Make the Most of a Rainy Day in Grays Harbor

Some may be convinced that there’s nothing to do in the rain, but allow us to squash that rumor. The coast of Washington State may be one of the rainiest places in the United States, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to make the most of grey days and create a memorable visit to Grays Harbor.

Stay Dry in the Extreme Fun Center

A wet day on the Harbor will fly by when you bring the kids to the Extreme Fun Center in Aberdeen! Not that adults can’t enjoy the fun too, though. Hop aboard the fast-flying electric go-karts and whizz along the winding track before launching into your friends on the bumper cars. Also in the facility is the extreme laser tag area, mini bowling, and dozens of arcade games including classic favorites like Guitar Hero and Super Mario racing, as well as a toddler soft play area and small rides for toddlers.

While staying dry in the completely indoor facility, grab a bite to eat at the cafe and redeem your virtual tickets for prizes to commemorate your visit.

Unforgettable Storm Watching

The rain and winds that often hit the coast of Washington produce some incredible views and scenes that can make anyone appreciate how powerful nature can be. The best place to storm watch is at the beach, although Westport may be the best overall location as it’s home to the multi-story Westport Viewing Tower.

Located just feet from the mighty Pacific Ocean, climb the steps for an aerial view of the massive waves slamming the coast. The waves hit the break wall and send seawater soaring into the air while the incredible roar of the ocean can be heard and felt throughout your entire body. Be sure to wrap your rain jacket tight as high winds can make for a blustery viewing experience.

While storm watching can be a great deal of fun, be sure to fully understand the risks and use extreme caution. For a complete guide to storm watching on the coast of Washington, click here.

Create Memories at an Ocean Shores Fun Center

If you’re heading to the beach and want to keep out of the rain, first plan a stop at Pacific Paradise Park. The day will fly by as you explore the largest collection of video games and games of skill in all of Ocean Shores. There’s also a large selection of classic games such as air hockey, basketball, pinball, and more plus an invigorating lazermaze leading players through two daring games challenging them to navigate as quickly as possible without hitting the lasers. Best of all, cash in your points to win fun prizes!

Next stop: Playtime Family Fun! Indoor activities include a large bumper car track, PLAYLive gaming room, virtual reality experience as well as plenty of snacks and ice cream to extend the fun for hours.

Soak Up the Beauty of the Quinault Rainforest

What’s a rainforest without any rain? Drive north of Hoquiam one hour and you’ll soon be immersed in one of only three temperate coniferous rain forests in the Western Hemisphere. Receiving an average of 10 to 15 feet of rainfall each year, the Olympic National Park is no stranger to wet weather, meaning that a full day of activities can be easily accessible anytime of the year.

Park and begin your day with a leisurely hike through one of the many trails near the historic Lake Quinault Lodge. The lush, thick canopy of trees, moss and foliage actually help keep hikers fairly dry, although waterproof boots and rain gear are encouraged. After logging a few miles on your fitness tracker, warm up with breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Roosevelt Dining Room (named after President Roosevelt!) in the historic Lake Quinault Lodge.

If the day’s rain is limited to a drizzle and low winds, rent a kayak from the Lodge and explore the crystal clear waters of the Lake Quinault. Low lying fog drifts through the ominous Olympic Mountains creating a picture-perfect scene.

Get Inspired at a Museum

Shed your rain jacket in one of Grays Harbor’s multiple museums detailing and showcasing fascinating artifacts from our past.

In Hoquiam, step inside the Polson Museum, a restored timber-baron mansion packed with unique items such as turn of the century clothing and furniture, while at the Lake Quinault Museum, learn about the rich histories of the proud communities surrounding Lake Quinault. Other notable museums include the Westport Maritime Museum inside a former U.S. Coast Guard station as well as the Coastal Interpretive Center in Ocean Shores that details native coastal wildlife, sea life, history of Ocean Shores, Native culture, and shipwrecks.

For a complete list of local museums, click here.

Attend a Local Event

All throughout the year visitors can attend events in every corner of the county. Many, if not most, are accustomed to the rain and prepared for the rain, so don’t be discouraged if the skies are grey.

A few of the most popular events throughout the year include: Razor Clam & Seafood Festival in Ocean Shores (March), Grays Harbor County fair in Elma (August), Grays Harbor Shorebird Festival in Hoquiam (April), Rusty Scupper Pirate Daze in Westport (June), Celtic Music Festival in Hoquiam and Ocean Shores (October), and the Festival of Lights in Montesano (December).

For a complete list on the most popular events, click here, and for our full event calendar, click here.

Dig for Razor Clams

Embrace the wet weather in fall, winter and early spring as razor clam tides are approved by the Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife. Be sure to dress to get wet and pack a change of clothes as you take part in one of the most iconic Pacific Northwest activities that doesn’t slow down even on the rainiest of days!

With a valid clam license, each individual can dig up to 15 clams that are best prepared a few days after being dug or frozen to be enjoyed later. For the most up to date information on coastal clam digging, head to our Razor Clam Digging 101 blog.

Watch a Movie in Ocean Shores

Catch the latest flick at the Ocean Shores Cinemas. With low ticket prices and the newest movies showing, including ‘Terrific Tuesday’ pricing of just $5 before 5pm and $6 after 6pm, this small theater on the coast is the perfect place to stay warm and dry.

Grab a Bite to Eat at a Restaurant or Bar

Satisfy your cravings at one of the many Grays Harbor restaurants and bars scattered throughout the county. Fresh seafood can easily be found on many restaurant’s menus while craft cocktails and locally brewed beer is sipped at various locations.

Explore them all and sort the businesses by city utilizing our virtual dining guide.

 

 

This original content is produced by Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. and sponsored by Grays Harbor County Tourism.