We know that feeling all too well: when the weather takes a turn and spoils your plans. Now what? We’ve got you covered, literally, with these indoor activities. Strike up some fun at the bowling alley, take aim with axe throwing, or test your limits at an indoor climbing gym. For something a little more relaxing, pick up a new book to cozy up with at a local café. Rainy days don’t stand a chance here.

AIM, THROW, REPEAT

DedEye Axe Throwing, Belleville

Breakout Belleville Escape Room and Axe Throwing

Axes and Allies Throwing Club, Quinte West

Channel your inner lumberjack and hurl an axe at a wooden target. Axe throwing is a thrilling way to liven up a rainy day while testing your aim and precision, plus it’s easy to learn and fun to master. Don’t fret if you haven’t tried it before: you’ll be shown how to throw safely before you get started.

BOOKWORM BLISS

J&B Books, Quinte West

Lighthouse Books, Brighton

Paraphernalia Books ‘N’ Stuff, Belleville

We’re lucky enough to have some independent bookstores in the BoQ to help keep our bookshelves stocked—very handy when we’re trying to cut down on our screen time a bit. Is there a better combo than a good book and a rainy day? (Psst, there is: head to a nearby downtown café and read while sipping your drink of choice.)

SPARE SOME FUN

Quinte Bowl, Belleville

Club Medd Bowl, Quinte West

Presqu’ile Lanes, Brighton

You can’t go wrong with a classic favourite: bowling! With retro vibes, snack bars, and a little healthy competition, it’s a guaranteed way to keep everyone entertained. Dust off your bowling skills and aim for that perfect strike—or at least a spare! Night owls can also enjoy rock and bowl or laser bowling on weekends.

UP FOR THE CHALLENGE

Boiler Room, Belleville

Boiler Room is a bouldering gym with more than 5,000 square feet of climbing space and tons of “boulder problems” (routes or sequences of moves). Bouldering is rock climbing stripped down to its essentials—that means no ropes or harnesses. Don’t worry, the safety mats are there to catch you if you fall. Climbing shoes and chalk bags are available for rent, so you’ll be fully geared up even if it’s your first time.

A DAY AT THE MUSEUM

Around the region

The Bay of Quinte region is full of museums that explore history, nature, and aviation. In Belleville, Glanmore National Historic Site showcases beautifully restored Second Empire architecture, ornate ceilings, and period furnishings that transport visitors to the past. Over in Quinte West, the National Air Force Museum of Canada highlights the country’s military aviation history with vintage aircraft in the air park and engaging exhibits, including the only fully restored WWII Halifax bomber on display in North America, while the Quinte Museum of Natural History celebrates the wonder and excitement of the natural world with captivating exhibits that spark curiosity and bring Earth’s history to life. In Napanee, the Museum of Lennox & Addington tells the story of L&A County through exhibits filled with local artifacts dating back to the 18th century. And in the summer, Brighton’s Proctor House Museum opens its doors, offering a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of 19th-century business mogul John E. Proctor.

Head to bayofquinte.ca/rainyday for more indoor activities.