How to Make the Most of a Rainy Day at Disney World

Read Time: 5 minutes

Florida weather is famously unpredictable, and if you’re planning a Disney World trip, chances are you’ll run into a rainy afternoon or even a full day of storms. Don’t worry—rainy days at Disney can still be magical (and sometimes even better than sunny ones!). With the right mindset and a few tips, you’ll find shorter lines, cooler temperatures, and plenty of indoor fun to enjoy

1. Pack Smart for Rain

• Ponchos & Umbrellas: Disney sells ponchos, but bringing your own is cheaper. A lightweight poncho is perfect for hopping on and off rides.
• Quick-Dry Clothing & Shoes: Avoid heavy denim and consider wearing breathable fabrics. Pack extra socks in a ziplock bag for comfort.
• Waterproof Bags: Use a small waterproof pouch for your phone and electronics.

2. Take Advantage of Indoor Attractions

Many of Disney’s best attractions are indoors, making them perfect for stormy weather:

• Magic Kingdom: Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, It’s a Small World
• EPCOT: Soarin’, Spaceship Earth, The Seas with Nemo & Friends, Frozen Ever After
• Hollywood Studios: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Star Tours, Tower of Terror, Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
• Animal Kingdom: Avatar Flight of Passage, Dinosaur, Festival of the Lion King show

3. Explore Shows & Entertainment

Rainy days are perfect for catching live shows you may have otherwise skipped:

• Carousel of Progress (Magic Kingdom)
• Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage (Hollywood Studios)
• Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond! (Animal Kingdom)
• The American Adventure (EPCOT)

These shows keep you dry, entertained, and off your feet for a while.

4. Enjoy Resort Time

If the storms are steady, consider heading back to your Disney resort:

• Swim in the heated pools (as long as it’s not lightning).
• Join in on lobby games, crafts, or trivia—Disney resorts often host extra activities on rainy days.
• Grab a cozy spot with snacks and watch a Disney movie under cover.

5. Shop & Dine at Disney Springs

If the parks feel too soggy, Disney Springs offers a huge variety of shops and restaurants—many under cover. From World of Disney to The Lego Store, you can stay dry while enjoying unique experiences.

6. Embrace the Magic of Lighter Crowds

Rain tends to scare off some guests, which means:

• Shorter Wait Times: Popular rides often see their wait times drop during rainy stretches.
• Unique Photo Opportunities: Rain-soaked streets and cloudy skies make for moody, magical photos.
• A Fresh Perspective: Experiencing the parks in different weather can make your trip feel even more memorable.

Final Thoughts

Rain doesn’t have to ruin your Disney day—in fact, it can create some of the most magical memories of your trip. With the right prep and a flexible attitude, you’ll discover hidden gems, enjoy shorter lines, and experience Disney in a whole new way.

So grab that poncho, embrace the puddles, and let the stormy skies add to the adventure!