What to do When it Rains on Your Disney World Vacation

You know the old saying "A rainy day at Disney World is better than a rainy day at home?" Well, it's true! If it's going to rain and I'm at Disney World it is certainly going to be a better day than if it rains and I'm stuck at home. But, you might wonder, what should/can we do when it rains on our vacation? The answer " anything you want!

What to do When it Rains on Your Disney World VacationWhat to do When it Rains on Your Disney World Vacation

Since we're knee deep into summer right now and summer means a good chance of rain showers (or pop-up thunderstorms) in Florida, it seems like a good time to talk about how you can still enjoy a soggy day (or afternoon) at the parks.

A couple things before we get started. First, when traveling to Disney World (at any time of year really) you'll want to pack ponchos and an umbrella. Don't buy ponchos at the parks as they'll cost about $10 each. Buy them at home (at a dollar store) and save your money for good souvenirs. Next, if you're wearing shoes that don't feel great when wet, be sure to bring some flip flops (or ... gasp!...Crocs) with you to the parks. Or at least bring dry socks.

Pack the ponchos!Pack the ponchos!

If you happen to be in the theme parks when the skies open up, head for an indoor attraction. Some of my favorites to escape the rain include Pirates of the Caribbean (also with the indoor queue!), it's a small world, Spaceship Earth, Carousel of Progress, Great Movie Ride, Star Tours, Living with the Land...you get the idea. Anywhere with an enclosed or covered queue is ideal. (Ellen's Energy Adventure is a good idea too).

But just remember: if it is lightning the outdoor attractions will likely close until the weather passes. On our last visit to the Magic Kingdom a thunderstorm struck at the EXACT time of our FastPasses for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. We received an immediate notice on My Disney Experience that our FastPasses had been extended until 11 p.m. that day.

Also note: the Walt Disney World Railroad won't run during a thunderstorm.

Carousel of Progress is a great rainy-day attractionCarousel of Progress is a great rainy-day attraction

An afternoon rain shower or storm is also a great time to take in a show at any of the parks! Some great choices include stopping by the American Adventure in Epcot and catching Voices of Liberty AND The American Adventure.

Other favorites include the CircleVision films at Epcot, Voyage of the Little Mermaid, and of course Mickey's PhilharMagic at the Magic Kingdom. Or you could head over to Disney Springs and take in a movie at the AMC Theaters.

Stop in to watch the Voices of Liberty, rain or shine!Stop in to watch the Voices of Liberty, rain or shine!

When it rains, eat! Or drink. Or, ya know, do both. Stop by La Cava in Epcot's Mexico Pavilion for drinks with chips and queso. Sunshine Seasons in The Land Pavilion is always a fun spot to hide out when it's raining. At the Magic Kingdom you could duck in at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe or Pinocchio's Village Haus. And if you're at Disney Springs when the skies open up there are so many delicious spots to grab a bite to eat or a drink and stay dry!

La Cava margaritas makes rainy days better!La Cava margaritas makes rainy days better!

If the rain doesn't bother you anyway, don that poncho and splash your way through the parks. Inevitably a rain shower will send some guests running for the exits which means you might have an hour or two in a less-crowded theme park (which is always awesome!). If you happen to find a few puddles in a non-crowded area, go ahead and make a small splash (just don't get anyone else wet...that's NOT fun or kind).

But, if the rain is going to dampen your day you can always head back to your resort and take an afternoon nap. There's just something about napping during the rain that is so relaxing. And then, you'll be all refreshed and ready to make a late night of it at the parks!

And sometimes, after the rain, a rainbow!And sometimes, after the rain, a rainbow!

Just remember, unless the forecast calls for an all-day, soaking rain you're probably just going to experience an afternoon shower or thunderstorm. If you're prepared to make alternative plans and have the means to stay dry-ish (ponchos, umbrellas) you can still have a magical day in the theme parks.

What do you do when it rains on your vacation?What do you do when it rains on your vacation?

What's your favorite way to beat the rain at Disney World? We'd love to hear your suggestions! Let us know in the comments.

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