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The 18 Best Things to Do in Durban on a Rainy Day
- Visit the Durban Natural Science Museum
- Dive into indoor fun at uShaka Marine World
- Catch a show at The Playhouse Company
- Relax at the spa at the Beverly Hills Hotel
- Shop at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping
- Learn Durban's history at the Durban Art Gallery
- Cosy up with a warm cup of coffee at Savior Cafe
- Experience vibrant local culture at the Markets of Warwick
- Savour Italian cuisine at Old Town Italy Umhlanga
- Immerse yourself in art and music at The Bat Centre
- See the unique African arts at the Phansi Museum
- Discover cricket history at Kingsmead Cricket Ground
- Try your luck with games at Suncoast Casino
- Enjoy local artists' works at the KwaZulu-Natal Society of the Arts
- Opt for some tranquillity at Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple
- Step into history at the Campbell Collections
- Go on a shopping spree at the Pavilion Shopping Centre
- Explore the wilderness inside with iSithumba Adventures
Sure, Durban is notorious for its stunning coastline and outdoor adventures, but when the weather decides to play spoilsport, our city is equally exhilarating indoors. There’s a whole world of excitement beyond just the great outdoors.
From thought-provoking museums to riveting art centres and thrilling theme parks, Durban is a torrent of exhilarating activities, ensuring there’s never a dull moment—rain or shine! So read on and discover the best things to do in Durban on a rainy day!
Visit the Durban Natural Science Museum
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Address: 1, City Hall, 234 Anton Lembede St, Durban Central, Durban, 4000, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 311 2256
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 3:45 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 3:45 PM
Durban Natural Science Museum is not just about geeking out on science—it’s like stepping into a world where past, present, and future collide. From ancient dinosaur fossils to dodo skeletons and exhibits on climate change, there’s plenty to see here.
Oh, and one more thing, this ain’t your boring old stuffy museum—it’s interactive! There is no need to be quiet or only use inside voices because here, you get to touch, feel, and interact with the displays, making learning feel less.
| Pro tip: Check out the life-sized T-Rex model—it never fails to wow the visitors! |
Dive into indoor fun at uShaka Marine World
Website: https://ushakamarineworld.co.za/?utm_source=Google_My_Business&utm_medium=organic
Address: 1 King Shaka Ave, Point, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 328 8000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Prices:
- Adults – R204
- Kids / Seniors – R165
- Toddlers (Under 3) – Free
uShaka Marine World is an indoor-outdoor theme park with an aquarium, water rides, and dolphin shows, so it’s a wonderland you wouldn’t expect on a rainy day. And the fun doesn’t stop there because there’s Wet ‘n Wild for anyone willing to brave the weather!
And then there’s the Sea World Aquarium—the cherry on top! Home to all sorts of marine life, this place brings out the kid in anyone, no matter their age.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss the seal and penguin feedings—they’re delightful to watch! |
Catch a show at The Playhouse Company
Website: https://playhousecompany.com/
Address: 231 Anton Lembede St, Durban Central, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 369 9555
The Playhouse Company is a total gem, whether you’re a theatre buff or just looking for something different. This place lures you in with its line-up featuring local and international performances, ranging from drama to musical theatre, ballet, and opera.
Now, the architecture of this place is utterly breathtaking. Imagine a blend of classic Victorian-style edifice with a sprinkle of modern design—it’s a work of art.
| Pro tip: Make sure to pay a visit to the theatre bar during intermission! And try to get your tickets in advance—it can get crowded, especially for popular shows. |
Relax at the spa at the Beverly Hills Hotel
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Website: https://www.southernsun.com/beverly-hills
Address: 1 Lighthouse Road uMhlanga Rocks, Durban, 4320, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 561 2211
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
How about a day spent unwinding and pampering yourself at a spa? And not just any spa, but one at the Beverly Hills Hotel, no less.
Look, there’s no shame in needing a little self-care every once in a while (a lot of self-care, if you ask me). Indulgent massages, rejuvenating facials, and relaxing body treatments—there’s so much to choose from.
| Pro tip: Grab a bite at the hotel’s restaurant after your massage—it makes for the perfect end to a spa day! |
Shop at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping
Website: http://www.gatewayworld.co.za/
Address: 1 Palm Blvd, Umhlanga Ridge, uMhlanga, 4021, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 514 0500
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Gateway Theatre of Shopping gets it just right, whether you’re a dedicated shopaholic or a casual window shopper. With more than 370 stores, it’s not just a mall; think of it as your personal gateway to the world of fashion, entertainment, and, of course—food!
But hey, if shopping isn’t your jam (despite the rain), there’s a heap of entertainment stuff here too! Cinemas, go-karting, and even an indoor funfair—it’s a spot to satiate all your fun cravings.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to try out the Wavehouse! And the food court has some terrific options—sampling a few should be on your radar. |
Learn Durban’s history at the Durban Art Gallery
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Durban-Art-Gallery-100063785071018/
Address: Durban Central, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 311 2264
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 4 PM
Trust me, even if you aren’t much of an art lover, the Durban Art Gallery is not to be taken lightly. This place packs a punch with its collection of contemporary and historic pieces from the city and beyond!
Strolling through the gallery’s rooms, you’re likely to stumble upon treasures from every corner of the globe. In every brushstroke and sculpted curve, it’s not just art—you’re glimpsing histories of people and places that you’ve probably never thought of.
| Pro tip: The gallery shop offers some unique keepsakes, perfect for memorabilia. |
Cosy up with a warm cup of coffee at Savior Cafe
Website: http://www.saviorbrand.co/
Address: 203 Bulwer Rd &, Ferguson Rd, Glenwood, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 76 606 5440
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday and Saturday – 7 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Savior Café is the ideal cosy-up-on-a-rainy-day spot. The friendly, comfy vibe of the place is going to win your heart the moment you step in.
And we haven’t even started talking about their food! Breakfast bowls here are to die for, as well as the cheesecake—their menu is simple yet spot on. It’s definitely worth ditching your diet for a day!
| Pro tip: Do try their cappuccino—it’s pure love in a cup! And their freshly baked goods are a must-have—perfect with your steaming cuppa. |
Experience vibrant local culture at the Markets of Warwick
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Website: http://marketsofwarwick.co.za/
Address: 127 Johannes Nkosi St, Greyville, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 309 3880
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday – 8 AM to 3:30 PM
- Thursday – 8 AM to 3 PM
- Saturday – 8:30 AM to 3 PM
Visiting the markets in Warwick on a rainy day can be quite an adventure. A mixed bag of traditional medicine markets, bead markets, music markets, and whatnot—this place can be called the cultural hub of Durban.
Amidst the chaos, colours, smells, and sounds lies the real beauty of Warwick Markets. From handcrafted curiosities to intriguing witch doctors and from fresh produce stalls to live Zulu music, it’s a full-on sensory experience.
| Pro tip: Haggling is common here, so don’t be shy about doing so! |
Savour Italian cuisine at Old Town Italy Umhlanga
Website: https://oldtown.co.za/the-restaurant/
Address: 39 Meridian Drive Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, 4319, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 566 5008
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 7 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 7 AM to 6 PM
Old Town Italy Umhlanga can do a decent job of teleporting your taste buds to the heart of Italy. Rain can be a blessing (for your palate, at least) when you’ve got a place like this to wander into.
It’s not just the food here (which is top-notch, by the way—pasta, pizzas, the whole shebang!), but it’s the whole atmosphere that seals the deal. Imagine tucking into a warm lasagna or sipping on a rich espresso while the rain showers down outside.
| Pro tip: The tiramisu here is not to be missed—make sure to save some room for it! |
Immerse yourself in art and music at The Bat Centre
Website: https://www.batcentre.co.za/
Address: 45 Maritime Pl, Esplanade, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 332 0451
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
The Bat Center is just the thing to get rid of your rainy-day blues. It’s where art meets music; think paintings, murals, and sculptures blended with rhythms, melodies, and beats.
Local artists are hustling, musicians are strumming away, and the whole place is bubbling with positive energy. Even if you aren’t an artsy type, I bet stepping into this place will draw out the latent Picasso or Beethoven in you.
| Pro tip: Check out their line-up for music events—you might stumble upon some exciting local talents. |
See the unique African arts at the Phansi Museum
Website: http://www.phansi.com/
Address: 500 Esther Roberts Rd, Glenwood, Berea, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 206 2889
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 4 PM
- Friday – 8 AM to 3 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 2 PM
Comprising traditional items and artefacts from different African communities, Phansi Museum is like stepping into a timeless reel of Africa’s cultural and historical journey. Every piece—necklaces, hats, dolls, shields, and masks—has its own story to tell.
Picture this: the rhythmic drumming of rain outside, and you immerse yourself in the fascinating and diverse stories of the continent. Sounds intriguing, right? Give it a shot!
| Pro tip: Try timing your visit with their guided tours—it’s insightful and worth it! And don’t miss the second floor—the view from there is incredible. |
Discover cricket history at Kingsmead Cricket Ground
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Website: http://www.dolphinscricket.co.za/
Address: 2 Kingsmead Way, Stamford Hill, Durban, 4000, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 335 4200
Rich with a cricketing history dating back to 1923, The Kingsmead Cricket Ground houses memorabilia that sparks nostalgia. The museum here is chock-full of treasures—old bats, worn-out balls, and legendary players’ jerseys.
And trust me, there’s something comforting about being in a massive stadium that’s soaked in rain. I can assure you that exploring the hallowed halls of Kingsmead is an experience that rivals the thrill of watching a live match.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget your camera—they’ve got a place reserved for Instagram-worthy shots!. |
Try your luck with games at Suncoast Casino
Website: https://www.suncoastcasino.co.za/
Address: Suncoast Boulevard, O R Tambo Parade, Durban, 4056, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 328 3000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The Suncoast Casino is another perfect spot for that rainy-day adventure! Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just there to take a whirl out of curiosity, this place will sweep you up in its glitzy and glamorous vibe.
And hey, if you end up on a hot streak, you’ll probably be grateful for the gloomy skies that brought you indoors. In the end, it’s all about having a bit of fun and embracing the spirit of the casino, right?
| Pro tip: Remember to take a break and enjoy their restaurants or cinemas when you’ve had your fill of the casino floor. |
Enjoy local artists’ works at the KwaZulu-Natal Society of the Arts
Website: http://www.kznsagallery.co.za/
Address: 166 Bulwer Rd, Bulwer, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 277 1705
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 4 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
When you’re craving some culture, the KwaZulu-Natal Society of the Arts gallery is the perfect spot. This place houses some of the most incredible works of art by local talent, making it a sanctuary for both artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Roaming through the gallery, you’ll lose yourself amid diverse textures, colours, and ideas. It’s like you’re peeking into the minds of the city’s most creative individuals, all under the guise of art.
| Pro tip: Try to speak to the friendly gallery staff—they’ll gladly provide insights into the artists and their works. |
Opt for some tranquillity at Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple
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Website: http://iskcondurban.net/
Address: 50 Bhaktivedanta Swami Cir, Westcliff, Durban, 4092, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 403 3328
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 4:30 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 4:30 AM to 7 PM
Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple, with its intricate design and charming atmosphere, provides a peaceful refuge. It’s not just about spirituality—if you give it a chance, you’ll realise that the whole vibe of the place washes away your rainy-day lethargy.
It’s like this place brings a sense of calm and appreciation for the beautiful surroundings. So the next time you’re cursing the clouds for making outdoor plans impossible, consider it an opportunity to visit the temple and soak in some serenity instead.
| Pro tip: Remember to adhere to the temple’s dress code—modest covering and removing your shoes are expected. |
Step into history at the Campbell Collections
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Website: https://campbell.ukzn.ac.za/
Address: 220 Gladys Mazibuko Rd, Berea, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 260 1710
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
Campbell Collections is filled with African artefacts, books, and other historical souvenirs. But in case you’re thinking this is one of those stiff, stuffy museums that only hosts relics of the past, think again!
This place is more than just the sum of its historical items. The building itself is a magnificent piece of colonial architecture, surrounded by lush gardens—an ideal spot for letting your imagination soar.
| Pro tip: Make sure to have a peek around their lovely garden—between the raindrops, you’ll find beauty and tranquillity. |
Go on a shopping spree at the Pavilion Shopping Centre
Website: https://www.thepav.co.za/
Address: Jack Martens Dr, Dawncliffe, Westville, 3611, South Africa
Contact details: +27 31 275 9800
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 7 PM
The Pavilion Shopping Center has plenty of fun activities for everyone and anyone, rain or shine! It’s not just aisles and racks filled with goodies.
Nah, it’s like a mini-city within a mall. There’s a range of restaurants that’ll tickle your taste buds, plus arcades, a movie theatre, and much more to beat those rainy blues!
| Pro tip: Don’t miss the 3rd floor—it’s packed with hidden gems! |
Explore the wilderness inside with iSithumba Adventures
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Website: http://isithumba.co.za/
Address: 15030 D1004 Rd, Isithumba, KwaXimba, 3670, South Africa
Contact details: +27 65 936 4418
Now, let’s head over to iSithumba Adventures for a dose of adventure and thrill, no matter the weather outside! Think indoor rock climbing, archery, obstacle courses, and the like!
It’s like having your cake, eating it, and not getting drenched in the rain at all. Imagine being able to enjoy all the thrills of outdoor activities but in the cosy indoors. It sounds like a perfect rainy day plan, doesn’t it?
| Pro tip: It’s also great for group outings, so gather your squad for a fun-filled day inside. |
