Rainy Day Magic

All-Weather Fun at Walt Disney World Resort

The Sunshine State is known, of course, for its sunshine, but did you know that Florida receives an average annual rainfall of 53 inches? Although our climate is fairly pleasant and uniform, the summer months frequently bring afternoon showers that threaten to dampen your good time.

If you happen to be visiting Walt Disney World, there is plenty of all-weather activities that assures guests are "showered" with fun throughout the Vacation Kingdom.

Here is how to make the most of a day that dear old Donald would consider "just ducky":

• Grab a poncho or umbrella and venture to Epcot, the Magic Kingdom, Disney-MGM Studios, or Disney's Animal Kingdom where many attractions and shows have indoor theaters or covered pavilions. Guests with a "waterproof mentality" discover the theme parks may be less crowded on wet-weather days.
• Discover a treasure trove of 300 shopping venues that make the 47-square-mile resort a merchandise mecca. There's everything from authentic wares at Epcot World Showcase to character and specialty merchandise at World of Disney at Downtown Disney Marketplace — the largest Disney character showplace anywhere.
• Hunt "Hidden Mickeys" just about anywhere you duck into to stay dry.
• Trade Disney pins with those around you, including Disney cast members. This bona fide craze is sweeping the Disney property. There are 40 "official" pin trading stations and 80 locations across the property that sell the pins.
• Design and "ride" gravity-defying roller coasters at DisneyQuest, an indoor – and weatherproof – interactive theme park at Downtown Disney West Side. This family-entertainment complex features high-tech rides, simulators, games and virtual-reality attractions.
• Catch the latest flick at the AMC 24 movie theater complex at Downtown Disney West Side. There's something on the silver screen to suit all ages.
• Be amazed at the artistry, athleticism and theatrics of La Nouba, a 90-minute original Cirque du Soleil® production at Downtown Disney West Side. (For ticket information, call 407-939-7600.)
• Enjoy the "fun wet" at one of Disney's water parks – Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon.
• Enjoy the downpour of fun in Rainforest Café at Downtown Disney Marketplace. This lush eatery is decorated with banyan trees, tropical fish and waterfalls, plus special effects recreate tropical storms with lightning and thunder. Not to worry... you stay nice and dry.
• Jump aboard the Disney transportation system and explore one of Disney's Resorts. Once there simply explore the unique architecture, art, shops, and a snack – or enjoy one of these great ideas:
  √ Get soaked in a Secret Garden bath at Disney's Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club which features pampering such as manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and more. (For reservations contact 407-824-2332.)
  √ Head to the gym and hire a personal trainer at nearly a dozen Disney resort health clubs that feature state-of-the-art fitness equipment. (Call 407-824-4321.)
  √ Tame your tresses at one of the several full-service hair salons located at select Disney resort hotels.

Follow in the footsteps of About.com's Orlando Guide, Theresa Johnston, on her Epcot Adventure in the Rain as she journals her visit in photos. She not only didn't let the rain stop her, she shares the rain advantages and disadvantages.