Precipitation is common in Orlando, but rain does not have to ruin your day at Disney! The next time there is a pop-up shower during your vacation, remember these rainy day tips for Disney World.
1. Pack rain gear
Plan ahead and pack ponchos, stroller covers, and umbrellas in case of inclement weather so you can continue with your day without getting totally soaked. Ponchos are available for purchase in most retail locations. To avoid wet shoes, pack a pair of flip flops to change into.
If there’s just a light sprinkle without lightning, outdoor rides will remain open, so you can still ride Big Thunder Mountain and other outdoor coasters. If you’d prefer to avoid the rain, head to indoor attractions. Here are some of my favorite hidden gems by park:
Magic Kingdom
- The playground in the queue for Dumbo
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic – 4D Show
- Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor
- Indoor Character Interactions at Fairytale Hall, Storybook Circus, Town Square Theater, and Maurice’s Cottage
- Enjoy the Rainy Day Cavalcade, a special parade only seen on rainy days
Hollywood Studios
- Muppet*Vision 3D
- Vacation Fun – Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie
- Walt Disney Presents – a gallery featuring artifacts from Walt Disney’s life and career, plus a 15-minute documentary
- Indoor Character Interactions at Star Wars Launch Bay, Red Carpet Dreams, and Celebrity Spotlight
EPCOT
- Advanced Training Lab Playspace at the Mission Space Exit
- Explore the aquarium in the World Nature building
- “What If” Lab at Figment Exit
- Tour the galleries in World Showcase (ie. Impressions de France, Reflections of China, and Stave Church Gallery)
- Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along
- Indoor Character Interactions at Royal Sommerhaus
Animal Kingdom
- It’s Tough to Be a Bug – 4D show
- Take the Wildlife Express Train to Conservation Station – animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and veterinary facility dedicated to wildlife conservation
- Indoor Character Interactions at Adventurers Outpost
2. Head to Disney Springs
Rainy days are the perfect time to catch a movie at the AMC Dine-in 24. In addition to grab-and-go concession stands and MacGuffins Bar, several of the theatres offer dine-at-your-seat food service. Or visit Splitsville Luxury Lanes for bowling, billiards, live entertainment, and dining. Reservations are recommended. Disney Springs also offers unique retail locations. Use your rainy day to pick up souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else.
3. Check with the front desk at your WDW resort
A “secret” benefit of staying at a Disney World Resort is the daily activities organized by the Cast Members. Guests can participate in scavenger hunts and dance parties by the pool, movies under the stars, and complimentary marshmallow roasts. The magic does not stop if it’s raining, it just moves indoors. Cast Members offer board games, crafts, and pretend campfires (with real marshmallows) in the resort lobby on rainy days. These activities vary by resort and day so check with the desk to see what is offered.
4. Jump in puddles
…. and remember that a rainy day at Disney World is better than a sunny day anywhere else! I have wonderful memories of my 4-year-old daughter in her bathing suit splashing in every puddle on the way back to our resort room. The rain just presented another opportunity to have fun!
One of the many benefits of working with a Fairytale Journeys Agent is having a contact for problems during your vacation. Reach out to your agent who can share more rainy day tips for Disney World or adjust your plans if necessary.
