The Best Ways to Prepare for and Spend a Rainy Day at Walt Disney World

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from all our magical vacations to Walt Disney World, it’s this: a rainy day at Walt Disney World doesn’t mean a ruined day. In fact, some of our favorite memories have been made under cloudy skies, ponchos flapping in the breeze, and heading into our favorite show while the rainstorm passes. Florida weather is unpredictable—one minute it’s sunny and steamy, and the next you’re in a full-on downpour. But with a little preparation and a sprinkle of Disney magic, your rainy day can turn into a pixie-dusted adventure!

Pack with Rain in Mind (Even If the Forecast Looks Clear)

Rain showers pop up often in Florida, especially in the afternoon. It’s always best to be ready! I always tuck these into our park bag, no matter the forecast:

• Ponchos or lightweight rain jackets (you’ll thank yourself for not buying the pricey ones in the parks!)
• Ziplock bags or waterproof pouches for phones, MagicBands, and other electronics
• A small towel or washcloth for wiping down wet seats or drying hands

Make a Rainy Day Plan with Indoor Attractions

In our experience traveling during the rainy summer months, the storms tend to come in the afternoons. This also times well with the heat of the day, so having an indoor plan is key. Some attractions are perfect for those soggy times. When the skies open up, head for:

• The Land Pavilion in EPCOT – Between Soarin’, Living with the Land, and Awesome Planet, you can easily spend over an hour here staying dry and having fun. Plus, you can grab something to eat at Sunshine Seasons!
• Carousel of Progress and Mickey’s PhilharMagic at Magic Kingdom – These are great places to sit down, stay dry, and take a break.
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends – Also in EPCOT, you can ride, explore the aquarium, and even catch a manatee sighting!
• Star Wars Launch Bay or Walt Disney Presents at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Plenty of space to explore without a drop of rain touching you.

PRO TIP: Use the My Disney Experience app to check wait times and mobile order food while you’re sheltering!

Embrace the Rain! Some Attractions Are Still Open

Yes, you might get a little wet—but as long as there’s no lightning, many rides keep operating. This is when you’ll find lower wait times for outdoor attractions like:

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (hey, you’re getting wet anyway!)
• Expedition Everest
• Slinky Dog Dash

Throw on your poncho, grab your backpack cover, and power through—you might even enjoy a more thrilling ride with fewer crowds!

Take a Resort Break

Rainy afternoons are a great time to explore your Walt Disney World Resort! The lobbies at Disney hotels are full of charm and activities. We love:

• Hidden Mickey hunts
• Arcades or community rooms with games and crafts
• Dining at a new-to-you resort restaurant
• Even just relaxing in the lobby with a snack (hello, Zebra Domes from Animal Kingdom Lodge!)
• Plus, we have even seen characters! Don’t be surprised if some of your favorites show up at your resort!

PRO TIP: If you’re staying on the Monorail loop, make a mini “Resort Hopping Tour” out of it—The Grand Floridian, Polynesian, and Contemporary all offer unique shops and dining options worth exploring.

Book a Last-Minute Dining Reservation or Show

Rainy weather can be the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy a longer meal. Use the My Disney Experience App to look for open dining reservations—or try a walk-up list for a table service restaurant you’ve been wanting to try! Some family-friendly favorites for rainy days:

• Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Beach Club
• The Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom
• 50s Prime Time Café at Hollywood Studios

Or, duck into a show like Festival of the Lion King or Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond—both are indoors, air-conditioned, and wonderfully entertaining for all ages.

Don’t Forget the Magic Moments

Some of the sweetest moments at Walt Disney World happen when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Watching the Rainy Day Cavalcade march down Main Street with characters waving from their rainproof floats? Pure magic. Seeing Cinderella Castle reflect in puddles as the storm passes? Picture perfect.

And best of all—crowds tend to thin out, so the parks can feel a little more relaxed.

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A little rain never ruined our fun—and it doesn’t have to ruin yours, either. With a good attitude, a poncho, and a bit of flexibility, your rainy day at Walt Disney World might just become a story your family tells forever!

What are your favorite ways to spend a rainy day in the parks? Let me know in the comments! —I love hearing your magical memories!