Could Hurricane Season be the Best Time to Go to Disney World?

Call us crazy, but there might be some benefits to heading to the eye of this summer’s Central Florida storms. With hurricane season kicking off on June 1 and stretching to November 30, it’s almost impossible to avoid severe storms at “The Most Magical Place on Earth” during your upcoming Disney World vacation.

With school out of session, a lighter workload, and EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival in full force, there are plenty of reasons to head to Mickey’s stomping grounds for the summer and early fall. That said, the promise of rain poncho-required weather doesn’t have many Disney Guests singin’ in the rain.

Related: Here’s What Happened to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Animals During Hurricane Ian

Like many elements of a well-executed Disney vacation, navigating hurricane season takes a bit of luck and a lot of strategy. Here’s the good news: the Imagineers are savvy, and Disney World is designed to be severe-weather friendly.

Let’s dive into the top three reasons hurricane season might be the best time for your Walt Disney World vacation.

1. People Scatter from the Parks

Unless it’s Hurricane Ian or Hurricane Irma, there’s no reason to escape Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, or Hollywood Studios when the weather takes a turn. Most hurricanes are downgraded to tropical storms, so if you arrive prepared with a rain poncho and some extra socks, you can enjoy the less-crowded Park time. It’s not part of the Disney World hurricane policy to shut down all the rides as soon as a hurricane warning is issued. Classic attractions like Mickey’s Philharmagic, Pirates of the Caribbean, and ​​Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid are all ideal rainy-day options. Soarin’, Living with the Land, Star Tours, and DINOSAUR are great spots to breeze through the queues when hurricane-like rains drench the Disney Parks.

2. Resorts Make It Fun

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge are just two examples of Disney Resorts designed to accommodate Guests during severe weather spells. They are forts, after all! Not only are Disney’s Resorts built to withstand the elements, but they’re also attractions in their own right. If you’re stuck inside any of Disney’s themed Resorts, the Cast Members typically lighten the mood with character meet-and-greets and activities for kiddos. Some of the best Disney memories could be made while seeking shelter in your Resort.

3. They Can Be a Built-In Break

A majority of hurricane-season storms in Disney World are fleeting. After a rope-drop marathon in the hot sun, it could be a welcome break to reset at a restaurant or return to the Resort for a nap. If a rainstorm hits and it looks like a passing one, you can seek shelter under Cinderella Castle and explore the mosaics while you rest your feet.

Related: Severe Weather Delays Orlando Flights

With lower wait times, Resort explorations, and rejuvenating afternoons, severe weather doesn’t need to rain on your Disney World parade. If you pack accordingly, stay flexible, and embrace the showers, a rainy Park (or two) might be a Disney wish come true.