An average family vacationing at Walt Disney World in Florida spends a lot of money to enjoy the many theme parks, resorts and other entertainment offerings. It can be disappointing and frustrating if it rains while you are on vacation. Here are ten tips to enjoying Walt Disney World when the weather does not cooperate with your plans.
1.) Walt Disney World ponchos can be purchased at all Disney owned resorts, theme parks, and Downtown Disney. Buy one for each member of your family. They are available at an affordable price, ($8.00 as of 8/2008) and come in adult and children’s sizes. If your poncho rips, you can take it to any location selling ponchos and they will replace it at no charge. These ponchos are made of a thick heavy material that does not rip easily, but that is a nice perk.
2.) Pack a bag to bring with you that includes a spare pair of socks and shoes for each member of your family. Nobody likes the feeling of wet feet. Don’t forget to pack a towel to bring along. Sometimes you just need to dry off.
3.) Get up early and arrive at the theme park of your choice about 15-30 minutes before the published opening time. The crowds are lighter first thing in the morning, and you will be able to experience all of the attractions with little wait times. This cuts down the total amount of time it will take you to experience the park, getting you out of the rain faster.
4.) Make an Advanced Dining Reservation for lunch at one of Disney’s many wonderful sit-down restaurants at the theme park, resort or entertainment destination of your choice. If you arrive at the opening time at the park, by noon you will be hungry and ready for a nice dry environment for dining.
5.) Check the daily Times Guide for the park you are visiting for the times of shows that you can experience. It is nice to get lost in the world of The Lion King, Finding Nemo, or The Beauty and the Beast to forget about the rain for a while.
6.) Take a ride on the monorail, and tour the three resorts it stops at, The Polynesian, The Grand Floridian, and The Contemporary Resort. Explore the lobby, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, or just wander around and take pictures.
7.) Consider a day at Disney Quest, the indoor theme park at Down Town Disney. There are virtual reality games, video games, and other experiences that are fun for the whole family including Virtual Space Mountain, where you can design your own roller coaster, and then ride it in a simulator.
8.) Consider a day shopping at the Down Town Disney area, with such offerings as The World of Disney, Once Upon a Toy, and the Virgin Mega-store, it is fun to browse or you can shop to your hearts delight.
9.) Go see the new movie you have been wanting to see at the AMC theater at Down Town Disney. With 24 screens, comfortable stadium seating, and an assortment of yummy treats to be purchased, this is an amazing way to spend that rainy day.
10.) Keep a good attitude. Don’t let the rain get you down. Walt Disney World offers so much to do for everyone from young to old, you really can find the fun in the rain if you look for it. Just keep an open mind and enjoy your trip!
