Rainy days can be a blessing in disguise. Sure, the outdoor plans get scrapped, but it’s the perfect excuse to stay in, get cozy, and have some real family fun. Remember those days from our childhood when a rainy day meant pulling out a favorite board game and spending hours playing, laughing, and sometimes arguing over the rules? It’s time to bring that magic back and share it with our kids. Board games are more than just a way to pass the time—they’re a chance to bond, to teach, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Let’s be honest, in a world where screens often dominate our attention, finding activities that bring everyone together can be a challenge. But board games do just that. They pull us away from our devices and into moments of genuine connection and fun. Whether it’s the thrill of a big win, the hilarity of a funny move, or the teamwork in a cooperative game, there’s nothing quite like it. So, grab your favorite snacks, gather around the table, and dive into these top ten board games that will make any rainy day something to look forward to.
This article does contain affiliate links. These links add absolutely no cost to you and only help DADVERSE keep the website running. If you would like to learn more, please check out our Affiliate Links Disclosure.
1. Monopoly
- Players: 2-8
- Age: 8+
- Playtime: 1-3 hours
Monopoly is a classic that’s been stirring up family rivalries for generations. In this game, players buy, trade, and build properties, hoping to corner the market and bankrupt everyone else. It’s all about strategy, luck, and maybe some sneaky deals under the table.
What makes Monopoly great is that it’s different every time you play. Whether you’re landing on Boardwalk or plotting to avoid jail, it’s a mix of anticipation and strategy that keeps everyone on their toes.
Add to Your Collection: Monopoly (Currently $21 on Amazon)
2. Catan
- Players: 3-4 (5-6 with expansion)
- Age: 10+
- Playtime: 1-2 hours
Catan, originally called Settlers of Catan, is a game of building and trading where players compete to develop the most prosperous settlements. It’s like being a medieval land baron, wheeling and dealing for resources like wheat and brick to build roads and cities.
The beauty of Catan is in its balance of strategy and chance. Each game feels like a fresh adventure with a new board and new challenges. It’s a perfect choice for families who enjoy strategic thinking and a bit of friendly competition.
Add to Your Collection: Catan (Currently $42 on Amazon)
3. Ticket to Ride
- Players: 2-5
- Age: 8+
- Playtime: 30-60 minutes
In Ticket to Ride, players collect cards to claim railway routes across a map, aiming to connect distant cities and complete tickets for points. It’s a game of planning and strategy with just enough luck to keep things exciting.
This game is easy to learn but has enough depth to keep it interesting for everyone. The competition to complete routes can get intense, but it’s all in good fun as you race to see who can create the most epic train journeys.
Add to Your Collection: Ticket to Ride (Currently $43 on Amazon)
4. Scrabble
- Players: 2-4
- Age: 8+
- Playtime: 50 minutes
Scrabble is the ultimate word game where players use letter tiles to create high-scoring words on the board. It’s both a test of vocabulary and a game of strategy as you place words to maximize your points.
Scrabble is great because it’s educational and fun. It challenges everyone to think creatively and can lead to some pretty hilarious word combinations. Perfect for a cozy afternoon indoors.
Add to Your Collection: Scrabble (Currently $19.99 on Amazon)
5. Pandemic
- Players: 2-4
- Age: 8+
- Playtime: 45 minutes
Pandemic is a cooperative game where players work together to stop global outbreaks of deadly diseases. Each player has a unique role with special abilities, and you’ll need to collaborate to find cures before time runs out.
The teamwork aspect of Pandemic makes it a standout. It’s all about strategizing together, which can be a refreshing change from more competitive games. Plus, the urgency of saving the world adds an exciting edge.
Add to Your Collection: Pandemic (Currently $27 on Amazon)
If board games are not your family’s thing, maybe video games are. Check out our top 10 family-friendly video games article here!
6. Clue
- Players: 2-6
- Age: 8+
- Playtime: 45 minutes
Clue is the classic whodunit game where players become detectives trying to solve a murder. By making clever deductions, you’ll figure out who did it, with what weapon, and in which room.
The fun in Clue is piecing together the mystery. It’s like a mini detective story every time you play, full of twists and turns that keep everyone guessing until the end.
Add to Your Collection: Clue (Currently $21.99 on Amazon)
7. Blokus
- Players: 2-4
- Age: 7+
- Playtime: 30 minutes
Blokus is a game of spatial strategy where players place differently shaped pieces on the board, aiming to fit as many of their pieces as possible while blocking their opponents. It’s like a colorful, competitive puzzle.
Blokus is quick to learn and highly addictive. Its visual and strategic elements make it a hit with both kids and adults, and it’s a great game for sharpening spatial reasoning skills.
Add to Your Collection: Blokus (Currently $26.99 on Amazon)
8. Codenames
- Players: 2-8
- Age: 14+
- Playtime: 15 minutes
Codenames is a word game where teams compete to find their secret agents using one-word clues. It’s a mix of logic, creativity, and communication, perfect for testing how well you know your teammates’ minds.
It’s quick and easy to play, making it perfect for a few rounds in between other activities. The wordplay and guessing keep everyone engaged and laughing, making it a fantastic addition to any game night.
Add to Your Collection: Codenames (Currently $17.99 on Amazon)
9. Dixit
- Players: 3-6
- Age: 8+
- Playtime: 30 minutes
Dixit is a beautifully illustrated game where players use cards with surreal images to tell stories and guess which card matches the story. It’s all about creativity and interpretation.
This game is unique because it encourages imagination and storytelling. Every round brings a new chance for hilarious and unexpected interpretations, making it a great way to spark creativity and fun conversations.
Add to Your Collection: Dixit (Currently $39.99 on Amazon)
10. Exploding Kittens
- Players: 2-5
- Age: 7+
- Playtime: 15 minutes
Exploding Kittens is a fast-paced card game where players try to avoid drawing an exploding kitten card. It’s full of quirky humor and surprises, with special cards allowing players to mitigate risks and sabotage opponents.
Its quick playtime and simple rules make it perfect for family gatherings. The game’s silliness and unpredictability guarantee laughter and fun, making it a go-to choice for lighthearted entertainment.
Add to Your Collection: Exploding Kittens (Currently $18.99 on Amazon)
No more staring at the rain and wondering what to do—grab one of these board games and get the fun started! From strategic showdowns to hilarious mishaps, these games are perfect for making memories and getting everyone involved. So, gather around the table, break out the snacks, and let the good times roll. Whether you’re building empires, solving mysteries, or just trying to avoid exploding kittens, these games are sure to turn any rainy day into a family adventure. Enjoy the laughs, the competition, and most importantly, the quality time together!
We would love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments or on our Facebook page what your favorite board games are!
Please note that all prices were accurate at the time of writing this article. However, they are subject to change at any moment.
