Fun kids activities for a rainy day
Come rain, hail or shine, sometimes being outside just doesn’t cut it for family fun. Here's some inspiration to keep the little (and big) tackers entertained in Parramatta on your next rainy day.
Come rain, hail or shine, sometimes being outside just doesn’t cut it for family fun. So when the weather turns, it’s good to have a few indoor options up your sleeve.
From high-energy play zones to quieter spaces where imaginations can run wild, Parramatta has plenty to keep the little (and big) ones entertained. Here’s where to go next time the rain rolls in.
Step back in time
For a different kind of rainy-day adventure, explore Parramatta’s early history at Old Government House and nearby Elizabeth Farm.
At Old Government House, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, families can wander through grand rooms and discover stories of governors, soldiers and the convicts who lived and worked here. Kids can explore the kitchen and bedrooms or follow simple activity trails as they go.
Just a short drive away, Elizabeth Farm offers a more hands-on experience. With no barriers or “look but don’t touch” rules, kids can move freely through the house, play traditional garden games or try activities from the past.
Slow things down at PHIVE
After all that action, sometimes a quieter space is just what’s needed. PHIVE offers a calm, welcoming place to recharge, without losing the fun. There’s heaps to discover with regular activities like sensory play, kinder gym and family-friendly sessions that give kids space to move, create and learn. Explore what's on at PHIVE.
Within the Parramatta Library, kids can settle into cosy reading nooks, flip through books, or explore open library spaces designed for curious minds. It’s an easy way to pause the day while keeping little imaginations engaged.
Plus keep an eye out for Riverside Live at PHIVE, with performances and events popping up throughout the year. Find out what's on at Riverside Live at PHIVE.
Feed your Face
Of the eateries along Church Street many are firm family favourites.
Get tasty gelato at Gelato Messina or melted chocolate and churros treats at San Churro Chocolateria. Hungry kids can slurp down pasta at Enzos Cucina, order delicious pizzas at Bondi Pizza or fresh roti at PappaRich.
Explore Child Friendly Restaurants around the Parramatta area.
Shoot and skirmish
Who doesn’t love a bit of friendly competition? At Code Red Laser Tag there are dark rooms and alleys and all the makings of a heart-stopping battle! Bring a group of kids or the whole family and don colour-coded laser battle packs and scatter into the darkness only to return when you’ve been “shot”.
Suit up, split into teams and make your way through the arena, dodging and tagging along the way. Younger kids can get in on the fun too at Lollipops Playland next door, with soft play and climbing zones to keep them busy.
Cook up a storm
For those who’ve run out of food inspiration at home, how about booking the kids some cooking classes or a cooking-inspired birthday party for their pals? At Kids Love to Cook, not only will they come home with plenty of tasty goodies for you to try but they might even go the extra distance and cook dinner!
Visit the Kids Love to Cook website for details.
Escape if you can
For puzzle-solving fun for older kids and family groups (of up to eight people) try your luck at one of two Escape Rooms, Scram and Labyrinth. Both have themed rooms, but The Wizard Room at Scram is very family friendly. Solving brain teasers and puzzles against the clock will unearth clues and (eventually) help you to escape. Even the cynical will find it hard not to get swept up in the intrigue.
Best suited to older kids and families who enjoy a challenge.
Grab your popcorn
For the latest Hollywood movie inspiration book at seat the Event Cinemas and catch up with your heartthrobs, bad guys and girls and latest sensations. Treat yourself to the fancy Gold Class seats and a chock top and you’ll be set. If retro is more your thing, be sure to keep an eye out for The Riverside Theatres screenings of old classics and family favourites.
Visit the Events website for current movies and session times.
Bounce, climb & dodge
Burn off some steam at The Ultimate Family Fun Centre. There’s plenty of room to jump, climb and explore, plus a dodgem arena where bumping into family members is all part of the fun.
It’s loud, lively and perfect for kids who don’t like sitting still.
