Disneyland Resort Closed Early Sunday But Rainy Days Still Best Days, Fans Say

DISNEYLAND, CA — Yes, it's true. Disneyland Resort was forced to close the theme parks early on Sunday, Jan. 22 due to the third of three powerful storms that howled across Orange County and southern California.

The park was back open Monday.

Citing weather conditions that did not allow staff to "provide guests with the best possible guest experience," Disneyland closed up shop at just after 8 p.m. Sunday.

The parks do occasionally close early due to inclement weather, but it is rare.

Here are some tips for enjoying a rainy day at the Disneyland Resort:

Gear up for the weather
Ponchos aren't just for those afraid of getting splashed at Splash Mountain!

"If the precipitation catches you by surprise, our Disneyland Resort merchandise locations have you covered … literally," Disneyland Resort content director Erin Glover said. "You can purchase ponchos and umbrellas in shops throughout both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks. If you don’t see them on the shelves, just ask a cast member."

Experience favorite indoor attractions
"Galactic explorers may escape to Star Wars Launch Bay or Hyperspace Mountain in Tomorrowland at Disneyland park. For a more relaxing respite from the rain, take a taxi through Monstropolis at Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! at Disney California Adventure park," she said.

Ride your favorite attractions … again and again
"Rainy days can mean more opportunities to ride your favorite attractions," Glover said.

Line waits are typically down, so hopping right back on your favorite ride is easiest when the weather is bad. And don't forget the water rides! Chances are, you're already wet. So hop on Grizzly Rapids or Splash Mountain without worrying about your hair.

Take advantage of the unique photo opportunities
"Sleeping Beauty Castle and Mickey’s Fun Wheel look lovely as ever when the skies are gray, and there are some great snapshots you can only take when it’s raining!" she said. "Try capturing a creative shot of Flo’s V8 Café neon sign reflected on the puddles in Cars Land."

Lights reflecting in the rain offer some amazing photo opportunities.

Sing along to a show

If it's pouring, head inside to one of the famed Disneyland or California Adventure live performances!

"Even in drizzly weather, the show will go on for some of our Disneyland Resort entertainment offerings," Grove said. "Kick back and dry off as The Laughing Stock Co. cracks jokes inside The Golden Horseshoe in Frontierland. At Disney California Adventure park, catch up with Mickey Mouse and friends in “Disney Junior – Live on Stage!”

Or, if you can weather the storm in between shows, with Anna and Elsa at Frozen, the Musical inside the Hyperion theater. Check the Disneyland Resort daily entertainment guide for show times.

Discover the details in the parks
Look for hidden gems throughout the park. With fewer crowds, you may be able to spot some.

"This is a great time to hunt for a hidden Mickey or enjoy the small delights scattered throughout the parks," Grove said.

Try picking up a party line telephones and listened in on a conversation inside the Market House in Disneyland Resort and see what the hubbub is all about.

"While exploring the Sorcerer’s Workshop at Disney California Adventure park, you will notice the portrait and rose inside the Beast’s Library mysteriously begin to change," Grove said. "Take a little extra time to discover some of the parks’ hidden delights."

What are your favorite ways to spend a rainy day at the Disneyland Resort?

Photo, courtesy Disneyland Photographer Paul Hiffmeyer.