Southern California is known for beautiful weather, plenty of sun, and a misconception that we do not see rain. We do! Last year, 2019, was uncommonly rainy. Great for the lawns, not-so-great for Disney-days...or was it?
We are here to tell you how to do a Disneyland Resort day no matter what the weather looks like. We’ve been there, we’ve done that, we are here to share our wisdom!
First thing’s first, plan ahead. Make sure to look on your weather app before your trip. If you see some rain clouds and even something as low as 10% chance of rain, just assume that there will be at least drizzle randomly throughout the day. Consider bringing ponchos or raincoats, even if you don’t use them, it’s better to have them available in a locker just in case!
Also, layers! A rainy day could be cold and then all of a sudden become hot at a moment’s notice.We also think that collapsible umbrellas (the small kind, not the large ones as they are not allowed), spare socks, spare pants, and shoes that will not get moisture in them (comfortable boots) could make the day even more comfortable for you.
You may want to think about renting lockers for storage of these items, or use your stroller if you are bringing one. The lockers might cost a little extra (between $7-$15 depending upon the size), but it might be worth it if you plan to spend the entire day enjoying Disneyland on day where the weather is dreary.
While you’re in the parks, expect shorter wait-times as many locals avoid the outdoors in the rain. Hey, when Disneyland is in your backyard, you can always catch rides on another day. For those who brave the gray skies and puddles, here are a few things you might want to try! Rides that are primarily indoors at Disneyland park and are a great way to keep dry while enjoying your Disney day. In Adventureland, hop onto Indiana Jones before it goes under refurbishment. Mosey on over to New Orleans Square to take a cruise on Pirates of the caribbean (the line is completely outside though) or Haunted mansion (the line is also completely outside and it is currently under refurbishment). We like Critter Country for Winnie the Pooh and maybe a treat at Pooh’s Corner right after.
Later, take a visit across the park to Tomorrowland has plenty of attractions like Finding Nemo, Space Mountain, Star Tours, and Buzz Lightyear’s Astroblasters to keep you entertained. Another great land for indoor attractions is Fantasyland, with rides such as Small World, Pinocchio, Mr. Toad’s, Snow White (under NECESSARY refurbishment), or the Sleeping Beauty Castle Walk-Through.
ToonTown, neighbor to Fantasyland, has a covered line and indoor ride in Roger Rabbit’s Cartoon Spin.
If the wild West is what you seek, but hard rain on your face while you’re trying to enjoy a ride is what you’d like to avoid, Frontierland might not be on your agenda as there are no indoor rides.
Everyone who visits Disneyland for the first time, or for the first time in years, needs to check out Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. It’s an experience unlike any other. The rides are indoors and so are the major shops. The Marketplace area is outdoors, but it is fun to be in there in the rain.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Disneyland in the rain without riding rides. We cannot share a rainy day must-try list without including indoor entertainment. Heading back to Adventureland, check out the Tiki Room, where people still eat their Dole Whips on even the season’s coldest days.
Frontierland will entertain you with the shows going on at the Golden Horseshoe.
Fantasyfaire has plenty for you to do if you enjoy meeting princesses or watching the little shows playing under the gazebo (check the schedule on your Disneyland App).
ToonTown’s character houses are all indoors and have plenty to entertain your little ones while also keeping them dry.
Tomorrowland still has the Star Wars Launchbay despite the opening of Galaxy’s Edge, so check out some Star Wars memorabilia. Tomorrowland Theater movie previews are a great way to escape a rainstorm for about twenty minutes. Previews for Onward began Feb 7th.
On Mainstreet, check out Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln or the Cinema to keep yourself indoors.
If you plan to go to Disney’s California Adventure (DCA), the rides that are indoors are few, but still fun! Toy Story Midway Mania, Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, Monster’s Inc., Guardians of the Galaxy, and Soarin’ over the World give the coverage you need while still packing on the fun.
Entertainment indoors at DCA Animation Studio includes Turtle talk with Crush or taking an art class- learn how to draw a character! Beast’s library is where you will take a quiz to see which character you are most like. You can also have a meet and greet with Anna and Elsa. Philharmagic and the Frozen show are also great indoor activities to include in your day.
The most important message we want you to leave with after this episode is: Stay positive!
Expect that the lines will be extremely short (5-15 minutes for some of the fast moving, large-loading rides). Be okay with bad hair, no one cares and everyone is in the same spot at you. Think of a rainy day at Disney as a perfect opportunity to get those hot chili bread bowls and hot chocolates that always seem too hot to eat throughout the year. If you brought an extra change of clothes or raincoat, you can even go on outdoor rides in the rain and REALLY skip the line (where are my Splash Mountain, rain or shine, crew at!?)
Another note: Be careful! It’s still slippery out there, so watch your step!
Overall, being a rainy day doesn’t mean the day is ruined. It’s an opportunity to do Disney in a different way...in fact, it might be some of the best memories you make at the park!
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