Below, we’re sharing our Top Tips for Rainy Days at Disney World, to help you know how to turn every cloud into pixie dust. We’re including must-pack items, what to expect at different times of year and best places and rides to wait out the rain.

Know Before You Go: Understanding Weather at Walt Disney World

To those of you who are not familiar with Florida weather, just know it can be beautiful one minute, but in another, it can look like doomsday. No exaggeration. The sky can change color and you catch yourself in a torrential downpour.

We’re not talking about a light rain that will get your hair a bit damp. We’re talking rain like someone is throwing bucket after bucket of water on you – 20 seconds and you’ll be soaked through your clothes.

If you come prepared you’re going to have a much better trip than if you just wing it.

I come from the deep South, so we are accustomed to this weather. But for people who are not familiar with it, it can seem downright scary. You can guarantee in the summer months that there will usually be a rainstorm right around 3:00 pm every afternoon. And I mean every afternoon! It will usually go away as fast as it came, but you need to be prepared!

Before you go, it’s important to know what to expect at the time of year that you are travelling and pack the right rainy day essentials!

Our 8 Rainy Day Tips: Overview

1. Follow our packing list, including packing multiple cheap dollar-store ponchos for each person — they’re lightweight and disposable.
2. Check weather apps in the morning when you’re at the resort, then spend a few minutes each day reviewing your plans and making adjustments based on the weather.
3. Start days early with outdoor rides/characters, then switch to indoor attractions mid-day and use dining/shows to wait out rain.
4. Rent park entrance lockers ($10–$15/day) to stash wet clothes, dry outfits, or heavy bags.
5. Download or print off our list of ALL indoor rides and attractions so you’re not scrambling when the clouds roll in.
6. Plan late lunches or nap times around the worst times for rain – typically between 2-4pm.
7. Expect outdoor rides and transport (ferry/monorail) to pause for lightning/heavy rain; indoor rides surge in waits. Have alternate plans if you need transport during rainy seasons.
8. Know where fun indoor areas are – like the play area inside Dumbo’s tent at Magic Kingdom, the shop stalls in Mexico’s pyramid or aquarium in Epcot, etc. These are good options if you don’t want to wait in ride lines or grab a bite to eat during the rain.

Bonus tips:

• Pools close during heavy rain/lightning; plan naps or resort time around storms.
• Keep a positive attitude — puddles can be fun for kids, and rain often means shorter lines as other park goers head back to the resorts!

What Weather to Expect at Disney World

Here’s what to expect from Florida weather. Know that the rain is typically high-intensity but short-lived. Meaning it will create delays or interruptions to your plans, but the rain typically won’t last the whole day.

• Summer: Warm, humid, afternoon thunderstorms nearly every day.
• Fall & Spring: Slightly milder temps with occasional showers.
• Winter: Colder fronts can bring sustained rain and lower temps.

What to Pack for the Rain

Ponchos

First things first, go to the dollar store and stock up on those $1 rain ponchos. They are so cheap that you can throw them away and not worry about them for the rest of your trip. I say this because they do not dry out easily; you are forewarned. Again, learn from my mistakes. Throw that sucker away and pull out a new one.

Buy a lot of these $1 ponchos! They will not take up much space in your luggage. You may need another one for the second day of your vacation, so don’t forget to pack multiples for each family member. I usually pick up at least two every time I shop at The Dollar Tree, even if we aren’t planning a Disney World trip soon. (Who am I kidding?! We are always planning a Disney World trip!)

Rain Jackets

I also recommend purchasing a few really good-quality, thick ponchos or rain jackets for days when it doesn’t quit raining fast or when it rains all day. Our family isn’t afraid to brave Disney in the rain as long as we are armed with ponchos and rain boots. If you don’t have rain boots or shoes that dry quickly, buy some of those too.

Stroller Cover

Another good thing to purchase would be a stroller cover. Nothing is worse than a wet stroller or a fussy kid screaming because the rain is slapping them in the face as you hurry across the parking lot to get to your car or bus.  

Again, learn from my mistakes. This really did happen. Actually, one twin was laughing because he thought it was hilarious, and the other screamed. He was not a happy camper. If you rent a stroller, most companies will offer this as a complimentary add-on. Definitely, request a cover if it’s an option.

Also invest in a waterproof bag for your diapers and dry clothes. etc. No matter how much you cover the stroller, something is bound to still get wet. So secure those belongings in a waterproof Ziploc or camping bag.

Water-resistant Bag Covers

These can be used to cover your electronics, wallets, and other important items that you might have with you that you are worried about getting wet.

Extra Shoes/Water-Resistant Shoes

We always bring two pairs of shoes for everyone, just in case the first pair doesn’t dry overnight. Crocs are always good for kids when it’s raining in Disney – some people love Tevas because they dry out quickly, too.

I haven’t used shoe covers yet but I did buy some for our next trip and will report back!

Bonus Item: Portable Fan

If we’re driving, we always take a portable fan with us so we can dry out everything that got wet that day. It’s nice to have strollers and “stuff” that are completely dry the next day.

If you are flying this isn’t an option, but you can always use the blow dryer – I am definitely ordering these travel-sized shoe dryers based on a recommendation in our Disney FB group!

While on Your Vacation: Plan Day by Day

The planning doesn’t stop once you’re in Florida! Each morning it’s a good idea to check the weather apps and assess your plan for the day, making changes as needed.

Check the Weather Every Morning and Throughout the Day

Use real-time weather radar apps to track storms. Some recommended ones include:

• AccuWeather
• MyRadar
• The Weather Channel

Use the apps to help you decide how long the rain may last and whether you should stay inside for a while, or take time to grab food, etc. Or just take cover for a few minutes, let the rain pass by, and get back to your adventures.

Rainy Day Planning: Step-by-Step

If rain is forecast for your day, here is a quick look at how I would plan my agenda to try to make the most of the weather before it starts raining.

1. Start early: Mornings are usually driest.
2. Do outdoor rides and character meetings first: Get them out of the way before clouds roll in.
3. Switch to indoor attractions mid-day.
4. Ride shows + exhibits in the afternoon.
5. Use dining reservations to wait out the worst weather. Late lunches around 2pm or 3pm are perfectly timed.
6. Plan naps around weather. If you have little ones that still nap, head back to the resort or set yourself in a quiet indoor corner for those 3pm storms.
7. Finish with night entertainment if the rain subsides.

Know that this is just an idea for planning a day. Of course, with rain, there is never a guarantee for how long it will last. But this is a quick preview of how I would change up my day to maximize the fun despite the rain clouds.

Also, it’s important to note that pools will close in heavy rain and if there are any lightning warnings.

Bonus Checklist: Ultimate Rainy Day Park Bag

• Ponchos (for every member)
• Compact umbrella
• Waterproof backpack cover and stroller cover if applicable
• Comfortable quick-dry clothing
• Extra socks/shoes (aim for quick-drying shoes)
• Plastic zip bags or waterproof bags for electronics
• Quick-dry towels
• Charger for phone + portable battery

With all of this in your arsenal, you’re set for any weather scenario — and one step closer to enjoying Disney in the rain like a true pro.

Once You’re at the Park: How to Navigate Rainy Weather

Ok, so you’ve packed the rainy day essentials, you’ve planned your day around the weather at the resort – and now you’re at the parks watching the clouds roll in. Here’s what to expect, what indoor attractions are best to “ride out the storm” and a couple bonus tips.

What To Expect on Those Rainy Days in Disney World Parks

• Expect ride closures or delays.
  Indoor rides are usually fine, but outdoor rides will not operate during if there is a lightning warning or in heavy rain. For example, at Magic Kingdom you can expect attractions like Astro Orbiter, Big Thunder Mountain, Magic Carpets, Jungle Cruise and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train to close.
• Transportation might be limited.
  For instance, the Ferry boat to the Magic Kingdom parking lot will not run sometimes if lightning strikes nearby. Also, that goes for the monorail too! Safety comes first! Plus, I don’t know about you, I would rather not be on those at all during a lightning storm of any kind!
• Character meet-and-greets might get delayed or cancelled.
  Indoor greetings will be fine – though the line’s wait time will spike during rain – but outdoor meet and greets will be delayed or cancelled until the weather clears up. (So, you might be best to hit up the outdoor meet-and-greets earlier in the day rather than planning for an afternoon spot as they might get cancelled.)
• Indoor ride wait times may surge.
  If you don’t mind a longer wait time, have some activities planned or packed to keep entertaining while waiting in line. If a longer wait time is going to upset you, consider getting a lightning lane or hitting your must-do indoor rides first thing to avoid the crowds seeking shelter.
• A good attitude is always the best thing to bring to the parks!
  Come on people if it’s raining, chill out! You will get wet! I repeat you WILL get wet in some shape or fashion! On our trip to Disney World in May 2014, my two-year-olds were playing in puddles having a grand time while we were waiting for our fast pass time to approach. We were standing under a very thin piece of shelter with a couple of other people, but my boys could not get enough of the puddles. If they were happy, we were happy. They were having a great time, wet and all! Obviously, one of my boys got a little too close to the man under the shelter and got him wet on his leg and the man made a huge fuss over it! With or without my children’s help he still got wet! It was bound to happen!

Locker HACK! Did you know that all of the Walt Disney World parks have lockers for rent?

They’re located near the entrances (and some secondary spots), with small lockers at $10/day, large at $12/day, and jumbo ($15/day) only at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Lockers are self-service kiosks accepting cash, credit cards, MagicBand or gift cards.

Renting a locker is a great way to stash dry clothing for later if you don’t want to carry around a backpack all day – and it’s a great place to drop off heavy, wet clothing that you can pick up at the end of your park day. $10-15 to avoid having to leave the parks for a few hours to go back to the resort and change is a great hack for me!

Best Attractions to Ride on a Rainy Day

Here’s our top picks for where you should go when raindrops start falling – but check out the full list of all indoor rides and attractions (organized by park) in the image above or download the free printable list here.

Magic Kingdom

• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Haunted Mansion
• Peter Pan’s Flight

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

This park is mostly outdoors, so while you’ll be able to find a few things to do if the forecast is calling for a couple showers, if it’s looking like a very rainy day you might want to swap parks for the day to Epcot or Hollywood Studios which have more indoor rides and come back on a sunnier day.

• Flight of Passage.
• Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
• Na’vi River Journey.

EPCOT

• Guardians of the Galaxy.
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends – explore the massive aquarium afterward until the rain stops.
• Soarin’ Around the World.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
• Tower of Terror & Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster – side by side rides with mostly indoor queues.

Indoor Shows & Theaters

Disney parks feature incredible entertainment that doubles as rain shelters. If you are seeing that the rain will not be dissipating right away, consider seeing an indoor show to pass the time.

• Carousel of Progress (Magic Kingdom)
• The Hall of Presidents (Magic Kingdom)
• Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage (Hollywood Studios) – not indoors but covered.
• Festival of the Lion King (Animal Kingdom) – line is partially outdoors but the show is fully indoors. Great if the rain lines up with a showtime!

Ride or show queues may fill up during rain, but you’ll be dry and entertained.

Did you know that there are indoor play areas at Magic Kingdom and Epcot?

All four Walt Disney World parks have indoor play areas or indoor-adjacent play spaces for kids (typically ages 2–12), perfect for rainy days or breaks.

At Magic Kingdom, you can find the Dumbo the Flying Elephant Play Area inside of the big top tent beside the Dumbo ride. It’s an air-conditioned big-top tent queue with slides, climbing nets and separate toddler section; parents can relax with seating. Enter via standby line.

At Epcot, you have three indoor play options:

• Project Tomorrow / Advanced Training Lab: Interactive space-themed exhibits next to Mission: SPACE (exit access); games, simulations, video postcards.
• The “What If” Labs (ImageWorks): Sensory play stations in Imagination! Pavilion; Figment-themed exploration.
• SeaBase / Bruce’s Shark World: Small kid zone post-Nemo ride with shark photo ops, quizzes; aquarium views.

At Hollywood Studios, kids can jump around and dance during Disney Junior Play and Dance! shows (not a dedicated play area per se) and at Animal Kingdom, Rafiki’s Planet Watch Affection Section offers indoor animal petting and meeting areas.

For more planning tips, check out our Park-by-Park Rainy Day Guides:

If you have any more ideas or if I left something out, feel free to leave a comment! Also, check out our blogs on the best rides and attractions for rainy days at each park:

• Top 5 Attractions for Rainy Days at Magic Kingdom
• Attractions and Rides for Rainy Days at Epcot
• Top 5 Attractions and Rides for Rainy Days at Hollywood Studios
• Top 4 Attractions and Rides for Rainy Days at Animal Kingdom

What do you do on a rainy day in Disney World? Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss to tell us about your rainy day strategies and to talk about many other Disney related topics.

The post 8 Tips For Rainy Days In Disney World appeared first on WaltExpress.com.

Top 4 Attractions and Rides for Rainy Days at Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is an absolutely breathtaking park. It’s full of flora and fauna that some of us never dreamed of seeing before we ventured into this version of Disney magic. However, with all of that wide open space and gorgeous greenery comes very little shade and very few places to escape the rain storms. Never fear, because Walt Express is here to give you the inside scoop on a few places where you can stay dry while still enjoying the attractions that you paid good money to experience. Here are our top 4 attractions and rides for rainy days at Animal Kingdom.

1. Festival of the Lion King

Festival of the Lion King is hands down my family’s favorite show at all of Walt Disney World. We wouldn’t dream of going to Animal Kingdom without stopping to take in this visually stunning show. There are tumble monkeys, aerial artists, great animatronics and vocal talent galore in this spectacular show. This is also a great choice if you need to escape from the elements of nature for a bit because it is a 30 minute indoor show. Most showers in Orlando are short lived, so if you time this just right you might miss the rain altogether.

2. Finding Nemo-The Musical

If you loved the movie Finding Nemo or the sequel Finding Dory, then you absolutely must see this musical show at Animal Kingdom. This is one of the brightest and eye-catching shows in all of Walt Disney World. The show consists of Broadway style music and puppets galore. You aren’t likely to recognize many of the songs, because 14 brand new songs were created for this musical extravaganza. This show has magnificent lighting and stage effects that will really impress everyone in the family. If it’s raining outside, this show will have you captivated for a full 40 minutes. By the time you exit, the storms will have likely moved on and you can continue your day with just a few muddy puddles to jump in.

3. Conservation Station

The Conservation Station is part of the Rafiki’s Planet Watch are of Animal Kingdom. Take the Wildlife Express Train, a rustic train that will take you to a behind the scenes area. The Conservation Station is an inside area with beautiful mural art everywhere and a lot of really interesting, behind the scenes looks at animal care at the park. Once inside, you can watch informational movies, check out individual booths with some fun auditory features, and even meet characters like Rafiki. One of the best parts about this area is being able to check out the various exhibits and observation stations where the cast members and animal health teams work with the animals. They even have a veterinary schedule so you can stick around to see some really interesting procedures or surgeries. I don’t recommend trying to get out here during the rain, because there is a bit of a walk from the train. However, if you are already there, it’s a great place to hang out because there is so much to do and see.

4. It’s Tough To Be A Bug

If it’s pouring down when you arrive at Animal Kingdom, head straight for the Tree of Life. You can take cover under it’s branches and also head in for a great 3d show you won’t forget. Discover what it’s like to be a bug in It’s Tough To Be A Bug. This show is hosted by the Bug’s Life character Flik. You will learn all kinds of interesting facts about what it’s like to be a bug. If you have small children, this show can be a bit scary. We always hold the little ones in our lap even at the end of the show. There are some creepy, crawly surprises all the way through the show that may scare or gross out some adults too. Even with the scary its, our kids still love this one so don’t completely overlook it. It’s a great show to escape the rain or heat, so give this one a go if your children don’t scare easily.

Top 4 Attractions and Rides for Rainy Days at Animal Kingdom

Knowing which attractions and rides you can take in during a rain delay should be a part of every Disney World vacationer’s plans.  Don’t let the chance of rain scare you away from Animal Kingdom. Pack that poncho, wear a pair of quick dry shoes and head to the parks. Because rain or shine, with the right attitude, you will be having a good time at Animal Kingdom.

Tell us about your favorite thing to do when it rains at Hollywood Studios. Or head on over to Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

The post Top 4 Attractions and Rides for Rainy Days at Animal Kingdom appeared first on WaltExpress.com.

Hurricanes & Disney World: What you Need to Know!

You have planned for two years, saved money, and even packed. Now, instead of anxiously awaiting your big trip day, you are glued to the media outlets waiting on hurricane news! That is not cool at all, I know! Unfortunately, Disney World’s location means a few unpleasant weather problems. There is nothing we can do about that. BUT, we CAN be prepared and KNOW what to do!

I know you have read many articles and blogs about hurricanes at Disney World with lots of tips and tricks. Some have great information, others not so much. With hurricane season here, I have been asked numerous of times: “What if there is a hurricane when we are planning to visit Disney World or take our Disney Cruise this summer?”

Well, if you live in the deep south, hurricanes are always on our minds with the approach of Summer and Fall. We are way too familiar with hurricane preparations and we pray every year for our homes and families. So with that being said, of course it will be on your mind for your magical vacation too! Who wants their precious vacation ruined by one of those blasted hurricanes that they name after your late grandma or aunt and uncle?

Like we said before, we know quite a bit about hurricane preparations and what to do leading up to and even during a hurricane. We have also been one of the unlucky few who have had a Disney vacation planned when a hurricane hit Florida. Here are a few tips we have picked up over the years:

Hurricane Warnings

If there is a hurricane warning issued for Disney World and/or surrounding areas within 7 days of your vacation, you will be able to call and rearrange your plans without penalty. Please remember the State of Florida or any Gulf or Atlantic Coast states do not take these warnings lightly, so please listen. They often do evacuations. When they do so, some states will open up both sides of the interstate and allow cars to only move in a northward direction on both sides. If you are driving to Walt Disney World and Florida issues an evacuation, you need to be aware that this could happen.

Disney’s Policy

As mentioned before, Disney has a plan for hurricanes. If a hurricane warning is issued, Disney does allow for cancellations without penalty. However, those need to be called in by you or your travel agent. This is done on a case by case basis and you need to speak with a cast member to ensure notations are made for why you are cancelling. Find out exactly what Disney World has to say about hurricanes and what you NEED to do! DISNEY WORLD’S HURRICANE POLICY

Trip Insurance

Your best bet would be to get the trip insurance added to your vacation if you are traveling in the more active months. Also, watch the weather closely the week before you leave. Hurricanes are tracked for long periods and predictions are made to give everyone warning well in advance of possible landfall.  You will have plenty of time to decide what you need to do before your plane leaves or your vehicle leaves the driveway.

The most important thing to remember is to be smart and stay safe!  Remember, the above policies for Disney World, not airlines, off site hotels, rental cars, etc. That’s’ where (some) of your trip insurance comes in handy.

Hurricane Matthew

Hurricane Matthew is not playing very nice right now. Find out up to the minute information at the National Hurricane Center.

Everyone at Walt Express is sending lots of prayers and well wishes to everyone in this storm’s path.

Have you been in Disney World during a hurricane? Did it change your plans? Did you cancel your vacation? Let us know!

BTW, You may also like my article, Rainy Days in WDW!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

photo credit: blazerowner Gene Kelly – The Great Movie Ride via photopin (license)

The post Hurricanes & Disney World: What you Need to Know! appeared first on WaltExpress.com.