Due to being on the very edge of the Atlantic, Galway does unfortunately see its fair share of rain and wind. But that doesn’t need to be a bad thing! There is a huge number of things to do in the city if you want to avoid breaking the bank or soaking your shoes! Here a just a few popular recommendations of things to do in Galway on a rainy day:
See a show! An artist’s city at heart, Galway has several theatres scattered across the city, all with their own extensive variety of shows and experiences. From the eclectic mix of concerts, comedy and drama at Black Box to proud displays of Irish talent and heritage at An Taibhearc (the national Irish language theatre), there is something to entertain everyone, from the most refined of connoisseurs to the most skeptical newcomer. But even if nothing on offer catches your eye, don’t fret! A night never passes in Galway without live music, and the best part is that much of the time it’s free! Bars in the city center like The Cellar and The Ol’ 55 offer free performances from many up-and-coming bands and musicians, while if you’re craving the experience of a real Irish trad session, Taffes or Barra Na Halla are more than happy to welcome you in. Just follow where the rhythm takes you!
Try something a little different! Loved for its eclecticism by locals and tourists alike, there are several hidden gems to visit and experience something new in Galway. The Roisin Dubh, a hip pub and music venue in the city center, boasts a diverse range of gigs and shows from comedy to heavy metal to their weekly Silent Disco, it’s a no-brainer for a fun night away from the rain. If you would like a more hands-on experience, why not pay a visit to Dungeons and Donuts? A popular local gaming store, for just a few euros you can purchase a hot drink, a delicious fresh donut of your choice and access to their gaming area upstairs, which is stocked with a huge variety of tabletop games, from boardgames to role-playing. Even if games aren’t your thing, it’s a great way to spend a couple of hours trying out something new with your friends!
Learn more about the city! Galway has a long and storied history and is more than happy to share it with its visitors. You can visit many of the museums within the city for free, such as the Galway City Museum (located next to the famous Spanish Arch) or the Claddagh Ring Visitor Center, which tells the tale of the world-famous Galwegian ring. The more you begin to learn about the city, the more you’ll start to fall in love with it!
