Rainy day in Broken Bow: 10 things to do that don't involve the trails

Broken Bow gets rain. Spring storms, summer afternoon downpours, the occasional October cold front. When the forecast turns, the question is always the same: 'is the trip ruined?' No.

1. Hochatown Distilling Co. tour. Indoor, free, 30 minutes, ends in a $15 tasting flight. The bourbon cream is the take-home.

2. Beavers Bend Brewery. Indoor seating, a flight of six, a slow lunch. Pairs well with a pickup-game of cards.

3. The Forest Heritage Center. Free indoor museum at the state park entrance. Kids stay engaged for 45 minutes; adults longer.

4. Hochatown Saloon. Live music most weekends, even when it's raining outside. The roof leaks slightly in the corner — sit on the far side.

5. Stay in the cabin. This is what the game room, hot tub, fire pit (under the covered deck), and double ovens are for. Cook a long lunch, play shuffleboard, soak in the rain. Some of the best stays we've ever had happened during rain.

6. Movie at the Idabel cinema. 30 minutes south. Real popcorn, two screens, perfect for a 3 PM matinee.

7. Drive to Mena, AR for the day. The Talimena Scenic Drive is technically more dramatic in the rain — clouds wrap the ridges. 90 minutes each way; pack snacks.

8. Antique shops in Broken Bow proper. There are four worth your time, all on Main Street. Plan for 90 minutes.

9. Mountain Fork Brewery's lazy afternoon. Walk-in is much shorter when it's raining; you can actually get a table at 2 PM.

10. Grocery-shop and meal-plan. Sounds boring; isn't. Hochatown Grocery on a rainy afternoon is its own small experience. Buy the local pecans.

The forecast lies often here. Check it the morning of and don't cancel until you see actual rain.