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[StarWarsGirl]

The rain doesn't seem to clear out the parks anymore.

Last August I went and there was this horrible storm. Just really bad, pouring too much to go anywhere. We were over at DHS. We just kept riding Star Tours over and over again. No wait. We went over and rode TofT and Rock n' Rollercoaster. No wait on each. Toy Story Mania? 120 minutes. The park was basically empty otherwise. But just that one ride...

 

[StarWarsGirl]

I am hoping to find out next year whether or not I like DL or WDW better.

As I have said, there are things that are great about DL and things that are great about WDW. You'll find highs and lows there just like in WDW. I hope you get to go; it's a ton of fun. I'm headed there Friday!

 

[Californian Elitist]

I am hoping to find out next year whether or not I like DL or WDW better.

That's great, Beth! In case you do go, make sure to stay offsite. Not worth all that money to stay onsite.

 

[StarWarsGirl]

That's great, Beth! In case you do go, make sure to stay offsite. Not worth all that money to stay onsite.

@bethymouse...Unless you are a DVC member using your points, in which case you can and should look into staying onsite. Staying onsite was great. Grand Californian especially is great because DCA is literally right outside and DLP is not far either. The first time we went, we stayed onsite because we had points to use or lose after buying into Bay Lake Tower, so staying onsite was definitely right. Worth a look if you own DVC.

 

[flynnibus]

I am hoping to find out next year whether or not I like DL or WDW better.

Just don't try to do DL like you do WDW. They are different types of vacations.. but for the in-park portion.. DLR should make you very happy

 

[bethymouse]

@bethymouse...Unless you are a DVC member using your points, in which case you can and should look into staying onsite. Staying onsite was great. Grand Californian especially is great because DCA is literally right outside and DLP is not far either. The first time we went, we stayed onsite because we had points to use or lose after buying into Bay Lake Tower, so staying onsite was definitely right. Worth a look if you own DVC.

I so wish we were DVC members. We just simply can't afford it.

 

[tare]

I did notice that alot of the cast members at DL are not very accommodating nor very helpful. That seems like a huge difference in what I'm used to at the world. But I still really love DL!!!!

 

[CaliforniaGal]

I'm from California too coming to Florida for the first time from October 7-17 and I WANT to experience at least one thunderstorm and warm rain since I've never experienced warm rain or close up thunder before. I think it would be exciting and different. Is October early enough to see at least one summer thunderstorm? I chose October for low crowds, less humidity but still guaranteed warm enough to swim. Mabye I should have chosen September instead?

I plan on wearing a swimsuit and shorts to run around in warm rain but would like advise on when to go in if thunder is close enough to be dangerous.

 

[Cosmic Commando]

I'm from California too coming to Florida for the first time from October 7-17 and I WANT to experience at least one thunderstorm and warm rain since I've never experienced warm rain or close up thunder before. I think it would be exciting and different. Is October early enough to see at least one summer thunderstorm? I chose October for low crowds, less humidity but still guaranteed warm enough to swim. Mabye I should have chosen September instead?

I plan on wearing a swimsuit and shorts to run around in warm rain but would like advise on when to go in if thunder is close enough to be dangerous.

Hold on... I will answer after I just take a second to digest this part a little bit:

I've never experienced warm rain or close up thunder before.

Okay and we're back. October is definitely after the "45 minutes of rain every afternoon" part of the year, but I'd say there's a good chance that you'll see at least one good storm in the ten days that you're out there. The weather in October is usually very nice. Some might even call it Anaheim-like.

 

[CaliforniaGal]

Hold on... I will answer after I just take a second to digest this part a little bit:




Okay and we're back. October is definitely after the "45 minutes of rain every afternoon" part of the year, but I'd say there's a good chance that you'll see at least one good storm in the ten days that you're out there. The weather in October is usually very nice. Some might even call it Anaheim-like.

So I may or may not get to see lightning at all. I wanted the full Florida experience with a loud thunderstorm without the oppressive humidity. Is September cooler than summer but with guaranteed thunder and lightning?
I probably would more of adrenalin rush from my first close up thunderstorm than all the rides put together. I I've only heard thunder from a distance maybe 5-10 times in my life. It only rains in winter in California and its thunderless. I was told the average Californian would freak out in terror upon being caught in a typical gulf coast thunderstorm and that makes me want to see the intensity firsthand. I'd want to try to walk around in it but want to do it safely. It's too late to change the trip dates cuz I made the reservations and have a friend joining me for part of the trip.

 

[Cosmic Commando]

So I may or may not get to see lightning at all. I wanted the full Florida experience with a loud thunderstorm without the oppressive humidity. Is September cooler than summer but with guaranteed thunder and lightning?
I probably would more of adrenalin rush from my first close up thunderstorm than all the rides put together. I I've only heard thunder from a distance maybe 5-10 times in my life. It only rains in winter in California and its thunderless. I was told the average Californian would freak out in terror upon being caught in a typical gulf coast thunderstorm and that makes me want to see the intensity firsthand. I'd want to try to walk around in it but want to do it safely. It's too late to change the trip dates cuz I made the reservations and have a friend joining me for part of the trip.

Are you going to have a rental car? You could kinda "chase" storms that way. I think you have a pretty good chance, especially if you are able to drive around a bit. Since it's too late to change your dates, don't let it bother you. After you check "Florida thunderstorm" off your list, are you going to come up to Buffalo to see Thundersnow next?

 

[CaliforniaGal]

Are you going to have a rental car? You could kinda "chase" storms that way. I think you have a pretty good chance, especially if you are able to drive around a bit. Since it's too late to change your dates, don't let it bother you. After you check "Florida thunderstorm" off your list, are you going to come up to Buffalo to see Thundersnow next?

I'm staying at a hotel with a shuttle service so I won't need the car for most of the time but we may rent a car to drive to Cocoa beach and Kennedy space center for a daytrip. I think I'll also use it to do a day of stormchasing if that's what it takes. My friend probably won't be interested in storm chasing so she can spend the day at the park while I storm chase. She's joining me from the 7th through the 13th and then I'm on my own from the 14th through the 17th and I hope she won't be mad at me for leaving her alone (I assume the thunder is more likely during my first week there since it's earlier in fall).

 

[CaliforniaGal]

Why are these people at a theme park during this storm????? I just don't get it. Their feet are nearly soaked and some of them are even wearing sandals. That is not safe, they could catch a cold. I feel really terrible for the CMs. I don't go out in the rain, especially to Disneyland. I can't count how many trips I've cancelled due to rain or even chances of rain.

I've got a few Fantasyland buddies doing the WDW CP right now and they're always talking about how much they want to come home. Now I know why.

I've also lived in California my whole life and am also used to no rain from May through October and only cold rain in winter. I heard the Florida rain is warm so walking around in Florida's heavy rain in a swimsuit is very comfortable like going swimming. I'm taking my first trip to Florida from October 7 to the 17th and plan on walking around in an intense thunderstorm in shorts, swimsuit, and crocs. For me it will be another thrill ride to see lightning and thunder close up. Sounds kinda scary, cool, and fun.

Been to Disneyland in the rain a couple of times (not heavy rain). Was fine wearing a raincoat. Our rain is a lot colder than Florida rain so I wouldn't want to be at Disneyland during heavy rain or get soaked feet. But if it's like 90 out, it could be fun. Especially at a water park when you get wet anyway.

 

[Californian Elitist]

I've also lived in California my whole life and am also used to no rain from May through October and only cold rain in winter. I heard the Florida rain is warm so walking around in Florida's heavy rain in a swimsuit is very comfortable like going swimming. I'm taking my first trip to Florida from October 7 to the 17th and plan on walking around in an intense thunderstorm in shorts, swimsuit, and crocs. For me it will be another thrill ride to see lightning and thunder close up. Sounds kinda scary, cool, and fun.

Been to Disneyland in the rain a couple of times (not heavy rain). Was fine wearing a raincoat. Our rain is a lot colder than Florida rain so I wouldn't want to be at Disneyland during heavy rain or get soaked feet. But if it's like 90 out, it could be fun. Especially at a water park when you get wet anyway.

Have fun. I don't like water and danger, so I sure as hell would not walk around in heavy rain and lightning.

I've been to Disneyland in the rain maybe three our four times, and that's only because I had to work. The only places I'll go to in the rain are the store, the mall and the movies. Rain puts a damper on my mood.

Speaking of warm rain and the heat, I don't like sunshowers. If its going to rain, let the sky be gray with no sun. If the sun is going to be out, it shouldn't be raining.

I'm not really a fan of water parks, either.

 

[CaliforniaGal]

Have fun. I don't like water and danger, so I sure as hell would not walk around in heavy rain and lightning.

I've been to Disneyland in the rain maybe three our four times, and that's only because I had to work. The only places I'll go to in the rain are the store, the mall and the movies. Rain puts a damper on my mood.

Speaking of warm rain and the heat, I don't like sunshowers. If its going to rain, let the sky be gray with no sun. If the sun is going to be out, it shouldn't be raining.

I'm not really a fan of water parks, either.

Have fun. I don't like water and danger, so I sure as hell would not walk around in heavy rain and lightning.

I've been to Disneyland in the rain maybe three our four times, and that's only because I had to work. The only places I'll go to in the rain are the store, the mall and the movies. Rain puts a damper on my mood.

Speaking of warm rain and the heat, I don't like sunshowers. If its going to rain, let the sky be gray with no sun. If the sun is going to be out, it shouldn't be raining.

I'm not really a fan of water parks, either.

I am the opposite of you: I am kinda bored with our lack of real weather even though I grew up here. I love to visit Lake Tahoe in winter to experience the snow and on the rare occasions we get a little thunder (I've heard thunder maybe 5-10 times in my life), I'm outside watching the flashes of lightning. In July, we got a few warm sprinkles (first time I can ever remember seeing any rain in July) and I was outside walking around in it and then jumped in my apartment complex's pool (had it to myself). I also love water parks, swimming, and anything water related. I have a season pass to Raging Waters (the water park here in San Jose) and go there 2-4 times a month when it's open. I am so looking forward to Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. I want to go down Summit Plummet badly.

 

[Californian Elitist]

I am the opposite of you: I am kinda bored with our lack of real weather even though I grew up here. I love to visit Lake Tahoe in winter to experience the snow and on the rare occasions we get a little thunder (I've heard thunder maybe 5-10 times in my life), I'm outside watching the flashes of lightning. In July, we got a few warm sprinkles (first time I can ever remember seeing any rain in July) and I was outside walking around in it and then jumped in my apartment complex's pool (had it to myself). I also love water parks, swimming, and anything water related. I have a season pass to Raging Waters (the water park here in San Jose) and go there 2-4 times a month when it's open. I am so looking forward to Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. I want to go down Summit Plummet badly.

California gets four seasons, depending on your location.

Maybe you should consider moving.

 

[CaliforniaGal]

California gets four seasons, depending on your location.

Maybe you should consider moving.

Nope; I'm staying in San Jose since my opportunities are best here and my family is in Sacramento so I can visit them on weekends easily. I can visit Lake Tahoe several times a winter to ski and experience snow. Now that I'm making enough money to afford vacations on my own, I'll probably take one trip to the East Coast each year; preferably early fall to avoid crowds. San Jose gets cooler and rainier winters than Southern California. I actually like the rain but not continuously. I look forward to the first rain of the fall but will get tired of it if we get more than 3 days of rain in a row or don't see the sun for several consecutive days. I do dislike extreme heat so that's why I would never visit Florida in July or August. October seems comfortably warm. I might not even get to experience a thunderstorm at all as it could be dry in October. I'd prefer temperatures in the low 80s by day and 60s to low 70s by night.

For you, I'd recommend that you'd visit Disney world in November or early December as that's their dry season and crowds are low (except for during Thanksgiving weekend).

 

[Californian Elitist]

Nope; I'm staying in San Jose since my opportunities are best here and my family is in Sacramento so I can visit them on weekends easily. I can visit Lake Tahoe several times a winter to ski and experience snow. Now that I'm making enough money to afford vacations on my own, I'll probably take one trip to the East Coast each year; preferably early fall to avoid crowds. San Jose gets cooler and rainier winters than Southern California. I actually like the rain but not continuously. I look forward to the first rain of the fall but will get tired of it if we get more than 3 days of rain in a row or don't see the sun for several consecutive days. I do dislike extreme heat so that's why I would never visit Florida in July or August. October seems comfortably warm. I might not even get to experience a thunderstorm at all as it could be dry in October. I'd prefer temperatures in the low 80s by day and 60s to low 70s by night.

For you, I'd recommend that you'd visit Disney world in November or early December as that's their dry season and crowds are low (except for during Thanksgiving weekend).

I'm planning on going in the October season. My friends here have suggested October, and I trust them.

I've been east (specifically New York) and I'm going back for Christmas. It's definitely different from California, but it's great. You'll have a blast.

 

[CaliforniaGal]

I'm planning on going in the October season. My friends here have suggested October, and I trust them.

I've been east (specifically New York) and I'm going back for Christmas. It's definitely different from California, but it's great. You'll have a blast.

I'm planning on going in the October season. My friends here have suggested October, and I trust them.

I've been east (specifically New York) and I'm going back for Christmas. It's definitely different from California, but it's great. You'll have a blast.

Internet research suggests that early October is still a hurricane risk for Florida. There is a small chance that a hurricane could hit while I'm there. Disney property seems pretty safe and well built although I'd trapped inside the hotel room during the hurricane. It would be a bit too much for me but I think I'd still be okay (not break down totally panicking) if I had food inside the hotel room during the hurricane. I also read there are back up generators so if power goes out, I'd still get power in the hotel room. Since you're adverse to any non-sunny and any chance of any eventful weather, maybe later October would be better for you.

Here are the weather stats for Orlando- rainfall drops dramatically from September to October so I assume most of the rain will be in early October- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando,_Florida#Climate


I now wish I had planned the trip for the last two weeks of September to increase my odds of experiencing thunderstorms but my friend can't get any time off in September so October it is.

 

[Californian Elitist]

Internet research suggests that early October is still a hurricane risk for Florida. There is a small chance that a hurricane could hit while I'm there. Disney property seems pretty safe and well built although I'd trapped inside the hotel room during the hurricane. It would be a bit too much for me but I think I'd still be okay (not break down totally panicking) if I had food inside the hotel room during the hurricane. I also read there are back up generators so if power goes out, I'd still get power in the hotel room. Since you're adverse to any non-sunny and any chance of any eventful weather, maybe later October would be better for you.

Here are the weather stats for Orlando- rainfall drops dramatically from September to October so I assume most of the rain will be in early October- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando,_Florida#Climate


I now wish I had planned the trip for the last two weeks of September to increase my odds of experiencing thunderstorms but my friend can't get any time off in September so October it is.

That's exactly when I'm planning on going. Late October.