The 25 best things to do on a rainy day in Sydney

When you're feeling parched, there are a few good reasons to head down rather than up. Underground it's always party o'clock, because even if it's 2pm, it feels like after dark. Drinking below street level is also deliciously climate controlled so in a torrential downpour, your can't go wrong with posting up in one of Sydney's best booze cellars.

It may be too wet to go for a jog at the park, but there are ways to work up a sweat indoors and make your body happy. Why not try something new and head over to a purpose-built climbing gym? They'e popping up all over Sydney – so grab a buddy and get climbing.

When you're already wet, does it even matter? These ocean pools can be beautiful in rain, and the best part is that you'll have them all to yourself when you dive in for an exhilarating dip. Fair warning though – stay well clear when the winds pick up, or if the weather turns stormy. 

Our fine city has some of the best museums and rainy days are the perfect excuse to pay them a visit and head out on a journey of discovery. You’ll uncover stories about the people who’ve made this city what it is today, its natural history and the science, design and innovation that’ll propel us into the future. 

Even as the world becomes filled with screens and accessing movies becomes as easy as looking at your phone, Sydney's top cinemas are thriving, because Sydneysiders love the communal experience of watching a film. So what are the best cinemas in Sydney? We've ranked them according to the quality of film selection, the architecture and the overall pleasure of the experience.

Netflix and chill is a go-to for wet weather, but you can get an even better entertainment fix if you brave the commute. Book in for a night of culture with one of the best live performances in the city right now.

If the rain's got you down, nothing lifts the spirit like a good feed. And if you're looking for a feast that won't break your finances, there are plenty of cheap eats that taste a million bucks for just a handful of dollars. We've picked out some of our favourite budget banquets, where you can dine on a dime in style.

Cold and wet? Curl up in front of the flames – preferably wood, but we'll take gas if that's what's on offer – with a pint of beer and lose whole evenings in the comfort of your local, staying warm and dry all winter long. 

Like heat? Like chocolate? Lucky you – we scoured the streets of Sydney to find the best hot chocolates in town.

Sydney is busting at the seams with great art galleries – from major institutions like the Art Gallery of NSW and the Museum of Contemporary Art, to incredible privately-owned but publically accessible (and free!) galleries like White Rabbit. Check out our wrap of the best exhibitions to peruse right now.

There are few greater pleasures in life than visiting a quality bookshop. No matter the weather, they're a port in a storm where anyone and everyone is welcome. Not all bookshops are created equal though, so we’ve put together our pick of Sydney’s best, from the dusty to the designer. 

Whether you want hardcore results, or just a bit of chill time, Sydney's best spas have you covered. So book it, bring a magazine and prepare to bliss out.

Turn this classic Sydney weekend ritual into a new rainy day tradition by hitting up the city’s top yum cha spots. Bring on a torrent of fluffy pork buns, sea-sweet prawn har gow, chewy siu mai, slippery cheong fun, mango pancakes and custard tarts.

Baby, it’s cold outside, so why not rug up and visit one of our city’s coolest ice skating rinks? Bring the whole gang along to practice their ice-skating twirls, double axels and graceful tumbles. 

We could all use a good laugh on a cold and gloomy day. Whether it’s stand-up, sketch or a showcase, these are the hottest and funniest comedy rooms to tickle your funny bones.

You’ll completely forget about the gloomy weather when you’re staring up at the third largest cinema screen in the world at IMAX Sydney. The super-sized movie theatre screens a fun mix of classics and new releases, so there's bound to be something to suit your mood.

Dancing in the rain is fun in theory, but you could also stay dry and have just as much fun by taking a class at Sydney Dance Company. Strut it out in jazz or get down in Latin funk, with more than 75 in-studio classes to choose from each week. While Wash Bay undergoes snazzy renovations, you can temporarily catch Sydney Dance Company in Ultimo.

Sydney loves a pinky-lifting high tea, and with good reason. Turn any rainy day into an aspirational afternoon of ever-so-fancy leisure by booking one of Sydney’s most luxe high teas. What would you reach for first – a crustless cucumber sandwich or a scone with jam and cream?

Burn off some energy (or perhaps some steam) at Australia’s largest axe-throwing warehouse, Maniax. Give it a whirl with a one-hour 'quick chuck' or battle your mates in a longer tournament-style competition.

It may be cold outside, but you can cosy up in the kitchen at one of Sydney’s leading cooking schools. Whether you want to knead the day away at I Maccheroni or get elbow-deep in fresh seafood at the Sydney Seafood Cooking School, there's sure to be a class that'll teach you a new skill.