Planning a magical trip to Disney World can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the perfect time to visit. Factors such as weather, crowds, special events and ticket prices all play a role in determining the best time to go to Disney World. This post will take you through the considerations that will help you make the most of your adventure to the land where dreams come true.
Best Time to Go to Disney World Considering the Weather
Hot and Humid Months
In the throes of summer, from June to August, Cinderella might trade in her glass slippers for some flip-flops to stay cool. These months bring soaring temperatures, heavy humidity, and frequent thunderstorms. But hey, at least those sudden rain showers help cool things down and provide a little comic relief when catching a glimpse of a soaked Goofy dancing in the puddles.
Good Weather Months
The magical times between late February to May and late September to early December are much more hospitable, with moderate temperatures and less rainfall. In these blissful seasons, visitors are likelier to see Tinkerbell basking in the sun, enjoying a delightful afternoon breeze.
Hurricane Season
Even a happily-ever-after paradise has its share of storm clouds. Hurricanes and tropical storms occasionally affect Disney World from June through November. Despite the threat, hurricanes rarely impact Disney World, and the theme park is well-prepared to handle such weather.
Best Time to Visit Disney World Based on Crowd Levels and Peak Times
School Holidays and Breaks
What happens when children are released from the confinement of their classrooms? There is a swell in crowds and wait times across. As a wise traveler, be aware of these periods, as they are not the best time to go to Disney World:
- Spring and Summer Breaks: These are the seasons when the parks seem to bloom with cheerful visitors.
- Fall and Winter Breaks: As autumn leaves twirl through the air and winter snowflakes fall near the castle towers, crowds still find their way to Disney’s kingdoms during long weekends and holiday breaks.
Holiday Season
The Holiday Season is arguably the most magical and best time to go to Disney World! When the parks are transformed into a winter wonderland, it truly is a sight to behold. With seasonal events such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, it’s no surprise that the parks’ kingdoms are filled with guests. However, the magic of the season comes with the downside of dense crowds.
Only the bravest of adventurers dare to journey to Disney during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, when the parks reach their maximum capacity and the lines stretch longer than the Great Wall of Beast’s Castle.
Off-Season Advantages
The off-season in Disney World offers the advantages of fewer crowds, shorter wait times, and more opportunities to explore the kingdoms at a leisurely pace. Notable off-season windows to visit are as follows:
- January: Between the flurry of the holidays and the waves of marathon runners, a Disney-sized window of opportunity emerges with refreshing crowd levels and cooler temperatures.
- February (early): Before the influx of Spring Break tourists arrives, the first weeks of February offers lighter crowds, giving you the chance to ride Dumbo without the wait.
- May (early): With the blossoming flowers of spring, there’s a brief window of time when crowds are lighter, and Disney’s attractions align for a spellbinding experience.
Best Time to go to Disney World for Events, Celebrations, and Festivals.
Halloween and Fall Events
Get your trick or treat on with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, an annual event that transforms the Magic Kingdom into a ghostly gathering. The villains are unchained, and darkness reigns supreme, but fear not, fellow merrymakers, as ghoulishly good times await around every corner.
Christmas and Winter Events
Disney World completely transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Experience the magic of twinkling lights and snow-covered dreams during the Christmas and Winter Events. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a joyous jubilee where sugarplums dance in your head, and the echoes of enchanting carols fill the air.
Epcot Festivals
Epcot is a world without borders—a place where dreams and cultures collide in a dazzling display of global celebration. Pique your appetites for adventure at the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, where your taste buds can journey around the world. In spring, see the park bloom with vibrant colors during the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of the season with the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays.
Marathons and Races
Ready, set, Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo! Disney magic gives you wings to soar to new heights during the Marathons and Races! Venture to the finish line with RunDisney events, which include the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.
The best time to visit Disney World depends on which events you are most drawn to.
Ticket Prices, Discounts, and Reservations
Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Seasons
Disney World ticket prices vary according to the season. Early January through Presidents’ Day weekend is often seen as the most budget-friendly period for your magical adventure. Other notably less expensive times are in late August through early September or on non-holiday weekdays from October to December.
Weekday vs. Weekend Prices
During weekends, the ticket prices at Disney tend to increase, while they remain relatively stable during weekdays. Therefore, it is advisable to celebrate during weekdays to save money. The difference between low and high-priced tickets could save a family of four more than $200!
Parks and Attractions
Water Parks Schedule
Walt Disney World houses two amazing water parks: Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. These aquatic playgrounds entice swimmers and sunbathers alike with their refreshing pools and thrilling slides, so timing is key. As the scorching summer sun heats up the Magic Kingdom, many guests seek refuge in these watery oases. To avoid the heaviest crowds, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons when the sun’s rays are still warm enough to bask in but not strong enough to incite a mad dash to the nearest pool.
Planning Your Disney World Vacation
When to Avoid Going – Not the Best Time to Go to Disney World
| Month | Reason |
|---|---|
| Summer | Crowds, humidity, high temperatures |
| December | Holiday crowds (Unless you like the holidays there) |
| January | New Year’s visitors |
Ideal Trip Duration
Traversing the magical realms within Disney World requires a valiant effort and a mighty plan. To see the kingdom in all its splendor, we suggest a 5 to 7-day trip.
TLDR/ Frequently Asked Questions
The Best Time to Go to Disney to Avoid the Crowds?
To dodge the bustling crowds in 2023, consider planning your visit during off-peak times, such as weekdays in January, February, or early November.
The Best Time to Go to Disney World for Lowest Ticket Prices?
Savvy travelers can uncover the lowest ticket prices during the least popular travel months. Traditionally, you’ll find lower prices in January, February, September, and early November.
When’s the least sweltering time to visit Disney World?
The most comfortable climate in Disney is typically from October to late March, with sunny skies and moderate temperatures.
For more information on the best time to go to Disney World, Check out these sources:
Footnotes
- Undercovertourist: The Best Time to Go to Disney World in 2023 ↩
- ThepointsGuy: This is the best time to visit Disney World ↩
- Tripsavvy: The Best Time to Visit Disney World ↩
- Travelandleisure: Best Times to Go to Disney World for Fewer Crowds and Beautiful Weather ↩
- Undercovertourist: The Best Times to Go to Disney World in 2023 ↩
- Familytravelmagazine: What’s the Best Time to Visit Disney World? ↩
What is the best time to go to Disney World based on your past experiences? Let us know in the comments.
