Don't let a little rain spoil your beach trip. Explore 5 fun things to do indoors in Fort Walton Beach, from museums and marine parks to laser tag and more.
While we all hope for perfect weather on vacation, Mother Nature can sometimes throw a curveball. From the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee to Montana and Florida's Emerald Coast, rainy days do happen, and it's always smart to have a plan B to keep the fun going.
Heading to Fort Walton Beach soon? While the beach is the main draw, there's plenty to enjoy indoors when the weather isn't ideal. From fun attractions to relaxing escapes, you'll still make the most of every second of your visit.
Just a sneak peek to get you started:
- Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park: Explore marine life with dolphins, stingrays, and turtles in covered or indoor exhibits.
- Emerald Coast Science Center: Hands-on science exhibits, robotics, and live animals for curious minds of all ages.
- Wild Willy's Adventure Zone: Indoor arcade, laser tag, and 4D movie experiences perfect for rainy day fun.
- Indian Temple Mound Museum: Discover Native American history and artifacts in this engaging museum.
- Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum: Step back in time with a tour of Fort Walton's original two-room schoolhouse.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I'll share five great things to do in Fort Walton Beach on a rainy day. Get ready for tons of indoor fun.
Let's jump into the details!
1. GULFARIUM MARINE ADVENTURE PARK
Indoor exhibits and outdoor viewing areas (most with cover)
Rain or shine, this Fort Walton Beach favorite is packed with animal encounters and interactive fun. With indoor exhibits and outdoor viewing areas (most with cover), you can explore without worrying about the weather. From dolphins and stingrays to gators and tropical birds, this spot brings the whole animal kingdom right to the coast.
HIGHLIGHTS
- See dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, and other marine life up close.
- Covered outdoor areas let you explore without getting soaked.
- Indoor exhibits make it a great stop on a rainy day.
- Spot turtles, birds, and even alligators.
- A mix of sea creatures and land animals in one fun location.
2. EMERALD COAST SCIENCE CENTER
Robots, games, and adorable animals.
The Emerald Coast Science Center is packed with interactive exhibits that spark curiosity. It's even better if you are traveling with kids in tow. The center will keep them happily busy and entertained. You can have fun with robots, games, and adorable animals; it's an indoor space that makes science feel like play.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Over 45 hands-on exhibits across 8,000 square feet.
- Explore classic science kits and futuristic tech.
- Get face-to-face with cute and curious animals.
- Perfect for curious kids and grown-ups alike.
- A fun, educational break from the beach.
3. WILD WILLY'S ADVENTURE ZONE
Indoor fun with high-energy games, immersive experiences, and a few unexpected thrills.
Rainy day? No problem. Wild Willy's Adventure Zone packs in loads of indoor fun with high-energy games, immersive experiences, and a few unexpected thrills. It's a great spot to let loose, burn off energy, and keep the good times rolling, no sunshine required.
HIGHLIGHTS
- 16,000-square-foot arcade with 65+ games, from Pac-Man to cutting-edge simulators.
- Urban Assault Laser Tag with interactive mines, police cars, sirens, and wild surprises.
- 4D Movie Experience with motion seats and special effects for full immersion.
- Great for kids, teens, and fun-loving adults alike.
- Just a short drive from Fort Walton Beach vacation rentals.
4. INDIAN TEMPLE MOUND MUSEUM
Deep dive into Native American culture and early life on the Gulf Coast.
Step into thousands of years of local history at one of Fort Walton Beach's most fascinating spots. The Indian Temple Mound Museum offers a deep dive into Native American culture and early life on the Gulf Coast. It's a small but powerful stop packed with stories, artifacts, and surprises.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Discover 12,000 years of Native American history in one visit.
- See over 1,000 artifacts made from stone, bone, clay, and shell.
- Check out one of the best collections of prehistoric ceramics in the Southeast.
- Learn about early explorers, local pirates, and settlers.
- A unique indoor activity perfect for rainy days or curious minds.
5. CAMP WALTON SCHOOLHOUSE MUSEUM
A glimpse into education in the early 1900s.
Curious about what school life looked like over a century ago? The Camp Walton Schoolhouse Museum gives you a glimpse into education in the early 1900s. Originally built in 1912, this two-room schoolhouse once taught all grades with just two teachers. It's a quick, easy stop and pairs perfectly with a visit to the nearby Indian Temple Mound Museum.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore the first-ever schoolhouse built for Camp Walton's children.
- See how 15 students shared one room and one teacher in 1912.
- Check out the second room added in 1927 for high school grades.
- Located just a one-minute walk from the Indian Temple Mound Museum.
- Great spot for history buffs and curious minds alike.
Bonus: Extra Tips for Enjoying Rainy Days in Fort Walton Beach
- Treat yourself to local seafood indoors: Rainy weather is a great excuse to linger over a warm bowl of gumbo or fresh Gulf shrimp. Check out waterfront restaurants with covered patios or cozy dining rooms.
- Shop local at The Boardwalk and Santa Rosa Mall: Stroll, shop, and stay dry at local boutiques and larger indoor shopping centers. Great for finding souvenirs, gifts, or just browsing.
- Book a spa treatment or massage: Turn a gray day into total relaxation. Many local spas and resorts offer massages, facials, and other services perfect for a mid-vacation reset.
- Check for indoor events or live music: Venues and restaurants often host trivia nights, karaoke, or acoustic sets indoors. Ask a local or check social media for what's happening that evening.
- Bring games or books to your rental: If the rain keeps you in, make it a cozy evening. Bring board games, download a new movie, or dive into a beach read while listening to the storm roll through.
- Keep a flexible attitude: The beach will be there tomorrow. A little spontaneity and a backup plan can turn a rainy afternoon into one of the most memorable parts of your trip.
Wondering Where to Stay on the Emerald Coast
Stay like a local by booking one of our RealJoy Vacations rentals.
From spacious beachfront homes to chic coastal condos, our vacation rentals across the Emerald Coast offer the perfect setting for your beach getaway. With top-tier amenities and thoughtful touches, every stay is designed to help you relax, recharge, and make lasting memories.
Book now and have the ultimate vacation on the Emerald Coast!