Rain is somewhat unpredictable in Florida, hence if you’re making a day trip to Disney World, make sure to pack some waterproofs. After all, why let some wet weather ruin your day?
From clockwork afternoon thunderstorms to light summer drizzles, rain is a common occurrence in Florida. Therefore, to help you make the most out of your Disney trip, we have created this guide on the best things to do at the park when the skies open up.
Plus, if you know it’s going to rain in advance, then this guide is the perfect facility to help to plan around the wet weather. If you’re going in thunderstorm season, then you can certainly expect a drizzle here and there.
As such, when the rain becomes too much to the point it could potentially impact guests, the park managers make the executive decision to close down certain areas for safety reasons. This can sometimes leave people stuck with options on what to do instead.
Whether you’re strolling around the theme park or along the Disney property, don’t let some rain ruin your day. Instead, read this comprehensive guide on some ideas to make the most out of your day at Disney World.
When the outdoor attractions are closed, there is still plenty to do under the covers when it rains at Disney park, one such thing includes attending a show or a longer attraction.
In the Epcot area, you’ll find the American Adventure which takes approximately thirty minutes. In the Magic Kingdom, you can find the Carousel of Progress – which lasts 20 minutes –, as well as the Hall of Presidents – which takes 30 minutes.
Likewise, there is plenty going on in the Hollywood Studios, too. There are indoor shows such as the Frozen shows, as well as others in covered seating, including the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular.
If you’re looking to make the most out of your day, instead of seeing the shows when the weather is sunny, save them for when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
That way, you can enjoy all the outdoor rides when the sun is out, and enjoy the shows when it’s wet – the best of both worlds!
Throughout Disney World, there are various sit-down restaurants where you can enjoy all the benefits of table service and some delicious foods.
Here, you can easily spend a couple of hours filling your stomach while the weather pours outside. In each theme park, there are sit-down restaurants. Plus, there are many options in Disney Springs and resorts, too.
That being said, many of these restaurants require reservations, therefore, if you know it’s going to rain, it’s best to book a space as soon as possible.
In the rainy season, a lot of people like to book a late lunch to miss the afternoon rain – this is good to keep in mind.
Although, even if you haven’t booked a reservation, there is generally enough room for walk-ups. This is particularly true for the resorts and Disney Springs restaurants.
You can choose restaurants such as the spectacular Be Our Guest at Magic Kingdom, which is located in the Beast’s castle, or the Boma at Animal Kingdom Lodge, where you’ll find a buffer serving up delicious African and American foods.
The shopping and entertainment district, Disney Springs, is free to visit and contains various stores you can walk around and spend some money on – including the world’s largest Disney store, too.
Plus, there is a covered shopping area, too, which is known as the Marketplace, where you can go from shop to shop without having to worry about getting drenched.
In Disney World, one of the best places to visit for free attractions is Disney Springs. Plus, it makes for a must-visit location if you’re looking to do something outside of the theme park.
When it rains, one of the best things to do is visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Here, you can spot all the beautiful animals on the savanna from the comfort of warm and dry viewing locations.
Plus, there are also various Animal Kingdom Lodge activities you can enjoy on your visit, too. These include cookie decoration, food tastings, and cultural activities that kids of all ages can take part in.
Here, you have the opportunity to learn all about Africa and create something special (You might want to check out Facts About Timbuktu).
Moreover, one reason to visit alone would be the gorgeous lobby. Here, you can be mesmerized by the decorations until the rain passes.
If you’re lucky enough to visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge during the holidays, then you’ll get the chance to view the spectacular Christmas tree covered in decorations and ornaments.
There are some lines in Disney that are completely sheltered from the rain or partly covered to keep guests dry. Some notable examples include Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain.
These two examples are either entirely indoors or outdoors but with an overhead shelter, with only the sides exposed.
Once the rain starts pouring, these are great options to duck into, plus you don’t have to worry about the rain affecting these rides either.
In the Epcot area, one of the best places for this is Soarin. However, this doesn’t include Test Track, since there is an outdoor component that is affected once it begins to rain.
In Hollywood Studios, the majority of the line for the Tower of Terror and the Rock N Rollerecoast are indoors, as well as the Na’vi River Journey ride in the Animal Kingdom.
While this may mean you have to wait a long time since everyone else will have the same idea as you, this does mean you won’t have to stand out in potential torrential rain.
I don’t know about you, but we would certainly prefer to spend some extra time standing in a themed line as opposed to running through puddles.
Looking for a train ride of a lifetime? Then you need to catch the monorail. This travels from the Grand Floridian to the Contemporary resort, and then to Disney’s Polynesian Resort.
Thus, you’re able to travel between all three resorts without having to step foot out into the rain once.
Many people dedicate some of their time to the park for resort hopping since it is a great way to see the breathtaking lobbies of some of these iconic resorts. Plus, you can visit the shops and restaurants, too.
At each resort, there are many activities to take advantage of that are completely free of charge. If you’re looking to make some classic Disney memories, then the monorail is one of the best ways to achieve them.
One of the best resorts that are completely indoors is Disney’s Contemporary resort. This was a much more indoor focus, whereas Disney’s Polynesian and the Grand Floridian have a higher emphasis on outdoor walkways and activities.
Arguably, one of the best things to do at Disney World is watching the fireworks, but what happens when it’s raining? Are you supposed to stand outside in the pouring rain?
The answer is absolutely not!
When it’s raining but the fireworks are still taking place, instead of standing and waiting outdoors, you can head over from the Magic Kingdom to the Contemporary resort where you’ll find a walkway between the Bay Lake Tower and the main Contemporary tower.
Plus, you can also choose to take a boat or bus from the Magic Kingdom to the Contemporary if you don’t want to walk. During heavy rain, the bus may be the better option as opposed to the boat (which may not even be operating).
Once you reach the walkway, the glass sides provide you with protection from the rain and the most impressive view of the fireworks that you can find in the park.
Plus, they also flood in the music, therefore, you’re getting the whole fireworks experience without having to stand out in the rain.
If the weather has taken a turn for the worse, but you still want to make the most out of your day, then why not consider attending the Behind the Seeds tour at Epcot?
Here, you’ll be taken on a special private-led tour through the greenhouses at Epcot. Since this is naturally indoors, you don’t have to worry about the rain ruining your day.
Plus, it is reasonably priced per person, too. This could be considered a one-in-a-lifetime tour that everyone should take if they have the opportunity – taking you around the unique Disney growing and farming techniques.
If you’re a plant lover or simply a fan of all things Disney, then you aren’t going to want to miss this tour. It is a great opportunity to see where the food at the Epcot restaurants is grown.
Plus, you might even spot a few hidden Mickeys around the greenhouses, too.
Typically, most of the tours in Disney World cost a lot of money, plus they are outdoors, too. However, this is a great indoor option that won’t break the bank, either.
Another entertainment and shopping district with heaps to do is Disney’s Boardwalk. This is home to a range of different restaurants and bars that will keep you out of the rain and dry. Although, one of the most popular places to go is Jellyrolls.
On especially rainy nights, this is a great place to escape the horrible weather where you can listen to and enjoy the classic dueling piano experience and entertainment.
That being said, this is only available for those 21 and up. Therefore, more applicable to an adult’s trip to Disney World. Although, if you’re able, it makes for an enjoyable experience.
If you aren’t looking to grab a seat and sit down for a full meal, you can simply opt for a quick snack, drink, or small meal from one of the quick-service restaurants located around the park.
These are a great option to keep you out of the rain but you can enjoy a quick pick-me-up at the same time.
Each park contains plenty of these options, while some are located outdoors, they contain enough cover, or inside service, then you don’t have to worry about the rain.
Some different options include the Pinocchio Haus or Cosmic Rays at Magic Kingdom, the food court at the Land Pavilion in Epcot, the ABC Commissary at Hollywood Studios, or the Nomad Lounge at Animal Kingdom.
If the rain catches you off guard, these are some great options to keep you dry and entertained. Plus, you don’t need to worry about drying off or taking shelter – it is all there for you.
The best part? Down the Disney mobile app to gain access to the digital menu where you can order online and from your phone, therefore, once you get there, you can pick up your food, grab a table, and eat your food without having to stand in the line.
Final Thoughts
Disney World is one of the most magical places in the world… even in the rain. With the help of this guide, you’re sure to make the most of your trip whatever the weather.
Whether you’re looking to get your share of thrills or wind down at a cozy restaurant – there is something for everyone.
Hopefully, this guide has informed you of all the best things to do at Disney World when it rains.
Hi, my name is Alex Kallen and I love to travel. Ever since I could afford the ticket, I hopped on a plane and never looked back. I’ve made a living writing travel guides and blogging my experience all over the world.
I want to encourage and inspire others to travel around the US like I am. There’s no need to go on vacation overseas when there is an amazing land of opportunity right on your doorstep. Enjoy my website, I hope to see you out here one day.
