Rainy Days: What to prioritize at Disney World

If you’re planning a trip to Disney World, no matter the time of year, you should know that rain is a guarantee. While the duration of the rain will fluctuate, it’s important to plan accordingly if you have any must-do rides or experiences. Here’s a list of what rides and experiences shut down during the rain, so you know what to prioritize at Disney World on rainy days:

Animal Kingdom

The following rides/experiences will shut down when it’s raining at Animal Kingdom, so make sure to plan accordingly:

The Boneyard

Discovery Island Trails

Expedition Everest

Gorilla Falls Trail

Kali River Rapids

Maharajah Jungle Trek

These will only close for lightning:

Flights of Wonder

Kilimanjaro Safaris

Primeval Whirl

TriceraTop Spin

Wildlife Express

Epcot

Since most of Epcot’s rides are found inside, not much closes down when it rains. The only ride that will close is Test Track, since some of it is outside.

So if you’re expecting a really rainy day (and it’s must-do park day), I’d suggest having that be your Epcot day.

Please note, the Skyliner will shut down when lightning is in the area, so you won’t be able to use that as your mode of transportation to/from Epcot.

Hollywood Studios

My second park choice to spend a rainy day in (only if your timing means you must spend a rainy day in a park) is Hollywood Studios. The following shows and experiences will close if there’s rain:

Beauty and the Beast

Fantasmic!

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

Jedi Training Academy: Trials of the Temple

Slink Dog Dash

The only ride that closes for lightning is:

Alien Swirling Saucers

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom will have several rides that go down if there’s bad weather. The ones that close for rain include:

Barnstormer

Tom Sawyer Island

Tomorrowland Speedway

However, there are several that close due to lightning:

Astro Orbiter

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Jungle Cruise

Liberty Belle Riverboat

The Magic Carpets of Aladdin

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

Splash Mountain

Swiss Family Treehouse

*Magic Kingdom has a special Rainy Day Cavalcade that goes down Main Street, U.S.A. when the parade is cancelled due to weather. However, this will not run if there’s lightning.

Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon

Both of Disney’s water parks will remain open in the rain; however, rides will close if there’s thunder or lightning in the area.

Should I still head to a park if rain is in the forecast?

Of course! There isn’t a bad day to go to Disney World. That being said, if there’s rain in the forecast for the entire day, I’d highly suggest going to Epcot. There is only one ride that shuts down, and there’s a lot more to do inside. I’ve also found that many people avoid the parks on rainy days, which means less people and shorter wait times for those that venture out. And since Disney World is open 365-days a year, that means you can enjoy festivals, decorations, and special occasions, no matter the weather (unless there’s a hurricane)!

What to bring to be prepared for inclement weather

Before I start my list of things you need to bring, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that these are good things to have with you regardless of the weather. I’ve been to Disney World and Florida many times, and it’s rained at some point almost every day. So what should I bring to Disney so I’m prepared? I’m glad you asked:

1. Rain Poncho

These are great to have on hand, and so easy to slip into a bag since they take up minimal space. You can get a cheap one from the store beforehand, or buy a more durable one once you get to Disney and keep it for a souvenir.

2. Stroller Rain Cover

During my last trip, I used this stroller rain cover many times. It tied down and meant that my toddler, the diaper bag, and anything that was being stored under the stroller remained dry. On a side note, if it looks like rain, go ahead and put the cover on your stroller. The one time I didn’t, I came out of “it’s a small world” to a flooded stroller. Not fun.

3. Shoes

Bringing a second pair of shoes (or wearing water resistant ones) is just a best practice for every Disney day. If your shoes get wet, due to the rain or a water ride, you’ll be thankful you have a second pair. This will help stave off the blisters that wet shoes and socks will cause. A great type to bring are Crocs; they’re lightweight, well cushioned, and water proof.

4. A change of clothes

While this one isn’t a necessity for many, it may be for those with kiddos who hate being wet. Also, depending on the temperature, this would be a better suggestion during the colder months.

5. Ziploc bags

Having a few different sizes of ziploc bags on hand is so helpful! These can help in so many ways, especially when it comes to wet clothes. They’re also very helpful when you want to keep water away from items, like wallets and electronics.

What were your must-haves when experiencing Disney World in the rain? Let us know in the comments.

Want to know more about Disney World’s transportation, including what closes down during storms? Find that information here.