If restaurants and food outings feel a bit overdone and you’re craving something different; something that gets your adrenaline going or brings out your competitive side; you’re in luck! There are plenty of interesting things to do in Riyadh that offer action, fun, and maybe even a little friendly rivalry.
From escape rooms that test your wits to go-karting tracks that get your heart racing, bowling alleys with a vibe, and padel courts for a sporty spin; this city’s got it all.
Here’s your guide to the best ways to switch up your plans and enjoy a thrilling time out in Riyadh. And no, none of these recommendations are sponsored; just honest picks worth checking out!
1. Escape for Your Life (Not Literally!)
When I first tried escape rooms in Riyadh, I genuinely didn’t expect to have that much fun but now I’m hooked.
If you’re after interesting things to do in Riyadh that get you thinking (and laughing at how bad your friends are at solving clues), start here:
A. Ahaji Escape Rooms
Honestly, this was one of the best escape rooms experiences I’ve had. It’s packed with tricky puzzles and stories that make you feel like your part of a movie.
Their Ward 23 room?
Next-level creepy and clever. Just a heads-up: it’s super popular, so book early. Definitely one of those fun things to do in Riyadh that leaves you talking about it for days.
B. MazeBox Escape Room
What makes MazeBox fun isn’t just the puzzles; it’s the live actors. I wasn’t expecting it, and it honestly made everything feel so real.
It’s has free parking (win!), and there’s even a playground if you’ve got little ones with you. If you want a mix of theatre and problem-solving, this is a must on your list of interesting things to do in Riyadh.
C. The Box Escape Experience
I found this place when I was hunting for something a bit less crowded, and it delivered. It’s smaller than the big names, the puzzles are seriously fun and fresh. Perfect if you want a quieter but still challenging adventure.
2. Karting: The Adrenaline You Didn’t Know You Needed
Karting in Riyadh is one of those fun things to do in Riyadh that I never get tired of especially on weekends when you want to blow off steam. There’s no shortage of places, but these are the ones that stood out for me:
A. Battlekart GameOn Riyadh
Middle East’s first interactive Battlekart? Say less.
It’s like stepping into a video game, and it’s way more exciting than your average karting track. It’s not just racing; you’re dodging, shooting, and competing Mario Kart style.
A top pick if you want interesting things to do in Riyadh that feel totally different.
B. Go Karting Sahara Mall
This one’s perfect if you want to mix shopping and racing (guilty; I’ve done this more than once). It’s indoor, has an awesome sound system.
Plus, no weather worries!
C. Doos Karting
I went here with friends who are serious about their speed. It’s Riyadh’s first indoor electric karting circuit, and the multi-level 350m track is wild. If you want indoor sports in Riyadh that give you a real adrenaline hit, this is it.
D. FunXtreme Go Karting
Prefer the outdoors? This is your spot. The track’s fun, and they sometimes have local competitions. Just check the weather before you go!
3. Bowling That’s Actually Fun
Bowling is one of those interesting things to do in Riyadh that hits different when you’ve got the right vibe. And these places bring it:
A) Go & Go Goal
When I went here, I was impressed with how clean and polished it felt. Staff are super friendly, and everything’s accessible and deservedly so.
B) blue pay BOWLING
If you want bowling plus a fun social vibe, this is the place. Great food, lots of energy; it’s one of those fun things to do in Riyadh where you can easily spend a whole evening.
C) Bobs Famous BLVD
Neon lights, great music, solid lanes; this is where I’d go for a modern, stylish night out.
D) Enter10 Bowling
Bowling + karaoke = best combo. Perfect for groups who want a bit of everything in one spot.
E) Yalla! Bowling
For those who like their bowling techy; state-of-the-art scoring, pool, foosball, snacks. Multiple locations, easy to get to.
4. Padel (The Sport Everyone’s Talking About)
If you’re after indoor sports in Riyadh that are fun and actually easy to pick up, try padel. These spots won’t disappoint:
A) Padel 101
Top-rated, clean, and the staff treat you like family. Great for beginners. I went here for my first padel game and got hooked.
B) Padel Pro Indoor
I tried this for the coaching, and it’s worth it. Super supportive instructors, slick blue courts, easy app booking.
C) Padel Masters (Marriott)
Premium vibe, well-maintained courts, and they run tournaments too if you want to get competitive.
D) Game Point
Solid management, clean courts, and friendly crowd. What more do you need?
5. Ice Skating
When the weekend rolls around and the heat is doing what it does best, ice skating becomes one of the smartest and most refreshing things you can do.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, a fun date idea, or just want to pretend you’re in a winter wonderland (while still in Riyadh), ice skating is hands-down one of the most interesting things to do in Riyadh.
And no, you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy it; just be ready to laugh at yourself a little.
A) Cool Arena (Hittin)
This one’s a low-key favorite. Cool Arena is known for its clean rink, friendly staff, and chilled-out vibe (pun intended). It ticks all the convenience boxes like free parking, wheelchair accessibility, and NFC mobile payments.
Whether you’re skating with kids or just want to cruise solo, it’s a safe bet.
B) Ice Rink at Riyadh Boulevard
If you’re going for wow-factor, this massive indoor rink delivers. We’re talking 6,250 square meters of skating space, high ceilings, and a vibrant atmosphere that sometimes includes lights and live music.
It doubles as an event venue, so there’s always something extra happening. For those who want more than just skating; this is the spot.
C) Riyadh Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
Only open during Riyadh Season, this is the largest outdoor ice rink in the Middle East and yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. Skating aids, pro staff, carnival vibes, games, food trucks, and that holiday feeling in full force. It’s basically the North Pole: Saudi edition.
D) Madrid On Ice at Riyadh Air Metropolitano (Seasonal)
Imported from Europe, this mega-sized temporary rink offers over 4,700 square meters of ice and holds up to 1,500 skaters.
You’ll find themed shows, Christmas lights, workshops, snacks; the works. If you’re in Riyadh during the festive season, this one’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
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6. Cycling: Ride Your Way Through Riyadh
There’s something about hopping on a bike and exploring that just works. It’s budget-friendly, zero-emissions, and the city actually has some great cycling routes; who knew, right?
Whether you’re into scenic nature trails or modern urban loops, cycling is one of the most interesting things to do in Riyadh that lets you combine fitness, fun, and fresh air.
A) Sports Boulevard – Promenade
This is cycling done right. The Promenade is a beautifully designed park-like loop where you can ride safely without worrying about traffic.
It’s wheelchair accessible, has smooth tracks, and just makes you feel like the city was designed with you in mind. Great for families or chilled solo rides.
B) Wadi Hanifah
If you’re craving a touch of nature, Wadi Hanifah delivers. Long, palm-lined paths that follow the natural riverbed give you a more rugged experience; a bit of off-road thrill mixed with Riyadh’s natural beauty.
Plus, you’re never far from scenic spots and old landmarks.
C) Ad-Diriyah
This one’s for the culture lovers. Riding through the historical At-Turaif district makes for a genuinely unique outing.
You’re surrounded by mud-brick architecture, palm groves, and modern bike paths. It’s an enriching ride where you don’t just burn calories; you take in heritage too.
D) Diplomatic Quarter
One of Riyadh’s most peaceful and beautifully landscaped neighborhoods, the DQ has a 3.5 km cycling loop that’s perfect for early morning rides or evening wind-downs.
It’s safe, clean, and feels like your own quiet corner of the city; ideal if you want to escape the traffic and just ride.
E) The Cycle Hub Riyadh
Don’t have a bike? No worries. The Cycle Hub is a well-loved rental and service shop with a 4.9 rating. Whether you need a quick fix, quality bike gear, or advice on where to ride, they’ve got your back.
It’s the best way to start if you’re new to the Riyadh cycling scene or just need a reliable set of wheels.
Bonus Picks for When You Want Something Different in Riyadh
- Arena Space VR: Feels like you’re in a movie. I went for a zombie mission – didn’t want it to end!
- Bounce Riyadh: Trampolines, dodgeball, foam pits – great if you want to break a sweat and have a blast.
- Extreme Zone Paintball: Outdoor fun, great for groups. Gear up and go full action mode.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of the same old coffee runs and mall strolls, Riyadh has so much more to offer. From gliding across ice rinks and racing through kart tracks to cycling scenic routes and solving your way out of escape rooms, the city is packed with unique ways to spend your time.
These aren’t just activities; they’re ways to make memories, break a sweat, and see a side of Riyadh you might have overlooked.
So next time you’re planning a weekend or looking for a fun evening out, skip the routine and try one of these interesting things to do in Riyadh. You’ll be surprised how much adventure is waiting just around the corner.
