Fun things to do on a rainy day in Atlanta

Although Brooke Benton didn’t specifically reference Atlanta in his 1970 hit, “Rainy Night in Georgia,” his description of traffic noise against the backdrop of a steady downpour brings to mind a damp evening in the city. And what is one to do when nights (and days) on end have the dogwoods dripping and you’re tired of staying in?

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As it turns out, some Atlanta establishments are perfect for those willing to step out in a drizzle.

Grant Park Coffee House

If it’s too wet to walk the paths at Zoo Atlanta, you can take refuge with a cup of coffee in a cozy setting at Grant Park Coffee House. An array of lattes, cappuccinos, and, of course, a house brew offer warmth and comfort at an affordable price. While you’re there, you might try one of their simple, hearty sandwiches for lunch. Add a little character to your turkey or roast beef with black beans, bacon or avocado. The coffee house’s new location is actually just outside its greenspace namesake, but a second location is slated to open within the park soon.

Location: 8 Park Place SE; Website: grantparkcoffeehouse.com; Contact: 404-856-0433

Puttshack

If you’re tired of sitting around, bring mini golf to the next level indoors with a date night or family excursion to Puttshack. New technology tracks gameplay so you don’t have to. Experience the game surrounded by neon, and if you get hungry, an in-house restaurant has street food offerings from around the world.

Location: Westside - 1115 Howell Mill Road; Website: puttshack.com; Contact: 404-738-7888

High Museum of Art

A quiet afternoon at Atlanta’s High Museum of Art will help ease rainy day blues. From temporary exhibits encompassing individual artists’ works and themed subjects to a diverse permanent collection to its interactive family learning gallery, the High offers a memorable experience for everyone. And when you see rain on the forecast, plan ahead by registering to hear a scheduled talk from a curator or connoisseur.

Location: Midtown - 1280 Peachtree St NE; Website: high.org; Contact: 404-733-4400

Mastermind Escape Games

If you’re looking for a place to pass a few hours inside with a group of friends while it’s wet outside, the escape room experience just might be for you. At Mastermind Escape Games, you can choose from rooms with themes such as The Shed, Bank Heist and Lost in Time to work your way out of hypothetical situations. You’ll have 60 minutes to use clues and work together to meet the challenge each room presents.

Location: Sandy Springs - 5825 Glenridge Drive, Building 4 Suite 200; Website: mastermindescapegames.com

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Tall Tales Atlanta

Since 1979, Tall Tales Atlanta, an independent bookstore, has afforded shoppers access to new and general interest reading material. And it’s the perfect place to step in out of the storm. You might even be lucky enough to be there on a day when an author is visiting. Before you go, check out the staff profiles on the website so you can determine where to direct your questions about sci-fi, graphic novels or poetry releases.

Location: North Druid Hills - 2105 Lavista Rd. NE #108; Website: talltalesatlanta.com

Plaza Theatre

Kicking back and taking in a movie is a rainy day classic. And you can often catch a classic alongside new releases at the Plaza Theatre, an independent cinema that has served the city since 1939. Keep an eye on the website for showtimes and to see what’s coming to the screens soon.

Location: Old Fourth Ward - 1049 Ponce Del Leon Ave NE; Website: plazaatlanta.com; Contact: 470-410-1939

Painting with a Twist

Why not pass a drizzling evening getting creative? Get a lesson in painting alongside your friends with a Paint & Sip event at Painting with a Twist. Make reservations (there are several Atlanta locations, so check the website for the one nearest to you), and plan to bring your own drinks and food to your group canvas-painting session. You’ll go home with your own piece of artwork, and the downpour just may have stopped by the time you wind down your night.

Website: paintingwithatwist.com