Embrace an unexpected bad-weather day by spending time indoors trying something new. 

When spring begins often too do spring showers. But on those rainy days when it feels like there's nothing to do, the Genesee River Valley is home to lots of kid-friendly, indoor options.

The in-between of winter and summer, springtime can be a rather wet season in this part of the country. Although the rain is important for the plants and animals (and even people) who call this area home, it is, admittedly, not exactly “adventure weather.” Rainy days are perfect for snuggling up inside under a big blanket with a good book and a mug of something warm – but a day of quiet isn’t always in the cards. So if you’re looking for something fun to do for kids and adults when the weather turns grey, we’ve got you covered.

Go for a climb at Sunrise Bouldering

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Where: Geneseo 

The only climbing gym in LivCo is a welcome reprieve on a rainy day. Unlike traditional rock climbing, which uses a harness, bouldering has shorter walls and no harness, so it’s all about your own strength. The gym has walls for all levels and heights of climbers, so whether you’re a boulder pro or a total newbie, there’s fun in store here. And best of all, nurses, police officers, firefighters, and postal service workers receive 10% off all day passes and gear rentals.

Click here to explore Sunrise Bouldering

 

Kid Bouldering at Sunrise

Hit the arcade at Minnehan’s Fun Center

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Where: Lakeville 

Minnehan’s a staple of family fun in LivCo, rain or shine. The fun center is packed with activities that’ll keep the kids busy for hours. While the GO-KART track and batting cages aren’t much fun in the rain, the gaming arcade, discovery zone, and soft play area are! When everyone gets hungry, you can enjoy Minnehan’s classics of grill-charred Zwiegles, burgers, and delicious soft custard. It’s the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon.

Click here to explore Minnehan's

 

Kids at Arcade in Minnehans

Get your hands dirty at Studio Sales Pottery

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Where: Avon 

This historic one-room schoolhouse turned art gallery is a warm retreat from the cold gales of November. You can browse the stunning handmade creations, chat with the artists who created them or even take a pottery class to get your hands dirty and learn the basics. 

Click here to explore Studio Sales Pottery

Spend the day shopping at 2nd Time Around

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Where: Leicester 

On a rainy day, shopping is the perfect way to spend the day. Located in downtown Leicester, you never know what you'll find while shopping at 2nd Time Around Consignment. With one of the largest selections of comic books, action figures, legos, and games in the region, you'll be busy for hours exploring this store.

Click here to explore 2nd Time Around

 

Boy Shopping for Toys

Stroll through history at the National Warplane Museum

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Where: Geneseo 

The National Warplane Museum is best known for their annual airshow, but its permanent location is well worth a trip, especially on a rainy day. Wander through the halls of American history, exploring planes used in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Whether you’re a history buff, a plane enthusiast, or just looking for something different, this museum is sure to captivate. 

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Plane at Sunset

Let imagination run wild at Adventures & Art

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Where: Caledonia

Adventures & Art is the center for creativity for kids of all ages. A&A hosts year-round workshops and creative events to help kids uncover their sense of wonder and find a love for art. The studio runs programs that include pottery, drama, mixed media, dance, Spanish, and even STEM programs. 

Click here to explore Adventures & Art

Go back in time at Lamplighter Ministries

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Where: Mt Morris

A publishing company specializing in stories from the 1800s to 1900s, at Lamplighter Ministries in Mount Morris, you'll get to visit a historic New England village, explore a Classic Gothic church, see how their books are hand-crafted in the bindery, discover the secret recording studio, and relax in the Guild House Café during your trip.

Click here to explore Lamplighter Ministries

Connect with nature inside the Humphrey Nature Center

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Where: Letchworth State Park

When it's too chilly or rainy to explore the outdoor wonders of Letchworth State Park, head into the Humphrey Nature Center to explore year-round educational programs for people of all ages and abilities instead. Home to interactive exhibits that highlight the botany, wildlife, geology, and river ecology of the park, there's always something new to discover.

Click here to explore the Humphrey Nature Center

 

Display at Humphrey Nature Center