Rainy Day on the Vineyard? 10 Cozy Things to Do with Kids Indoors

Don’t let a little rain ruin your Martha’s Vineyard family vacation! When the skies turn gray, the island transforms into a cozy haven full of indoor adventures. Whether you're escaping the drizzle or dodging a full-on nor’easter, there are plenty of kid-friendly things to do that keep the whole family happy and dry.

From story time in whimsical libraries to hands-on fun at aquariums and craft shops, here are 10 cozy activities for kids on a rainy day in Martha’s Vineyard.

1. Visit the Martha’s Vineyard Museum – History Comes Alive Indoors

Located in Vineyard Haven, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum is a treasure trove of island stories, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. Kids love the vintage boat displays, lighthouse lens, and play-friendly spaces. There’s even a dedicated Children’s Room with seasonal activities, puzzles, and crafts.

2. Snuggle Up with a Story at the West Tisbury Free Public Library

One of the most beloved spots by local families, this warm and welcoming library has a magical children’s section, regular story hours, and comfy reading nooks. Rainy days often include pop-up events like puppet shows, music performances, or drop-in Lego builds.

Other great library stops:
Oak Bluffs Public Library – great tech and maker space
Edgartown Library – scenic reading area and fun weekly events

3. Explore Sea Life at the Martha’s Vineyard Ocean Explorium (Aquarium)

Located near Oak Bluffs Harbor, this small but captivating marine life center gives kids the chance to learn about the underwater world of the Vineyard. Touch tanks, live shellfish, and rotating exhibits make it a hands-on favorite.

4. Craft Your Heart Out at Featherstone Center for the Arts

This local nonprofit art center in Oak Bluffs frequently runs family-friendly workshops during the week—including rainy-day drop-ins. From pottery and painting to collage and fiber arts, kids can let their creativity flow indoors.

5. Cozy Up at Bunch of Grapes Bookstore

This iconic independent bookstore in Vineyard Haven is perfect for book-loving families. The children’s section is a dream—stocked with picture books, activity kits, and cozy seating. During the summer months, you might even catch author readings or kids’ book launch events.

6. Playtime at Island Cove Adventures (Mini-Golf Indoors in Rainy Season)

While known for its outdoor mini-golf in sunny weather, Island Cove often opens indoor activities in the off-season, like rainy-day arcade setups, crafts, and games. Check ahead for availability.

7. Indoor Pool Time at Local Hotels or the YMCA

Many hotels on the island, such as Harbor View Hotel or Winnetu Oceanside Resort, offer day passes for their indoor pools. Alternatively, the YMCA of Martha’s Vineyard has open swim hours and family changing rooms.

Perfect for letting off steam when outside play isn’t an option!

8. Catch a Family Movie at the Edgartown Cinema

Cozy seats, popcorn, and a big screen = instant hit with kids. The Edgartown Cinemas often play family-friendly flicks, especially in summer. It’s a great way to break up a day when the weather won’t cooperate.

9. Try a Baking Session at a Kid-Friendly Café

Visit places like Scottish Bakehouse or Back Door Donuts, where little ones can watch pastries being made—or enjoy warm, gooey treats indoors. Some cafés offer cookie decorating kits or hot chocolate stations perfect for rainy afternoons.

10. Do a DIY Rainy Day Tour of Island Art Galleries

Some galleries, like The Granary Gallery or Alison Shaw Gallery, are welcoming to families and spark curiosity in older kids. Ask if they offer kids’ scavenger hunts or sketching kits—some do!

 Bonus Tip: Build a Rainy Day Activity Kit Before You Arrive

Prepare for unpredictable island weather with a backpack of rainy-day goodies:

Sticker books

Travel-sized board games

Journals for drawing vacation memories

A reusable poncho (just in case!)

Final Thoughts

Martha’s Vineyard may be best known for its sunny beaches, but rainy days reveal a different kind of island magic. With so many cozy indoor activities for kids, families can turn unexpected weather into unforgettable memories.

Planning your trip? Bookmark this post and share it with other Vineyard-bound families. And if you have a favorite rainy-day spot we missed, drop it in the comments!