Today I visited the Magic Kingdom, despite the forecast calling for a rainy day. Yes, it rained. It's Florida in the middle of summer - it happens. EVERYDAY.
But I know there are many families who save up - sometimes for years! - to go to Walt Disney World and no one wants the weather to spoil their plans. So I'm here to help reassure you that there are a lot of fun things you can do here on a rainy day!
Yes, the song plays the entire ride... however I was more mesmerized by the colorful representations of countries from around the world that I tuned it out after a few continents! It was my first time getting to take in this iconic Disney experience! The mellow boat ride takes you across the globe and gives you some time to dry off. Be sure to get a FastPass+ set up for this ride to avoid the long wait line (some of it is under cover but not the very end... and it can get to be a long wait!) The FastPass+ line will get you indoors for shelter from the rain quicker.
All aboard for a relaxing ride along the riverway, passing the route of the Festival of Fantasy parade, Big Thunder Mountain's rollercoaster ride, as well as some other hidden gems along the way - things you wouldn't otherwise see walking through the park. There's plenty of shelter on this lovely old steamboat - mostly standing room, but there are several areas where you can sit down as well. The only parts that aren't really covered are the back of the top deck and the front of the bottom deck.
Take a winding ride with Pooh and pals on a blustery day - there will be a lot of twists and turns, bumps and twirls, just so you are warned! (I was expecting a calm ride and it definitely was not relaxing!) There is a refreshing blast of air here and there on the ride to dry you off too!
I'll admit that going on this ride was a first for me because I typically don't like anything creepy, scary, or dark. But I am slowly conquering some fears that had given me anxiety over the years - including large crowds and traveling on my own - which I've also been able to calm my nerves with these trips to Walt Disney World so far. I wandered the dark hallways of the mansion with the group of mortals in the FastPass+ line (also highly recommended to avoid the wait, even though the majority of this standby line waits under awnings) and was almost ready to grab the arm of a nearby dad when they put you in a room and all the doors close and the lights go out... but I restrained myself... and lived to tell about the experience at the end of the ride! Yes it's dark and creepy so I am not sure I would take small children on it (though there were plenty on my ride and no one screamed!) but that's just my personal opinion - you can base it on your child's personality and perceptions! Again, this is a longer ride so you can abandon the rainfall and enjoy the dry indoors on a stormy day!
Along with the activities above, there are plenty of other rides, character meet & greets, shops, and restaurants that will allow you to duck inside and stay out of the elements. Enjoy your Disney vacation - rain or shine - and stay dry! Have a magical day!