Rainy Day Fun for Westchase Kids

When bad weather turns those outdoor plans upside down, dealing with disappointed kids can prove tricky at best.

After all, if they have their hearts set on a day at the beach, there’s nothing worse than waking up to find it dark, gray and stormy outside.

What’s a Westchase area parent to do?

Here are some of our suggestions for indoor fun in the area. Be sure to add your favorites by commenting below, too!

• Gator Fred’s – If your kids are younger and they love to bounce, this 5360 Ehrlich Road business is the place to go. Just check out the hours and pricing online. Gator Fred's, by the way, is open seven days a week.
• The movies – Pick your family's favorite move theater and head on over for an early show. Matinee prices tend to go easier on the budget, too. If money is a concern, be sure to grab lunch before you go.
• Westfield Citrus Park – Even if you have no intention to shop, the 8021 Citrus Park Town Center mall makes for a great rainy day destination. The mall has plenty of indoor play areas for the kids and the food court makes for a fun place to grab a quick bite.
• Chuck E Cheese’s – Ready to let them burn off some energy and have some fun at the same time? This 14308 N. Dale Mabry Highway destination might be the place to go even for older kids. The establishment offers some pretty good family deals, which can help to keep your costs low. It opens daily at 9 a.m., so it's there when you're ready. Hint for parents: If Chuck E. Cheese's drives you nuts and your kids are older and won't require constant supervision, bring along a book to help you enjoy your rainy day inside a little more.
• The Museum of Science & Industry – This 4801 E. Fowler Ave. museum is ideal for some rainy day educational fun. Be sure to visit the museum online before you go to get hour and pricing details.
• The Florida Aquarium – What kid doesn't love sharks? Just head down to 701 Channelside Drive to check them out in person. The aquarium is open daily, but be sure to visit its website for pricing and hour details.
• Glazer Children's Museum – Looking for something fun for the younger set? This 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza venue is the place to go. This venue is also open seven days a week. Check out its website for pricing details.
• Indoor arts and crafts – If your budget is tight, just pull out those art supplies to help keep little hands busy. Check out this board on Pinterest for some ideas.
• Inside picnic – Just because it's raining outside doesn't mean you can't have a picnic indoors. Grab a blanket and "pack up" some sandwiches for an inside adventure. Here's an even more complete how-to guide for the ultimate indoor picnic.

OK, Westchase, we want to hear from you! How do you keep the kids busy and entertained when it’s nasty outside? Share your ideas in the comments below.