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Make a splash indoors: 23 of the best things to do if it rains during your Hilton Head vacation

Make a splash indoors: What to do when it rains during your Hilton Head vacation. McClatchy file photo.
Make a splash indoors: What to do when it rains during your Hilton Head vacation. McClatchy file photo. Getty Images

Did a rainy day interrupt your beach stay?

While sunshine and beaches are often the main draw, don’t let a few drops dampen your vacation to Hilton Head. There’s a wealth of activities and indoor attractions for folks to enjoy when the weather isn’t cooperating.

From kid-friendly museums and arcades to adult-oriented distilleries and theaters, Hilton Head offers something for everyone, rain or shine.

We’ve rounded up some of the top attractions according to Visit Hilton Head, Hilton Head Escapes and Tripadvisor for visitors of all ages. While we’ve divided these up for different kinds of travel groups, you can mix and match any of these activities as you please to have a fun and full stay.

Try any (or all) of these activities the next time a storm cloud comes overhead to make the most of your stay and experience all that the Lowcountry has to offer.

Kid & Family Focused

Offering free and ticketed activities, you can explore all aspects of the Lowcountry’s history. From critters, Gullah heritage, kayaking and more, they offer activities every day.

Take a step back in time with this 18th-century-focused museum that gives an insider look at the rich history and story behind the city of Beaufort. Tickets for adults cost $8, children have free entry.

Need an easy way to get the energy out? The Sandbox offers interactive games, educational activities, play areas and a climbing wall. Tickets are $12.

This multi-level indoor go-karting track offers fun for the whole family. It also offers an amusement center with games, axe throwing, bowling and arcade activities, along with a restaurant and bar area. A single go-kart race costs $25 and a day-long arcade pass costs $35.

While Adventure Cove is known for its two mini golf courses, if you venture indoors, you’ll find a full entertainment center and arcade area that the whole crew can enjoy. The arcade ticket costs vary: 20 tickets for $5, 40 tickets for $10 and 80 tickets for $20.

Station 300 is a great spot for all-day fun. With bowling, arcade games, food, drinks and even trivia nights on Thursdays. Kids can bowl for free during the summer or you can opt for the family fun pack deal for $69.

Looking to hit the green, but the rain interrupted your plans? Visit Chronic Games + Golf, where you can play a variety of simulated sports and carnival games, no matter your age or skill level. Prices start at $54 for an hour in a sports lounge area, which can fit about six people.

If you’re up for a little mystery and strategy, the Hilton Head Escape Room offers four different escape rooms to test your skills. Price varies by number of players; one adult ticket costs $35 and children under 6 years old are free.

Get your glow on with glow-in-the-dark mini golf or painting. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, you can be creative in the fun fluorescent lighting. One round of mini golf costs $10 for children and $12 for adults. Painting costs $32 per person.

Check souvenir shopping off your list by visiting Camp Hilton Head. With five different locations on the island, you’ll find fun t-shirts, beach items and more, you’re sure to find something to commemorate your visit.

Located near Coligny Beach, catch a movie at Park Plaza Cinema if you need some relaxing indoor entertainment. The perfect spot to dodge those afternoon showers, movie tickets are typically between $8 and $15, depending on the film you see and the time you visit.

If you’re on the north side of the island, you can catch a movie at Northridge Cinema. Enjoy the movie with state-of-the-art electronic recliners, complete with fan-favorite light-up cup-holders. Tickets are typically between $6 and $15; children under 2 years old are free.

Date Trip

Take a leisurely stroll through this family-owned gallery, which features handmade works of over 150 North American craftsmen. Entry to the gallery is free of charge.

Take part in a wine tasting or bring home a bottle of your own at Island Winery. Offering a variety of fruit-flavored wines, it’s the perfect spot to visit if the rain interrupts your plans. Prices vary; most bottles cost $20.

Catch a play at the Arts Center. Upcoming shows include “Waitress”, comedian Paul Reiser and an Earth, Wind & Fire tribute band. Ticket prices vary.

Girls Trip

Get crafty and create your own trendy hat at Brims on the Bluff. Pick your style, your accessories and customize it to your size to make it your own. 1:1 hat making appointments cost $50; groups costs $100.

Love candles but want to make them on your own? Sea Love Candle Bar allows you to pick your scent, size and pour the candle. Registration costs $44 for one person.

If you’re the creative type, you can paint your own pottery pieces at The Art Cafe. Perfect for artists of any age, prices vary based on the item you select to paint. An $8 studio fee applies to all visitors who paint.

If you’re looking for a shopping fix, the Tanger Outlets have a variety of stores to choose from. With brand-name and designer outfits, you won’t go home empty-handed.

Another great shopping option is the Village at Wexford, offering a handful of boutique and local shops to visit during your trip. With popular food spots and a spa, you’ll have a full day of shopping.

If you’re more of a thrifter, The Bargain Box has a wide selection of antiques, clothes, household items and more. If you’re lucky, you may find a piece of Hilton Head’s history in your browsing.

For the Adults

With a full bar, distillery tours, cocktail class and a complete bottle shop, you can try new beverages and have a behind-the-scenes look at how your favorite drinks are made. Distillery tours cost $39 and cocktail classes are typically around $90.

For some light-hearted entertainment, the Comedy Magic Cabaret offers comedy and magic shows daily. Serving cocktails and snacks, their lounge offers an up-close experience with performers. General admission is $49.

Anna Claire Miller
The Island Packet
Anna Claire Miller is a former journalist for the Island Packet
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