5 Rainy Day Things to do in Destin, FL
You’ve planned the perfect beach vacation to Destin, FL. The excitement has been building for weeks, maybe even months. The emerald sea is calling your name, the anticipation of the white sand between your toes is almost too much to bear. The day finally arrives, you arrive at your hotel step out of the car and…….. IT’S POURING. Panic sets in. You look at your family and immediately start to feel claustrophobic. What are you supposed to do if you can’t go to the beach?!
Don’t freak out just yet! Weather changes on a dime along the gulf coast, chances are if you just wait an hour or two it will pass. However if the rain decides to stick around for awhile or you are just aching to get out and do something, you are in luck! There is plenty to do in Destin when it’s raining!
Uncle Bucks Fishbowl & Grill
Uncle Bucks Fishbowl & Grill in Destin is one of a handful of restaurants/entertainment facilities that is owned and operated by Bass Pro Shops. It offers a unique atmosphere that is fun for the whole family. Enjoy a casual family meal with unique entrees like wild boar sliders and buffalo strip steak, or go a more traditional route and feast on their delicious burgers, sandwiches or a variety of fishy meals.
After you have stuffed yourself to the gills (see what I did there?) engage in some good old fashioned family fun at the underwater themed bowling lanes. This truly unique bowling experience will thrill everybody in the family. Seriously, who doesn’t want to watch sharks regurgitate bowling balls?!
Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
Brand new to the Emerald Coast, Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone is the largest entertainment center on Okaloosa Island, just minutes from Destin. Featuring 17,000 square feet of air conditioned space, housing a state-of-the-art redemption arcade, a 4D Movie Theater, a Laser Maze, Salvati’s Pizza Factory, and YogoMogo’s Creamy Cool Creations, Wild Willy’s provides fun and entertainment rain or shine.
When the rain lets up head outside and enjoy two Dinosaur themed Mini Golf Courses, a 60 foot Ropes Course, a Spinning Roller Coaster, a Reverse Bungee Trampoline, and remote control Battle Boats!
Lulu’s Restaurant
When Jimmy Buffet’s sister opens a restaurant, you know it has to be good! Lucy Buffet shares her culinary genius with the world in this lively restaurant featuring fresh caught local seafood, salads and to die for burgers. Lulu’s also prides themselves on their EXTENSIVE allergy menu, no matter what your allergy, Lulu’s can help you find something incredible to munch on.
Lulu’s also features live music every night, outdoor play area for the kids (and sometimes the adults) and breathtaking views of the gulf.
As Lucy Buffet puts it, “LuLu’s is a state of mind, really. It’s a great escape, a great family spot. We’re all about good food, good folks, good music, and good times. A place to confirm that ‘LIFE is good’. ”
Museums
The museums in and around Destin are often overlooked, but are definitely worth a visit. Our favorites include:
- The Air Force Armament Museum in Fort Walton
- The Indian Temple Mound and Museum in Fort Walton
- Camp Walton Schoolhouse
- The Destin Fishing and History Museum
Shopping
If the rainy day blues have got you down, a little retail therapy is in order. Destin Commons and Silver Sands Premium Outlets are my favorite places to shop the day away. I tend to gravitate more towards Destin commons just because they also contain Uncle Bucks Fishbowl & Grill as well as an AMC movie theater (perfect for waiting out the rain!) .
Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean that you can’t have a good time! Any one of these places is sure to help you out of a rainy day slump and don’t worry, you will be back to the beach before you know it!
Thank you to the Emerald Coast CVB for hosting us on a fun filled weekend! As always all opinions are 100% honest and my own 🙂
