Kids aren’t the only ones who get a bit stir-crazy after too much indoor time. Us grown-ups feel it too!
So, we’ve put together some great ideas just for the big kids [that’s us adults] to stay entertained on a rainy day.
Sure, binge-watching shows on the couch is fun… for a while!
Here’s what to do when the allure of the sofa wears off.
Highlands Hatchets
Some of the best fun you can have indoors here. Axe throwing has taken the world by storm and we’re lucky to have our very own venue in Mittagong. Round up a group of 6 for a group axe-perience or grab your special someone [or friend] for the date night package.
Each session runs for one to two hours and make sure once you are done throwing to head on over to….
Eden Brewery
We love the cosy, and friendly vibe of this brewery located right next door to Highlands Hatchets. Who cares if the weather is dreadful when there’s good beer, good company and taaaaaasty burgers from the Boozy Burger van just outside the door?
Eden Brewery also have a fab calendar of events including board game nights, trivia nights and live music to keep us distracted from the rain.
Empire Cinemas Bowral
Hitting up the cinema for a flick is a classic choice for some rainy-day goodness.
The Empire Cinema in Bowral screens a great selection of blockbuster films mixed with indie and international movies as well. So, there’s something for every type of cinephile.
And you know what else there is? Popcorn!!! Aw yeah!
Trivia Nights
Rainy nights can almost be more of a pain than rainy days. But you know what makes a rainy-day suck less? Pub Trivia!
Whether you’re a total brainiac, a reality TV enthusiast, or simply out for a laugh with friends, the Southern Highlands has a good selection of trivia nights in town.
Head here for trivia nights happening around town where you can flaunt your knowledge and perhaps walk away with awesome prizes too.
Galleries
Checking out the art and culture of the Southern Highlands at our local galleries is a great way to spend a day, especially a rainy one.
There’s so much creative talent around these parts, it’s pretty impressive.
We’ve got a choice selection of awesome art galleries, studios, and spots where you can see local [and not-so-local] artists’ work.
Here’s a list to get you started and feeling inspired!
Tenpin Bowling at Highlands Entertainment Centre
Bowling is fun for all ages and there’s nothing like some healthy date night or friend crew competition over a game of ‘smack the pins’.
Once you’re finished on the lanes why not have a go at the mini golf and arcades also inside the centre to finish out the trifecta of classic ‘old skool’ fun?
Cosy Up In A Pub
We’re absolutely spoilt for choice of pubs to park ourselves in around the Highlands.
We’ve got pubs showing the footy [or whatever sport is in season] like the Surveyor General Inn.
We’ve got pubs serving up weekly food specials like the Royal.
And you best believe we’ve got pubs with cosy fireplaces to snuggle up in front of like Sutton Forest Inn.
Check out our directory for a full list of pubs and clubs in the Highlands.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Beat those rainy-day blues with some retail therapy at the fantastic shops and boutiques around the Highlands.
Find a hidden treasure at a local antique store or op-shop, or spruce up your home with some fab new decor at one of the many homeware shops around town.
Snag some fresh new fits [maybe even a new raincoat] at one of our local clothing boutiques, and feed your inner magpie at a nearby jewellery store.
Don’t forget to swing by a bookstore for some cosy reads, grab some snacks from a deli or bakery, and pick up a drinky or two from a local bottle shop to keep you entertained if that pesky rain sticks around.
High Tea
What could be better than sitting down with a warm cup of tea while listening to the rain trickle down outside? Adding mini finger sandwiches and scones, of course!
High Teas are synonymous with the Southern Highlands so you’re guaranteed to find one around town that tickles your taste buds.
From the iconic High Tea at Peppers Manor House Sutton Forest to the cosy English manor vibes from The Robertson Hotel, you could make it your mission to try them all. Oh, and if you can’t be bothered getting out of your dressing gown and leaving the house Gumnut
Patisserie even does a ‘take home High Tea’, nice!
Check out our guide on where to get your high tea fix in the Southern Highlands here.
Get Artsy
Like we said before, we’re a creative bunch here in the Highlands, so why not make the most of this dreary weather by joining one of the many awesome arts, crafts, and special interest classes around town?
Whether it’s painting, pottery, knitting, or any other crafty pursuit, there’s something for every type of Highlander to enjoy.
How great do the ‘Cake & Create’ workshops at Darling Mills Studio in Bowral sound? Corinne Dany Studios in Mittagong offers a variety of interesting art workshops for adults, from acrylics and life drawing to regular Friday night sketch clubs. We’re also big fans of all the awesome workshops held at Ashton Park.
Check out our guide to even more creative endeavours in the Highlands and our latest artistic event listings here.
City Cave Bowral
Let the splishy-splashy world outside drift away as you indulge in heavenly relaxation at City Cave in Bowral. Float therapy here is all about chilling out in water warmed to your body temperature and packed with Epsom salt. This setup helps you relax deeply, letting your brain take a break and recharge.
Afterwards, unwind further with a sauna session to relax your deep tissues and detoxify. And top it off with a massage… need we say more?
Cook Up A Storm
Check out the awesome cooking schools and classes in the Highlands! They’re ideal for
keeping you entertained, learning new skills, and tasting all the deliciousness for a few fun hours.
We love The Community Cooking School in Bowral for their affordable and friendly community cooking classes. Cucina Calabria is a spot for all things Southern Italian and Moonacres School often brings in head chefs from all over the country to share their knowledge.
For even more top-notch cooking schools in the Highlands head here.
Well, hopefully, that makes a start at keeping you dry and high on a rainy day in the Highlands.
And for plenty of other fun activities happening around town don’t forget to hit up our event directory here.
