Hey friends! Are you gearing up for a trip to Disney World? How exciting! We hope you have all of your days planned out, your dining reservations secured, and that you already know what Lightning Lane you’re gonna snag first.
If you are ready to go but a bit worried about the rain, we are here to help! We know you have probably seen those wild videos of just how heavy the rain can be in Disney World. It’s true. The rain can be a bit wild and unexpected at times but it shouldn’t ruin your trip if you come to the parks prepared. And hey, that’s what we’re here for, ya know? We’re going to be sharing our tips for what to do when it rains in Disney World, what rides you can rely on in the rain, what do if a ride is down, and what essentials you need to pack in order to be rainy day ready! Let’s get to it!
Rainy Day Tips for Disney World
Don’t Let It Ruin Your Day
Our biggest tip is to not let the rain ruin your day! For the most part, the crowds are going to really thin out when it rains. So if you stick it out, you will likely have the opportunity to enjoy lower wait times. The indoor merchandise areas will likely get really crowded and wait times might initially spike a bit. But we suggest heading towards an attraction with an indoor queue.
Shoes
If you aren’t planning to wear shoe covers in the rain, we suggest bringing a second pair or shoes or a second pair of socks. Wet socks are the worst and can really ruin a few hours of your day. So just throw another pair in your bag in case you find yourself caught in the rain! Flip Flops with a strap on the back are the best flip flop option in this situation so you don’t slip and slide around in the rain.
Walk-Up Waitlist
If you’re looking to grab a bite to eat in order to get out of the rain, take a look at the walk-up waitlist to see if any Table Service restaurants have availability. Then you can go and sit at a nice restaurant without needing an ADR.
Bring Rain Gear No Matter What
We know that rain gear can be a bit bulky and seem cumbersome. But bring it!! We are going to share some small items that are lightweight and won’t take up much space. It will more than likely rain on your trip and you don’t want to be caught in the middle of the parks with no rain gear at all. Ponchos in the parks are really expensive and they can sell out. So just be prepared ahead of time so you can still enjoy your day if and when it rains!
The Best Park for a Rain Day in Disney World
We think that Magic Kingdom is the best park for a rainy day simply because there are so many indoor attractions and locations. Even if quite a few shut down for lightning, there are still so many things to and places where you can go inside and eat. We also think that Magic Kingdom is great if you are wanting to leave the parks while it’s raining because you can quickly hop on the resort monorail and go check out some hotels while it rains!
We also think that Hollywood Studios is a great option because since there are fewer lines, wait times tend to be higher. Since rain will thin crowds, it might be a great opportunity to hop on rides with lower wait times.
What to Wear in Disney World in the Rain
Umbrella
We like to bring a compact umbrella with a case to the parks. They are tiny and don’t take up much room and we like that there is a case we can put the wet umbrella in so all of our stuff doesn’t get wet after a storm!
Rain Jacket
We like to bring a rain jacket instead of a poncho because we hate having to pull a wet poncho over our heads! Rain jackets are so nice and have buttons that make them easier to put on and to take off.
Shoe Covers
Shoe covers are another option. They are like little rain jackets for you feet! They zip up and protect your shoes so you don’t have soggy stinky feet all day after a storm!
Athletic Wear
We also like to wear athletic wear that dries quickly. So think athletic dresses, leggings, skirts, basketball shorts, etc! ODODOS is one of our favorite brands because their items are cute and trendy but also wear really well in the parks.
What Disney World Rides Close in the Rain/Lightning
Magic Kingdom
- Astro Orbiter
- The Barnstormer
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Liberty Square Riverboat
- The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
- Splash Mountain
- Swiss Family Treehouse Tom Sawyer Island
- Tomorrowland Speedway
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Jungle Cruise
Hollywood Studios
- Slinky Dog Dash
- Alien Swirling Saucers
Animal Kingdom
- Expedition Everest
- Gorilla Falls Trail,
- Kali River Rapids
EPCOT
- Test Track
Fireworks/Shows When It’s Raining in Disney World
Shows can be canceled due to high wind, rain, or lightning. Disney tends to do everything they can to make these shows happen so they may push the show time back in hopes they they can still make it happen. Fantasmic! is a show that does tend to be canceled outright when there’s bad weather. Parades can be canceled due to rain as well.
Does the Skyliner Close in the Rain?
The Skyliner will close in severe weather such as high wind and lightning. It is not going to close if it is just raining though.
Do Boats Run in the Rain?
Just like the Skyliner, boats will typically operate in the light rain. But if there is serious rain, lightning, or high wind, the boats will pause operations.
Things That Only Happen When It Rains in Disney World
There are a few things that only happens when it rain in Disney World! In Magic Kingdom, you may be able to experience the Rainy Day Cavalcade. This is a parade that Disney puts on when it rains instead of their standard parades.
Also, after a rain storm, you may see Disney World Cast Members making water art! This can happen on a sunny day too but will especially happen after a rainy day in the parks.