Want to know the secret to enjoying Disney World even when it rains? As a frequent visitor, I’ve learned that getting wet in Florida is inevitable – but with the right preparation, you can still have an incredible time! Here’s everything you need to know about conquering Disney World in the rain.
When to Visit to Avoid the Rain
Let’s start with some real talk about Florida weather:
- Best Time: November through May offers the driest weather
- Rainy Season: Summer months bring daily afternoon showers
- Pro Tip: If visiting in summer, plan indoor activities for mid-afternoon when storms typically roll in. We used to recommend DisneyQuest, but the next best thing can be the Monorail Resorts, as you can travel from each resort via the monorail and not have to go outside.
Essential Rain Gear: Save Money by Planning Ahead
Ponchos
- Money-Saving Hack: Buy Disney-themed ponchos from Amazon before your trip
- Budget Option: Get dollar store ponchos (my personal strategy: one poncho per person for every 4 days)
- Avoid: Purchasing ponchos at the parks (they’re significantly more expensive)
Umbrellas
- Best Choice: Pack a compact, foldable umbrella
- Why Compact?: Forecasts aren’t always accurate, and you don’t want to lug around unnecessary bulk
Article Continues Below
Must-Have Accessories
Stroller Rain Cover: Protect your belongings when you need to dash for cover
Ziplock Bags: Perfect for:
- Protecting phones, chargers, and wallets
- Storing wet ponchos and umbrellas
- Pin trading (bonus tip: use separate bags for traders and keepers!)
Best Parks for Rainy Days: Ranked
- Magic Kingdom: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Most indoor attractions
- Plenty of covered dining options, like Cosmic Rays and Pecos Bills
- Multiple indoor character meet-and-greets, including Princess Fairytale Hall.
- EPCOT: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Indoor pavilions provide excellent shelter, like The Land.
- Multiple attractions under one roof, like The Seas
- Tip: Avoid getting stuck in World Showcase during storms, as you can only spend so much time in a single store.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: ⭐⭐⭐
- Several indoor attractions, like Muppetvision and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
- Good covered areas, like One Man’s Dream.
- Note: More outdoor areas in the back of the park, as Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land offer little to no coverage.
- Animal Kingdom: ⭐⭐
- Mostly outdoor attractions
- Many rides close in rain (Everest, Kali River Rapids, Kilimanjaro Safaris)
- Limited indoor options, with most attractions having outdoor queues.
Footwear Strategy: The Overlooked Essential
What Works:
- Water-resistant pool shoes (surprisingly popular!)
- Quick-drying sandals
- Water-friendly walking shoes, like Vessi and Crocs.
What to Avoid:
- Regular sneakers (they’ll stay wet forever)
- Boots (too hot with Florida humidity)
- Personal Experience: After a week in wet sandals during July, I learned the importance of proper footwear planning! Always bring two pairs, as you’ll want to have one drying while you’re wearing the other one.
What Happens When It Rains at Disney
Attractions
- Light rain: Most rides continue operating
- Heavy rain or lightning: Outdoor attractions close first
- Indoor rides: Usually continue unless severe weather
Entertainment
- Characters may move to covered areas
- Outdoor shows pause until weather improves
- Special Treat: Watch for the Rainy Day Character Cavalcade in Magic Kingdom – it’s a unique show featuring characters in rain gear!
Shopping & Dining
- Outdoor carts close first (use this as your early warning system!)
- Indoor restaurants and shops remain open
- Perfect time to explore indoor attractions or do some shopping
Article Continues Below
Quick Tips for Rainy Day Success
- Don’t try to “tough it out” – use rain as an opportunity to explore indoor activities
- Watch for closing outdoor carts as your storm warning
- Keep plastic bags handy for wet gear
- Plan indoor backup activities for afternoon storms
- Consider rainy days as a chance to experience unique events like the Rainy Day Character Cavalcade
Remember: A rainy day at Disney is still better than a sunny day anywhere else! With these tips, you’ll be prepared to make magical memories, rain or shine.