A rainy day at Disney doesn’t have to mean no fun. You might be surprised, but there are so many things you can still do inside the parks when it’s raining. When traveling to Florida, it’s realistic to expect a few rain showers during your visit. Here are my tips for things you can do inside the Magic Kingdom when it rains:
Quick Rain Showers
If there are just a few drops, check out a variety of indoor attractions that are short like Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin or The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Pirates of the Caribbean, it’s a small world and The Haunted Mansion are also good bets when the rain clouds blow through. Grab a map and see what’s close to you to escape the rain drops.
The rain, rain, rain came down, down, down…
Sometimes the rain showers just don’t let up. That’s when you should stop by some of the longer shows and attractions to stay dry and still make the most of your day. Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress and Mickey’s PhilharMagic are great shows you can enjoy even when it’s raining. Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover, Walt Disney World Railroad and the Liberty Square Riverboat give you the best of both worlds – the fun of an attraction but you’re still able to stay dry. Hall of Presidents will also keep you dry (and has great covered stroller parking!) during a storm.
Characters
Many of the characters now meet in covered areas. Mickey and Tinker Bell meet in Town Square Theater near the front of the park, Anna, Elsa and the other princesses meet at Princess Fairytale Hall and some of the Fab 5 meet back in the Storybook Circus area at Pete’s Silly Sideshow. Use this time to see some characters you might not have made time for otherwise during your vacation. You won’t find characters outside during rain storms for safety reasons.
Shopping
There’s no shortage of things to buy while you’re at Disney. Instead of spending your sunny park time shopping, check out the shops while the weather is less than ideal. Main Street, U. S. A.’s Emporium is a great place to check out because the shops are all connected on each side of the street. Walking into the park, the left side of the street is shops with Casey’s Corner at the end of the line. Walking out, you’ll find a small covered area and the baby care center is to your left. On the right side of the street, you’ll have more options for food and drinks with the Confectionary, Starbucks, and Ghirardelli.
Dining
Another thing you can do to avoid the rain is stop for a snack or meal. Pinocchio’s Village Haus is always a fun spot. You can grab your meal and get a spot near the window to watch people riding it’s a small world. Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe is another fabulous spot to grab something to eat. Lots of food options and lots of seating mean it may be crowded but there’s lots of room for everyone escaping the weather. Be mindful of others looking for seats too. You won’t be the only ones with the idea to grab something to eat or drink so tables and chairs may be limited.
Parades and Fireworks
Cast Members will make the decision in regards to the parades and fireworks for the safety of the Cast Members and guests. Even when the full parade can’t take place, keep your eye out for a special parade. You might just spot your favorite character heading down Main Street. If you’re able to, head up to the train station in the Magic Kingdom when it rains. You can sit there and watch the rain while staring at Cinderella Castle. You’ll also be able to catch any parades or shows if they still happen despite the weather.
Pack Your Bag for the Magic Kingdom When it Rains
- Ponchos are helpful to keep you and your stroller dry. We buy the disposable ones from the dollar stores so we can just throw them away when we’re finished.
- Sweaters can keep you from getting chilly while watching a show or eating after you’ve gotten caught in the rain.
- Flip flops hardly take up any room in your park bag. Having them on hand to switch will keep your regular shoes dry while you’re splashing through the puddles. Be careful – some flip flops and sandals can be slippery.
- Keep a spare outfit for everyone in a zip top bag if rain’s in the forecast. It’ll save you from having to walk around wet or buy a new outfit inside the parks if you’re caught in a down pour.
- Extra zip top bags can help keep things dry when the rain starts. Store wallets, phones, and other items in them to keep them as dry as possible.
- Make sure to pack your patience. Not all of the attractions or transportation options will be operating during storms.
Do you have any rainy day tips you’d like to share? Where do you like to escape in the Magic Kingdom when it rains? Leave a comment below to let me know.
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