I’ve spent a large part of my life in the Valence region, Drôme. When I go back every year, I spend a few weeks there. And sometimes it rains. Like everywhere else, you might say. But it changes all my plans, so what can I do in Valence when it’s raining? I’ve put together a short list of things to do indoors to avoid the rain and enjoy the city in a different way. In this article, you’ll find 25 things to do in Valence when it rains.
Before going any further, don’t forget to find me on Instagram, on Pinterest and on Youtube.
Visit Valence Museum
In the heart of Valence’s old town, you’ll find its Museum of Art and Archaeology. It’s a really lovely museum, with some fine temporary and permanent exhibitions. From the first floor, and from the terrace (which you would probably avoid on a rainy day), you have a fine view of the Champ de Mars. Find more details on their website.
Stop in a coffee shop
And not just to dry off! Valence has cafés that make you want to sit and read, drink a hot chocolate, chat with someone. Or simply observe the people around you. The Victor Hugo is a must, and I have no doubt you’ll be seduced by its high ceilings. If you want something more modern, stop off at Alix Coffee across from the train station.
Go skating
I told you in the introduction that I’ve spent a good part of my life in Valence. Today, I live in Toronto, Canada. So I had to include a very Canadian activity, but in Valence: go skating in Valence’s beautiful ice rink.
Check Valence pool complex
Not tempted by ice? Perhaps the swimming pool would be more to your liking? Yes, I know, it’s a bit much to suggest activities with even more water for an article on what to do in Valence when it rains. But we agree that it’s great to feel light in the water, warm, and watch the drops trickle down the large windows of the Epervière complex. You can even try out the surf simulator or enjoy the spa area.
Go karting
Looking for something a little more lively? Head for the karting track for a fun competition with friends. What better way to warm up than a few laps around the track? In Valence, I recommend Xtrem karting, which has over 4000m2 of track. Enough to give you more than one opportunity to overtake your mates … and to be overtaken again! May the best person win.
Watch a movie in an old theatre
Take advantage of a rainy day in Valence to discover independent films at the beautiful Le Navire cinema. Right in the heart of Valence. You’ll be able to see films that aren’t shown in mainstream cinemas. Discover new works and take in the sights. In 2016, I had the pleasure of being able to take photos inside for one of my projects: a beautiful old building! Check out Le Navire’s program here.
Go to the theatre
It’s a place I regret having visited so little during my years in Valence. The Théâtre de la Ville de Valence is also a beautiful building. And it’s a great place to go when it’s raining. There’s something for everyone!
Join a cooking class
Whether you’re a resident of Valence or just visiting, you know it’s a city of gastronomy. Soon we’ll even have a Cité de la Gastronomie (by 2026, according to articles I’ve read), but in the meantime you can take advantage of the expertise of our Valence talents by booking a cooking workshop. I did one at Come & Cook in downtown Valence, and it was a great (and gourmet) experience.
Axe throwing
I had to add a little Canadian activity: axe throwing. It’s a lot more intense than it sounds. Well, it looks like it’s easy to throw an axe. Just so we’re all on the same page: it’s not too difficult to throw, the hardest part is getting it to sink into the wooden target. It’s tough, but it’s a good time with friends. Le Ragnard, in Valence, also has a rage room if you want to let off steam against the rainy weather.
Laser game
We continue our list of things to do when it rains in Valence, with another group activity: laser tag. I don’t know if it’s still as popular as it was when I was a teenager, but I spent some of my friends’ birthdays there. I was a bit of shy player, not very sporty at the time, so I used to hide in corners and hope no one would find me. You have several options: Xtrem Valence, Lasergame Evolution, Loisirs Centre.
Climbing
If you’re looking for an indoor activity that will challenge you, you’ve come to the right place. The Mineral Spirit climbing complex is brand new, having been inaugurated in 2022. There’s something for everyone, from an 860 m2 bouldering wall to a 16m-high difficulty wall. A great way to get some exercise while staying dry.
The Armenian Heritage Centre
Valence is a city with close ties to the Armenian community. In fact, Valence is home to one of the largest Armenian communities in France. So it’s no surprise that you’ll find several restaurants here (order some cheese beureks for me!), as well as the Armenian Heritage Centre. Created in 2005, the aim of this museum is to educate its visitors and help them discover Armenian history.
Check an exhibit
What could be better than a rainy day to visit an exhibition, learn more about a subject or be inspired by the works of artists? I recommend doing your research on the city’s website or on Google, simply to see what’s on at the moment.
Go bowling
We’re back to a competitive activity: bowling. 2 years ago, we went bowling as a family, and I loved Le Tram. It’s not in Valence itself, but in St Péray, but the setting is great, and the staff there were really nice.
Escape Game
If you’re into team games, but more mental than physical, head for the escape game. I still remember when the first ones opened in Valence. Not only will you need a good dose of logic, but you’ll also need coordination and good communication between team members. I decline all responsibility if you come out angry with your friends haha. You have several: The Case, Closed, Prisonland etc…
Book a craft workshop
And if I had to recommend just one place, it would be Mamie dans les orties, in the heart of Valence’s old town. Owner Nina has an infectious passion for design. She offers a unique concept. Step through the door and you’ll feel like a child again, inspired like never before. If you can’t book a workshop, you can buy project kits to make at home! And tell her Astrid says hi 🙂
Join a yoga or pilates class
I’ve been doing yoga for years, but I’ve only had the pleasure of trying pilates in the last few months: let me tell you, it looks a lot easier than it actually is. On the other hand, it’s the ideal activity for working those little muscles you forget, for challenging yourself and coming out tired but proud and full of energy at the same time. I recommend the Hyphen Yoga studio (be careful, they have 2 studios, so check the address of your class). Keep me posted how you like it!
Quiz Room
New to Valence, I can’t wait to be in the area to try it out for myself. Quiz Room promises a TV-style gaming experience, with pressure, buzzers and laughs. You can choose the quiz themes to suit your group.
Mini Golf
And not your usual mini golf! No, I’m offering you a fluorescent mini golf course for added difficulty. It’s an activity that both young and old will enjoy. Bring your concentration and your aim skills. It’s harder than it looks!
Visit LUX Scène Nationale
If you’re interested in art, you’ll enjoy visiting this place. I became much more interested in it during my last few years in Valence. The Lux Valence offers exhibitions, shows and films. A very complete place that will teach you about different types of art and inspire you for sure.
Play board games
What rhymes more with a rainy day than board games? I ask you! I love board game bars, for their conviviality and the opportunity to try out games that you don’t have at home. I’ll leave you with a list of board game bars in Valence that I found online to help you out.
Spa Day
What could be better than taking advantage of a rainy day to relax, recharge your batteries and slow down a little? Book a massage, ideally in a place that also offers a steaming room and sauna, and you’ve got the perfect day ahead of you.
EVA Valence
I can’t wait to try it out! EVA is a virtual reality gaming space. I had the opportunity to try it out in Canada, and I can’t wait to see what it has to offer in Valence. In any case, the website looks very promising. If you go there, don’t hesitate to let me know! I’m counting on you.
Indoor soccer
We’re continuing with our suggestions of what to do when it rains in Valence, and what if I told you that you could play soccer in the dry… even when it rains? Foot Indoor has pitches where you can play futsal, let off steam, play with your colleagues, without being dependent on the weather!
Trampolining
I really thought this was an activity for kids. But it’s good for everyone! And the grown-ups will regain their childlike spontaneity after a few jumps. It’s a really fun activity to do in Valence when it’s raining. You’ve got trampoline courses and a basketball hoop to show off your best slam dunk. More info in their website.
I hope this list will help you figure out what to do when it rains in Valence. If you try any of the activities feel free to tag me on Instagram so I can experience it from afar with you. If you have any other ideas, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment.
Have fun and above all, stay dry!
