With the weather so unsettled at the moment, summer feeling like a distant memory and the nights already drawing in, it can be tricky to know what to do when the heavens open. The Met Office seems to be issuing yellow weather warnings every other day, so how do you keep the kids entertained without climbing the walls yourself?
Here are our top picks for things to do in Cardiff when it’s windy, wet and miserable outside.
Head to the cinema
There’s nothing like escaping the rain with a big tub of popcorn and a blockbuster. Cardiff has plenty of choice when it comes to the big screen. The ODEON at The Red Dragon Centre is always popular, while Cineworld is right in the city centre. If you fancy something a little different, Everyman Cinema in Cardiff Bay has sofa seating, food and drink brought to your seat and a cosy vibe that makes a rainy day feel less gloomy.
Go bowling
The newly refurbished Tenpin in Nantgarw has plenty going on, while Hollywood Bowl in Cardiff Bay is another great option if you want the full family day-out experience. In the city centre, Discobowl on Wood Street brings neon fun to the mix, and if you’re after something a little trendier, Roxy Lanes combines bowling with arcade games and food.
Try indoor climbing
If the kids need to burn off energy, let them ‘climb a mountain’ indoors. Fun HQ is a fantastic spot with climbing walls for all abilities, while Boulders is a firm Cardiff favourite. It’s a brilliant way to challenge them (and yourself) without worrying about the weather.
Go swimming
Cardiff International Pool in the Bay is a classic choice, with pools, slides and even a lazy river to keep everyone happy. If you prefer something closer to home, Better Leisure Centres across the city, like Eastern Leisure Centre in Llanrumney, Llanishen or Fairwater, are great for a splash about.
Explore a museum
National Museum Cardiff is perfect if you’ve got a mix of ages to please, with dinosaurs, art and natural history all under one roof. Or, if you’re feeling brave, St Fagans is a great option, at least if the sun does make a surprise appearance, you can make the most of its outdoor buildings too. The Museum of Cardiff in The Hayes is another gem, especially if you want to learn more about the city’s past.
Visit a library
Sometimes the best way to ride out a rainy day is to get lost in a good book. Cardiff Central Library has a great kids’ section, or you can pop along to your local community library or hub.
Tuck into great food
One silver lining to a wet day is having an excuse to eat your way around the city. Pizza fans will love Franco Manca or Pizza Pilgrims, while burger lovers can’t go wrong with Smacks, Fire Guys, Fat Hippo or Honest Burgers. For something a little more local, try Burger Boyzz. Cardiff is packed with family-friendly restaurants, so you’re never short of choice.
Play mini golf
If there’s one place guaranteed to brighten up a rainy day in Cardiff, it’s Treetop Adventure Golf. Tucked away inside St David’s, it’s completely undercover, so you can leave your umbrella at the door and dive straight into the jungle.
There are two 18-hole courses to choose from, the Tropical Trail and the Ancient Explorer, both packed with quirky obstacles, lush décor and sound effects that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The attention to detail keeps the kids entertained at every turn, whether they’re trying to get past moving totems or sinking a shot at the end trying to get a free game next time!
Wander the Victorian arcades
Cardiff’s Victorian arcades are the perfect place to dodge showers while still exploring the city. Morgan Arcade, Castle Arcade and Royal Arcade are packed with independent shops, cafés and plenty of atmosphere. This year, City of Arcades 2025 is also shining a light on hidden treasures across the arcades, with Discovery Fortnight running from 19 September to 3 October.
Do a bit of shopping
Cardiff’s shopping scene is always worth exploring. The new Lego store at St David’s is bigger and better than before, and SWATCH has also recently opened. Shops like Lush are embracing autumn with seasonal launches, including pumpkin spice-inspired scents and plenty of cosy fragrances. If retail therapy is your thing, there’s plenty to enjoy. Don’t forget to look out for those independents too!
Cardiff doesn’t stop when the weather takes a turn, you just need to know where to go. Next time the rain pours, swap the soggy walks for a day of films, food, fun and maybe even a spot of climbing.
