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How to Make the Most of Rainy Days at Walt Disney World

Having rain during your Walt Disney World vacation isn’t ideal, but it doesn’t have to spoil your fun. In fact, some might say a little rain can add to the magic—after all, even the weather in Florida is unpredictable! Just because a few raindrops (or more!) fall while you’re at the parks doesn’t mean your vacation is a washout.

With a little preparation and an open mind, you can still have an unforgettable Disney experience, even when the skies aren’t cooperating. Let’s dive into some practical rainy-day tips to help you make the most of your time at Walt Disney World—whether you’re at the theme parks, resorts, or Disney Springs!

Prepare by Packing Smart

Rain is always a possibility at Walt Disney World, regardless of the time of year. The Florida climate is known for those afternoon storms, especially during the summer months. So, one of the best ways to ensure you’re ready to handle any downpour is to come prepared!

  • Rain Gear: Ponchos, rain jackets, and small, collapsible umbrellas should be part of your park essentials. Ponchos are lightweight, easy to carry, and can be stowed in your bag for sudden showers.
  • Waterproof Footwear: Streets and walkways at Disney tend to get wet quickly during heavy rains, so pack extra socks or consider waterproof shoes to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
  • Extra Clothes: If space permits, pack an extra outfit or at least some dry socks to change into after the rain. Nothing dampens the Disney magic faster than soggy clothes!

By packing for potential rain, you’ll be able to embrace whatever weather comes your way and keep your spirits high.

Fun in the Disney Parks

Caught in the rain while inside the parks? Don’t worry—many attractions remain open and available, even when the weather turns. While outdoor rides might temporarily shut down for safety reasons, there are still plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

If you’re at Disney’s Hollywood Studios when the rain hits, head indoors to enjoy some of the fantastic shows and attractions that aren’t affected by the weather.

Disney Hollywood Studios
Credit: Paul Hudson, Flickr
  • For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration: This is a must-see show any day, but it’s particularly magical during a rainy spell. Sing along with your favorite Frozen characters in a dry, air-conditioned theater.
  • Star Wars Launch Bay: Immerse yourself in the Star Wars universe while exploring memorabilia and interacting with your favorite Star Wars characters.
  • Rides to Enjoy Indoors: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Tower of Terror, and Toy Story Mania remain open rain or shine, so you won’t miss out on the thrills. Don’t forget about Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a fan-favorite indoor attraction!

EPCOT

EPCOT’s wide, open spaces make it tricky to navigate in heavy rain, but don’t let that stop you from having fun!

  • Explore The Seas Pavilion: Head over to The Seas with Nemo & Friends and spend time exploring the massive aquarium. With sea creatures to observe and the interactive Turtle Talk with Crush, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.
  • World Showcase: Stroll through the pavilions and explore the indoor attractions each country offers. Whether you’re watching films about Canada or France, or enjoying a treat at the bakeries, this is a great way to slow down and appreciate the cultural details of EPCOT.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Since Disney’s Animal Kingdom is mostly outdoors, it can be a little more challenging to manage during rainstorms. However, several of its popular attractions are indoors.

  • Avatar Flight of Passage: Step into the world of Pandora and take a thrilling flight over the alien landscape—all while staying dry!
  • Na’vi River Journey: This serene indoor boat ride is another great way to escape the weather and enjoy the beauty of Pandora.
  • Shows to Watch: Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond! are must-see indoor shows that offer a lengthy respite from the rain.

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom is a great place to be when it rains, thanks to its abundance of indoor attractions. You can easily escape the weather and still experience the magic.

A bustling crowd walks down a wide street lined with shops and trees towards a large, ornate castle with spires and blue roofs, reminiscent of Disney World Vacations. The sky is clear, and people are enjoying their day in what appears to be a theme park.
Credit: Inside the Magic
  • Indoor Rides: Fan favorites like Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, it’s a small world, and Space Mountain are all indoors, making them perfect choices when the weather isn’t cooperating.
  • Longer Shows: Take refuge from the rain in one of Magic Kingdom’s classic shows like Carousel of Progress, The Hall of Presidents, or Country Bear Jamboree. These attractions offer a longer experience, giving you more time to stay dry and enjoy the magic.

Exploring Disney Resorts

If you’d rather avoid the parks altogether during a rainy day, Disney Resorts are full of fun and relaxing options.

  • Resort Activities: Most Disney Resorts offer indoor activities such as arts and crafts, trivia games, and movie nights. Check the resort’s activity schedule to see what’s available during your stay.
  • Resort Hopping: Another great rainy-day activity is resort hopping! Hop on the monorail or Skyliner and explore some of Disney’s most iconic resorts. Each resort has its own unique theme, shopping options, and dining experiences, making it a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon.
disney springs crowd levels memorial day weekend
Credit: Inside the Magic

A Rainy-Day Haven

Disney Springs is an excellent option for those looking to escape the rain while still enjoying all the fun that Walt Disney World has to offer. With plenty of indoor dining, shopping, and entertainment options, it’s a fantastic destination for a rainy day.

  • Indoor Dining: Grab a meal at one of Disney Springs’ many delicious restaurants like The Polite Pig or Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by Amorette’s Patisserie or Gideon’s Bakehouse for some mouthwatering treats.
  • Entertainment: Consider catching a show at Drawn to Life by Cirque du Soleil, or go bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes. These are perfect ways to stay entertained while staying dry.
  • Shopping: Disney Springs is home to the largest Disney store in the world, World of Disney. Here, you can browse an endless selection of Disney merchandise. There are also plenty of other stores to explore, from luxury brands to unique boutiques.

A Rainy Day Won’t Ruin Your Disney Vacation

While a sunny day at Walt Disney World is always preferred, don’t let the rain get you down! By preparing ahead, knowing where to go during a downpour, and embracing some indoor fun, you can still have a magical vacation—rain or shine.

Family in the rain Walt Disney World
Credit: Misfit Photographer, Flickr

Remember, sometimes a little rain can clear out the crowds, giving you shorter wait times and more space to enjoy the parks. Stay flexible, and you’ll be able to make the most of your time, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Disney magic is always in the air, even when it’s raining!

Jennifer Retzlaff

Jennifer became a lifelong Disney fan during her first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of her life. She quickly started to introduce her love of Disney to her family with a Disney honeymoon and then family trips when her youngest was 18 months old. She loves the magic that Disney brings to people through theme parks, cruises, and adventures. As a teacher, she tries to bring Disney magic into her classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” She is also part of the Magic Vacation Planner team as a personal travel advisor. With this team, she can now help others plan magical vacations. She loves bringing her love to Disney to readers with How to Disney.

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