No matter the outside conditions, you’ll want to ensure your loved ones are having a great time building relationships with each other and making memories that will last a lifetime. However, finding something enriching for the entire family can be difficult when you’re stuck inside when it’s raining outside. Luckily, there are many fine establishments in the area that will help you get rid of the rainy-day blues.

If you want something simple, such as a great place to eat, or simply need a way to help the young ones get some exercise when they can’t run around outside, we have several options for you. Here’s our list of things to do on a gray day in Allen, Texas. 

Jakes GameDay

Pizza and buffalo wings by shansby is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Simply enjoying a meal with family can turn a gloomy day around because eating a good meal when you don’t have to cook or clean up afterward can cheer up mom and dad, and eating out is a sure way to get the kids smiling.

 Jakes GameDay  provides a family-friendly atmosphere where sports fanatics of all ages can watch the latest game on a big-screen television while munching on some tasty food. Jakes GameDay is the perfect spot for those who want to feel like they are eating at a friend’s house. The food is excellent, and the menu has options ranging from fun finger foods such as queso tots or fries to complete meals such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. 

When you go, order the hand-battered and fried jalapeno bottle caps to start off your meal with a spicy kick. This yummy appetizer contains a serving of hand-breaded jalapeno coins and is served with some tangy ranch for dipping. You’ll also want to get the family a hand-pressed pizza. Toppings range from veggie packed to meat only. 

• Location: 3033 W. Parker Road #109, Plano. 
• Hours: From 11 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. 
• Contact:972-867-3400.

Kid Mania Plano

For a place where the entire family can act like children, head over to Kid Mania Plano. This family fun center is a fast-growing center with two locations in North Texas. Your family can do everything here, from getting lost in a maze with slides, bungee walls, a cave, and tunnels to playing arcade games and eating food. Parents can escape the mania in the No Mania parent-only section, which offers free Wi-Fi and gives you full visibility of the entire place. 

Because Kid Mania knows that imaginative play is one of the fundamental ways children learn, the environment is safe and invites exploration. Here, kids can develop their social and problem-solving skills while having the time of their lives. Adult general admission for guests aged 19 years and older is only $1. Children aged between 3 and 18 can enter for only $9.99, and those aged between 1 and 2 can enter for $3.99. Infants are free. When you go, be sure your kids have socks on, as that’s a requirement for play. 

• Location: 7252 Chase Oaks Blvd., Plano.
• Hours:From 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. 
• Contact: 972-517-7800.

Thunderbird Roller Rink

For a rocking good time where the kids can let out some extra energy, drive the family over to Thunderbird Roller Rink. This establishment has been a Plano tradition for over 50 years and is a budget-friendly option for rainy days. Skating is great exercise, and the location even offers lessons daily from noon to 1 p.m. for any age. Participants only pay $15 per lesson and have full access to the open skate rink after. You don’t have to register, and the skate rental for a pair of quad skates is included in the fee. While you’re here, your family can nosh on some tasty food off the snack menu. We suggest you try the fresh baked pizza. It’s always a crowd pleaser. 

• Location: 3200 Thunderbird Lane, Plano. 
• Hours: From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Check the website for updates. 
• Contact: 972-422-4447 or 469-243-3719.

J. W. Entertainment Allen

If you’re an active and adrenaline-seeking family, J. W. Entertainment Allen is a must-visit location. Jumping World is the premier place for indoor trampolines, foam pits, basketball dunking rope courses, and dodgeball. Let your kids challenge one another to a duel on the battle beam, climb and crawl on the jungle gym playground, and test their agility on the ninja warrior course. Be sure to have the required grip socks, and leave all clothing with metal, rhinestones, and chains at home. 

• Location: 2031 W. McCermott Drive, Allen. 
• Hours: From 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. 
• Contact: 469-854-6000.

So, there you have it. Crème de la Crème of Allen has just shared with you some of the best things to do when the weather is gray in Allen, Texas. These family-friendly locations make a rainy day fun and exciting. Whether you’re just looking to have a simple meal with your loved ones or need a way to cheer up the kids and help them release some extra energy, there’s always some fun to be had, even when it’s a little rainy outside. What do you think? Did we mention your family’s favorite rainy weather activity? 

When you’re deciding on your next family activity when it’s wet outside, consider Crème de la Crème of Allen for your future childcare needs. Rain or shine, we have many activities that will enhance your child’s imagination, support their cognitive development, and improve their motor skills. Options range from basketball for toddlers and dancing to coding, robotics, and second-language courses. During sunny days, kids can enjoy our outdoor sports fields and waterpark. Call us at 214-273-1897 to schedule a tour of our state-of-the-art facility and learn why Crème de la Crème of Allen is the right choice for your family.