Navigating Rainy Days at Disney

Navigating Rainy Days at Disney

As a travel planner, my number one priority is to help you plan the vacation of your dreams. Unfortunately, we cannot control the weather, but I can help you prepare! Some of my best memories from our most recent Walt Disney World vacation took place in the rain, and I’m sharing my tips so you can make magical memories – rain or shine.

Be prepared – remember to pack the essentials.

Water-resistant shoes such as Crocs, Natives, or sandals are a lifesaver! Nobody wants to spend the day in wet socks or squishy shoes. Ponchos and umbrellas will protect you from the rain. I prefer ponchos since they are a hands-free option, and I am a multitasking mama! Buy them before your trip to save time and money once the clouds roll in. Stroller parking for most attractions is outside. Throw on a stroller cover when you park it – you’ll thank me later! Toss a few Ziploc bags into your park bag. Even if it doesn’t rain, they can be used on water rides to protect electronics.

Choose attractions wisely – if you know there’s a storm brewing, plan accordingly.

Try not to get in line for outdoor attractions as some must be temporarily closed for guest safety during a storm. A great example of this is Test Track. Yes, most of the attraction, and even the queue, is indoors, but they must shut it down if lightning is spotted in the area. There’s nothing worse than waiting in line just to be turned down once you reach the front! The good news is that this is the only attraction at Epcot that closes due to weather conditions.

Magic Kingdom has many attractions that may close, depending on the weather: Astro Orbiter, Barnstormer, Dumbo, Tomorrowland Speedway, Liberty Square Riverboat, Swiss Family Treehouse, Tom Sawyer Island, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Jungle Cruise, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Splash Mountain. There are still lots of options, especially with small children!

At Hollywood Studios, there are only two attractions to be aware of – Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers. There is still plenty to do here, even in the rain.

Animal Kingdom is not the ideal park for rainy days since many of the attractions are outdoors. Kilimanjaro Safaris, Kali River Rapids, TriceraTop Spin, and Expedition Everest may close if weather conditions are unfavorable.

Know your options – each park has great places to wait out a quick shower.

Most of the time, Florida rain only lasts for a short period. You do not have to change your whole day! Check out the indoor attractions! It is a great time to enjoy a show since theaters typically accommodate large crowds. The indoor attractions will still be running.

Find an indoor dining experience. This will most likely have to be quick service if you do not already have a reservation. Remember to mobile order if the lines are long!

Shop! This is a great time to explore the merchandise and purchase those souvenirs you keep forgetting to grab from the parks.

Be flexible – plans may have to change to make the most of your day.

This is one reason I always recommend the Park Hopper option to my clients! You can wait out a quick shower, but if the forecast for the day is wet and dreary, you may need to head to another park that better accommodates the weather.

I recommend Epcot, but Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios are also great options. Unfortunately, the attractions at Animal Kingdom are limited, especially for little ones.

** Remember to change your park pass reservation for the day. If that is not an option, remember that you must scan into the park you have reserved for that day. Park hopping begins at 2 pm.

Stay positive – lines will be shorter and the rain will cool you off.

If you don’t mind getting wet, jump in a standby queue. Wait times tend to go way down, especially for outdoor rides! Tap into your thrill-seeking side while everyone else is seeking shelter! My kids loved jumping in puddles and dancing in the rain – FREE entertainment, no waiting! After the rain comes the rainbow.

** Remember to use the My Disney Experience app to check wait times and temporary closures.