Tips for Rain at Walt Disney World

Rain at Walt Disney World, the Happiest Place on Earth – seems like an oxymoron doesn’t it? But, it does happen and there’s not a whole lot you can do about it. On our one and only trip to the Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida, we encountered not just rain at Disney, but a cold downpour. The paths were flooded, our clothes were soaked and, yet, we still managed to have the time of our lives. Maybe it was the Disney magic or, perhaps, just our optimistic nature, but we truly made the most of it. Here’s some tips so you can, too.

1. Don’t panic. Florida rain showers are usually fast moving. Many times the rain leaves as soon as it arrives. But, be sure to watch the Weather Channel so you can prepare if needed.

2. Bring the right gear. If rain is in the forecast the day(s) you plan to visit Walt Disney World, stop at a super-store and buy umbrellas and rain coats or ponchos (or order ahead of time). The options in the park are branded and cost a lot, but the main reason to purchase them beforehand is that you may need them for your walk from your car to the tram to the park. By the time you arrive you may already be wet. We bought the mouse-themed ponchos in the park just as the rain started to come down. They kept our torsos dry but by the end the kids’ sleeves were soaked and a few of ours were shredded from taking them on-off to eat, use restroom, etc. I did wish I had brought real rain coats and boots for all of us.

3. If you are visiting during winter, wear warm clothes. Orlando may be equated with sunshine, but winter is still winter. We ended up purchasing hats and gloves for the entire clan.

4. Wear the best shoes you can. My husband and I wore tennis shoes (remember it’s a lot of walking), but I observed many people slipping in flip-flops or walking in soaked Ugg boots. They were miserable and voicing their discomfort.

5. Rent a covered stroller for the kids. We ended up taking this option and we would do it again. The kids’ heads and bodies were protected from the rain as we dashed between attractions and we didn’t have to worry about them walking in the puddles. (Good call, honey.)

6. Still plan to ride. The rides don’t shut down in the rain and while the ride lines might be shorter than a beautiful, sunny day, there will still be lines. It’s a Small World and other covered-line rides become particularly popular. The rides outdoor will have wet seats. I’ve heard that bringing a towel can be handy, but honestly some of the seat were drenched and the only thing saving my jeans was my stylish poncho.

7. Meet the characters. This ended up being the highlight of our day. To be honest, I had no plans to stand in line to meet the Disney characters, as our kids are thrill seekers and I envisioned us being on rides all day. But when we encountered the Fairy Godmother and saw their eyes light up, I ran to closest gift shop and purchased two autograph books and pens. Then, during the worst of the weather we ducked into meet the princesses, the fairies, and Mickey and Minnie.

8. Keep a good attitude. Because my husband and I kept high spirits, the kids did, too. As we were leaving Disney’s Magic Kingdom, the rain gone and the fireworks exploding behind us, my daughter said, “Mommy that was the best day ever!”

And it was!

Looking for an amazing off-site location for extended friends/family? Try this Orlando vacation home that we stayed at with our friends from YTravelBlog. There is plenty to do on a rainy day – or a sunny day! It’s affordable luxury for large groups, and super close to the parks!



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How to keep the magic alive at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, even if the skies open in a downpour.

12 Comments on "Tips for Rain at Walt Disney World"

  1. Keeping an eye on the weather can definitely prevent a wet, miserable day! During our last trip to Universal, we noticed it growing dark and menacing shortly after lunch. I had a radio interview to tape anyway that afternoon, so we left the park, rode over to our hotel, and the moment we were inside, it poured – for almost two hours! I taped my interview and the moment the rain stopped, we rode back over to the park. Everyone was leaving – SOAKED! We were dry, refreshed, and had the best time in a park not even half full!

  2. And bring a second pair of closed-toe shoes! I’m in an Orlando hotel as I type this…with washcloths and hand towels stuffed into my soaking wet shoes! Forecast for tomorrow? Rain.

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  4. Tristan Coleman | September 29, 2010 at 1:26 pm |

    i just wish that there is always sunny weather because i love the sun~*;

  5. Minos Beach Art Hotel | March 25, 2011 at 10:35 am |

    I also love the sun and this is great blog to find the best hot places hehe

  6. I think that a key point is to not panic. The weather in Florida is differnent form most places. Yes, sometimes it will rain for hours on end – but not usually. Normal Florida afternoon showers end quickly, clear up, and then life is good again.

  7. Great tips for visiting Disney World in the rain. We have been very fortunate in that we have only run into truly rainy weather at Disney World once. Unfortunately, it came the night of the Pirate and Princess Party when my younger daughter was 4. She was all decked out in her pink Princess Aurora gown and was so looking forward to the party. We had to cover her up with a rain poncho but she couldn’t have cared less – she strutted around like she was a princess on her way to the ball.

  8. I agree that meeting the characters was the funnest part of Disney World! I cherish the picture with Micky and Minnie that I took LAST year. 🙂

    The great thing about amusement parks during the rain are those short ride lines! And riding roller coasters in the rain is an interesting experience in itself. I’m glad your family enjoyed themselves. Disney World is such a magical place.

  9. My parents took me to Disney World in France as a child and I remember the experience vividly. There’s something so magical about immersing a child in a version of fantasy and make-believe. Loved all your tips for a rainy day.

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