What To Do When It Rains At Disneyland- Ultimate Guide 2024!

You’re heading to the Disneyland Resort for you vacation when you check the weather forecast and instead of sunny days, you see bad weather! Is your trip ruined? Rain at Disneyland can definitely derail your plans, but don’t panic! Your trip isn’t ruined. Some of our best days at the Happiest Place on Earth have been rainy ones.

In this post, we’re going to talk all about what to do when it rains at Disneyland. I’ve got a few tips that will help you make the best of a rainy day at Disneyland! Keep an eye on the weather in the week or so leading up to your trip so you can know what to expect and be prepared for inclement weather.

Rain at Disneyland can mean less crowds and shorter wait times. That sounds amazing, right? It really is! A rainy day can actually be the best time to visit, if you’re prepared! Check out my rainy day essentials list on Amazon!

What To Do When It Rains At Disneyland- Must Have Supplies

If you’re heading for a rainy day at Disneyland, you’re going to need some supplies. Southern California weather can be unpredictable. Showing up unprepared is the quickest way to a miserable day and a ruined vacation. The good news is, I’ve been to the Disneyland Park in the rain quite a bit, so I know what you might need!

Ponchos, Rain Jackets or Rain Suits

Your typical dollar store poncho is not going to cut if on a rainy day at Disneyland. It’s just not. I recommend real ponchos or rain jackets. Of course, Disney sells ponchos in the parks, but you’ll save money if you buy them ahead of time.  If the rain is forecasted to be heavy or frequent, I highly recommend rain suits. They saved us on our last trip! We might have looked a little silly, but they kept us dry and warm. There were so many wet people around us asking us where we got our rain suits.  

WaterProof Shoes

You can’t be happy on a rainy day at Disneyland with wet feet. Rain boots, snow boots or anything waterproof for your feet is essential! Tennis shoes act like sponges in the rain. Your tennis shoes will be soaked through in minutes. Not fun! I like these waterproof shoe covers because they’re easy to throw in a backpack. 

 Or, Bring your boots and store them in a locker so you have them when you need them. You’ll be so happy you have them. Also, bring some extra socks to switch into if your boots are needed. Chances are you’ll be happy to have them!

Umbrella

When you’ve got rain at Disneyland, an umbrella becomes your trusty shield against the wet weather. While the park does sell umbrellas, it’s a good idea to bring your own. Compact and portable umbrellas that fit easily into a backpack are ideal for maneuvering through crowds and attractions.

Not only does an umbrella keep you dry, but it also serves multiple purposes during your rainy day adventure. I’ve found them to be very useful in unexpected ways, such as providing a quick cover over a table while enjoying a snack or shielding from occasional drizzles in outdoor queues.

Opt for umbrellas that are not only waterproof but also fold down to a manageable size. I like these umbrellas because they’re small and portable. 

Water Proof Bags

In the midst of a downpour at Disneyland, ensuring your belongings stay dry becomes a mission-critical task. Enter waterproof plastic bags – the unsung heroes of a rainy day adventure. These simple yet effective bags are a must-have addition to your rainy day arsenal.

Whether it’s Ziploc bags, garbage bags, or reusable plastic pouches, having a few waterproof bags in your backpack can save your electronics, valuables, and even spare clothing from the relentless rain. Even if you’re donning a poncho or rain suit, your backpack is likely to be exposed to the elements, making these bags an essential line of defense.

I recommend packing a variety of sizes to accommodate different items. Use smaller bags for your phone, wallet, and other electronics, and larger ones for clothing or shoes that may get soaked during the day. Double-bagging for extra protection is never a bad idea. I like to line my backpack with a garbage bag to keep everything inside dry on a rainy day at Disneyland.

Waterproof Stroller Cover

A soaking wet stroller will ruin your trip fast! Picture this: it’s a rainy day at Disneyland, and you’re determined to make the most of your magical day, but a soaking wet stroller threatens to put a damper on the experience. Enter the waterproof stroller cover, a simple yet indispensable accessory that ensures your child stays dry and content.

A basic plastic stroller cover may seem like a small investment, but its impact is significant. Unlike makeshift solutions involving ponchos or garbage bags, a proper stroller cover is designed to fit snugly, providing full protection against the rain. This means your child can continue to enjoy the attractions and sights without the discomfort of a wet seat.

The convenience doesn’t stop there – a waterproof stroller cover also shields your belongings stored in the stroller’s compartments from rain, sparing you the hassle of dealing with damp items throughout the day. Plus, it’s easy to fold and stow away when not in use, making it a practical addition to your park essentials.

Don’t underestimate the value of a dry and happy child on a rainy day at Disneyland. So, before you embark on your wet-weather adventure, make sure to invest in a proper waterproof stroller cover. Your little one will thank you, and you’ll be able to navigate the park with ease, regardless of the weather forecast.

 A simple plastic stroller cover will keep your stroller and your child dry and happy! Seriously, don’t skip this! 

Extra Socks

One of the cardinal rules for a successful rainy day at Disneyland: never underestimate the power of dry socks. As any seasoned Disney visitor will attest, wet feet can quickly turn a magical day into a soggy misadventure. That’s where the importance of packing extra socks shines through.

When rain boots or waterproof footwear are not enough, having an extra pair of socks tucked away in your backpack can be a literal game-changer. Whether you’re caught in an unexpected downpour or decide to brave the water rides, the ability to swap out soggy socks for fresh, dry ones can rejuvenate your spirits and keep you happily on your feet.

Stash your extra socks inside a garbage bag-lined backpack to ensure they stay dry even in the heaviest rain. Trust me; you’ll be grateful for this simple precaution when your feet need a quick refresh midday. Wet socks not only lead to discomfort but can also contribute to chafing and blisters, putting a damper on your overall experience.

So, before you step into the rainy enchantment of Disneyland, make room for a couple of extra pairs of socks in your backpack. Your feet will thank you.

Towels

If you’re visiting Disneyland in the rain, having a small towel or two in your park bag can be a true blessing. If you find yourself  facing damp seat, a towel can be incredibly helpful.

They become your seat-savers, helping to dry off benches and tables before you settle down for a snack or a break. The absorbent nature of towels also makes them ideal for wiping down damp stroller handles or any other surfaces you come into contact with during your rainy escapade.

Consider grabbing a couple of small towels from your hotel before you head to the park. These unassuming heroes may not have capes(although you could make them into capes…), but they certainly play a helpful role in maintaining comfort and joy during your wet and wonderful Disneyland adventure. 

​Pocket Blanket

The waterproof pocket blanket is not your average cover; it’s a multifunctional tool that I have found to be very helpful!  Unfolded, it serves as a water-resistant barrier against wet benches, ensuring you have a dry spot to sit and enjoy your treats or simply take a break. Its lightweight and foldable design make it a breeze to carry, fitting snugly into your backpack or pocket.

This versatile blanket isn’t just about keeping you dry; it also adds a layer of convenience. Instead of setting your food or belongings directly on wet surfaces, you can create a dry space wherever you go. Picnicking in the rain or enjoying a snack on a wet table becomes much easier with the pocket blanket.

Consider throwing one in your park bag. Its small size makes it easy to carry without adding bulk to your load. 

What Disneyland Attractions Will Be Open In The Rain?

What to do when it rains at Disneyland? Which rides will be open and which ones will be closed? Roller coasters and outdoor attractions like Dumbo the flying elephant and Mad Tea Party will be shut down in wet weather. Outdoor shows, ​fireworks and parades may be canceled. You can use the Disneyland app to see what’s open and what’s closed. Don’t worry, you can still have a good time in the rain! Wondering what to do when it rains at Disneyland? There’s plenty to do ! Here’s some of my ideas for indoor shows and indoor attractions.

Disneyland:

Enchanted Tiki Room

Indiana Jones Adventure

Haunted Mansion

Pirates of the Caribbean

Winnie the Pooh

Toontown Character houses

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Roger Rabbit’s spin cars

Small World

Monorail

Star Wars Launch Bay

Space Mountain

Star Tours

Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln

Main Street Cinema

Browse the shops on Main Street

Fantasy Faire Royal Theatre

California Adventure:

Soarin’ around the world

Little Mermaid

Toy Story

Monsters Inc.

Web Slingers

Guardians of the Galaxy 

Animation Academy

Sorcerer’s Workshop

Turtle Talk with Crush

Disney Junior dance party

Browse the shops on Buena Vista Street

Take A Break

Taking a break might be the perfect plan if you’re losing steam and wondering what to do when it rains at Disneyland. If the rain is especially heavy or there’s high winds, it might be a good idea to take a break at one of the indoor restaurants. 

If you notice rain in the forecast before your trip, see if you can snag a dining reservation. Getting out the rain for a couple of hours and eating delicious food is the best way to take a break in my opinion!

I love Cafe Orleans or Blue Bayou or Carnation Cafe are some of my favorite sit down restaurants at the theme park. If you’ll be in Disney California Adventure park, Carthay Circle or Lamplight Lounge is a great option.

Of course, there’s lots of quick service dining options as well! You can find info on my favorite quick service dining options at Disneyland here and California Adventure here.

You can always take a break back at your hotel. This might be a good options if it’s especially rainy and it will give you a chance to change into some dry clothes.

​Also, don’t forget to bring a good attitude! Having a good attitude will go a long way to making your rainy Disney day great! 

I hope my “what to do when it rains at Disneyland” suggestions have been helpful for you. Rain on your vacation can be a big deal if your not prepared. But, with a little planning you can still have a magical day!

I’ve got bunches of information on planning a Disneyland trip that will be so helpful for you! Start with my complete guide to visiting Disneyland. It’s a step-by-step guide for planning your vacation that will be helpful. Check out my top 10 Disneyland tips and my guide to when to visit Disneyland to help you pick the best time for your vacation! I’ve also got a post on rope dropping at Disneyland that’s very helpful.

Make sure you check out my downloadable touring plans if you’d like a step-by-step guide to the parks! 

I have a planning phone call that’s super popular! In this phone call, I can answer all of your Disneyland vacation questions and give you lots of tips and info tailored just to you and your group!

Make sure to check out my podcast for lots of Disney planning information! You can find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Just search for “Mix In Some Magic” Follow me on Instagram for lots of Disney tips and fun!