You planned your perfect trip down to the minute. Then, Florida remembered it was Florida and it suddenly feels like you're trying to part the Red Sea just to walk down Illumination Avenue. It doesn't look like the rain is stopping any time soon so you know you have to change your plans. Here are some ways to still have a fun-filled day at Universal Orlando Resort, even when the rain keeps on coming.
Did you know rainy days are actually one of my favorite times to be in the parks? As long as it's not pouring down and my shoes aren't soaked through yet, I love it! I can understand why most people wouldn't find this very amusing, but hear me out. Because most people don't want to brave the weather, the parks generally clear out quickly and wait times bottom out. If you're willing to suffer through some humidity and frizzy hair, coming to the parks on a rainy day can be very rewarding.
Please note: Due to the rain a few rides will not be operational. At Universal Studios Florida, this includes Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. At Islands of Adventure, this includes Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and The Incredible Hulk Coaster. The best way to stay up-to-date on ride closures is through the Universal Orlando app. Water taxis may also be closed depending on the amount of rain and other factors, such as thunder and lightning.
Try New Foods
Rainy days are great times to try all those foods you "never had time to stop and try." Stop by that kiosk that has the longest line and I can probably guess it will be at least half the normal length. Check your Universal Orlando mobile app and some hard to get reservations may have opened up.
I do have some favorite dine-in restaurants in the parks that I particularly enjoy on a rainy day. At Universal Studios Florida, this is Illumination's Minion Cafe on Illumination Avenue in Illumination's Minion Land. This restaurant replaced the long-standing Monsters Cafe, so it was met with lots of initial skepticism. Minion Cafe opened in the summer of 2023 with a very positive reception. I happened to be at Universal Studios Florida the day the restaurant had it's soft opening so my group was one of the first to try it (yes, it was a rainy day)! The variety of food had something for everyone in my group. Note: When looking for Minion Cafe on the interactive map or for mobile ordering on the Universal Orlando mobile app, you do have to search for "Illumination's Minion Cafe" instead of "Minion Cafe."
At Islands of Adventure, a great rainy day (who am I kidding, a fantastic any day restaurant) is Mythos Restaurant in The Lost Continent section of the park. Mythos has won Theme Park Insider's award for Best Theme Park Restaurant for ten years! When you try it, I promise you'll understand why. The Greek food here is great (but there is definitely more than that), along with a stunning interior and great views across the park. Fun fact: Look closely! You might find the trident of a certain Greek god hidden inside after being evicted from his attraction across the street.
Watch a New Show
Universal Studios Florida has plenty of indoor shows to choose from, including the Horror Makeup Show and The Bourne Stuntactular. These shows have run times of 20 to 30 minutes, so they can keep you dry from the rain for shorter periods of time. This is a great way to rest your feet as well.
Explore the Stores
While there are some outdoor merchandise kiosks that may close if the weather gets bad enough, there are so many indoor shops throughout both parks and in CityWalk.
While not always available, this is the perfect time to explore the tribute store if one is currently open. Tribute stores are dedicated to events, attractions, or anniversaries important to Universal. Previously, there have been Halloween Horror Nights tribute stores, Holiday tribute stores, and a Jurassic Park tribute store for the 30th anniversary of the first movie. Universal Studios Florida has two storefronts that rotate the location of the tribute store. One is in the New York section of the park, located in the "Macy's" storefront next to The Revenge of the Mummy attraction. The second possible location is on Hollywood Boulevard across the street from the Five & Dime store. The creators of the tribute stores hide so many easter eggs inside, making rainy days a perfect time to take a walk around.
Explore Hotels
This option may seem out of place, but there is so much to explore inside the hotels of Universal Orlando Resort! While you can only take some hotel entrances with a valid room key (such as a back entrance or an entrance through the pool area), the front doors are open during normal operating hours. If you have never stayed on property or have a hotel you just want to see the inside of, this is a great time to do so. Hotels have their own shops, bars, and food options. For example, you can check out the Galaxy Bowl at Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This bowling alley is set up with a nostalgic theme that can be fun for both kids and adults. You can also go across the street to Aventura Hotel and check out Bar 17 Bistro, the rooftop bar 17 stories above the ground. The Hard Rock Hotel features classic rock memorabilia throughout the hotel and one of my personal favorite ice cream spots, Emack & Bolio's Marketplace.
Don't Forget!
There are a few things you may want to suggest bringing with you on a rainy day in the parks that you wouldn't think of bringing otherwise. These include a rain jacket or poncho, an umbrella, and extra socks. If you really enjoy rainy days like me, I suggest some waterproof shoe covers. They look a little silly, but your feet will stay dry! I also suggest having an extra pair of shoes on stand-by in your hotel room for this rainy day scenario.
This is not an exhaustive list, and I encourage you to find more ways to best enjoy your rainy day! If you think of something not listed, leave it in the comments section for others to discover and discuss.
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