You might be familiar with the nuanced Disney “language.” If you know what WDW, MK, DAK, DHS, SDMT, and BTMR all mean, then you might be a Disney Adult. But while we Disney fans have our own language when referring to the Disney Parks, Cast Members also have their own secret language via codes.
Magic Kingdom Cast Member
Certain codes mean certain things that may affect your experience. We have a few previous Cast Members on our team who have filled us in on what a code 101 means, and we’re breaking it down for you and the things you should NEVER do when Disney World goes “101.”
A code 101 is when a ride goes down for bad weather such as lightning nearby. You might see a ride closed down on the My Disney Experience app or hear the announcement while you’re waiting in line that the ride is temporarily closed for bad weather. But before the Cast Members break the news to those in line, you might hear them saying “Code 101” to each other. This is so they can communicate amongst themselves before the official decision is made is announce it to guests.
Slinky Dog Dash will close for bad weather
If you overhear the Cast Members saying “Code 101,” you might want to start making the decision to stay in line or get out. But here are three things NOT to do when you hear “Code 101.”
Get Mad at Cast Members for Ride Closures
Cast Members are just doing their jobs and part of that is keeping you safe. Having guests riding around on a roller coaster in the middle of a thunderstorm is not a safe idea, so it’s for the best that the ride temporarily closes to keep everyone safe.
Tower of Terror
Instead of getting upset, try to be understanding, and be KIND to the Cast Members.
Think You’re Going To Shop, Eat, or Grab Starbucks Comfortably
If rides are closed for bad weather, then it’s very likely that most people are going to all have the same idea — go shopping, eating, or getting a Starbucks coffee. Shops, restaurants, and Starbucks are not going to be comfy places to be while there is bad weather in the area.
Crowds at the Emporium
This may be a good time to grab some snacks or souvenirs, but be prepared for longer lines and crowded walkways.
Crowd Around the Entrances to Stores and Restaurants
If you’re thinking you’ll just step out of line from your ride and out of the rain in the entrances to shops and restaurants, think again. Cast Members will promptly ask you to move out of the doorways.
Don’t crowd the doorways to the shops and restaurants
Having crowds of people in the doorways is likely a safety hazard in case of an emergency inside the building. So keep out of the way of the doorways, even if it means you’ll get wet.
Rainy day at Magic Kingdom
Code 101 is bad news in Disney World, but luckily the storm will pass (literally and figuratively). The bad weather will move out and things will be up and running in no time. While you’re waiting out the storm, be sure not to do the things above so you and everyone else can have an enjoyable time, despite the rain.
For more Disney World news, tips, and tricks, keep following DFB!
Our Tips and Tricks for Conquering Rainy Days in Disney World
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What do you like to do at Disney World when it’s raining? Let us know in the comments!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
When bad weather hits at WDW, we pull out our ponchos and unbrellas and head where we were headed anyway, provided that the attraction isn’t closed. Otherwise, we head for something open with a line that’s usually too long to wait in. Soarin’ at EPCOT is a great example with an indoor (if boring as all get out) queue. Bad weather means less crowded parks and shorter lines, even though fewer attractions maybe open. It’s also a good time to look for table service reservations or try for walk-up availability. People leave the parks when bad weather hits, canceling or skipping out on their reservations. Sure, we have to let our sneakers dry out the next day, but that’s why you pack at least two pairs of shoes.
A rainy February day at EPCOT means very few people. Never seen anyone melt‼️
Our go-to is “It’s a Small World”. Iconic ride featuring Mary Blair’s talents, out of the rain for 10-15 minutes, and by the time you are done, the rain might have passed. Bathrooms are close by, and so are some snacks. Easy-peasy.
It’s Florida in the summer – – – it’s gonna rain! Yeas ago , at FSU, I had a summer class that met from 1200 to 1255. The professor would end class at 1245 so we could get somewhere before the rain hit at 1 PM. Yes, the squalls coming in off the Gulf were that predictable.