Fort Lauderdale, FL · Guide

Rainy-day activities for kids in Fort Lauderdale

1. 01

   The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale

   4.3 (9,516)2414 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USA

   This mall provides a reliable indoor walking circuit for families needing to get out of the house. While largely retail-focused, the clean corridors and various food options offer a simple midday retreat. Parents will appreciate the ample parking and climate control on particularly muggy days.

2. 02

   Broward Mall

   4.3 (12,118)8000 W Broward Blvd, Plantation, FL 33388, USA

   The layout here is straightforward and features a few small indoor play elements that appeal to younger children. It is less crowded than some newer shopping centers, which often means shorter waits for food court seating. It serves as a practical backup for a few hours of dry walking.

3. 03

   Dania Pointe

   4.7 (2,132)139 S Compass Wy, Dania Beach, FL 33004, USA

   Though much of the lifestyle center is open-air, the specific indoor venues like the cinema and bowling alley are top-tier for escaping storms. The area is well-maintained with helpful signage, though parents should bring umbrellas for the brief walk between the parking garage and the main indoor entrances.

4. 04

   Museum of Discovery and Science

   4.5 (7,583)401 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, USA

   This museum is a staple for rainy days with its vast two-story layout and massive IMAX theater. Parents will notice the hands-on science exhibits provide hours of distraction, though the noise level can rise quickly during school group visits. It is best suited for toddlers through middle schoolers.

5. 05

   Yellow Green Farmers Market

   4.4 (9,747)3080 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33021, USA

   While markets are often outdoor affairs, this massive Hollywood venue is fully covered, providing a dry space to walk and snack. The aisles are wide enough for strollers, though the sheer volume of vendors can be overwhelming for some toddlers. It is worth a look for a casual family lunch.

6. 06

   Regal Dania Pointe

   4.2 (2,840)128 Sunset Dr, Dania Beach, FL 33004, USA

   This modern theater offers a high-end viewing experience with plush seating that works well for families. It is located within a larger complex, making it easy to transition from the car to the lobby without much rain exposure. The facility is consistently maintained and generally quiet during matinees.

7. 07

   Lauderhill Mall

   4.0 (5,718)1267 NW 40th Ave, Lauderhill, FL 33313, USA

   This shopping center offers a more local feel and is entirely enclosed, providing total protection from the rain. It is worth a look for families seeking a no-frills environment to walk around and grab a quick bite. The parking is typically easy to navigate near the main entrances.

8. 08

   Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

   4.5 (3,866)801 S University Dr, Plantation, FL 33324, USA

   This indoor park is designed for burning off steam when kids are cooped up. Parents can expect long lines on weekend afternoons, but the variety of climbing walls and trampolines keeps older children busy. Staff members generally stay stationed at high-traffic zones to monitor safety.

9. 09

   Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

   4.6 (2,402)900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USA

   While the gardens are subject to weather, the historic main house tour provide a covered, educational look at local history. This is better suited for older children who can appreciate a guided walkthrough. Ensure you check for specific indoor tour times before heading out in a downpour.

10. 10

    Coral Ridge Mall

    4.3 (6,152)Coral Ridge mall, 3200 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306, USA

    This is a smaller, more manageable mall that is less intimidating for parents with multiple young children. It houses a cinema and several budget-friendly retailers, making it a low-stress destination for a quick indoor outing. The atmosphere is generally calm compared to larger regional malls.

11. 11

    AMC DINE-IN Coral Ridge 10

    4.0 (3,843)3401 NE 26th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306, USA

    The dine-in setup here is convenient for parents who want to combine a movie with a meal to save time. The seats are comfortable and provide plenty of room, which is helpful for kids who struggle to sit still in standard theater chairs. Wait times for food service vary based on crowd size.

12. 12

    Alvin Sherman Library, Research, and Information Technology Center

    4.7 (241)3100 Ray Ferrero Jr. Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, Davie, FL 33314, USA

    Located on the NSU campus, this immense library features a dedicated children's department with plenty of soft seating for reading. The quiet atmosphere and regular indoor storytime events make it a calm alternative to high-energy play zones. It is exceptionally clean and well-lit for families.