Disney World Crowds in 2012
2012 CROWDS AT WALT DISNEY WORLD
In the image below you’ll find Walt Disney World 2012 crowd forecasts. (Click it to enlarge it; when open, click it again.)
(For the 2013 Crowd Calendar, click here)
Crowd levels are ranked by week from 1-11 in the following way:
1: Lowest of the year
2: Lower
3: Low
5: Moderate-minus
6: Moderate
7: Moderate-plus
9: High
10: Higher
11: Highest
HOW TO INTERPRET THE 2012 DISNEY WORLD CROWD CALENDAR
The “low crowd” weeks–those rated 1-3–represent the only crowd levels a family visiting for the first time, and unsure if it will ever return, should consider.
However, lower crowds, especially lowest crowds, do not always mean a better week. The lowest weeks are low for a reason–typically because they are in the hurricane or the ride closure seasons. See this for recommended 2012 weeks for first time visitors, and for the 2012 Week Picker, see this.
The “moderate crowd” weeks–those rated 5-7–have crowd levels I would not recommend to first time visitors. However, I’d go during such weeks myself with no hesitation, and think these levels are OK for returning visitors who don’t need to see everything and already know how to work Walt Disney World.
The “high crowd” weeks–those rated 9-11–should be avoided by everyone. They aren’t, which is why they are so high.
You may have noted that there’s no level 4 or 8. There’s a reason for that.
MY DISNEY WORLD CROWD CALENDAR GOES UP TO 11
My analytics only let me distinguish 9 groups–the lowest through the highest crowd levels noted above.
Since the influence of the Unofficial Guide and TouringPlans.com has led almost all Disney World crowd calendars to top out at 10, this presented a problem of needing to skip a number. The skipped number is hard to place among 9.
However, I’ve always thought that the really nastiest weeks of the year deserved an 11 for emphasis. So I assigned 11 to “highest.” That let me skip two numbers, the ones that separate the moderate crowd levels from those higher and lower.
A NOTE ON DISNEY WORLD CROWD FORECAST ACCURACY
This site’s forecasting approach has stood the test of time. But nobody’s perfect, and it can’t hurt you to look at other Disney World crowd calendars—such as TouringPlans.com –far and away the best daily crowd calendar on the web.
(TouringPlans.com charges a trivially small fee. Buy Testa and Sehlinger’s book and get a discount on TouringPlans.com.)
I particularly suggest checking other forecasts for 2012 Spring Break–late February, March and early April–visits, as crowds in this period are the hardest to forecast.
MORE ON WHEN TO GO TO WALT DISNEY WORLD
- For when to go to Walt Disney World, see this
- For the next best dates, see this
- For the best and worst times to visit, see this
- For 2012 weeks to visit, ranked in order, see this
- For the 2012 Week Picker, see this
- For 2013 weeks to visit, ranked in order, see this
- For the 2013 Week Picker, click here
- For 2014 weeks to visit, ranked in order, see this
- For forecasting crowds at Walt Disney World, see this
- For the 2012 Crowd Calendar, click here
- For the 2013 Crowd Calendar, click here
- For the 2014 Crowd Calendar, click here
- For seasonal pricing at Walt Disney World, see this
- For 2012 price seasons, see this
- For 2013 price seasons, click here
- For projected 2014 price seasons, see this
- For weather at Walt Disney World, see this
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275 comments
I plan on going Feb 23rd, 2012 until Feb 28th, 2012. All adults- first timer’s. We have relatives in Orlando taking us around- but would this be ideal time to go???
Hi Tassie! The first few days of your period you’ll be running into the crowds from President’s Day, but by Saturday things should slow and by Sunday they’ll be terrific. The week beginning the 25th is one of my recommended weeks–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
We are planning a vacation at the end of April 29, 2012- May 6, 2012. What will the crowd levels be at this time? We have been at Disney at least 12 times and never came at this time. Also, we are still looking for a meal plan for this time. Any idea as to when I might be able to see or check into this. Our son is coming up to join us…he lives in Florida (West Palm) and hopefully we can get some sort of plan by then to ease the cost. We always stay at the Polynesian…all 12 times, and he and his girl and daughter will be joining us. Can’t wait!!!!!
Hi Patti that’s a great time to go!
Crowds are low, prices moderate, and the weather is great!
I have it ranked as the tenth best week of the year–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
For more on the meal plan, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/02/11/the-disney-dining-plan-at-walt-disney-world/ I find most people don’t save much money on the dining plans unless they would have done the equivalent number of sit down meals anyway…
Hello we r going to Disney march 25 till the 31st. Easter isn’t till the 8th of April so I was hoping it wasn’t going to be too bad with the crowds…what do u think? Keep in mind I’m used to going during the summer months. Thanks!
Hi Andrea!
You are right that hardly any kids are off that week, but I still have it rated as a 10 for corwds–and I rate the summer crowds as 9. The issue is visitors taking their kids out of school to get away from the cold in the Northeast. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/11/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-spring-break-2012/
Spring break is really hard to forecast, though, and if I’m wrong crowds that week will be lighter–e.g. a 7–not heavier. So here’s hoping it works out!
We were realizing most school’s Easter break would be over by 4/14 and were going to travel 4/15-4/21 – I wanted to see if we were correct in this assumption and I love the graph you made! My question is if school resumes Mon 4/16 do you think there is still heavy (or more expensive) airtravel on sunday the 15th? wondering if we should wait to leave on monday or the following week instead.
Hi Sarah!
Travel the 16th may be much less expensive–I just tested a trip from my town to Orlando and back the 15th and the 16th and the round trip was $200 cheaper for travel the 16th.
You can test that for your town by doing some test bookings to see what kind of fares you’ll get. I used expedia’s “my dates are flexible” checkbox tool… here: http://www.expedia.com/
See also http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/03/29/air-travel-201-the-tightwadss-guide-to-cheap-flights-to-walt-disney-world/
Hi Dave. I’d like to know your opinion on the crowd level from January 2nd to January 8th??
Another date, from February 2nd to February 14th?
Hi Sarah!
Your first period I’m seeing as having varied corwds. A lot of kids are still off the 2nd, and the Disney marathon will bring crowds over the weekend. Overall I’m calling it moderate-minus. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/05/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-christmasnew-years-2011-2012/
Your second period will have among the lowest crowds of the year!!
We are going to DW for a dance team trip March 11-16th. According to your predictions this is a terrible time to go. Exactly how terrible should we expect??? Wait times??? Wall to wall crowds??? And are there better days to do certain parks during that week?? Any tips for making it better??
Hi Taani–yes, I’m seeing that as a tough week. For more on why, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/11/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-spring-break-2012/
For some ideas on how to cope, see this page: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/12/19/adventure-or-inconvenience-walt-disney-world-over-the-holidays/ It’s about last Christmas, but the general apporach works during any really crowded time.
Finally let me know if you are staying at a Disney resort hotel or not, and with that I can give you some ideas on best days and worst days…
Dave—I believe we are staying at the All Star Music resort.
Thanks Taani. The trick during crowded periods is to show up befroe the parks open, and to avoid parks with extra magic hours. Operating hours sometimes suddnely chnage (e.g. parks open ealrier) in such times, so keep your eyes on the Disney operating calendar (see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/03/30/walt-disney-world-hours-of-operation/)
Based on the current calendar, you’d want to avoid MK the 11th, AK and HS the 12th, Epcot the 13th, AK the 14th, and MK the 15th. More EMH may be added–particulaly at the Magic Kingdom.
You can find more advice on which parks which days on EasyWDW.com (free) and TouringPlans.com
Hi there, your site is wonderful. I am visiting Disney world April 2,3,4,5 & 6th. 2012. Do the crowds get worse after Easter, or is that whole time frame equally crazy? Thanks so much for your time.
Hi Tammy and thanks!
Most years, the three or four days after Easter are as bad as the week before, but then things get a lot better. For 2102 I’m forecasting that more of that week will be bad… for why see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/11/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-spring-break-2012/
My wife tells me this is the year to take our kids to Disney. Unfortunatly, we can only do this over spring break. This will be the middle of March. We would arive on the 12th. I understand that we will hvae crouds…not much we can do about that. My question is about the temps. Should we plan on visiting the water parks or is this just a waste of money? I dont want to spend the extra cash and freeze but i also dont want to have the kids begging to go if the temps are right.
Thanks
Hi David!
March weather can be all over the place–see this http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/high-temperatures-year-round/ and also this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/08/17/march-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
However, you don’t need to decide now about waterparks. Skip the “waterparks and more” ticket add-on, and either add it, or add a one day water park admission, once you are there and know what you are facing.
(Most folk who are new to WDW and add the “water parks and more” option pay more than those who don’t, as there really isn’t enough time or energy to get your money’s worth from the option…)
THANKS… so we can simply add a single day if it is warm and the kids want to do this?
Also, i assume the park hopper option is recomended?
Yes, and yes!
In the itineraries I write (for your dates see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/basic-itinerary/alternative-itineraries/itineraries-for-the-rest-of-the-year/v2-of-2009-autumn-winter-spring-itinerary/ ) I try to avoid park hoppers–to save people money–but as the example shows I can’t always, and hoppers can be invaluable during really busy times…they let you avoid morning EMH parks and see key evening shows more easily…
Hey I know by the looks of your calender the weeks I’m going to mention aren’t going to be the greatest but I’m wanting to organise a girls-fortnight holiday to Orlando to visit Disney since one of my friends has never been any Disney park! The only time I think we can all go is from Saturday 2nd June 2012 to Sunday 17th June at the latest
Do they keep the parks open late at that time of year so it’s quiter to go later in the day?
Hi Charlotte!
I didn’t quite follow your last 6-8 words…restate for me??
But to your question of are the parks open later, the answer is yes. See this example form the past summer: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/17/next-week-618-to-6262011-at-walt-disney-world/
My family is planning a trip to WD 2/17/12- 2/25 or 2/26. We have a timeshare & will be visiting D.Saratoga Springs Villas. We’ve been to Disney 2x but, my girls were too young to remember. We live in NYC . We didn’t enjoy the hot & suddenly rainey forecast of FL summers. Reason for Feb vacation. Is it really that bad to go this week ? I’am starting to second guess my plans! But, my husband has Reactive arthritis an autoimmune disease(joints swell, especially from standing & walking too much, tires easily). Guest relations said we can rent a scooter and get a special pass for waiting on line for shorter time. Do you think this week would be really tuff time for our family to visit? Sorry for long message.
Thank you, NM
Nina, I’m sorry to say that I don’t think this is a good week for your family.
First, it will be extremely crowded–one of the 5 or 6 most crowded weeks of the year.
Second, as a result, scooters at the parks may sell out quickly before you can get to them (it’s best to rent a scooter for the whole trip from an third party than to hope one is available at the parks.)
Third, it’s much harder to manuever a scooter on crowded days.
Finally, you will only be allowed shorter lines if your husband’s condition makes waiting itslef particularly hard–if he is in a scooter, most of the time you’ll be in regular waits, not shorter waits.
I’d strongly advise a different time. See this for suggestions: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Sorry tobne such a downer, but I’m just trying to tell it like it is…
Dear Dave,
Thank you so much for the great information. My family and I are tentatively considering visiting the park for the first time October 20- 27th, 2012. According to the chart that seems to be a great time to visit. My only concern is the opening of the new Fantasyland. They think it will open in Fall of 2012 and if it is open by the time we would like to visit, do you think that maybe the crowds would be larger due to the new Fantasyland and people wanting to check it out? Do you think the majority of the crowds will wait until the new Fantasyland would be completely done in 2013?
Oh and do you think it would be worth it for us to visit the Magic Kingdom if a portion of it is still under construction. FWIW, we will have three little kids with us at that time.
Hi Brenda!
I wouldn’t worry about when the new Fantasyland will open, as there’s no telling now and while it will have an effect on crowds, the reason its hard for people to go then–school calendars–won’t change so toher than weekends it shouldn’t matter much…
I’ve been to MK multiple times this past year while it’s been under construction and the construction doesn’t matter…go for it!
Dear Dave,
We’re planning to go to Universal Studio in Orlando, April 8-April 15. Is it also as busy as Disney World? Thanks.
Hi Irina! Yes, Universal will be just as crowded, as its crowds are created by the same driver–when kids are out of school. For more, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/09/28/spring-break-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
My honeymoon is set for March 4-11. Our plan is Epcot on Monday, MK on Tues, Epcot on Wed, HS on Thurs, MK on Fri, and AK on Sat. My questions are, how does this week look for visiting and are we heading to the parks on good day? We are stayin on Diseny.
Thanks
Hi Carl!
That’s a good week–it’s one of my recommended 2012 weeks–see http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Your park plans look good. You might consider swapping either of your Epcot days to Friday, as it’s evening EMH Friday, and Illuminations works better on evening EMH nights–you don’t have to join 20,000 people leaving the park when it ends.
If you did, you’d have to move your MK Friday, and I’d pick the 5th as the date to swap…
Want to bring my grandsons may. Is the new animation a value hotel? No free dining in may. I don’t want to come june to august as I have been there.horrible. so is anytime may better. How is over memorial day.
Hi Donna!
The new Art of Animation resort is a value resort.
It’s currently reservable beginning May 30. Eventually it will have both “standard” 4 person rooms and also spaces twice as big for 6–”family suites.” The family suites look like all that will be available to book for most of 2012.
For more, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/08/21/family-suite-floor-plans-for-disneys-art-of-animation-resort/
Memorial day weekend can be crowded, but the week that follows Memorial Day itself is usually OK. Not great, but OK. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Hi, Dave! This website is just amazing! I’m learning a lot about Disney here, and it’s being essencial for my trip planning!
I have a question, though. I was planning to visit Disney/Universal with my family on 05/01/2012 – 05/20/2012, but you said that the last week in April should be less crowded. Do you think it would be better to change my trip to 04/25/2012 – 05/15/2012, or that wouldn’t make a big difference at all?
Hi Larissa!, and thanks!
I like the earlier dates–the weather tends to be better too–but I can’t honestly say that my forecast accuracy is high enough, nor the weather reliable enough, to make a change of these weeks worth your time! So I’d just keep what you got!
Hey Dave,
My family is coming from Feb. 11th 2012 to Feb. 17th
Is this a good time? And what would you suggest for what parks we go to on what days?
Also we have not made any reservations for meals yet. We are using the Dining Plan. Should we get on this soon? We would really like to do a character dinner as this is our first visit.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Clare! You mayb run into the beginnings of President’s day corwds at the very end of your week, but otherwsie it’s a good week.
For figuring out which parks which dyas, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/07/26/which-days-at-which-park-at-walt-disney-world/
And yes you should make your dining reservations as soon as you can! See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-eat/
We are planning a trip Jan 22 to 29 2012. Looks like good time to go. What about visitors from overseas? Do they tend to come this time of year? I would rather have some rides closed and small crowds. What about finding out about any groups like Pop Warner that would increase the crowd level?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Brad, yes that’s a great time togo in terms of low crowds. There’s no special events that affect it. Overseas tour groups are always at Walt Disney World at all times of the year. At that time of year you see them from the southern hemisphere in particular. Buut that’s already accounted for in my take that crowds will be low.
We are planning a vacation to disney world next year from Jan 2 – January 6 2012. Do you think there will still be crowds from winter break or is that a good week? I know that the Osborne lights are still going on this week. The only other dates we have availabe are March 26 – 30, 2012. Also, how is the weather in these dates? Thanks
Hi Jackie!
You may well see crowds the second–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/05/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-christmasnew-years-2011-2012/
January weather can be all over the place–from freezing (rare) to 85 (also rare). See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/
Thanks for the great info. We can’t pull our elementary kids from school in spring semester. We are veterans to Disney, going once a year. I’m confused by some of your charts so please give your opinion on which of these weekend holidays from school would be best for staying on property: December 28-January 2, 2012 or MLK weekend Jan 13-16 or Presidents Feb 17-20 or March 9-12 which isn’t our spring break but likely most of country’s 2012 break. I see you have MLK running much lower crowd than others–is that true for the weekend or just that week following the holiday? If you say all are too crowded for a weekend jaunt we will wait til September and enjoy a week there. Thank you!
Hi Marsha–I focus on crowd forecasts for weeks, not days–check TouringPlans.com for better daily forecasts.
That said I have an opinion! Of your early 2012 choices MLK weekend is BY FAR the best…
Dave, we’re going from 2/3/12 to 2/12/12. Outside of the normal (and some non-normal like Dumbo due to the FL expansion) ride closures, this seems to be a good time to go. That being said, I keep hearing about two cheerleader events taking place on the weekends of 2/4 and 2/11. Do they have an adverse affect on the crowd levels and/or resorts? I have no idea if these are bigger or smaller than the Pop Warner event… Any help would be appreciated.
Hi Doug, these are smaller in impact than Pop Warner–the value resorts will be a little more crowded than if they weren’t there,and late pm and evening park crowds will be up a notch, but not in any significant way…I think it will be a great time to go…
Hi we’re thinking of going for two weeks from either 20th October or 27th October 2012. Our dilemma is do we go on 20th when we’ll see Halloween celebrations and avoid Jersey Week or do we go on 27th when we will see Halloween and possibly some Christmas celebrations too but then have the crowds to deal with due to Jersey Week? We have just come back from a fantastic two week Disney break so have been lucky enough to experience the magic of Christmas in the parks. Many thanks.
Hi Karen! Since you have two weeks, I think either arrival week is fine–Jersey weeks makes crowds higher than the week before or after, but they still are only moderate. So you should pick based on other factors. For more on Jersey week, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/02/jersey-week-at-walt-disney-world/
It looks like we may end up at Disney 12/31-1/1. Little kids means we can dispense with late-night festivities… Is animal kingdom a reasonable proposition for 12/31 since no special evening events, or will the crowds there be as intolerable as anywhere else? And what of new year’s day… high crowd factor? low crowd factor? Park likeliest to have least crowds that day? Thanks much…
Hi Rick! AK, may be a tad less crowded, but only relatively–it will still be wildly crowded. And because almost all kids have Jan 2 off, I expect Jan 1 to be wildly crowded as well, but the early and mid-morning may be a lot better than that from all the people sleeping in from the prior night…
arriving in on 31st December and doing MK on 1st Jan2012, what will this day be like? have reservations at contemporary and off resort and wondering if on site will make for a easier trip with 3 young kids
Hi Rachel, overall the 1st will be incredibly crowded, but first thing in the morning it may be OK form people sleeping in from the night before. On-site will definitely be easier!
We are visiting june 23-30 2012. How crowded will it be
Hi Lisa! I have that week ranked as a 9/high crowd week. Not as bad as it gets, but not good…
Thank you so much for this great webite! It is very informative.
Hi – my fiance and I are flying out to orlando on the 7th of april 2012 for our honeymoon, staying 14 nights on international drive. When we booked, we didnt give easter a second thought. Now im freaking out looking at how busy its going to be, and apparently ruin our honeymoon? Surely it cant be THAT bad with a little planning? We have queued up for over 60 mins for a theme park ride in the UK regularly (although we dont want to be queuing all day while in Florida)
Any tips and advice would be great, and also which days are best to visit the disney parks. We have a meal booked in hollywood studios on wed 18th which comes with fantasmic advance passes for prime seating/standing! Please help to put my mind at ease.
What are the crowds for Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios for January 12-15, 2012? Do the EMH really mean higher crowds?
Hi Kayleigh!
Corwds will be fine by the 15th, and may start improving a few days earlier. For the period from the 7th til then, avoid parks with morning extra magic hours (these may continue to be added to Disney’s calendar between now and then–for how to use Disney’s calendar see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/03/30/walt-disney-world-hours-of-operation/ Show up at the parks at least 45 minutes before opening, and use FASTPASSES. (For FASTPASSES, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/01/09/fastpasses-at-walt-disney-world/
Hi Cara, I don’t tightly track daily crowds, but expect the 12 and 13th to be fine, and the 14th and 15th to be crowded because of the MLK holiday. Morning EMH make a park more crowded later in the day than it would be if it did not have morning EMH…
Hey! My whole family (8 of us) is coming to Disney march 4-9. It’s ALL of our first times. WE ARE SO EXCITED but overwhelmed. This site is amazing and so helpful:) do u have an opinion on carribean beach resort? & is it true that’s a good low crowd wk? Thanks!!!
Hi Jackie, and thanks!!
I do think that will be one of the lower-crowd weeks in March. However, Disney just released a new promotion for thiose dates that might make the crowds a little worse than I had thought–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/01/03/new-disney-free-night-promotion/
For my review of CB, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/10/15/review-disneys-carribbean-beach-resort/
Hi Dave!
I just found this site and thrilled with the wealth of information you’ve provided. This will be our family’s first trip to Disney, my twins are 10. We are tentatively looking to be there between 8/26/12 and 9/1/12. My worry isn’t so much the crowd as it is the fact that it’s hurricane season. Also, which resorts would you recommend for ease of getting from place to place? Are there usually any discounts or deals going on during that week? Any advice you have would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Jeanna, and glad the site is helping! Hurricanes rarely have an impact on WDW, but if this may be your kids’s only trip, I’d look for a different date just in case. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/chance-of-cyclonic-storm-affecting-florida/
For where to stay, see the material that begins here: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-stay/
Your dates often have free dining offered– see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/12/21/the-tightwads-guide-to-when-to-go-to-walt-disney-world/
Hope these help and have a great trip!!
We are coming in November 12-16. We are seasoned Disney vacationers…we go during Thanksgiving week or Christmas Week. I’m assuming since I’m sooo used to the crowds during Thanksgiving and Christmas that it will be much more enjoyable before either of those holidays!
Julie, great choice! It’ll be a completely different experience!
My husband and I are taking our kids to Disney for the first time from May 30th thru June 6th 2012. (All 3 boys, especially the youngest is a HUGE Star Wars fan, which is why we decided to go this week). We thought the week after Memorial day would be best. It also is the only week we could both get off work. My sister and her husband will be coming down with their baby (9 months) for a few days. They plan to come to MK one day with us. Which day do you suggest bringing her out? I have looked at calenders on TouringPlans.com and they predict MK to be around an 8 all week. None of us have ever been to Disney so I have no idea what to expect.
Hi Brooke! I don’t see the crowds that week as being as being horrible. See http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/20/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-summer-2012-crowds/ MK is most crowded weekends, Mondays, nd days it has extra magic hours. On yuor dates, one of your Tuesdays or Wednesdays looks best…
I can’t believe you answer every single question. Wow – You’re awesome!
Ok, we are visiting my dad who lives an hour south of Disney World the 3rd week in March. I’m taking my 4 & 6 yr old with me and wanted to spend the last 3 days (Th, Fri, Sat) at DW. This would be our first time there. My plan is to visit only the MK since I’m going without my husband. We’d visit the park for half of the day and then the rest at the resort. How crazy am I to do this on my own that week? Would it be better to go Sun 18, Mon 19, Tues 20?
Thanks!!
Hi TW, I’m not sure what you mean by “and then the rest of the resort.” You want to avoid MK on Thursdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Otherwise–so long as you arrive in the parking lot one hour before MK opens–you will be OK in the mornings!
Oops, sorry. I meant we would spend the remainder of the day at the resort. How’s the Contemporary Resort for kids? I figured that would be best since it’s the closest to the MK.
Hi again TW. For a Magic Kingdom-only visit, the Contemporary is a great choice–though pricey–as its the only hotel from which you can walk back and forth…
Hi! My family plans to visit May 6th through the 13th. Looks like this is a good time for crowds, but I’m worried about rain. Do you think the last week in April would be better? I have two small children (7 & 3 ) and would hate them to be disappointed with bad weather.
Hi Jill! Both are both good weeks, but I do like the late April week just a little better for the rain reason you note. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Thanks for all your info.We are planning a disney trip for Dec 2012 and according to your info both the first and second week in Dec. are great weeks. The first week is alittle better for a couple of my family members but Pop Warner week has me a little scared! Does it really impact the crowds in the parks?We are bringing 7 grandkids age 1-9
Hi Jean. Pop Warner adds crowds to the hotels–especially the values and some of the moderates–but not really to the parks. For more, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/30/pop-warner-week-at-walt-disney-world/
Hey! I am planning to visit Orlando from Feb 11th-Feb 18th, Animal Kingdom in the morning, then Downtown Disney during the night. Magic Kingdom all day Sunday. Universal Studios, Sea World and Islands of Adventure on the Tues, Wed and Thurs. We are 2 Adults(couple) staying in the Pop century Resort on the night of the 11th. Leaving Disney Sun night to stay with friends closer to International Drive for the Mon-Sat. Any recommendations? I want to stay away from the Kid stuff.
Hi Sunshine! I don’t really have an opinion on Sea World or Universal, but for the Disney parks, see the right side of the image on this page: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/09/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-rides-and-attractions/
Hi!I just found this site and it’s wonderful!We are planning a trip this fall and need your advice.Our kids are 12 and 7 and we want there to be a good chance for swimming weather,but less of the crowds.We are open for any week in September or October,which week is the best?
Thanks Jasmine! Almost all these weeks are great from a crowd point of view.
I’d shoot for mid October, e.g. arriving 10/13. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
This balances two different factors: warm weather and the peak of the hurricane season.
Temps are declining thru October, but are still in the 80s most days mid-month. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/high-temperatures-year-round/
On the other hand, the hurricane season peak is from late August until early October–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/chance-of-cyclonic-storm-affecting-florida/ Balancing the two gives mid-October.
Hope this helps and have a great trip!
We are thinking about going to WDW on Dec. 15-Dec. 20. We have never been during this time and was wondering how are the crowds, etc? we have been during Thanksgiving. Any information would be appreciated.
Hi Mike!
That’s an OK week, better than Thanksgiving week. I do like the weeks before it more, though–see this http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
We are arriving in Orlando on Wednesday Feb 15th pm and staying off site and leaving on Sunday night. We booked in Feb thinking it would be less crowded and before I realized it was Presidents day weekend. (and before I found this site!) We have a two day pass and want to do AK and MK. We were planning on doing MK on THursday and AK on friday to hopefully cut down on the lines. Do you think this would be the best plan?
Hi Brian! Thursday is normally a bad day at MK, because it has morning extra magic hours, for which you aren’t eligible since you are off site. So I’d reverse this and do AK Thursday and MK Friday…
Thanks for getting back so quickly… you think Friday would be less crowded even with it being Presidents Day?
Brain–President’s Day is Monday the 20th
sorry, i meant presidents day weekend!
Brian that’s a good point, insofar as if a lot of people take a looong weekend crowds will develop on Friday…it becomes a question of where do you want to be crowded at. MK does crowds better, with more FASTPASS attractions…but you might be better off doing MK on Thursday, even with the am EMH…
Thanks Dave, I really want the shorter lines to be at MK as we have two little girls, 5 and 3, so hopefully one of the days works out better.
Brian, I’ve checked some other sites that focus more on daily crowds than I do–I focus more on helping first timers pick weeks, so focus on weekly and not daily crowds. The mesage is mixed. All predict higher overall crowds Friday than Thursday. One, between Thursday and Friday, recommends MK on Friday. Another says avoid it both days…
Here’s what I’d do if I were you.
Go to MK on Thursday. If the Thursday crowds keep you from being satisfied that you’ve seen enough, skip AK on Friday and instead return to MK. Otherwise see AK on Friday. MK is easily a two-day park anyway, and this approach minimizes the chances you will be appalled by MK crowds Friday but have only that day there…
Thanks a ton!!
Glad to (eventually) help! Have a great trip!
We are looking to visit Orlando from 11/11/12 to 11/20/12. How do you think the crowds will be around that time?
Hi Josie! That’s a great week, I have it ranked in the top ten. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Thank you so much!!! Very helpful!!
Have a great trip!
Hi Dave! First trip ever to Disney planned for April 21 – 28th. I think we should be ok from what I am reading regarding the crowds? Any advice on what parks to visit on what days? I was thinking of HS on Sun, Epcot on Mon, AK on Tues and MK on Wed and then using Thurs and Fri to go back to the parks we need more time in. Do you think this will work or should I change it around?
Hi Amy, your planned days sound great to me!
Thanks! Your site has been a great learning tool for me!
Amy, I’m glad it has helped, and have a great visit!!
Dave. I am stuck going the week of Presidents Day…Wed 22nd to Friday the 24th. I know that will be a bad week but couldn’t be helped. Wanted to do Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom and Sea World. What days would you recomend for each?
Hi Sean! Suggest you do Magic Kingdom Weds, Animal Kingdom Thurs, and Sea World Friday…
Thanks Dave! Love the site and have recomended it to others!
Thanks Sean, you’re the best!
Where do I find the 2011 crowd calendar?
Hi Josie, I took it down once the year passed. …
We Have reservations for 2/16-2/25/12! I’m scared now that it’s going to be too crowded! It’s our first trip and probably the last at least for a while! Should we change our reservation and take the kids out of school or deal with the crowds? Are there better days at certain parks??
Does Disney allow you to change reservations!?
Thanks
Hi Amanda!
I’d take your kids outta school and go another time…see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
…though it depends on how old they are…high schoolers are much harder to keep up… You can change you reservations, but depending on what type you have, there may be a penalty…
Hi Dave! I really want to congratulate you on your page is really good. Greetings from Guatemala, Central America. It would be a good idea to go the week of December 10th to the December 16, 2012? Thanks and keep going up the good work!
Hi Luis! Thanks for coming to the site from Guatemala. That’s a great week–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Dave,
Nice site! Thanks for taking the time to put together this info. We were planning a trip to WDW just after Columbus Day 10/9/12- 10/17/12. Are the parks generally busy the entire week following the long weekend, or do the crowds typically thin once the weekend is over? Thanks
Hi Jenn and thanks! The long weekend is most of the uptick; the crowds are then a little bit busier the rest of the week than the same days the weeks before and after, but not a lot…
Hi we are planning a vacation more than likely from 14 December 2012 – 20 December 2012 wondering if you think the crowds will be ok? Also should I hold on booking accommodation until later in the year for specials or book now and cancel and rebook if a better offer comes out. We went last year and arrive on valentines day the crowds were an absolute dream and we hardly had any wait times at it brings tears to my ears thinking about how much of an amazing time we had I miss Disney World so much. Thank you
Hi Laura! That wil be an excellent time–it covers a period I rate 18th best of the year, with moderate crowds–lower early in the week, higher later.
The simplest way to get any special offers is to book now with a travel agent–see the form on the right side of this site–and tell them your intent is to rebook to any deals that come out. They can set you up so it’s most likely you’ll be able to take advantage of the deal!
Hi Dave. Your site is absolutely fantastic. Thanks so much for taking the time to be such a help. We are looking at taking our 2 children (aged 3.5 and 7) to Florida on 5th May 2012 for 2 weeks. This will be the first time they have been but we have been 4 times ourselves, so know our way around. Please can you let me know if this is a good time and also, where you would recommend we stay. We will be travelling from the UK, so are looking for moderately priced accommodation and somewhere that is convenient for all the different parks (although we could hire a car because we like to visit Busch Gardens too). Thanks so much for your help.
Hi Lisa and thanks!
Your May weeks are good–lower crowds and nicer weather especially at the beginning. As the month goes on, the heat, humidity, and chance of rain will increase. See this:http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/10/31/may-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
Regarding where to stay, see the material that begins here: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-stay/next-best-resort-choices/
Hi Dave, thanks for such a wonderful site! I’m coming witha group of 8 (5 adults and kids aged 4-4-2) to Orlando from June 1-15th, 2012. You have those weeks as moderate crowds – how bad really will it be? I happened to be at MK on Oct 1/11 for the 40th anniversary and that was TERRIBLY crowded. Yet, touring plans rated that as a 7.1 in crowds… If that’s only a 7, I don’t want to know what a high crowd day would be….
Hi Bianca and thanks! The first week of June should be somewhat better than what you saw October 1 (I was there that day too, and took the photo on the home page then…maybe you are in it!). The second week will be more like 10/1…
Hi!! My family and I are planning on taking our first trip to disney world November 9-16. What can I expect as far as crowds and prices. Are those good days to visit? Thanks
Hi! That’s a great week–I rank it 7th best of the year, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/ It’s a lower-crowd week, and moderately priced…
Hi Dave,
Awesome website! We are planning a trip to WDW November 3 through the 10th, 2012. I noticed on your crowd calendar that particular week has a rank of 6. Is there an event or something going on that week to make the crowd level higher than the week before and the week after?
Thanks!
Hi thank you so much for your reply we have made some modifications to our plans and would love to know if you think they are better, forgot to mention we are coming from Australia. Ok so we will now arrive on 6 Dec and stay for 5 nights and then potentially go on a disney cruise. Would love to know if you think crowd levels will be better arriving on the 6 Dec and if you think a couple with no children will have fun on the cruise? So excited now – might have to stay at pop century though to save money last time we stayed at Beach Club Villas on a 40% off discount would be awesome to get that again……Thank you so much for your advice!!
Hi Tammy, yes there is–Jersey Week. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/02/jersey-week-at-walt-disney-world/
Hi Laura! Those will be much better dates. Pop will be a real let down after the Villas, but that’s life…personally, I wouldn’t take a cruise in December, as the chances of it being quite cold are too high…
Hello, I really love this site. We are planning to travel from britain for 2weeks holiday to do the full disney once in a life time package holiday. 2 adults and 2 children aged 7 and 9. When is they best time to come. Weather and low crowds taken into consideration. Thank you, claire.
Hi Claire, and thanks for the kind words!
There’s two different (but overalapping) answers to that. For one, see this http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/ and for another see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/12/23/the-most-comfortable-time-to-go-to-walt-disney-world/
Hope this helps and come back with any questions…Dave
Thanks Dave appreciate it – maybe I can convince my husband to stay at the Villas or the just the club again.
Dave-sorry one more question…when is the ride closure seasoning that you talked about? If we changed our dates to the very end of April or beginning of May…do you think that would be better crowd and park wise? Thanks!
Dave,
Boy, oh boy, do I ever need your guidance. Here’s the situation- I would really like to take my husband to Disney World in April. We are both teachers, and we will be celebrating his 30th birthday on April 16th. I originally thought he had three personal days, but recently found out he only has 2. So, my original plan to go from Saturday, April 14-April 18th was shot. The new trip would have to be from Saturday, April 14-April 17th, so we had time to travel back home to Lancaster from Philadelphia and have him be at work the next morning. The only other option (due to limited personal days) would be to possibly do something over the much-dreaded Easter vacation. Now, I have been to Disney multiple times, but my husband was only there once when he was very little. Our flight on Saturday would be early, allowing us to spend a lot of the day in the parks, Sunday all day, Monday all day, and then go to the airport to fly home on Tuesday. We won’t have any kids with us, so I want to know- do you think we can do the parks (Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and MGM- not really interested in Animal Kingdom) in that time and still have fun? –Awaiting Your Answer Hopefully, Maria
Kris the end of April/beginning of May will be much better–much lower crowds, lower prices, and better weather…the “ride closure” season ends by President’s Day…
Sure you can, Maria! Suggest Epcot Saturday, the Studios Sunday, and MK on Monday and (if you can) Tuesday am as well. Saturday may be still a little busy from the Easter crowds, but otherwise these should be great dates…
I have a dilemna and would like an honest and unbiased opinion…I am taking my daughter to Disney World and Universal for a senior graduation trip. We were planning on going the week of April 23-27, 2012, and I was very excited because I felt like the weather would be perfect and the crowds would be smaller. My husband, daughter, and I have been twice before, once in July (yuck) and once in June. We are also planning on taking her best friend. Some other friends were going to go with us at the same time, and we were all very excited. They just found out they can’t go until June. I’m just not sure I want to trade April for June, but I would love to go at the same time as our friends. Any advice would be very appreciated.
This is a tough one, unless you are talking about early June, when crowds can be OK–see this for June at Disney World http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/11/28/june-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
If it’s both later June and the June folk have not been before, it’s even more complicated. They don’t know what they are getting themselves into, and you will be forced to play tour guide. I personally enjoy doing this–but not at the hot and crowded times of the year.
More complexity: is the adventure a gift to your daughter, or a family celebration? (And I get that it must be a bit of both.)
The more it’s a gift to your daughter, the more her opinion ought to sway what you do…especially since, having been there at a busy time, she knows what this implies for the others…the more it’s a family celebration, the more April becomes the right answer, as you all will have a wonderfull time…
Hope this helps!
Abby.Ann Landers. DaveWhat Dave said makes a lot of sense, but one thing I’ll say about June is that it can be a great time to go also. We almost always go in June because of school calendars, and last June we had 9 of us, some of whom had never been before. The key is planning, the more you plan, the better you’ll be. Have a magical trip!
Great points, Mike! Avoidng parks with AM EMH, being at the turnstiles before the park opens, riding the most popular rides first, and using FASTPASSES can take the sting out of the crowds most months…
My family will be @ Disney Sept. 15-23. We plan to visit Universal and Islands of Adventure at the end of the week. Would it be better for us to visit Universal on Friday or Saturday? Our main concern is crowd levels.
Hi Stephanie! Saturday is usually better than Friday. See this and its links for more: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/31/the-best-and-worst-days-of-the-week-to-see-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter/
Hi
We are planning to vist WDW from November 2012 for 2 weeks. is this too early for the Christmas festivities. Travelling with small children so really need to be there for Christmas decorations
Trying to find the best time to visit Disney in November. We are flexible, and want to have at least 8 days, but avoid the crowds of Jersey week. Should we shoot for November 1st-9th or the 11th through the 19th when we may have the start of Thanksgiving crowds to deal with? We could also move the start back into the last few days of October if you think that’s better. Thanks for your advice.
The Christmas stuff-inlcuding the CHristmas party at MK, at the special show at the Studios–starts showing up in early-mid November, but the full program is not in place until the Friday after Thanksgiving…
Hi Jennifer, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
WEll Dave
I am planning my first trip to disney I want lowest crowds possible (my husband hates lines) but also want it to be a little warm since we want go in pool at resort,,so which would you choose an Oct week or first week after Thanksgiving Dec 1st my daughter is 8.I am offically addicted to this website!!!thanks!!
Howdy Amy, and I’m glad you’re addicted…I think!
For the best combination of warm eather and low crowds, pick September…this month, however, is in the peak of the hurricane season–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/chance-of-cyclonic-storm-affecting-florida/
Otherwise, mid-October is your next best choice: see the 4th-best week on this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
December temps are just too variable for reliable swimming weather. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/high-temperatures-year-round/
Hope this helps! Dave
Hey Dave, my family and I are planning a trip to Disney world from May 21-24. Do you think the crowds will be all that bad?
Hi Adam! I have them predicted at a 5–”moderate-minus.” I myself would find that fine! For more, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/10/31/may-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
Dave, Taking the family to WDW for the first time… We will be there 3-19 through 3-24. In researching our dates, I am planning on crowded venues everywhere we go. We have two boys ages 12 & 13 and a girl age 7. As I’m sure you can imagine, the kids are so excited as are my wife and I. We are staying at the Allstar Music Resort and I am looking for any advice on the best way to try and plan daily itineraries. I’ve looked at each park’s calendar for that week and made note of their respective Extra Magic Times, but after reading more on these times, I get the sense that it is not always the best idea to make the effort to attend parks at these times & I’m not sure if staying at our resort qualifies us to even take advantage of these times. Regardless of what hours we can attend the parks, my boys are all about thrill rides and water parks and my daughter is all girl! It is going to be all about the Princesses and just about any animated Disney movie themed attraction for her. With the trip we booked, we all have 5 day park hopper passes as well as 1 day park-to-park w/ free transfers passes. Any suggestions on how we can best plan our daily itineraries based on the information I have provided you? ANY suggestions at all would be much appreciated as I am completely overwhelmed. Thanks!
Hi RJ!
First, yes, you are eligible for EMH since you are staying in a Disney hotel, and the fact that you have a hopper makes things a lot easier.
With a hopper, go to parks with am EMH, leave between 11 and 1 once the crowds become too much and FASTPASSES begin to stretch out their return times, nap/swim, and head back to a different park in the afternoon/evening.
Hop to Illuminations at Epcot and Fantasmic at Hollywood Studios the nights these parks have evening EMH.
Re your daughter and the boys…there aren’t that many thrill rides, and she’s old enough to enjoy most…
Hope this helps and have a great trip!
Hello.
We are going to Disneyworld on the dates of 7/5-7/12. I know it’s a buisy time of year, but it’s the only time we are able to go this year. How “bad” are the crowds? Are we going to be able to get most of the attractions in a day at magic kingdom? We already got all of our dinner reservations taken care of, but our main concern is the lines for the attractions.
Thank you for any advice you may have.
Hi David, doing all of MK in one day is about impossible even during low-crowd periods. There are some selective one day itineraries on TouringPlans.com–see this: http://touringplans.com/walt-disney-world/touring-plans/?utm_campaign=referral&utm_medium=website&utm_source=yourfirstvisit&utm_content=r1&property_id=1
Dave, your wealth of knowledge is amazing. thank you for your time.
We are limited due to sports schedules (one season ends… another begins), and school testing and only have a short window of when we could go. We are not first-timers, but typically avoid large crowds time. (ie. Easter, spring break, etc.) We also would not go in summer because of the heat.
We are thinking about going the weekend of March 24th and staying from Sat-Tues. If crowds will approach Spring Break crowds, we won’t do it. Do you have any thoughts?
Also, we typically stay off-site, but we would consider staying on-site since it is such a short visit. Would using our EMH wisely make sense? We have typically been the ‘avoid EMH parks’ people, but if we used them wisely and rode roller coasters then, and then hopped to a less-crowded park would that make sense?
thank you.
Hi Danielle and thanks!
The short version is that I have it ranked as a crowd level of 10–almost as high as I rank (my crowd calendar goes to 11…) See http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/29/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-3/
However, I may be wrong, and if I am, it’ll be closer to “moderate plus.”
I’ve just checked three other crowd calendars…one agrees with the high crowds, one is more like moderate-plus or a little worse, and a third says it could go either way.
So it depends on your willingness to take the risk that it will be ugly…
This is one of the hardest weeks of 2012 to forecast…for why, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/11/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-spring-break-2012/
And yes I think EMH with a hopper makes sense during days like this–see this response to RJ on a similar question: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/29/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-3/comment-page-15/#comment-27762
My 9 Y.O.son and I will be visiting WDW anytime between the 5th and 16th of Oct 2012. I noticed that the week of the 6th was busy and all the others were not. Is there a specific reason to be aware of? Also is the free wifi at port orleans a convienence value over staying at Pop?
Thanks!
Hi John!
The Columbus Day weekend–some districts have the whole week off as a “fall break”–knocks up prices and crowds a bit, mostly over the three-day weekend.
You can get internet at Pop too–it just costs $10 bucks or so a night…and I can’t recall if it is still wired or is wireless…for me this is not worth the much higher nightly price at Port Orleans…but others will differ!Update: Pop now has free wireless interet: http://blog.touringplans.com/2012/03/08/pop-century-now-offers-free-wifi/
My family wants to visit Harry Potter and the only day we can do it is April 6th. I realize this is Good Friday and Easter Weekend. Are the crowds likely going to be so huge that it is not worth going? If we do go, any words of advice? My family is older (boys are 23, 20 and 16).
Howard, it will be mobbed. If you can, stay at one of Universal’s hotels the night of the 5th or the 6th. This gives you early entry both your check in and your departure days. For more, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/12/13/summary-of-instructions-for-your-first-family-visit-to-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter/
Thanks. I don’t think that will work for us, so it sounds like we would be best off just skipping Universal. We will be staying in St. Pete for a college hockey tournament, so maybe we should just do something there.
Seems like a good call to me, Howard…beach or pool time in St. Pete, and save the cost of tix for another time!
Hi, I have 2 kids in school (ages 6 and 8 ) and husband is a teacher so we are limited to when school is out. Thinking about a trip to DW in 2012 (our 2nd trip) and looking at arriving right after Christmas. Your 2012 forcast puts it around a 7 on the crowd scale and we can handle that. What do you think? Would that be an ok time to go for a second trip. Thanks.
Hi Laura! I edited your comment so the 8yo got back in! I rank that week a 7 because the first half is a madhouse and the second half is light. Crowds are manageable beginning Jan 3 2013, but very bad up until then. So your arrival date matters a lot.
For teachers, depending on their calendars, early June or late August (whichever they have off) is usually the best choice…
Hi , this will be our family 3rd visit to florida , however we usually go around september where the crowds have been manageable , however this year we are visiting for two weeks in june, Will the increase in crowds be enough to affect our holiday as we intend to visit all disney and universal parks as usual, also how will the diffrence in temperature differ as we have small children travelling with us . Thanks
Dylan, which June weeks? The first two are acceptable–though busier than September…the second two are appalling. Weather should be comparable, perhaps more humid…
10-24th june ..
Dylan, I’m showing the earlier week as moderate plus and the later week as high on my crowd calendar. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/29/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-3/ See also http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/11/28/june-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
Hi Dave,
Love this sight. But anyways, my friends and I are planning a trip to Disney September 16-21. This will be my fifth time there but for two of them they have never been. Is September a bad time to go because of the rain? I wouldn’t want their outlook on Disney effected due to Hurricane season. Myself and one other are military and we have to ask for leave soon so that our leave won’t be denied. Also, I just went last month and the lines were AWESOMEEE! Are the lines in September comparable to the lines in early Feb? And in Feb, Fantasmic was not showing, does it show in Septemeber? I love that show! One last thing, I am a Disney FANATIC and I startedd counting down the days to my last trip 105 days out, this trip is in 179 days. Any tips to make the trip not seem so long????
Hi Danielle and thanks!
September crowds are as low as early Feb crowds, and Fantasmic is back–it was down in Feb for rehab.
Hurricanes are worth thinking about, but really rarely impact WDW. The common issue in September compared to Feb is the heat…
Do you know about the special deals Disney affords military families? They are good through September. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/08/28/disney-world-military-discount-2012-and-2011/ but also this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/03/11/free-disney-world-dining-and-military-families/
Hi Dave!
We are starting to plan a trip for Friday, October 5 – Saturday October 11 this fall. We are fortunate that our kids get a week-long fall break! We have always gone the first week of December (what could be more magical than Disney, decorated for Christmas and playing Christmas music AND very low crowds), but now with high-schoolers, pulling them out of school is too difficult. I’ve looked at your crowd charts, somewhat disappointed that our week includes Columbus Day. My question is: does it just get crowded around that weekend, or do the crowds stay all week?
oops! We will be there until Saturday, October 13!
Hi Lea Anne! The crowds are highest over the weekend, but they are still higher than other fall weeks the rest of the Columbus Day week…
I am going on 7/8/2012 will it be busy
I am a teacher with three kids in school so I have to go between July 1 and August 23. We want to stay 5 nights. What do u think about the week of August 11?
Hi Blake, yes July is very busy…
Hi Jennifer! The later in August the better…It’ll still be busy the week of the 11th–better the week of the 18th
This may seem like a dumb question, but are the date for the weeks referring to week ending on that date or week beginning that date. I only ask because you refer a lot to week beginning on a date, but all the dates are Saturdays. Obviously, this would make a huge difference when planning a vacation (for example in the beginning of June).
Hi Dan–alone in the western world, my weeks begin on Saturdays, so all the dates are “weeks beginning.” This comes from my home page advice “arrive on a Saturday” and all of my recommended itineraries ( http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/basic-itinerary/alternative-itineraries/ ) being 8 nights with a Saturday arrival…sorry I confused you–I should make the graphic clearer…
Hi Dave,
I love this website. We are thinking about a trip 11/11/12-11/18/12. Will the 17th and 18th be horrible because of Thanksgiving, or will we be ok?
Hi Holly, and thanks!
The 17th will be ugly and the 18th horrible…
Thanks Dave! Back to the drawing board.
Hi Dave,
Why would 9/1/12 show a low crowd. This is righ before Labor Day. i would think the crowds and prices would be higher. My 50th Bday is 9/1 so I want to go then but my husband is convinced the crowds will be unbearable. What do you think?
Hi Carmen–it’s low crowd after Labor Day itself, as it has been every year, because almost all kids are back in school, and people don’t take their kids out of school early in the school year for a WDW visit. Labor Day and the Sunday before can be more crowded, but the rest of the week is great.
My trip is planned for Nov. 29th, 2012 to Dec. 9th 2012. Taking (3) grandchildren. According to your forecast, crowds should be manageable. What is your opinion of that time frame?
Joe, you’ve picked great dates, straddling the weeks I rank second and third best of the year–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Hey dave… We are planning a trip to Walt Disney on may 25through June 1. Is this a good time?
Hi Tammy, it’s better than later in the summer, but not as good as before school lets out…
When does school get out?
Tammy: see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/20/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-summer-2012-crowds/
Dave, Thanks for the informative site. Just wondering why the week on 4/7 is so crowded when school is still in? I noticed the next week crowds drop off significantly. My question is, is this due to Easter break and do the crowds start to fall midweek? My family was planning a trip from 4/9-4/13.
Thanks.
Hi Skip, nearly as many kids have the week after Easter off as have the week before it off–see this http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/11/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-spring-break-2012/ I don’t expect crowds to materially fall until the 15th…
Hi Dave-I love this site! Thanks for doing it! I’ve been to Disney 3 times: once in October, once in December and once in February. We are planning another trip and are thinking about going from 12/8-12/16/2012. I noticed this is one of the ‘lowest’ weeks for crowds on your site. I do worry a little bit that based on recommendations this may actually backfire on us and crowds will be high! Just worrying…pop warner will be over by then, right?
Hi Erin and thanks! Almost anything you look at has recommended early December for years. This (and word of mouth) has driven attendance up in this period a bit each year, but it’s still a great time to go! And yes, Pop Warner will be over by the 8th…
hi dave, i am planning on going to disney world on april 11th and 12th, epcot and animal kingom on april 13th, holleywood studios on april 14th, and sea world on the 15th. how crowded should i expect the parks to be during this week and on these individual days? should i make any changes to which parks i go to on any given days? thanks for any advice you can give.
Allen not sure what you mean by “Disney World on April 11th and 12th”–did you mean the Magic Kingdom?
I expect all these days to be crazy busy until the 15th. Your plans the 13th and 14th look fine, but I’d do Seaworld one of the 11th and 12th and move one of your Magic Kingdom days–if I’ve interpreted you correctly–the 15th.
yeah i meant magic kingdom. thanks for the advice.
Hey Dave,
Not sure if my previous email went through..I am in the process of making dining reservations for week 09/29/12 to 10/06/12 i know food and wine festival is at Epcot and other tips for this week?also when do you think Mickey’s Not So Scary tickets will be vailable?are they usually tue and thur nights?Thanks
Hi Amy, these are comments, not emails
. My response to your earlier comment is here: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/best-and-worst-times-to-visit/#comment-29799 I’ll also email you though!
Hey Dave
I booked a trip for 4/15 of this year. it will be myself my wife one year old daughter 10 year old son. We will be there until April 23 thats when we go back home on that monday. Do you have any suggestions as to what hotels we should stay or what we should do. What kind of tickets to get, should we get dining passes, any events going on this week we should be aware of. Thanks for your help. We wanted to do siney and universal and seaworld and any other suggestions
Hi Joseph, almost all your questions are addressed on the home page or the stuff it links to, so start there at http://yourfirstvisit.net/
Due to school, work and vacation schedules, the only time we can go is the week of August 11th. My kids are small – (will be 4 and 2) so we were thinking of going early to the parks, going back to the hotel for pool/nap time and then heading back out to the parks in the late afternoon/evening. Is this going to be crazy? We’re going with a bunch of family with older kids so I know we’ll be separating. Any other tips for going this week? We’re staying at Saratoga Springs.
Hi Tara, I wouldn’t call it crazy…but it’ll be within shouting distance of crazy.
Your approach, though, is the best way to handle it. Be at the turnstiles well before the scheduled open, ride the most popular rides first, use FASTPASSES, and take naps. It’s also worth noting that’s there’s not much for kids that age at Epcot, and little at HS or AK–you could wonderfully spend your whole vacation at the Magic Kingdom.
I’m thinking about bringing the kids from the UK for their first trip to Disney. Looking at coming from the 26th May 2012 to 8th of June. When’s the best time over this 2 week period to visit?
Hi Stuart–the key in your dates is to avoid the long Memorial Day Holdiay weekend, and avoid later June, when more and more kids are on summer break. Starting at WDW Wednesday May 30 is will give you the best crowds in your window.
I will be at Disney World 7/5/12(NOT my choice & I had no say in planning this trip!) I am stuck choosing between the Magic Kingdom & Hollywood Studios. I will have been at Universal 7/3 & 7/4-I am trying to get my mom to stay on site for at least 1 night & been trying to explain the benefits of staying on site since it’s just me going to the parks. We have stayed on site 3 times before at the Portofino -she only likes the Portofino but since the price has gone up I’m not sure if we will be staying there & off site which I don’t want to do. She doesn’t understand holiday theme park crowds & waits. I can’t explain anymore because she will tell me to be quiet. Disney we won’t be staying on site for the 1 day I’ll be at Disney. Which of the 2 Disney parks should I do? I wish I had 2 days at Disney but I don’t. I’ve been to the Magic Kingdom 3 times & Hollywood Studios twice. But only been on Splash Mountain ONCE! I am a thrill seeker adult. I like both parks but it’s so hard to choose. It will really be packed you can hardly move 7/5? & Fast passes run out by Noon?
Hi Kristin, what a pain! But some people only learn by experience.
I’m not sure about the best park that day…on the one hand, MK opens early to on-site guests, which will tend to make it crowded; on the other hand, because of 4th of July programs, a lot of people will have been at MK the day before, which will make them a little likelier to not be at MK, and to go to HS.
So while I tend to HS as your better choice…you could almost flip a coin…
Me and my 4 year old daughter will be going to WDW July 23-28….is the crowd levels really high? is that considered one of the worst times to go? I’m taking a stroller so she wont be tired with all the walking in the heat
Hey thanks for your reply Dave. I had HS more in my heart because since I live in Northern California I’m closer to Disneyland & Disneyland has the better Space Mountain, Big Thunder & Splash but I don’t get to Disneyland very often maybe every couple years if I’m lucky.
I’m choosing HS. 
Last time I was at HS was 4/00! Time to go again. I have never been to Florida in July. How high do the temps get? & Is there rain/thunder showers? Thanks you’re very helpful. 
Hi Susan, yes crowds are heavy and weather (heat) can be a challenge. The trick is to arrive before the parks open, see them in the morning, and take the afternoons–which have peak crowd and heat–off, napping and playing at the pool…for more see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/12/26/july-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
Hey Kristin, sounds great! And I agree, and would put Pirates and the Haunted Mansion on the “Disneyland is better” list too… It gets VERY hot and humid, and afternoon thunderstorms are common…see this http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/
Hi Dave,
Coming to Orlando for a 2-week vacation in August (17-31). Are the crowds bearable? How about the weather, lots of rain? We’re very excited!
Hi Bianca! See this for August at WDW: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/01/22/august-2012-at-walt-disney-world/ It includes, weather, crowds, etc…
Hi Dave, we just booked a timeshare in Orlando for the first week in March 2013. Why do you have crowds low for 2012, but high for 2013?
Hey Steve, in 2012 actual crowds were higher than I’d forecast for that week, and 2013–with a slightly earlier Easter–compresses the Spring Break period, so I’m worried that more people will be in that week than even this year…if I am wrong, I have the crowd rating too high, and it will be better than I fear…
Hi! I’m planning our first trip to Disney with my kids and inlaws for Aug 29- Sept 4. How does this work out crowd and weather wise???????
Thanks
Hi Andrea!
For crowds, it should be great.
Weather is typically very hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms common. It’s also in the peak of the hurricane season—see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/chance-of-cyclonic-storm-affecting-florida/
I just found out I am not staying on site at Universal for 7/3 & 7/4 & will have no form of Express pass.
My mom won’t pay that kind of money. I’m screwed right? She says be happy your going & your there. Which rides at Universal at both parks have the single rider line? & Is that as short as the Express line?(I really hope Dudley & Popeye have it!) & I’m also going to Wet N Wild but will be there myself & I see there are many multi person raft rides. Can I ride single on the multi person raft rides like the black hole? & Do the long lines start at 8am sharp at Universal or do I have a couple of hours before the lines build up? 
Hey Kristin, sorry to hear that. I’m not enuf of an expert on Universal to know the answer to your questions (I can barely keep up with WDW!). Check out this site: http://www.orlandoinformer.com/#axzz1TKXH3fnt
Hi… I am actually considering booking my RCI vacation at a Disney World Resort. The dates that they have blocked for us is December 15-22. Which, from reading on your site, looks to be a terrible time to go! I have a couple days to decide if we will accept the reservation or not. But, I wanted to get a realistic idea of what to expect and if it’s an absolute horrible idea to go. There are no kids on this trip, just me and my two sisters who are both over the age of 21. Two of us have been to Disney before, and one has not. Neither of us have experienced Disney during Christmas and have always wanted to. I just don’t want to regret this decision because of a projected horrible time in the parks with huge crowds, long waits for rides, and also long waits for shuttle buses. Some advice would be great!
Thanks
Hi Kimberly! I don’t view that week as horrible–I have it as the 18th best week of the year here: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/24/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order-continued/ The way I expect it to go is that the first half will be wonderful, and the second half pretty ugly. It’s because of that second half that I don’t recommend it…
Hi Dave! I’m planning a Christmas trip to WDW for my husband, our 5 yr old daughter and I. Yes, I know we’re crazy for going during Christmas and it will be super busy. We’re going to be there 12/23-12/26. Its my husband and our daughters first trip to WDW. We’re staying at the Art of Animation Resort. Can you recommend any specific parks to try and hit since its their first trip? I plan on going out early morning, then coming back to the room to eat lunch and let our daughter take a nap, then go back our in the late afternoon/evening. Thanks!
Hi Kristy! Here’s what crazy people should do on so short a trip with a five year old: focus on the Magic Kingdom. You’ll be able to see all the best of it that’s appropriate for a kid that young, and there’s not a lot at the other parks for that age…see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/09/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-rides-and-attractions/
Good morning. We’re thinking of going to WDW from 12/30 thru 1/5. We were there the week before July 4th 2011 and I was wondering how the two compare. Thanks.
Hi Dave–through 1/1 it will be worse than what you experienced; the 2nd and after it will be comparable to much better!
I just heard from a friend about the free dining starting later this week. Does it apply to the new Art of Animation resort. And if so, can I upgrade to the full Dining plan from the quick service plan?
Hi Shelly! It does apply to the family suites at A of A, but not the standard 4 person rooms. And yes, you can upgrade by paying the difference!
We have a trip planed for 12/10/12 – 12/18/12 and would like to know how the crowds are for these dates and we will be staying at the Disney art of animation. Thanks for your time.
Ben, those are great dates. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Hi Dave– Would like to hear your thoughts. I am planning an extended family trip for 3 families in early December. I was booking DVC points, since there was no posted discounts on rooms or free dining for our dates– staggered for my family members between Dec 3-11. My parents already booked their air and by the time my brother could decide on his dates all of DVC has sold out for that week. DVC does have openings the following week, but that would incur my parents trying to switch flights. What are your thoughts on staying at a moderate vs staying off site ( ie Buena vista suites/ Caribe Royale )? The trip includes a total of 5 children with my family and my brothers, thus originally thinking of the studios with DVC to spread out a bit. Also, I am noticing limited availability at many resorts/ hotels the 1st week of December, besides pop warner, is something else going on? It’s my brother’s family 1 st trip and I was looking for lower crowds. Thanks for your input!
Michele, since that’s such a great week, and low cost on DVC points, DVC owners (who know more about great weeks) absorb a lot of DVC capacity, and Pop Warner a lot of non-DVC capacity. Crowded WDW hotels does not mean crowded parks however–it’s the non WDW hotels that matter for crowds (because there’s 10x more of them), and those are driven purely by kid’s school schedules. Since kids aren’t out, the parks won’t be crowded.
If this will be the only visit for the kids involved, I’d strongly urge on-site. If the kids will be able to return, then it matters much less…
If you only new how long I’ve been looking for a site or someone to help me plan my trip to Disney World. We went last year (December 2011), it was terrible. We couldn’t even get into the parks. I would call Disney before hand to try to get information on when to visit. I want to experience Christmas in Disney. Thank you so much for this site!
Thanks, Valerie!
I am thinking of going to Disney World January 3-8th 2013. Do you think the crowds will have moved out by then? I went ahead and booked all dining reservations and had no trouble. We want to go low crowd. I figured most people will have left by the 2nd of January. What are youre thoughts?
Kellie, crowds might be quite rough until the 6th or so–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/07/17/disney-world-crowds-2013-christmasnew-years-crowds-20122013/
This is such an awesome and informative site! We are planning our first Disney World vacation for the 10Dec-16Dec 2012. We are currently reserved for the Pop Century and have the free dining but upgraded so we can have 1 sit down meals each day. Is that a good time to go? We will be going with my sister and her family, so 4 adults, and 5 kids (ages 7,5,4,and 1 year old twins). Would love to hear any suggestions. Hoping this is a good time to go (as we do not want to have to wait long for rides), and that we booked a relatively good hotel? We can easily change anything out (dates, hotels, restaurants) with your suggestion. Another hotel we considered was the Carribean Beach Resort. Restaurants we reserved: Ohana, Boma, Cinderella’sRoyal Table, Cape May. Thank you kindly again for your time in reading this.
Hi -because my 15 yr old is now in private school and my 8 yr old in public school, we are at the mercy of different vacation weeks. my daughter and I will arrive on thurs 11/16 – my son and husband on sat 11/17, do you anticipate this to be a really busy week as you have it at a 9. We will return home on 11/22 – thanksgiving day. We have a choice of polynesian or beach club. which would be best to avoid the crowds? thanks – diane
Hi Khannie, and thanks!
Frst of all that’s a great time to go–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
For what to do, you can modify this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/basic-itinerary/basic-itinerary-daily-links/
Pop is great, but it is in Disney’s cheapest class so the rooms are tiny–see the review of it and alternatives here: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/04/26/walt-disney-world-resort-hotel-reviews/
I am not keen on two and so so on another of your dining choices, at least for kids–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-eat/dining-alternatives/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-dining/
Diane, neither hotel will help you avoid the crowds. And yes, I rate it 9 as beginning the 17th and especially the 19th and later I expect it to be very busy. If your daughter were older, I’d suggest the Beach Club, as you can walk from there to Epcot and to the Hollywood Studios, but at her age she’s not likely to get much out of Epcot…so I’d go with the Poly..
Any insite on what to do??? We are going Oct 23-28. 3 babies under 2 years old and 14 adults 2 seniors. All we have definate is Thursday 25 halloween horror night. And friday 26 not so scary halloween any other suggestions
Hy Lynette! My stuff is really for older kids on a longer trip, but take a look at this for a basic approach http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/basic-itinerary/alternative-itineraries/itineraries-for-the-rest-of-the-year/v2-of-2009-autumn-winter-spring-itinerary/ , and filter it using this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/09/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-rides-and-attractions/
My husband and I are planning to go from November 29th to December 5th based on your suggestions for crowd levels. My understanding is that during this time previews for the new fantasyland expansion will be going on. Do you think this will drastically affect crowd levels?
Angie, no, I don’t. The fundamental driver of crowds is still kids being out of school, and that has not changed!
So, I am thinking about going the Saturday after Thanksgiving. I know when I lived in Orlando, I once went on the Friday after, and it was madness, but I never tried a Saturday. I now live in Dallas, and want to stay for a week, I just want to make sure the weekend after Thanksgiving won’t be a repeat of that awful experience I once had. I see you recommend that week on your calendar, but I am a little confused because of when you recommend to arrive that particular week being a little different. Thanks in advance!
Susana, my crowd ratings are averaged over an 8 day period, and may include a bad day in a period of otherwise good days or vice versa…that’s what’s going on the week you are looking at, as the Saturday you are thinking about will be horrible, but the next 7 days are great…
If I could leave a comment for Susana….Five years ago I went to Disney on the Sunday after Thanksgiving and it was totally awesome…no crowds, short lines. I highly recommend it! PS…..I’m going this year in the middle of Octobe which I understand is also a great time to visit. Enjoy your trip!
Thanks, Sharon, for weighing in! That week is great one–it’s always in my top 3! See http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
I was interpreting Susanne’s question as being about that day, not about the week that began that day…
Hi Dave, me again! I have a pretty good idea on which park I want to visit on what day. I would like to have your input on my schedule.
ps…great site, thank you for your dedication to helping folks with their questions.
Arrive Sunday morning 10/14….go to AK
Monday-Epcot
Tuesday-MK (Lunch in Castle)
Wednesday-HS
Thursday-DD and revisit favorites. (I have PH)Also want to see Gin Blossoms this night.
What do you think? Thanks!
I’m leaving Friday morning…
Hi Sharon, your schedule looks great to me!
Just 8 days until we begin our first WDW vacation! I noticed that they have increased some of Magic Kingdom’s hours of operation for the week of 10/01. Does this indicate that crowds are potentially greater than they originally anticipated, or are they trying to make MK more attractive for the day since MNSSHP closes the park earlier some days? Thanks! My family will never be able to thank you properly for the planning advice.
Hi Kathleen, this happens every month. No need to be concerned!
Since the recession began, they have purposely gone light on hours, then about two weeks before each month begins expanded them. This gives the the flex to in effect “cut” hours (by not expanding them) if the downturn resumes, without having to reduce hours beyond what they had posted 6 months prior…(let me know if this is confusing…I know what I mean but may not have said it clearly!)
I’m glad the site helped! Please come back here on your return and let me know how everything went, and if there’s anything you think I should change!
You explained it perfectly. I will check back!
Hi! Our family is planning on going the 10th and 11th of October. It’s gay day weekends and we just want to know if during the week it will be a ghost town or to stay away?!
Thanks!
Hilary, Gay Days are in June.
Normally I’d agree with your analysis, but we were there the week of 9/15/12 and it was way more crowded than usual for that time of year. I’d say it may have even been a lower-level “moderate” crowd.
Hi Tiff!!
I was there 9/19 through 9/22 and found it exactly as I expected–but I picked my parks especially carefully…
Because of the Halloween party, there’s a lot of variation by day in park crowding, so it’s particularly easy this time of year to find crowded parks–if you go on a morning EMH day, or to MK on a day when it does not have the party, you’ll find crowds!
See also this http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/04/30/crowds-and-walt-disney-world/
We’re back from our 9/26 to 10/6 first visit and I am convinced that this website MADE our trip! We knew where we wanted to stay and why. We knew where we wanted to go and how to get there. We never waited in line more than 10 minutes due to low crowds and the use of FastPass. We enjoyed 14 rides and attractions on our last Friday in Magic Kingdom. We could not have had more fun if we had tried! No kidding! You made me look like a hero!
A few bits for other first timers:
>It is not appropriate to under-tip because you are on the dining plan. These servers worked harder than most to make our meals a memorable part of our vacation. Nothing will bring an end to the exceptional service that we experienced at every stop like poor tips.
>Don’t leave your room without your happy face! The cast members are only human and your positive attitude goes a long way toward a Magical Experience.
>The food is everything promised and more…but you can’t get it eating quick service every day.
Thank you, Dave! Couldn’t have done itwithout you!
Kathleen, thanks so much for your thoughts and kind words, and I’m so happy the site helped!!
Hi Dave. I was down over Presidents Day week this past spring and your recomendations were spot on! Thanks so much!
Another question: I am going down for two days Nov 15 and 16 and want to do Animal Kingdom and Epcot. From the looks of things both days appear very slow but is there a better day each?
Hey Sean, thanks for the update–that really helps!
For your November visit, Epcot will be much better the 15th, and AK will be fine the 16th, so that’s how I’d sequence them…
Hey Dave! I am a huge follower of your blog and planned this trip around your predictions. We arrived here on Saturday, and spent yesterday and today in the parks. This is our 7th trip, and I have never experienced such heavy crowds. We’ve had a miserable 2 days, barely able to push a stroller through the crowds! Help! What’s going on, and is the rest of our week a loss?
Kristen, you’ll be fine! Your experience so far could one be or both of two things, especially if you were at MK the past two days. First MK started Friday previously un-announced previews of new Fantasyland, so that’s drawing a lot of people in. Second at this time of the year it can make a big difference which park you go to which day. If you go to MK on a day with evening fireworks, it will be mobbed. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/04/30/crowds-and-walt-disney-world/
Got up this morning and caught your reply. Changed our original plans and headed back to MK. Great day with 5 and 10 min. wait times. Structuring the rest of our week to avoid EMH…and here we thought MNSSHP were the days to avoid! Thanks so much for your fantastic advice!
Yay Kristen! Let me know how the rest of your week goes…and I’m glad the advice helped
We will be in Mk on the 16th and 17th of nov. crowds are projected to be very low on 16th. Going to mvmcp that night also . The crowds are projected to be really bad on 17th. This is our 1st visit and 7 and 12 year old want a taste of it all. Should we tour on the 16th until we drop and go back to favorites on 17th. Scared of the mob on 17th will be bad for wait times. Don’t want to tire family out. Also have ADR at crystal palace at 800 am on 17th
Hi Mary! Here’s what I’d do: On the 16th, be at the turnstiles well before opening, push on til about 2, then take the afternoon off for a nap. AT MVMCP, skip both parades and ride during parade times instead. On the 17th, finish breakfast by 8.45a, ride in the morning, take the afternoon off, and return in the evening for the parade…You won’t see everything, but you will see a lot without feeling like you got hit be a train…
Hi Dave,
Headed to Disney 12-28/1-2-13 to take the Grandkids, aged 14,13,7,5,. First time for them, first time in many years for hubby and myself. Planning on staying art of animation, getting park hopper tickets and dining plan with one Quick, one snack, one table service. Want to poss take one day for sea world. Any recommendation for days on parks or if it is just too late to try a character meal. All are girls except one little boy, the five year old. We want to have fun, know it will be crowded( we have been at Christmas before!) but we are a little older this time! Ay recommendations are appreciated! Thanks!
Hi Cindy, I’m afraid I don’t have much to offer…the parks will all be mobbed and there is not much difference by day. Given that, I’d just pick based on where you can get dining, as it will be hard to find anything this late…
Hi Dave!!
We will be in Disney World Jan. 19th-26th–We know that it will be crowded due to MLK–what kind of crowds can we expect in each park that week? We have been in July, September and twice at Thanksgiving.
Happy Thanksgiving and thanks in advanced
Samantha
Hi Samantha! The MLK crowds will affect only Sat-Mon–the rest of your dates will be great. Avoid parks on days that they have EMH and you’ll be fine!
Looking to go for the weekend of dec 1st or the following weekend the 6/7?
Mickeys merry xmas is the 7th the friday we were going to go better to go SAT??
Hi Colleen! Weekends are more corwded than mid-week, but either should be fine. MK will be taping the Christmas parade 12/2 and 12/3, which leads to some congestion those days, and New Fantasyland officially opens the 6th, whihc may drive crowds up a bit the dyas after as well (although it’s been in previews for weeks now, and will be in previews the 1st/2nd as well.)
Colleen you will have MUCH lower crowds at MK the 7th than Saturday…
Hi Dave:
My husband and I are flying to Orlando from Puerto Rico on 12/6. We arrive in Orlando around 3:00 pm. Our son who lives in Port Orange will pick us up and take us to our hotel in Lake Buena Vista. He will be staying with us till Saturday. The schedule I have planned is this:
Thursday, 12/6: MVMCP at 7:00 pm so our son can come with us.
Saturday, 12/8: EPCOT
Sunday, 12/9: HS
Monday, 12/10: MK
Tuesday, 12/11: EPCOT
Wednesday, 12/12: AK
We are planning to go to Universal on Friday because our son has to return to Port Orange on Saturday and we want him to come with us. Do you think this schedule is OK? We have a late flight to Puerto Rico on the 12th.
Thanks.
Hi Viola!
You have picked many days that are Extra Magic Hours days. These days are more crowded and with longer lines than days without EMH. Moreover, your hotel–unless you are staying at the Hilton–is likely ineligible, so on Tues and Weds in particular you’d be showing up at the parks after WDW resort guests have already had an hour to fill them.
So I would flip your Sunday and your Monday, and your Tuesday and Wednesday, so that these days go as follows:
Sun: MK
Mon: HS
Tues: AK
Weds: Epcot
PERFECT! Thanks a lot!
You’re welcome!!
Hey Dave ,
My family is going to Dinesy fromt he 9 to the 14th , They fly in on the 9th late in the evening so cant do much that day. I am using your guides to plan the Trip. From the corwd meter I see that it will be ok not very crowded.
I just wnated to know whne will be the best time to Do the Princess make over for the 2 5 years lds we have with us.
I found your site saved me a lot of time in planning the trip.
Thanks
Its 9th to 14 th Dec 2012
Hi Sabiha and I’m glad the site has helped! This close, you may not be able to get a reservation, but you want to do it 11am or later on a day you are in the magic kingdom. To make reservations, see this: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/tours-and-experiences/bibbidi-bobbidi-boutique/
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