A rainy day forecast can feel like a splash of cold water on your Disney vacation plans. But here is a secret known only to seasoned park-goers: rainy days are often the absolute best days to visit. When the clouds open up, Southern California locals stay home and casual tourists flee. The result? Drastically shorter lines, empty walkways, and a completely
unique atmosphere. With a little preparation and the right game plan, you can turn a stormy day into an unforgettable Disney adventure.
1. CONQUER THE CLASSIC “DARK RIDES”
DISNEYLAND PARK
PETER PAN’S FLIGHT
MR. TOAD’S WILD RIDE
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN MICKEY & MINNIE’S RUNAWAY RAILWAY
THE MONORAIL
DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY TOY STORY MANIA SOARIN’ ACROSS AMERICA THE LITTLE MERMAID UNDERSEA ADVENTURE
2. CAMP OUT INSIDE DCA’S ANIMATION BUILDING
A rainy day forecast can feel like a splash of cold water on your Disney vacation plans. But here is a secret known only to seasoned park-goers: rainy days are often the absolute best days to visit. When the clouds open up, Southern California locals stay home and casual tourists flee. The result? Drastically shorter lines, empty walkways, and a completely unique atmo- sphere. With a little preparation and the right game plan, you can turn a stormy day into an unforgettable Disney adventure.
3. CATCH A SHOW AND COZY UP
When the weather gets nasty, it’s time to trade the poncho for a theater seat. Disneyland handles rainy day entertainment beautifully.
- The Enchanted Tiki Room: Grab a Dole Whip (yes, even in the rain!) and head into this tropical indoor paradise. Ironically, the show features a simulated thunderstorm, making the actual rain outside feel like part of the special effects.
- Main Street Cinema: Step back in time and watch vintage Mickey Mouse shorts, including Steamboat Willie, on looping screens in a dry, quiet environment.
- Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln: Located right at the front of the park, this historic attraction offers a magnificent, warm lobby filled with rare Disney artwork and a patriotic, audio-animatronic theater show.
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic (DCA): A brilliant 3D animated musical show featuring Donald Duck that will keep you laughing and warm.
💡 Quick Survival Tips for the Rain
🧦 Pack Extra Socks: There is nothing more miserable than walking around in wet socks. Pack two extra pairs in a ziplock bag inside your backpack. You'll thank yourself by 3:00 PM.
🎒 The Backpack Garbage Bag Trick: Line the inside of your backpack with a plastic trash bag before packing your belongings. Disney bags are water-resist- ant, but a heavy downpour will eventually soak through the zippers.
🛏️ Bring a Small Hand Towel: Keep a small towel from your hotel room handy to wipe down wet ride seats or outdoor chairs before you sit down.
Put on a poncho and wear comfortable waterproof shoes.
