Whether you visit Walt Disney World every year or you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, it’s important to think carefully about the season that you choose for your visit. While there’s no fool-proof time when the parks will be empty, there are some months that are distinctly better than others. There are also a number of other considerations to look into that can dramatically impact the way your vacation ultimately plays out.
1. Know the off seasons
There are some seasons that are typically less crowded than others. Mid-January to early March and mid-September to early October are some of the best times as far as crowds are concerned. Crowds taper off a bit between Halloween and Thanksgiving. You can expect moderate to heavy crowds around Spring Break and the summer holidays. The Winter Holidays are the busiest time of the year, with Christmas and New Year’s crowds that are sometimes so massive the parks will actually hit capacity and close.
Naturally, any time school is out of session, the lines get longer at Walt Disney World. Fortunately, not all schools have their holidays on the exact same schedule, which is why the summer and Spring Break crowds are spread out over a longer period. There is, however, only one Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, so you can see why the parks get so packed.
Fortunately, you don’t have to be at Walt Disney World on the holiday to enjoy themed activities. Down here, Halloween starts in the middle of September and Christmas takes over the second week of November, so if you want to attend a holiday party without the crowds, just come unseasonably early.
2. Check the weather report
It’s important to understand what kind of weather you’re getting into when you plan a Walt Disney World vacation. Guests often show up in January shocked to find it so cold, and there are plenty of summer visitors put off by the rain. If you’re interested in dry weather, plan to visit between October and May when the rain lets up. Hurricane season begins June 1 and lasts through November 30. The summer months in particular are predictably wet with afternoon showers that come almost every day like clockwork.
Average highs are in the lower 90s over the summer with lows in the 70s. Highs linger around the 70s for most of the winter with lows dipping into the 40s or 50s. On the rare occasion you can even spot tiny snow flurries in the air late at night, though they don’t stick. The record low for January in Orlando was just 19 degrees, though it’s been 30 years since the city has seen temperatures that cold. Check out the typical weather averages for the month of your visit for a good idea of what to expect.
3. Consider the Special Events Schedule
Always consider any and all special events taking place during your visit. For example, Epcot hosts the Food and Wine Festival and Flower and Garden Festival. Both events make Epcot much busier, but they’re worth dodging a few crowds for if you’re interested in the activities, bands, merchandise, and dining options that come along with them.
The Magic Kingdom closes early for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Very Merry Christmas Party. Again, this is great if you’re attending, but if you don’t plan to get a ticket and you do want to stay at Magic Kingdom late enough to see fireworks, you’ll need to avoid these parties.
Other events are less obvious but can still have a major impact on your visit. Walt Disney World hosts several marathons throughout the year. If you’re planning to participate, there are tons of great benefits you can enjoy by running a Disney marathon. However, if you’re not participating in the marathon, you’ll find heavier crowds in the parks and may even experience road closures, delays, and other minor hassles. The marathon schedule for 2015 includes:
- Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna: January 7-11, 2015
- Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals: February 19-22, 2015
- Expedition Everest Challenge: May 1-2, 2015
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend: November 6-7, 2015
4. Consider Construction
Construction has been heavier than usual in 2014 and the work will continue well into 2015, so there are some important things to consider before you make your reservations. In particular, you should check to make sure your favorite resort isn’t under construction. If it is, be prepared for a less-than-perfect view of certain areas. The Polynesian is currently experiencing extensive renovations to the lobby and pool area.
If you do go ahead and book a room at a hotel that’s under construction, you will usually find that you’re compensated for amenities that are lacking. Polynesian guests have received free water park admission during their stay since their pool is inaccessible. Depending on your vacation plans, a deal like this may actually be more appealing.
5. Look at the rehab schedule
All Walt Disney World attractions go through a regular rehab schedule. This does not mean that the ride is getting anything new or changing in any way. It’s simply a necessary way for the attractions to get the upkeep they need, which may include everything from improving ride operations to repainting scenery. You can usually find rehab schedules a few months ahead of time, so if you’re planning your vacation just a few weeks ahead of time, you’ll know which attractions are closed.
Since you will probably need to plan your vacation further ahead than that, this is something to add to your considerations later in the game. Use the rehab schedule to decide how much time to spend in each park and where you want to visit on a given day. One rehab you can count on each year is the annual maintenance on the water parks. There’s always one open, but in the winter and spring Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon take turns closing for about three months each. If you want to hit both water parks during your stay, plan for the summer months.
Keep these tips in mind as you plan your Walt Disney World vacation and you can pick the season that best suits your interests.
