Making Memories with
Rainy Day Activities

While we all dream of the picture perfect vacation with perfect weather, having some rainy day activities in mind is a good idea. With a little planning and creativity a day of inclement weather can be turned into a day of great family memories.

Rainy days can range from sunny and sprinkling to dreary, stormy and pouring. On a sunny and lightly rainy day it can be fun to do some traditional outdoor activities. The key is to be prepared with both towels and a positive mindset.

We have found it can be a fun time to go mini golfing. It's cooler and much less crowded on rainy days. If we talk about how much fun it will be and have the kids round up towels to keep in the car it turns into a fun adventure with good memories.

A mild rainy day can be a good day to spend at Pier Park. You probably won't want to stroll around and enjoy the sights, but a little walk between stores and activities is not bad, especially with an umbrella. In addition to shopping and restaurants, you can try out the Mirror Maze and Laser Craze or take in a movie at the Grand Theatre.

A stormier day calls for something indoors.

For longer stretches of time, you may enjoy going over the bridge to the Panama City Mall. Unlike Pier Park, this is a traditional indoor mall.

If you prefer an activity to shopping, try Rock'it Lanes located in the Shoppes at Edgewater. They offer bowling, roller skating, pool, an arcade and of course food.

For shorter periods of time there are several rainy day activities you may enjoy.

If you want to do something upbeat and a little crazy try a sunshine shopping trip. Check out Sunglass Hut and Beach Scene at Pier Park for sunglasses and swimsuits. Then perhaps add a stop at Wal-Mart for sunscreen, flip-flops, beach towels and a boogie board or beach toys.

For the girls, enjoy a Spa Day. Whether you go all out and use a local salon or do it yourselves on a budget, a manicure, pedicure and hairstyle will make for a great day of pampering. In the mean time, the boys (and in my family's case, some of the girls too) may enjoy going to the work out room at your hotel or resort. If you don't have a work out room, try Gold's Gym. They offer short term memberships for vacationers.

A family game night is a great way to spend quality time together. Some condo owners have a few games available in the unit. If you don't have a game available, make a quick stop at Wal-Mart part of the experience. Pick out a new game or two and perhaps a few favorite snacks to make your evening complete!

Making a vacation memory book can be a great rainy day activity. It does take a little advance planning and it won't work at the beginning of your trip. You'll want to bring or buy a scrapbook and a few supplies. You can also go to a local drug store and print up some of the pictures you've taken.

How Does Your Family Like to Spend a Rainy Vacation Day?

Chances are you won't have perfect weather every single day of your vacation. Does your family have great or creative ways to spend a rainy day while on vacation? Share them!

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