5 Ways to Enjoy a Rainy Day at Walt Disney World Resort

As I sit here watching Hurricane Irene pass me by, I can’t help but think what I would be doing in Walt Disney World during a bad storm.  So here are my top 5 inclement weather activities for Walt Disney World…

1. Explore the resorts

Walt Disney World resorts are full of amazing details, especially the deluxe resorts.  You can spend a whole day just seeing what these resorts have to offer.  Animal Kingdom Lodge is full of beautiful African artwork and artifacts.  While you’re there, make sure to visit the beautiful Victoria Falls Lounge.  It’s inarguably one of the best bars in the World. 

Another great resort to tour is the Wilderness Lodge.  Did you know that you can ask the concierge desk for a free hidden Mickey hunt?  It’s two pages long full of clues to find hidden Mickey’s all throughout the resort.  That’s a whole afternoon right there!  Better yet, pick up a copy of the Hidden Mickey Guide by Steve Barrett and go on a hunt of the resorts on the monorail loop!

2. Have a spa day

I don’t think this needs much explanation because a spa day is great way to spend any day!  Disney’s two main spas at the Grand Floridian Resort and Saratoga Springs Resort offer a variety of options for massages, facial and unique body treatments.  My preference of the two is at Saratoga Springs because I think the facility is much more relaxing.  I found the Grand Floridian to be a bit stuffy, but that may change after the renovation that is currently going on. 

What you may not know is that many of the resorts have small massage and fitness centers.  These are great if you are just looking for a massage or facial and not the whole spa experience.  The prices for the same services are also much cheaper at these locations.  These centers can be found at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Coronado Springs Resort, Boardwalk Village, Contemporary Resort, Yacht & Beach Club, and the Wilderness Lodge. 

For more information on the services, visit www.relaxedyet.com.

3. Take a DVC tour

Yes, you have to sit through a sales pitch, but there are some advantages to taking the tour.  Be the first to know new information on upcoming DVC resorts and take tours of many of the DVC properties many of us only dream of staying in.  Disney also provides everyone on the tour with beverages and ice cream!  I’ve also heard rumors of anytime FastPasses and Disney gift cards being handed out.  That’s worth the tour alone!

Tours are about two hours in length and can be booked an almost any resort or at the kiosks located around the parks.  DVC will even come pick you up!  And don’t worry, there is no obligation to buy.

4. Eat

Ok, well this is an easy one!  Is there a restaurant you’ve wanted to try, but have never had time because of your park touring schedule?  Well a rainy day is the perfect time to check out those spots off the beaten path.  There are so many dining options around the World, but there a couple of places that I think are the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

Turf Club at Saratoga Springs Resort has a wonderful covered outdoor patio.  It’s a great place to grab a drink, have a few appetizers, maybe a sandwich and watch the rain come down.  I recommend the BBQ pork tenderloin.  When you’re done with your meal, head inside and play a few games of pool.

Ever want to tackle the Kitchen Sink?  Head on over to Beaches & Cream at the Beach Club Resort and give it a go.  That’s sure to kill a few hours!

The Garden View Lounge at the Grand Floridian Resort offers a wonderful Afternoon Tea.  There are numerous options from basic scones and jam with your tea to shrimp, cheeses and champagne.  The prices are very reasonable and you get a ton of food!

5. Go to the parks!

It’s a known fact that when the weather is bad, the parks clear out.  Why not take advantage of it?!  You can walk on Space Mountain, ride Peter Pan’s flight numerous times, and dare I say ride Toy Story Mania without a FastPass!  Of course if the weather is severe, this is not advisable.  But if it’s just rain, grab a poncho and get out there!

Here is a great example of having fun while riding Expedition Everest in the rain!

Just because the weather is bad, doesn’t mean your vacation is ruined.  Walt Disney World has magic around every corner.  You just need to think out of the park box!

Written by WDWParkhopper Contributor Sarah McGovern

Sarah McGovern is married to Disney newbie Barry and mom to 2 kitties, Cleo and Neala. She has been visiting Walt Disney World for over 25 years and loves visiting with her family and friends. While at the World, you can usually find her either checking in to the Hollywood Tower Hotel, wandering World Showcase, or grabbing some sushi at California Grill.

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