As much as we love perfect weather, it does rain at Walt Disney World! Don’t let the weather stop your fun! Fortunately, Disney is well-prepared for inclement weather. There are many indoor attractions scattered throughout the parks. From classic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion in Magic Kingdom to the shows like Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! in Animal Kingdom, there’s no shortage of entertainment under cover. The resorts won’t disappoint in the rain either. Here are some ideas to make the most of a rainy day at Walt Disney World!
Tour the Monorail Resorts
The monorail pickup and drop off points are covered so you won’t get wet! The Monorail Resorts are The Contemporary Resort, Polynesian Village Resort and The Grand Floridian Resort. Step off of the monorail and visit Bayview Gifts at the Contemporary , get a Dole Whip treat at Pineapple Lanai or drinks at a Trader Sam’s at the Polynesian Village Resort or stop by the Grand Floridian’s front desk to see if they have any fun and free activities such as a scavenger hunt!
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to tour additional resorts, just remember that if there is lightning the Skyliner and boat transportation may close temporarily until the bad weather has passed!
Don’t miss the Rainy Day parade in the Magic Kingdom!
This special parade only comes out when there is rain and the standard parade can’t go on! It is a shorter, impromptu parade featuring fewer floats and characters but it will still entertain you despite the weather.
Visit the Parks
Crowds will likely be lower and many of the queues are indoors. Just be sure to take a poncho or umbrella as you go around the park. Epcot and Magic Kingdom are my favorite parks on a rainy day! In Epcot, you can ride Living With The Land and Soarin’, watch Awesome Plant and grab a bite to eat all without stepping foot outside! Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom has many indoor attractions such as Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin, The People Mover, The Carousel of Progress and Space Mountain all within close proximity and some overhead coverage to move from attraction to attraction.
If you’re looking to pass the time and be entertained consider a show like Festival of the Lion King in Animal Kingdom or take a trip around the world by walking World Showcase at Epcot. The World Showcase pavilions in Epcot offer immersive experiences indoors. Whether it’s strolling through the streets of France in Impressions de France or taking a cinematic journey across Canada in O Canada!, guests can stay dry while exploring world cultures. In World Showcase you can see several movies that are part pavilions such as Canada, France, America, China and more!
Explore the various shops and boutiques throughout the parks. You can shop for souvenirs, apparel, and unique Disney merchandise while staying dry. The theme park’s main gift shops are large and a great way to spend some time while the rain passes.
Stand in a Long Queue
Remember how I said many of the queues are covered – why not wait for the rain to pass while waiting for an attraction that often has a long wait time like Flight of Passage or Rise of the Resistance.
Eat
Use the rainy day as an opportunity to enjoy some delicious meals at Walt Disney World’s restaurants. If you don’t have a reservation, simply check the app and see if there are any open table service dining reservations for today and surprise yourself with a restaurant that you may not have chosen otherwise! If you’re in a park be sure to consider resort dining. Just walk to the front of the park and take a bus to a resort or selected restaurant! We’ve found some of our favorite restaurants this way!
Stay at Your Resort
Disney resorts also offer a haven from the rain. Guests can cozy up in their hotel rooms or explore the various amenities available, from arcade games and swimming pools to spa treatments and character dining experiences. There’s still plenty of magic to experience at your resort indoors without sitting in your room! Here are some suggestions for things to do at Disney resorts during rainy weather:
Swim
If there’s no lightning and the weather is warm, take time to enjoy your resort pool! The pools remain open as long as there is no lightning or thunder in the area. You’re already wet so splashing away can’t be more fun. We once had Stormalong Bay at Yacht & Beach Club to ourselves in a rainstorm!
Arcades
Most Disney resorts have arcades with a variety of games for all ages and skill levels. There is a selection of video games, pinball machines, and other arcade-style entertainment. These arcades are usually located in or near the resort’s main building or recreational area.
Fitness Centers
In case you haven’t walked enough and you’re staying at a Deluxe Resort or Coronado Springs you can work off that Mickey Bar in the resort’s fitness center.
Spa Services
Make a reservation and treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment at various resorts to unwind.
Resort Activities
Many Disney resorts offer a range of activities and entertainment for guests, including:
- Crafts and Activities: Join in on scheduled craft sessions or other indoor activities organized by the resort.
- Character Meet and Greets: Some resorts have character meet and greets in indoor locations usually near the lobby.
- Board Games and Activities: Some resorts offer board games, puzzles, and other tabletop activities for guests to enjoy. These may be available for borrowing from the resort’s front desk or recreation area.
So while a rainy day may alter your plans at Walt Disney World, it’s also an opportunity to discover new experiences and create unforgettable memories with a different kind of magic. What do you like to do in the rain? Do you go back to your room and rest or enjoy the rain as part of your park days? Click here to connect with Michele or to request a free quote.
