomes a huge indoor playground for all ages. Its climbing walls, sports hall, and play village offer hours of adventure, while the two‑storey Celtic Challenge arena features 24 interactive rooms that test teamwork and brainpower. For 2025, the park has added a Ninja Warrior–style obstacle course and Cloud Climb maze suspended above the ground. Kids aged four and up can safely test their skills, making Wildlands a must‑visit rainy‑day attraction.

The Planet & Leisureland

When the clouds burst, this two‑part entertainment hub keeps the whole family happy. The Planet boasts arcade games, ten‑pin bowling, laser tag, and soft‑play areas, while Leisureland's indoor pool complex features a fun kiddie pool and a 65‑metre water slide. The combination of gaming, bowling, and aquatic fun makes it one of the most diverse indoor activities in Galway and a top answer to “where to take kids when it’s raining.”

Pure Skill Galway

Located just west of the city, Pure Skill is a 25,000‑square‑foot sports complex where families compete across ten different sports. Stations include Gaelic football, hurling, baseball, tennis, golf, basketball, and more. Sensors track your accuracy and speed, turning each game into an interactive challenge. It’s ideal for active families seeking indoor activities in Galway that inspire friendly competition during bad weather.

VR World Galway

Ireland’s premier virtual‑reality centre offers 13 VR pods and over 50 games, ranging from child‑friendly quests to high‑octane racing simulators galwaytourism.ie. Suitable for children aged seven and older, it’s one of the best things to do in Galway when it rains. Packages start at around €20 for 30‑minute sessions, making it an affordable way to experience cutting‑edge technology while staying dry.

Great Escape Rooms / Escape Boats Galway

Put your brains to work while the rain pours outside. Great Escape Rooms challenge families to solve puzzles, crack codes, and unlock hidden clues within 60 minutes. Escape Boats, moored on the River Corrib, deliver the same immersive gameplay with a nautical twist. These indoor adventures encourage teamwork and problem‑solving, providing a memorable rainy‑day activity in Galway for older children and adults alike.

Irish Dance Experience

Led by former Riverdance lead Siobhán Manson, this workshop invites visitors of all ages to learn step dancing and sean nós in a fun, inclusive setting thisisgalway.ie. Classes take place indoors at Claddagh Hall, so you can immerse yourself in Irish culture without worrying about the weather. It’s a family‑friendly way to connect with Galway’s heritage.

Trad on the Prom

When rain falls in the evening, head to Leisureland Theatre for Trad on the Prom, Ireland’s leading Irish music and dance show. Featuring world‑champion dancers and award‑winning musicians, tradontheprom.com the performance brings the spirit of Galway indoors. Families will enjoy the high‑energy routines and foot‑tapping tunes while staying dry, making it an ideal cultural night out.

Galway City Museum

This free museum offers a fascinating journey through Galway’s past, from medieval artefacts to maritime history. Interactive displays capture young imaginations, so kids can learn while having fun. It’s centrally located beside the Spanish Arch, making it easy to combine with other indoor activities in Galway. On a rainy day, it’s the perfect spot to shelter and discover the stories that shaped the city.

Galway City Karting

For a burst of adrenaline, race around a 20,000‑square‑foot indoor karting track. Galway City Karting welcomes both kids and adults, with safety briefings and all-weather conditions. It’s a fast‑paced answer to “where to take teenagers on a rainy day in Galway,” and spectators can watch the action from the sidelines.

Cinemas - Hide From The Rain With a Movie

Sometimes the best rainy‑day activity is watching a film. The Eye cinema and many more, screen all the latest blockbusters and provide cosy escapes when you need to keep the family entertained and dry. Watch any movie, no matter the genre, with the various cinemas scattered throughout Galway.

Cosy Cafés & Restaurants

Galway’s colourful cafés and pubs are perfect for warming up when it rains. Grab hot chocolate at Wylde or sample hearty fare in M.Fitzgeralds; the West End is packed with artisan coffee shops. Sitting in a cosy café as rain patters outside is one of the most relaxing things to do in Galway when it rains.

Shopping for Rain Gear

Don’t let rain catch you off guard – Galway’s boutiques stock waterproof jackets, stylish wellington boots, and wide‑brimmed hats. Outfitting the family with proper gear means you can embrace the elements and enjoy outdoor attractions like the Salthill Promenade. While there isn’t a single attraction to cite, exploring local shops for rain gear is a practical and fun way to prepare for your Irish adventure.

  Even when the skies turn grey, Galway never loses its spark. From cosy cafés serving rich, frothy cappuccinos to lively pubs where the music warms you from the inside out, there’s always a way to embrace the city’s charm. Rain in Galway isn’t a reason to hide indoors. It’s an invitation to see the city in a softer, more intimate light. So pack your umbrella, lace up your walking shoes, and let the rain add its own melody to your Galway adventure.