23 Indoor Activities To Do In Cape Town

Residents of Cape Town like to say that the Mother City experiences four seasons in a day. And they’re not joking!

While the idea of heading to the top of Table Mountain or catching some sun on the beach seems amazing, sometimes the weather just doesn’t allow for it. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy Cape Town on a rainy day.

I’ve put together a list of 23 indoor activities you can do in Cape Town! Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just want to have some good old-fashioned fun, this list has something for everybody.

1. Visit the Iziko Museums

• Address: 25 Queen Victoria St, Gardens, Cape Town (also locations in Cape Town City Centre, Bo-Kaap, Constantia and Gardens)
• Prices: From R60

For those wanting a cultural experience on a miserable day in Cape Town, there’s no better place to be than the Iziko Museums!

This collection of 11 museums in Cape Town showcases and celebrates African heritage. With each museum showcasing a different aspect of African culture, you’ll be busy all day!

The 11 museums are:

1. Maritime Centre
2. Bertram House
3. Groot Constantia Manor House
4. Koopmans-de Wet House
5. Bo-Kaap Museum
6. Michaelis Collection at the Old Town House
7. Rust en Vreugd
8. South African National Gallery (and Annexe)
9. William Fehr Collection at the Castle of Good Hope
10. Slave Lodge and Social History Centre
11. South African Museum

Iziko also has a planetarium and digital dome, where you can lean back, relax, and get lost journeying through our solar system, learning about our planets, and discovering what else might be out there…

The digital dome also offers experiences that take an in-depth look at the human body, while walking through the complexities of atoms and particles.

Tip: Be sure to bring a jersey along to the planetarium – it gets chilly!

Alternative: Robben Island

• Prices: From R400

If you prefer to learn more about the political history of South Africa, book a tour of Robben Island. Nelson Mandela’s former prison offers guided tours where you’ll be thrown back in time to an era that was much darker, but kindled so much hope. Visiting it is one of the best ways to understand the history of South African oppression and the long walk to freedom.

2. Go to the V&A Waterfront

• Address: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
• Prices: Free entry

What’s better than rainy-day shopping? Rainy day shopping at the V&A Waterfront!

Boasting over 450 retail stores, there’s definitely no shortage of places to go and things to buy.

If you prefer locally-made products, head over to the Watershed, which has goods from over 365 local brands to buy from.

Alternative: Two Oceans Aquarium

• Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
• Prices: From R235

The V&A Waterfront is also home to the Two Oceans Aquarium, one of the best things to experience in Cape Town!

Spend the afternoon looking at sharks, observing sea life under a microscope, or watching the rockhopper penguins as they march to their enclosure for lunchtime.

3. Experience The Baxter Theatre

• Address: Main Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town
• Prices: From R80

Locally known as “The Baxter”, the Baxter Theatre is an entertainment hub nestled under Devil’s Peak Mountain, right in front of the University of Cape Town (UCT).

The Baxter was known for presenting multiracial work during the apartheid era, making it a beacon for oppressed South Africans during the early 20th century.

In fact, it was where the first-ever interracial kiss on a South African stage took place!

With a rotating list of shows and plays, you won’t struggle to find something entertaining, which makes it a perfect way to spend a rainy day in the Cape!

Alternative: Artscape Theatre

• Address: D.F. Malan St, Foreshore, Cape Town
• Prices: From R120

The Baxter can get busy, so it’s best to book beforehand. Otherwise, check out the Artscape Theatre.

Much like The Baxter, you can find some amazing performances here, including stand-up comedians, musicals, and live concerts

4. Try Devil’s Peak Craft Beers – Taproom Salt River

• Address: 150 Cecil Rd, Salt River, Cape Town
• Prices: From R60

Found inside the Devil’s Peak brewery, the Taproom Salt River is a great place for large groups.

They’ve got a simple but delicious menu of burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, and corndogs. But the Devil’s Peak beer tastings are the star of the show.

Here, you can try the entire range of ice-cold Devil’s Peak craft beers, as well as food and beer pairings!

Alternative: Woodstock Brewery

• Address: 252 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
• Prices: From R10

If your craving for beer hasn’t already been satisfied, visit the Woodstock Brewery and sample their nine unique, locally-made craft beers.

Woodstock Brewery also does small-batch experimental launches every second Thursday!

5. Get Crafty – Clay Café

• Address: 1199 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town (also branches in Hout Bay and Paarl)
• Prices: From R165

If you’re looking to get creative on your rainy day in Cape Town, look no further than Clay Café!

The journey of letting out your inner child starts by choosing an unfired pottery piece. Once you’ve made your pick, you’ll spend the next few hours creating your masterpiece with paints and painting tools.

And once you’re done, your new piece of pottery is taken to be fired and glazed. You’ll then get a call to come pick it up once it’s ready to adorn your home!

Alternative: The Deckle Edge

• Address: Shop G06, 13 Brickfield Rd, Salt River, Cape Town
• Prices: From R600

If painting ceramics isn’t your jam, visit The Deckle Edge in Salt River. They host regular workshops on all things creative, from painting to origami classes! I suggest keeping an eye on their Events page to make sure you don’t miss out.

6. Pamper Yourself – Mai Thai Wellness Spa

• Address: 7 Breda Street Oranjezicht, Breda St, Gardens, Cape Town
• Prices: From R450

As soon as I walked into the Mai Thai Wellness Spa, I understood why Tripadvisor voted it the #1 Spa in Cape Town AND South Africa.

This Thai spa is complete with bamboo shoots, hanging lanterns, and indulgent spa experiences.

Take your pick from their 13 massage options, or choose a spa package, and get taken on a journey through Asian heritage, including products and treatments passed down through generations.

After your pampering, enjoy botanical-infused water or organic tea from the Tichaa Tea Room in Thailand!

Alternative: Life Day Spa

• Address: The Pavilion, Ground Floor Cnr Portswood and Dock Rd, Waterfront, Cape Town (also a branch in Century City)
• Prices: From R490

If you prefer a more modern spa treatment, visit the Life Day Spa at the Waterfront, where you can pick from (literally) hundreds of cutting-edge treatments.

7. Wine Tasting – Steenberg Farm

• Address: Steenberg Rd, Tokai, Cape Town
• Prices: From R120

No list of things to do in the Cape in anyweather would be complete without mentioning wine tasting. And if you’re going to do it on rainy days, there’s only one place to go: Steenberg Farm.

Why? First, it’s the oldest farm in Cape Town – established in 1682. Second, going to Steenberg isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about the experience.

After all, not many places have a modern winery, a restaurant and a bold tasting bar all wrapped up in a stunning blend of contemporary design and traditional architecture that’s even morebeautiful in the rain.

And, with their list of award-winning wines and a roaring fireplace, it’s right at the top of my list of things to do!

Booking is a must here – Steenberg doesn’t accept walk-ins.

Alternative: Klein Roosboom

• Address: Tygerberg Valley Rd, Durbanville, Cape Town
• Prices: From R95

If you’re up for another wine-tasting experience, I highly recommend visiting Klein Roosboom. This boutique winery calls itself “Cape Town’s best-kept secret”, and offers wine tastings – in caves!

8. Visit the Bay Harbour Market

• Address: 31 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town
• Prices: Free entry

Known locally as the Hout Bay Market, the Bay Harbour Market is a small weekend market offering traditional foods, live music from local musicians, and a sea of interesting stalls.

Spend the day sampling chilli peppers, looking at antique rings, or just grabbing traditional Vietnamese spring rolls and enjoying the hum of people moving around as a local musician makes their debut.

There’s no better place to experience the diversity and creativity of South Africans – trust me!

Alternative: Oranjezicht City Farm Market

• Address: Haul Road, Granger Bay Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
• Prices: Free entry

The Bay Harbour Market is one of the best places to support local merchants. But, if you’re looking for foods from places like Korea and Ethiopia, I recommend visiting the Oranjezicht City Farm Market.

9. Have Tea – Mount Nelson

• Address: 76 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town
• Prices: From R550

Also called the “Pink Lady”, Mount Nelson is situated between the slopes of Table Mountain and the hustle and bustle of Cape Town. Inside, it definitely doesn’t feel like it’s been around since 1899, but there are still nods to the original design in the windows and balconies of the hotel rooms.

The other throwback you can experience (and the next item on my list of things to do in the Cape) is high tea. From Wednesday to Sunday, you can indulge in cakes and pastries baked by a world-class chef with a cup of freshly made (and perfectly brewed) tea.

To wrap it all up, the sound of a live pianist is your backing track as you live out your best Victorian-era life.

Alternative: Truth Coffee Roasting

• Address: 36 Buitenkant St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Prices: From R450

If you prefer something bolder, visit Truth Coffee Roasting in Buitenkant Street. This award-winning coffee shop is decked out with a steampunk style, complete with pipes, gears, and costumed waiters.

Add to the ambience that you’ll be enjoying some of the world’s best coffee during their “coffee appreciation course” and you’ve got a recipe for a great day in the Cape.

10. Visit the Galleries in Woodstock

• Address: Woodstock, Cape Town
• Prices: Free entry

If you’re a fan of art and you’re looking for things to do in the rain, I recommend a visit to Woodstock.

Home to the biggest art scene in the Cape, you’ll get a chance to experience creative expression as soon as you see the first murals on the sides of buildings.

Spend your time driving around and taking it in or visit some of the Woodstock galleries (I suggest you do a bit of both, if you can!).

If you enjoy contemporary art, you should visit WhatIfTheWorld. This quirky gallery is a recognised entity in South Africa and abroad. Showcasing some of the most significant artists around the world, there’s no better place to appreciate some unique artworks.

Streetwires is another stand-out gallery. It doubles as a live studio and showcases contemporary African beadwork and wirework.

You could also visit the Hamilton Gallery, where local artists and artisans showcase contemporary fine art and bespoke creations.

Alternative: Zeitz MOCAA

• Address: Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Silo District, S Arm Rd, Waterfront, Cape Town
• Prices: From R250

If you want to experience some of Africa’s up-and-coming art, visit the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (MOCAA) in the V&A Waterfront’s Silo District. The Zeitz MOCAA is a non-profit entity that features rotating exhibitions and a space for dedicated pieces. It also serves as a space for a host of upcoming artists to show their work to the world.

11. Catch a Movie – The Labia Theatre

• Address: 68 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town
• Prices: From R70

Everybody in Cape Town knows about The Labia. Not only is it the oldest independent cinema in South Africa but it also shows one of the largest varieties of films around.

From foreign films to classics, this indie cinema combines cutting-edge tech with an old-time charm. You can feel it as soon as you go buy your ticket at the old-timey ticket booth. It’s the same charm that’s drawn people like John Cleese, Matt Damon, and Salma Hayek to sit down with some popcorn and watch a film.

Despite all of its technological updates, the Labia still manages to make you feel like you’re sitting down to its opening debut in 1949!

Alternative: Cinema Nouveau

• Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
• Prices: From R104

If you prefer to catch the most recent cinema releases in Cape Town, visit Cinema Nouveau (a division of Ster-Kinekor) in the V&A Waterfront to watch the best of art-house, foreign language and independent films!

12. Go for a Whiskey Tasting – Bascule

• Address: W Quay Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
• Prices: Per menu item

On the edge of the V&A Waterfront marina, a lively bar comes to life in the evenings. Mixing with the hum of Cape Town’s nightlight, Bascule Bar offers a unique library of whiskies for tasting. With the option for self-guided or guided tastings, over 500 whiskies, and a menu of cigars to pair them with, this bar is a must if you’re a fan of malts.

Alternative: Hank’s Olde Irish

• Address: 110 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Prices: Per menu item

If you’re a fan of whisky cocktails, put Hank’s Olde Irish on your list of things to do in the Cape. This hole in the wall has a collection of Scotch, Irish, and Japanese whiskies, and also offers a huge menu of whisky-based cocktails.

13. Cook up a Storm – Chef’s Studio

• Address: 1103 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Prices: From R695

If you want to level your culinary wizardry, visit the Chef’s Studio in Cape Town. With a range of monthly classes, like making Moroccan cuisine, this concept space is perfect for people who get excited to create beautiful dishes.

From cutting to cooking, and finally plating, chef Matt Manning guides you through the journey of making the best meal you’ve probably made in your life!

Alternative: Lekka Kombuis

• Address: 81 Wale St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town
• Prices start at: R400

For those who want to make a heartier, less-polished meal visit the Lekka Kombuis in Bo-Kaap. Here, you’ll be taught how to make traditional Cape Malay meals. It’s simple and delicious – no fuss, no frills and just really good food.

14. Play Hi-Tech Putt Putt – Glowing Rooms

• Address: 1 Turf Club Dr, Milnerton, Cape Town
• Prices: From R130

Next up on our list of things to do in the Cape is visiting the Glowing Rooms to go putt-putt golfing. This one-of-a-kind putt-putt golf course comes with 18 holes and offers a specially-themed room.

All you have to do is don the 3D glasses and get transported to an entirely different universe that tells a story on every hole!

Alternative: Scratch Patch

• Address: 1 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town (also a branch in Simon’s Town)
• Prices: From R35

If golfing isn’t your style, you could visit the Scratch Patch in the V&A Waterfront or Simon’s Town.

Surround yourself with a sea of colourful stones, and scratch through them to find the ones you’re looking for. All you have to pay for is a bag, and you get to take home whatever you can fit inside it!

15. Visit the Rollercade

• Address: Alfred St, Waterfront, Cape Town
• Prices: From R150

One of Cape Town’s newer activities is the Rollercade. This empty parking lot by the V&A Waterfront is the perfect place to rollerskate. Here, you’ll be able to spend a few hours enjoying yourself with the scenic views of Cape Town in the backdrop.

This is definitely something to add to your list of things to do if you’ve got little ones! And if you’re there at night, you’ll also be able to boogie to live music and the glitz of the disco ball!

Alternative: Ice Station

• Address: Grand West Casino, 1 Jakes Gerwel Drive, Acacia Park, Cape Town
• Prices: From R60

If you want to keep things moving, but don’t enjoy rollerskating, you should visit the Ice Station in Grand West to go ice skating! Rent a pair of skates, or bring your own, and hop onto the rink for some freezing fun!

16. Knock Down Some Skittles – Let’s Go Bowling

• Address: Stadium on Main, Main Rd, Claremont, Cape Town
• Prices: From R85

Ready to rock and bowl? Visit Let’s Go Bowling in Claremont!

Another great activity on my list of things to do is Let’s Go Bowling, which offers (you guessed it) 10-pin bowling!

There’s nothing super special about this one – except that there aren’t many bowling rinks left in Cape Town. But if you’re looking for something to do, you can’t go wrong with bowling.

Alternative: Arcade

• Address: Stadium on Main, Main Rd, Claremont, Cape Town
• Prices: Free entry

If you’re not up for bowling, you could still visit the alley and spend some time enjoying their extensive arcade! Get some tokens, find a game, and rack up the tickets to take home your prize!

17. Try Mythical Drinks – Cape Town Meadery

• Address: Unit 27, The Old Timber Yard 7th Avenue, Maitland, Maitland, Cape Town
• Prices: From R100

Drawing inspiration from African history, Cape Town Meadery offers a unique kind of tasting.

Dating back to over 20,000 years ago, mead has a fascinating backstory – one you’ll learn about when you visit the meadery!

This drink combines the elegance of wine with the creativity of a cocktail and creates a truly unique flavour sensation, all set in what looks like an ordinary brewery. When you’re done, why not grab a few bottles of mead to take home? You won’t find it anywhere else!

Alternative: De Grendel

• Address: Plattekloof Rd, Panorama, Cape Town
• Prices: From R150

There’s no place that screams “Cape Town” like De Grendel.

With a 180-degree view of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Cape Town, and the ocean, this winery definitely offers one the of most scenic tastings I’ve ever experienced!

18. Go Bargain Hunting – Bikini Beach Books

• Address: 41 Beach Rd, Gordons Bay Central, Cape Town
• Prices: Free entry

Books + rainy days in? Yes, please!

And there’s honestly nowhere better to do that than Bikini Beach Books in Gordon’s Bay.

It’s officially a bookstore, but the interior is closer to a hoarder’s home. As you weave your way through books in (mostly organised) piles, you’ll find yourself unable to step away from the towers of weird, niche, and sometimes popular authors. You’ll find true bargains here – like books dating back to the Second World War – for as little as R30.

If you’re lucky, you may spot the resident cats lounging around. They’re very friendly, so don’t be afraid to say hello!

Make sure to draw money beforehand, as they don’t accept cards.

Alternative: Book Lounge

• Address: Cnr Buitenkant &, 71 Roeland St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Prices: Free entry

If you want some glimpses of yesteryear but prefer more modern titles, you should visit the Book Lounge in Cape Town. This quaint yet spacious shop is perfect for browsing and features a coffee shop for you to enjoy a cuppa while enjoying your new read!

19. Find Your Way Out – HintHunt

• Address: Watershed, 17 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
• Prices: From R630

One of the first live escape games to open globally, HintHunt is one of the more unique things to do in the rain. Book 60, 90, or 120 minutes, and hunt for those hints before time runs out!

Each room has a unique theme that shapes the nature of the challenges, and it’s up to you and your teammates to solve the puzzles and escape the room in time!

If you want to train your brain, then the HintHunt’s the place for you!

Alternative: Rage Town

• Address: The Spice Yard, 100 Voortrekker Rd, Salt River, Cape Town
• Prices: From R300

If solving puzzles doesn’t seem appealing, you could always visit Rage Town.

This one’s especially fun if you’ve got a lot of frustration since you’ll spend your time smashing things. It offers stress relief that you won’t get anywhere else, with a huge range of breakables to choose from. Strap on your safety goggles, grab that sledgehammer, and have it!

20. Make Your Own Gin – Distillers & Union

• Address: 156 Victoria Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
• Prices: From R595

Even if you’re not a big fan of gin, you’ll want to add this to your list of things to do. Distillers & Union offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else: gin making.

Not only can you learn about gin and how it’s made – you’ll be able to make your own and take a bottle home with you! In this two-storey distillery, you’ll be immersed in retro and industrial furnishings and walked through everything there is to know about the clear spirit.

Gin tasting is included in the process, and if you’re hungry afterwards, you’ll be able to enjoy some pizza and a craft beer!

Alternative: Woodstock Gin Company

• Address: 399 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
• Prices: From R275

If you’re more about the tasting than the making, visit Woodstock Gin. Their range of original gins are some of the best in Cape Town, and are affordably priced, too! Bookings can be done on their website, but walk-ins are welcome as well.

21. Go Rock Climbing – CityROCK

• Address: 9 Milner St, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town
• Prices: From R180

If you’re feeling restless and want to burn some energy, visit CityROCK for some indoor rock climbing! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, CityROCK’s indoor rock walls are perfect for all skill levels. With experienced staff, you know you’re in safe hands.

Alternative: Total Ninja

• Address: South Park Entrance, Black River Park, The Warehouse, 2 Fir St, Observatory, Cape Town
• Prices: From R160

If rock climbing sounds tame, you should visit Total Ninja in Observatory. Styled in black and red, Total Ninja offers a series of obstacle courses and challenges for the whole family. It’s the perfect place to work off any excess energy. If you’ve ever watched Ninja Warrior, you’ll love Total Ninja.

22. Dinner and a Show – StarDust

• Address: 118 Sir Lowry Rd, Foreshore, Cape Town
• Prices: From R595

To wind down the evening, get dinner at the StarDust. All you have to do is order your meal, sit back and watch your waiter jump onto your table and belt out powerful vocals!

StarDust’s staff is made up of upcoming performers looking for their big break.

While they shake things up with themed nights, it’s their usual evening performances that really showcase what StarDust is all about.

And the food is great, too!

Alternative: The Armchair

• Address: 135 Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town
• Prices: Free entry

If you want more variety, you should spend the evening at The Armchair. With a rotation of karaoke, live music, and stand-up comedy, you’ll be spoiled for choice as far as entertainment goes. Enjoy their daily specials on pizzas and burgers while being entertained all night long!

23. Stay Home and Order in

Nothing on this list piquing your interest? Why not spend the day at home instead of travelling around in the rain?

Sometimes, there’s nothing better to do in Cape Town than to kick up your feet, put on a good movie, and order in! No matter where you are in Cape Town, you won’t struggle to find a good meal. And with Netflix and Showmax, you won’t struggle to find something to entertain you either!

There’s a lot of hustle and bustle in Cape Town – even on rainy days. So, if you prefer the slow life, spend the day at home, and keep this list for another day!

FAQs

When is the rainiest month in Cape Town?

Cape Town’s rainiest month is June. But with Cape Town’s four seasons in a day, I’ve learned that it could start pouring at a moment’s notice!

What can kids do on a rainy day in Cape Town?

Cape Town is full of activities for rainy days – and most of them are great for kids! But, if you want the ultimate rainy day activity for kids, I recommend taking them to the Two Oceans Aquarium – they’ll be occupied for the entire day. If they get bored, you can visit the Scratch Patch nearby, play cave golf, or visit the V&A Waterfront and grab a bite to eat!

Does it rain a lot in Cape Town?

Cape Town’s weather can fluctuate a lot, so it’s not uncommon to get sporadic bouts of rain throughout the year. So yes!