Rain in the forecast? No worries—Rowan County still shines! Whether you're a local looking for a spontaneous indoor escape or a visitor wanting to make the most of your trip, our area is full of indoor experiences perfect for gray skies. Explore inspiring art, tap into local music history, sip a cozy coffee while cuddling a cat, or dive into retro arcade fun. No matter where you're at in Rowan County, there's something exciting around every corner—rain or shine.
Waterworks Visual Arts Center
Opened in 2003, the Waterworks Visual Arts Center is one of the region’s most renowned non-profit art museums. Guests can enjoy rotating art exhibitions that feature contemporary and historical works from local and national artists. The center also hosts engaging artist talks and special events year-round. Most of the center's events and programming are open to the public and free of charge, perfect for a rainy day! With its welcoming atmosphere, the Waterworks Visual Arts Center is a cultural hub for those looking to enrich their Rowan County experience with a touch of creativity.
Kingpin Underground
Tucked beneath the streets of Downtown Kannapolis, Kingpin Underground is a retro-style arcade with a full bar, neon lighting, and fun games for all ages. Perfect for groups or a fun date night.
The Fun Factory
Located in Salisbury, Fun Factory is a kid-favorite with indoor obstacle courses, foam pits, slides, and more. It’s a great option for burning off energy indoors, no matter your age.
Curb Museum for Music and Motorsports
Tune your radio to Tim McGraw's “She’s My Kind of Rain” while you check out the exhibits at the Curb Museum for Music and Motorsports. This one-of-a-kind cultural center boasts permanent exhibits that highlight the history of NASCAR and country music, all under one roof. Enjoy ephemera from leading country stars like Wynonna Judd, Tim McGraw, and LeAnn Rimes, and get up close to championship-winning racecars from yesteryear.
Hall House Museum Tours (Saturdays)
Rainy weekends are a great time to dive into local history. The 1820 Hall House in Salisbury offers guided Saturday tours of this beautifully preserved home filled with original furnishings and stories of early Rowan County life.
N.C. Music Hall of Fame
Also in Kannapolis, the N.C. Music Hall of Fame celebrates musicians from across the Tar Heel State. From jazz legends to hip-hop stars, explore exhibits that highlight North Carolina’s rich and diverse musical contributions.
Mac Tabby Cat Café
Need to warm up with a cup of coffee and a purring companion? Stop by Mac Tabby Cat Café in Downtown Salisbury, where you can sip a latte and hang out with adoptable cats in a relaxed, welcoming space.
The Slot Car Track
Get competitive with a unique hobby that’s making a comeback. This indoor track in Kannapolis offers fast-paced fun for racing fans and kids alike. It’s a throwback activity that’s just as exciting today.
Wonderland Arcade Bar
Grab a drink and get nostalgic with vintage video games, pinball, and more at this adult-friendly arcade bar in Salisbury. It’s a great way to unwind and have fun while the rain taps on the windows outside.
Back Street Boo Factory
Step into the role of a ghost hunter in this immersive escape room set inside the historic Back Street Mercantile building in Gold Hill. Your mission? Capture the ghost of "Big Stan" and recover the lost wedding rings of a doomed couple to bring their spirits peace at last.
Lee St. Theatre & Piedmont Players Theatre
Catch a live show in Salisbury with productions from Lee St. Theatre or Piedmont Players. From musicals to dramas, both theaters offer stellar performances throughout the year, making rainy evenings something to look forward to.
Don’t Forget to Shop!
Rainy days are made for browsing. From quaint downtown boutiques to one-of-a-kind vintage stores, Rowan County is full of local shopping gems where you can find gifts, fashion, art, and more. Click here to explore all our shops.
When the skies are gray, Rowan County has you covered—literally!
Rainy days offer the perfect excuse to discover something new, whether it’s a hidden museum, a charming theater, or a unique indoor adventure. With so many cozy and creative places to explore, you’ll see that a little rain can’t wash away the fun in Rowan County.
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