What to Do in NYC When It Rains: 10 Indoor Adventures Worth Booking

Rain happens — even in the greatest city in the world. But don’t let a little drizzle (or a full-on downpour) ruin your trip to New York City. The truth is, some of the city’s best experiences are indoors — and a rainy day is the perfect excuse to dive into them.

From immersive art and iconic landmarks to spas, shows, and backstage tours, we’ve rounded up ten of the best things to do in NYC when the skies turn gray — all bookable through tickadoo.

1. Go Behind the Scenes at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Book the VIP Tour of Saint Patrick's Cathedral

This isn’t your average church visit. The official behind-the-scenes tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral grants you access to areas the public rarely sees — from private chapels and secret staircases to the stunning crypt where past Archbishops of New York are laid to rest. It’s beautiful, historic, and completely sheltered from the rain.

2. Take the Madison Square Garden All Access Tour

Book the Madison Square Garden All Access Tour

Rain or shine, the world’s most famous arena is always buzzing. Go beyond the bleachers on this all-access guided tour. You’ll explore backstage, visit team locker rooms, learn about the venue’s legendary history, and maybe even glimpse a rehearsal. It’s a slam dunk for sports fans, music lovers, and pop culture buffs alike.

3. Relax in Total Comfort at QC New York Spa

Book a QC Spa Experience

Let the sound of rain outside enhance your relaxation. Located on Governors Island (with a short, scenic ferry ride from Manhattan), QC NY Spa features heated indoor pools, saunas, and sensory wellness experiences with jaw-dropping skyline views. It’s the perfect place to unwind while the city dries off.

4. Explore the Secrets of the Mind at Mercer Labs

Book Your Visit to Mercer Labs

When the weather pushes you indoors, why not step into a completely different dimension? Mercer Labs is part immersive art space, part sensory dreamscape — with 16 experimental rooms that react to your movement, sound, and even thought. It’s science, design, and wonder all under one very dry roof.

5. Laugh Your Way Through Off-Broadway

Get tickets to The Play That Goes Wrong

The show must go wrong — in the best possible way. This award-winning comedy is perfect for a rainy afternoon when you need a good laugh. With physical gags, collapsing sets, and chaotic charm, it’s one of NYC’s most beloved crowd-pleasers. Bonus: it’s indoors, cozy, and always funny.

6. Ride Through the City in Style with THE RIDE

Book THE RIDE NYC to See the City and Stay Dry

Not ready to give up on sightseeing just because it’s raining? THE RIDE lets you see the city from a dry, climate-controlled seat aboard a custom motor coach with floor-to-ceiling windows and stadium-style seating. Live hosts, interactive street performances, and Midtown landmarks included — umbrellas not required.

7. Discover Art Deco Glamour at Radio City Music Hall

Take a Guided Tour of the Iconic Venue

Radio City is more than just a concert venue — it’s a stunning time capsule of 1930s style. This behind-the-scenes tour explores the iconic interiors, secret spaces, and possibly even a Rockettes rehearsal. It’s a great way to enjoy world-class architecture while staying dry and inspired.

8. Museum-Hop Without the Crowds

Stay indoors and get your culture fix with two standout museums:

Explore the Museum of Broadway

Trace the history of NYC theatre through interactive exhibits, glittering costumes, and immersive set recreations. It’s a hit with both theatre lovers and design enthusiasts.

Experience Street Art at the Banksy Museum NYC

Explore a bold, immersive tribute to the world’s most elusive street artist. From full-scale mural recreations to immersive projections, this museum turns rebellion into art — no umbrella needed.

9. Catch the Rhythms of Buena Vista Social Club

The Rythym and Warmth of Cuba On Stage

Let the rhythm take you away from the rain. Buena Vista Social Club brings Cuban warmth, music, and movement to the Broadway stage. It’s an energizing, soul-lifting escape perfect for drizzly evenings.

10. Escape into a Strange & Brilliant Show

Feeling adventurous? Go for something truly original:

• Oh, Mary! – a bizarre, absurdist comedy that turns historical figures upside down.

• Operation Mincemeat – a sharp, witty musical about a British WWII deception scheme.

Both shows are 100% indoors and 100% unforgettable.

Don’t Let the Weather Win — Make It a tickadoo Day

Rain doesn’t ruin New York — it just changes the tempo. From spas and immersive art to legendary venues and side-splitting theatre, there’s no shortage of inspiration indoors.

Explore and book your next rainy day plan at tickadoo.com.