Tip Tuesday: Dealing with the Rain (part 4)

Welcome to another Tip Tuesday!

This week, I wanted to continue my series about dealing with rain in the parks. This week, we're heading over to Disney's Animal Kingdom. This is a park where rain can be a blessing and a curse. It's a blessing because rain means a break from the oppressive heat that often can be found in this park. It's a curse because rain means increased humidity and a bit of a wet time in general.

Of all the parks, Animal Kingdom may be the toughest to stay somewhat dry yet still tour the parks during the rain. There are several patches of open space that guests have to traverse and several of the attractions, especially the trails are in the open air offering little in the way of cover.

There are a few ways to stay out of the rain or at least avoid a brief shower. The best (if you can time it right) is to catch Finding Nemo: The Musical near Dinoland USA. This show runs about 30 minutes (more like 45 minutes including the time it takes to seat guests). I'll talk more about Finding Nemo: The Musical in a future post - for now I'll just say it's not to be missed.

Of course, if it's raining, chances are you're wet. If you're wet, you might as well get really wet, so it wouldn't hurt to take a ride on the Kali River Rapids (it will close if there are thunderstorms in the area). Yes you'll likely get soaked, but if you're dripping wet already, what's the difference?

Another place to get out of the rain, albeit for a short while, is to stop by It's Tough to Be a Bug on Discovery Island. This 4D film runs a little less than 10 minutes and offers some fun extra effects. Keep in mind that small children may get scared in this attraction - especially when Hopper comes out.

If you're thinking of touring the Kilimanjaro Safaris during the rain, that's a great idea because the animals will likely be a bit more active, even if they may be trying to find cover. Some at AllEars.net say the Safaris are best in the rain because of the increased animal activity.

I will say one more thing about the rain at Animal Kingdom. When it's raining, AK can be at it's most peaceful and quiet. Many guests tend to avoid AK when it's raining, which means fewer crowds and fewer people on trails. The end result is you can find yourself nearly alone in the jungle listening to the rain and seeing the animals. You'd be surprised how much closer to nature you'll feel.

So once again, when it's raining, head to the parks!