Hey Disney Vacationers! Planning a Disney World trip? Here’s something no one tells you until it’s too late: it rains. A lot. Especially in the summer. Orlando averages over 50 inches of rain per year. But rain doesn’t have to ruin your vacation. You just need to know how to pivot.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know: which rides stay open, what closes, how Lightning Lane Multi-Pass works in bad weather, where to go with kids, and how to turn a soggy day into a magical one.
Grab your poncho and let’s go splash in some puddles!
Quick Glance: What You’ll Learn About Disney World Rides in the Rain
- Rain happens often at Disney World. Especially in the summer. But it doesn’t have to ruin your day — as long as you know what stays open and what closes.
- Most indoor rides stay open. From Pirates of the Caribbean to Guardians of the Galaxy, many of Disney’s best attractions keep running even during a downpour.
- Some outdoor rides and shows shut down. Big Thunder Mountain, Test Track, Slinky Dog Dash, and parades may close during rain or lightning — but there are smart workarounds.
- Hollywood Studios is the best park for rainy weather. Most attractions are indoors, the layout is compact, and it has two brand-new indoor shows.
- Lightning Lane Multi-Pass still works when rides close. If weather cancels your booking, Disney will usually issue a flexible redemption pass so you can reschedule or switch.
- You’ll get tips. From surviving the rain with kids, full rain plan, and common rainy day mistakes
Best Disney World Rides That Stay Open in the Rain
When a shower hits (or a thunderstorm rolls through), these are the rides that typically keep operating. It’s a long list—because honestly, Disney does a great job of making sure the fun doesn’t stop when the skies open up.
| Park | Attractions That Stay Open in Rain |
|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | • Jungle Cruise • Swiss Family Treehouse • Enchanted Tiki Room • Pirates of the Caribbean • Country Bear Jamboree • Haunted Mansion • Hall of Presidents • it’s a Small World • Peter Pan’s Flight • Mickey’s PhilharMagic • Prince Charming’s Regal Carousel • Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid • Enchanted Tales with Belle • Mad Tea Party • Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh • TRON Lightcycle / Run • Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin • Carousel of Progress • Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor |
| EPCOT | • Soarin’ Around the World • Living with the Land • Awesome Planet • The Seas with Nemo & Friends • Moana: Journey of Water (may close during lightning) • Journey into Imagination with Figment • Pixar Short Films • Spaceship Earth • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind • Mission: SPACE • Gran Fiesta Tour • Frozen Ever After • Reflections of China • American Adventure • Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure • Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along • Canada Far and Wide |
| Hollywood Studios | • Tower of Terror • Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster • Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway • Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run • Star Tours • Toy Story Mania • Alien Swirling Saucers • Disney’s Villains: UnHappily Ever After • The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure • Frozen Sing-Along • Disney Junior on Stage • Star Wars Launch Bay • Walt Disney Presents: One Man’s Dream • Vacation Fun – An Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie |
| Animal Kingdom | • Dinosaur • Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond! • Festival of the Lion King • Avatar Flight of Passage • Na’vi River Journey |
What Usually Closes in the Rain?
Here are the rides most likely to close in wet weather—especially during thunderstorms or heavy downpours:
| Park | Attractions That Typically Close in Rain |
|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad • Astro Orbiter • Dumbo the Flying Elephant • Tomorrowland Speedway • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure • Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover (weather-dependent) |
| EPCOT | • Test Track (closes even during light rain) |
| Hollywood Studios | • Slinky Dog Dash • Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular |
| Animal Kingdom | • Expedition Everest • Kali River Rapids • Kilimanjaro Safaris (closure depends on storm severity) |
If it’s just a passing shower, closures are usually temporary. Keep checking the app and be ready to head over when things reopen.
What Happens to Lightning Lane Multi-Pass When It Rains?
If you have a Lightning Lane return time booked for an outdoor ride that closes due to rain or lightning, here’s what Disney does:
- You’ll be issued a “Multiple Experience” redemption pass inside your app.
- That pass can be used at the same attraction later—or at other select attractions.
- It won’t count against your Lightning Lane limit.
Pro tip: don’t use it too fast. Sometimes the ride reopens in 15–30 minutes, and you can still use your original reservation.
Rainy Day Tips for Families with Kids
Rain with kids at Disney World can go two ways: total meltdown or surprise adventure. Here’s how I keep it fun:
- Escape to a show. Frozen Sing-Along, Festival of the Lion King, and The Little Mermaid Musical are all great 20+ minute breaks.
- Use interactive queues. Dumbo has an indoor playground. Runaway Railway and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh have engaging queues too.
- Keep dry snacks and spare clothes handy. Pack an extra pair of socks and a small towel in your park bag.
- Don’t fight the puddles. Some of my kids’ best memories came from stomping through Main Street in crocs and ponchos.
What Else Gets Canceled When It Rains?
Rain doesn’t just affect rides. Here’s what else might be impacted:
- Parades & Fireworks: Festival of Fantasy and Happily Ever After are often delayed or canceled. Sometimes replaced with shorter “rainy day” versions.
- Outdoor shows: Indiana Jones and many dance parties shut down with even moderate rain.
- Character Meet & Greets: Outdoor locations may move indoors or go offline. Check your app for real-time updates.
Disney does not have a strict policy as it relates to rain and how outdoor experiences will be impacted. The majority of the time, they try to go forward whenever they can. However, sometimes they will need to adjust the length of the parade or show, or even cancel altogether. H
What To Do If It’s Going to Rain All Day
Some days, the forecast is clear: it’s going to rain… all day. Here’s how to pivot:
1. Choose the Right Park
Pick Hollywood Studios. It’s compact and loaded with indoor rides and shows. You’ll stay drier and waste less time walking in the rain. I’ve spent many rainy days bouncing around Hollywood Studios. Usually the crowds are a little lighter, and it turns out to be a fun. Just a little wetter.
2. Head to Disney Springs
It’s time to pivot. Sometimes you can plan for all the variables. When possible, move your off day from parks to a rainy day and head over to Disney Springs. There’s tons to do:
- Catch a movie at AMC Theater
- Go bowling at Splitsville
- Shop at World of Disney, Uniqlo, and the LEGO Store
- Dine at Homecomin’, The Boathouse, Jock Lindsey’s, or Wine Bar George
Disney Springs is a great place to ride out a rainy day at Disney World. A lot of the shops are close together, and there’s tons to experience. Plus, you can save that park ticket for a day later in your trip.
3. Visit Disney Character Warehouse
The outlet store at Vineland Premium Outlets has discounted park merchandise. It’s about 15–20 minutes from most resorts via Lyft or Uber.
4. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
Book a treatment at Senses Spa (available at Grand Floridian or Saratoga Springs). It’s a great way to recharge while waiting out the storm.
Rainy Day Resort Hopping
One of my favorite rainy-day hacks: jump on the monorail and explore the resorts.
Try the Magic Kingdom Resort Loop:
- Contemporary Resort: See the Mary Blair mural, shop at Fantasia Market, or visit Chef Mickey’s.
- Polynesian Village Resort: Order a Dole Whip, browse Moana Mercantile, or soak in the tropical vibes.
- Grand Floridian: Listen to live music, admire the Victorian details, and shop in air-conditioned comfort.
Other Resorts to Explore:
- Animal Kingdom Lodge: Watch giraffes and zebras from indoor viewing areas.
- Wilderness Lodge: Cozy up near the fireplace and enjoy rustic charm.
- Beach & Yacht Club: Play in the arcade or grab a lounge drink and relax indoors.
Pro Tips for Conquering Rain at Disney
- Bring ponchos—not umbrellas. Florida rain is usually accompanied by wind. Umbrellas turn inside out in seconds.
- Use connected stores to stay dry. Main Street U.S.A., and Hollywood Boulevard stores offer covered paths.
- Ignore the 12-hour forecast. It’s usually wrong. Pop-up storms are normal due to the high humidity. Always pack a poncho. I’ve fallen for this too many times!
- Keep your shoes dry. Bring spare socks or wear waterproof sandals when the forecast looks rough.
Final Thought: Rain Doesn’t Cancel the Magic
A rainy day at Disney isn’t a failure. It’s an opportunity. The crowds thin, the lines drop, and if you’re prepared—you’ll have a blast. Some of my favorite park memories happened while wearing a soggy poncho and eating Mickey pretzels in a thunderstorm.
So when the clouds roll in, don’t pack it in. Just adjust your plan, embrace the moment, and keep the fun going.
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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