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Cape Town may be famous for its golden beaches and sunny skies, but even on the rainiest days, this city doesn’t disappoint. When the clouds roll in, it’s the perfect excuse to explore another side of the Mother City, one that’s packed with creativity, curiosity, and a touch of indoor adventure. Whether you’re travelling with family, planning a rainy day date, or just keen to stay dry without staying bored, here’s our Nox-approved guide to the best things to do in Cape Town when it rains.
Let Loose at Total Ninja Park
A hit with kids and adults alike, Total Ninja in Black River Park is Africa’s largest inflatable obstacle course. Think giant slides, climbing walls, and rope swings — all indoors. It’s a workout disguised as fun, with challenges for every level of aspiring ninja. Ideal for burning off energy and laughing until your abs hurt.
Get Inspired at Zeitz MOCAA
Housed in a converted grain silo at the V&A Waterfront, the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is more than just a rainy-day refuge. It’s a powerful, beautifully curated celebration of African art, with exhibitions that are as thought-provoking as they are visually striking. If you’re after quiet reflection and world-class creativity, this is your spot.
Catch a Film at The Labia Theatre
Tucked just off Kloof Street, The Labia Theatre is a charming throwback to cinema’s golden era. Independent films, foreign language favourites and documentaries are screened in an atmosphere that’s more living room than multiplex. Order a glass of wine (or one of their famous glühweins) and enjoy a film in the only cinema in South Africa where drinks from the bar are welcome inside.
Paint & Play at The Pottery in Camps Bay
The Pottery is the perfect blend of creativity and café culture. Pick a ceramic piece — anything from mugs to platters, and spend the next hour or two painting while sipping on something from their health-conscious menu. With Camps Bay Beach as a backdrop (visible even through the drizzle), this is feel-good downtime at its best.
Dive In at the Two Oceans Aquarium
Rain outside? No problem. Head below sea level at the Two Oceans Aquarium, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans collide in technicolour. From hypnotic jellyfish to curious penguins, and tanks you can walk beneath, this all-weather venue at the V&A Waterfront is endlessly fascinating — especially for curious little minds.
Explore the Universe at the Iziko Planetarium
When the skies are grey, why not visit some stars? The Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome offers immersive 360° shows that take you through galaxies, human anatomy, atomic structures, and more. It’s edutainment at its best — a mesmerising experience for science lovers, dreamers, and anyone looking to escape the rain (and Earth) for an hour.
Crack Clues at HintHunt Escape Rooms
If you’ve got a competitive streak and a knack for puzzles, HintHunt at the V&A Waterfront will hit the spot. Solve clues, crack codes, and try to escape the room before time runs out. With several escape rooms and an outdoor adventure game, it’s a smart way to turn a gloomy day into a team-building thriller.
Eat, Shop, Repeat at Bay Harbour Market
Hout Bay’s Bay Harbour Market is covered, lively, and warm in every sense of the word. Open on weekends, it’s full of handcrafted goods, live music, street food and mulled wine. Cosy up inside the repurposed fish factory and soak in the buzz, or brave the mist for sea views and fresh oysters.
Artjamming Fun
Unleash your inner artist at Artjamming – no skills required. Whether you’re spongeing, spraying or freestyling on canvas, this vibrant creative space makes painting fun and totally un-intimidating. With helpful staff and high-quality materials, it’s a feel-good activity for families, couples or solo explorers looking to try something new.
Wine Tasting in a Cave at Klein Roosboom
A little drive out to Durbanville rewards you with one of the region’s most unique wine-tasting experiences. Klein Roosboom’s old fermentation tanks have been converted into intimate tasting caves, each with its own character. The wines are superb, the atmosphere relaxed, and it’s hard to beat the charm of sipping Chardonnay in a cave while the rain patters above.
Play Old-School Games at Barcadia
This adults-only arcade called Barcadia, located in the city centre, is as nostalgic as it is quirky. Think Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat and Tekken 3 — all the classics, plus a well-stocked bar and a soundtrack to match. Perfect for a different kind of night out, especially when the weather says stay in.
Sing Your Heart Out at Bokeh Karaoke
Tucked away in Sea Point, Bokeh is the karaoke venue you didn’t know you needed. Polished sound and lighting, a relaxed crowd, and the chance to be a star for a few songs. Whether you’re Celine, Cher or someone with no shame and no pitch, it’s a good laugh in a creative space.
Climb Indoors at CityROCK
Finally, if you're craving a bit of movement but not the soggy mountain trail, head to CityROCK. This indoor climbing gym offers everything from bouldering to 16-metre walls, plus a yoga studio and gym. Whether you’re scaling heights or just trying it for the first time, it’s a great way to stay active when the mountains are off-limits.
Looking for more ideas?
If the rain keeps falling and you’re in need of more inspiration, our Nox Cape Town Travel Guide is packed with insider tips, neighbourhood highlights, and curated experiences for every kind of traveller. Whether you're planning your itinerary or just want to see what’s nearby, it's a great place to start exploring, whatever the weather.
In need of accommodation? Nox Cape Town has got you covered, with a range of villas and apartments across the Mother City, you'll find the perfect fit.
