You might think there’s not much to do in Blackpool when it’s raining.

After all, it’s probably the most iconic seaside town there is! And if you’ve ever tried building a sandcastle during a downpour, you’ll know it doesn’t work out that well. As the good people of Blackpool know well, though, the beach isn’t even the best bit.

There are plenty of cool places to explore.

Please observe any restrictions or guidance offered see visitBlackpool.com

Fun Things To Try In Blackpool When It’s Raining

Fun for all Ages, With or Without the Kids

Kids go crazy if the rain stops them running about, but at Coral Island it doesn’t have to. This pirate-themed family fun park is completely indoors. It features several large rides and arcade games that even the most serious grown-ups will want to try. The whole place is free admission and little ones even eat for free. On those precious nights when you’re free of the kids, hit up the Coral Island Casino or have a go at the Prize Bingo.

If you’re the sportier sort (or you just love jumping around), be sure to visit Ascent Trampoline Park. The fully-covered park not only features trampolines but also climbing walls, a ninja assault course and an indoor caving system. Ascent also offers dedicated sessions and spaces for toddlers, teens and budding gymnasts. There’s even a café where you can sit back and watch everyone else do all the hard work.

If you’d rather take things at a gentler pace in Blackpool when it’s raining, escape to Madame Tussauds or the Sea Life Centre. Both Blackpool branches of these national chains more than hold their own against their southern counterparts. New for 2018, Madame Tussauds now features special sections dedicated to Marvel comic superheroes and real-life sporting superstars. At the Sea Life Centre, meanwhile, you can meet all kinds of less waxy more watery creatures, from scary sharks to adorable baby turtles.

Haven for Art & Culture

Blackpool is blessed by several historic arts venues, where you can uncover the town’s living history while enjoying showstopping performances. Make The Grand Theatre your first port of call in Blackpool when it’s raining. The beautiful old building showcases ornate, eccentric Victorian architecture at its best. The Grand’s calendar of shows, meanwhile, is nothing if not diverse. With opera or ballet one week and award-winning modern dance or drama the next, there’s always something for everyone.

The Blackpool Tower Ballroom is another Victorian stunner you won’t want to miss. The lavishly ornate ballroom inside The Blackpool Tower is a reminder of a time gone by. You’ll want to snap some pics before you take a spin across the sprung dance floor. For those with two left feet, it’s also the perfect place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea.

Get a taste of fine art in Blackpool when it’s raining by visiting Grundy Art Gallery. The Grundy is well-known for staging shows that aim to challenge and inspire. You’ll find provocative painting, interactive mixed media and thought-provoking installations by both local and international artists.

For the Thrill of it!

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Forget the roller coasters, head to The Blackpool Tower Dungeon. The Dungeon is home to a cast of creepy characters like The Doctor’s Assistant and Judge Blackheart. They’ll guide you through their strange and spooky world, telling plenty of scary, hilarious stories along the way. The Dungeon offers a fully interactive, multi-sensory experience that’s designed to delight more than terrify, so it’s recommended even for children as young as 8.

Have you tried an Escape Room experience yet? Give it a go and put yourself to the test in Blackpool when it’s raining. Check out the Escape Room at The Blackpool Dungeon during your visit or pick from plenty of other options. We like Clue HQ, which offers three different escape games for up to six people at a time. Have the family squabbles been getting out of control lately? Locking them all in a room and forcing them to work together might just be the perfect solution!

Explore the Thriving Food Scene

There’s no nicer thing to do in Blackpool when it’s raining than cosy up with a great plate of food or a well-made drink. Perhaps before or after you take in a show at The Grand? Blackpool is home to plenty of restaurants where you can grab a quick bite or luxuriate in a multi-course meal. Keep it classic with fish and chips and Harry Ramsden’s, or take in a sea view over tapas at The Beach House (their cocktails are always spot on). There are several charming coffee shops too, like Number Five Café, which should be your go-to for a lazy brunch.

As we’ve seen, there’s no shortage of places to explore in Blackpool when it’s raining. You’ll find weather-proof entertainment options to suit every taste and budget. Enjoy traditional seaside delights at amusement arcades and activity centres. Be inspired by the beauty of the town’s art and culture hubs. Or simply stuff your face on some of the best food in the northwest! Blackpool when it’s raining just might be even better than Blackpool when it’s sunny.

Why not stay over? Check out our Blackpool Where To Stay blog with lots of great ideas.

Blackpool Grand

Take a look at what’s on at Blackpool Grand Theatre this Autumn / Winter 20/21

Blackpool Grand set out a COVID-Community Communication Programme (CCCP) during the Coronavirus pandemic. Our aims were simple, to CONNECT, COMFORT and UPLIFT. We would Connect people by offering tutorials on communication tools like Zoom and conduct community face-to-face meetings (book readings, youth groups and more). Comfort through stories of heritage, memories and storytelling, and to Uplift visitors spirits through laughter and exercise. Please do enjoy and if you can afford to donate please do.

The information in this story is accurate as of the publication date. While we are attempting to keep our content as up-to-date as possible, the situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic continues to develop rapidly, so it’s possible that some information and recommendations may have changed since publishing. For any concerns and latest advice around COVID-19, visit the World Health Organisation. If you’re in the UK, the National Health Service can also provide useful information and support, while US users can contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.