You've planned and planned. You've saved and saved. You imagine a trip where the skies are always blue and the sun is always shining. What happens if it rains on your parade, so to speak? Here are some ideas:
1. Make sure you pack some kind of rain protection.
It rains pretty often in Central Florida (almost daily in the summer months), so you're bound to get a little wet from time to time. If you bring ponchos, small umbrellas (don't hit anyone!), or rain jackets and hats, you can just keep on touring! I also recommend wearing sandals or bringing a change of shoes. Wet shoes can cause blisters, which will put an end to the fun more than rain will.
2. Experience indoor attractions and shows.
Each park has a variety. My favorites in Magic Kingdom are: Mickey's Philharmagic; Carousel of Progress, Monster's Inc Laugh Floor, Haunted Mansion. At Animal Kingdom, watch Festival of the Lion King or Finding Nemo: The Musical.
At EPCOT: Go in The Living Seas and Turtle Talk with Crush or The Land Pavilion for Soarin and Livin with the Land, or almost any pavilion in World Showcase (I love the one in Mexico which has a cute boat ride). At Hollywood Studios, you could try Star Tours or Rock n Roller Coaster or the Frozen Sing Along.
3. Get a bite to eat.
Find a Quick Service restaurant and grab a snack while the rain moves through. For indoor dining, I like Columbia Harbour House in Magic Kingdom; Sunshine Seasons in EPCOT; Pizzafari in Animal Kingdom and ABC Commissary in Hollywood Studios.
4. Shop!
Each park has lots of stores. The big ones accommodate a lot of people and it can get crowded during a rain storm, but it's a fun and dry way to pass the time. I especially like The Emporium in Magic Kingdom! Make it fun for kids by giving them a scavenger hunt/photo hunt.
5. Resort hop.
It's a lot of fun to check out the other resorts at Walt Disney World! You can shop, eat or look for Hidden Mickey's. Wilderness Lodge has a Hidden Mickey hunt you can do. Take the monorail for a spin!
Most of all, do NOT let a little rain ruin your vacation. Fun is in the eye of the beholder! Rain will blow over and you will be left with memories of the creative ways you spent the time with your friends and family.
Mary Graham is a Vacation Specialist and Annual Passholder. She has experienced many a rainy day at Walt Disney World and has not had a ruined trip yet! Contact her at mgraham@coastersandcastlestravel.com to plan your next magical vacation.