When it rains, you’ll have plenty to do in Seaside, Oregon. Photo: Rupert Britton
Our charming oceanfront town is, after all, in the Pacific Northwest, so you know there will likely be at least some rain when you visit Seaside, Oregon. But a little drizzle—or a dramatic Pacific storm—is as much a part of the Seaside experience as its iconic carousel. And don’t worry—there are still plenty of things to do when it’s raining (and before you know it, the sun will be out again!). Here are eight ideas to get you started the next time you find yourself in Seaside on a rainy day.
No. 1 / See Ocean Life Up Close at the Seaside Aquarium
One of the oldest aquariums in the West, the Seaside Aquarium sits right on the coast and has both underwater and touch-tank exhibits, making it ideal for families with young kids. Admission is under $10 for all age categories and you’ll have a chance to enjoy the seals that hang out up front, too. Want a sneak peek? Check out the live Aquarium Cam on its website or some of its photos on Facebook.
No. 2 / Feel Like a Kid Again at the Arcade
The Funland Seaside Arcade offers up old-fashioned family fun with tons of games and prizes, and a convenient location right on Broadway. It’s a great place to stop by when you’re hanging out on the beach, and on those rainy days, it’s a parent’s saving grace. If the kids still have energy after playing games and winning tickets, let them run the length of the Seaside Prom (1.5 miles in length). A few raindrops won’t hurt them, and they’ll be ready to settle in with some other indoor activities afterward.
No. 3 / Step Back into History
After letting the kids get out some of their energy in the arcade and on the Prom, take them over to the Seaside History Museum. People of any age will love this museum. Exhibits on the town’s history, including the Turnaround Building that housed a very popular indoor swimming pool around the turn of the 20th century, a Native American exhibit to showcase the people and culture that predated European settlers to the region, and even logging and railroad exhibits.
After getting the lay of the land, head over to the adjacent Seaside Museum Butterfield Cottage, where living history exhibits allow visitors to explore a restored 1912 beach house, complete with a kitchen, parlor, and other living spaces. It’s fully furnished with historically accurate artifacts, inviting questions and learning opportunities for kids who love seeing how people lived in different times.
No. 4 / Dine at Camp 18
Camp 18 is both a logging museum and historic restaurant located east of Seaside in the coastal mountain range, where the Oregon logging culture lives on. Check out a historic caboose, take photos with logging equipment still on the grounds, and see a new exhibit, the Loggers’ Memorial tribute. Come for any meal, as they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner here (in generous portions!) with a fun, well-worn ambiance. Plan to linger over your meal here to take it all in.
No. 5 / Shop Seaside
Thanks to the Seaside Carousel Mall, shopping can be an indoor activity in Seaside, with unique shops ranging from clothing stores and boutiques to local craft artisans and imports. Absolutely take a ride on the historic carousel while you’re in the mall, a must for families. Other spots not to miss include the Candyman store (a huge hit with kids…you’ll be here a while), and the Oregon Marketplace, where you can find local products from across the state.
The Seaside Outlets are also within walking distance of downtown, featuring more than two dozen stores with good deals from major national brands like Nike, Eddie Bauer, Helly Hansen, and Carter’s.
No. 6 / Get Creative in Mind and Body
Enjoying Seaside’s wetter weather without kids in tow? Drop in on a yoga class and listen to the patter of raindrops while working on your downward dog at the Seaside Yoga and Retreat Center.
Try a knitting or crochet class at Seaside Yarn & Fiber or maybe tour the Fairweather House & Gallery, which is filled with stylish, one-of-a-kind furnishings and artwork. You’ll find paintings, photography, and sculptures as well as creations from glass, wood, stone, and bronze. It’s a great spot to shop for unique jewelry as well.
If you’re the type of person who likes to relax with a good read, stop by Beach Books, an independent bookseller with an extensive collection to browse.
No. 7 / Visit the Times Theatre and Public House
This movie theater dates back to the 1940s, but it was shuttered for almost 30 years before it reopened after a renovation in 2018. Now known as the Times Theatre and Public House, it’s located at the corner of Broadway and Columbia just one block from the Turnaround. You can watch a classic movie or sports on the big screen while enjoying a craft beer. The extensive menu offers lots of creative takes on pub favorites.
No. 8 / Settle In With a Cup of Joe
Seaside enjoys a well-rooted coffee culture, perhaps because many days call for cozying up to a fire or on a bistro couch with a good cup of joe. Grab a coffee to go and don that rain jacket for some storm watching in town or settle in at the Seaside Coffee House. The Osprey Cafe is another great option with excellent espresso-based drinks. It’s just one block from the beach at the south end of the Prom. Beach Day Coffee on Broadway is near the Turnaround, and it also offers smoothies, pastries, and desserts.
Written by Amy Whitley in partnership with City of Seaside Visitors Bureau.
