The best indoor activities in Hong Kong for any weather

With its abundance of country parks and outlying islands, Hong Kong is a haven of natural beauty and an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. But there’s no need to panic when the skies turn grey on a rainy day or the heat descends.

Our vibrant city is packed with fun indoor activities for kids, couples, and friends. Read on and add these ideas to your bucket list.

1. Learn a new skill 

Sign up for an arts and crafts workshop to unleash your creative side and pick up a new hobby. Make a customised rug with a tufting gun at Not That Tuft and Cradle Studio ; ceramic cups, bowls and more with hand-building and wheel-throwing pottery classes at Useless Studio and Toki Studio ; whimsical candles and jewellery at Make Your Day and The Boring Class ; or delicious baked goods, pizza and pasta at The Mixing Bowl and ABC Cooking Studio .   

2. Work up a sweat 

If you’re in the mood for physical activity, then bring the friendly competition indoors. Train your coordination, strength and speed with a range of popular indoor sports that keep you active while enjoying the AC. Gather your friends and try bouldering at Just Climb , pickleball at Bay Pickle , roller skating in the retro interiors of Bun’s 2020 or bowling at Top Bowl – a 40-lane venue that forms part of the new Kai Tak Sports Park.

3. Shop till you drop 

Home to some of Asia’s most innovative and immersive shopping experiences, Hong Kong boasts an eclectic mix of independent brands. In addition to purchasing unique souvenirs and gifts, soak in the culture at these historic landmarks: Central Market, one of the city’s first wet markets; The Mills, a shopping mall where the former Nan Fung Textiles factory buildings stood; 618 Shanghai Street, a cluster of 14 tenement and post-war buildings; and PMQ, the site of the old Hollywood Road Police Married Quarters.

4. Wine and dine 

Enjoy 90 minutes of free flow at Mandarin Oriental's SOMMkind of Brunch , and don't leave without sampling their signature Abinao chocolate soufflé. In Hong Kong, where luxurious hotels and British heritage abound, afternoon tea is a beloved pastime. Try the freshly baked scones at The Peninsula , or the dim sum-inspired trolleys at The St. Regis . Alternatively, learn about the art of tea brewing at Yuan Yuan Tang and Plantation Tea Bar . If you’re looking for some family-friendly fun the kids will love Urban Cafe, with its 300 cats. And for a memorable date night, get tickets to one of Savour Cinema's film-inspired culinary experiences.

5. Pamper yourself 

Whether you’re decompressing from a busy work week or seeking a reset during a layover, Hong Kong offers plenty of opportunities for pampering and self-care. Spas and salons provide restorative treatments like soothing facials, stunning nail art or a long-lasting lash lift at any price point. Spoil a friend with the Double Serenity package at Four Seasons , which comprises bubble baths, champagne, full-body scrubs and the healing powers of jade. 

6. Get cultured

For a family-friendly educational outing that will leave everyone enriched and better informed, head to one of the city’s museums and gallery spaces. In the cultural hub of Tsim Sha Tsui, take your pick from the Hong Kong Science Museum, Hong Kong Space Museum and M+, the first global museum of visual culture in Asia, or cross the harbour to admire rotating exhibitions at Tai Kwun and Oil Street Art Space.

7. Hit the books 

Is there anything more romantic than spending a slow-paced, solitary afternoon tucked away in a quaint little bookstore? At the city’s wealth of independent bookstores, take your time perusing shelves upon shelves and discovering your new favourite read. Hidden gems include Book Punch , Kubrick , ACO Books , and Books & Co. , some of which even offer refreshments to enjoy alongside your page-turner. 

8. Throw a party 

Cosy party rooms like Blackroom and Comma Party are ideal for celebrating birthdays or hosting team-building events. These venues are equipped with a wide variety of activities to keep you entertained for hours. With board games, card games, video games, karaoke and life-sized Jenga, as well as mahjong, ping pong, pool, air hockey and foosball tables, there’s something for everyone. 

9. Escape reality 

Realistic, transportive VR experiences and escape rooms will have you feeling like you’re exploring the outside world – all from the comfort of the great indoors. Fight zombies and aliens at Sandbox VR, with futuristic gaming experiences where groups of up to six can freely roam virtual worlds while interacting with each other. In LOST Hong Kong’s themed escape rooms, captivating narratives challenge players’ critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork abilities. 

10. Playtime for kids 

If you’re struggling to rein in your little one’s boundless energy, keep the kids entertained at a decked-out indoor playground, all while watching over them in peace. Check out Kingdom in Tuen Mun or Kiztopia’s 12,000-square-foot flagship outlet in Sha Tin, both of which feature slides, obstacle courses, ball pits, trampolines and role-play areas.