Best and Worst Times to Visit Walt Disney World
BEST TIMES FOR A FIRST FAMILY VISIT TO WALT DISNEY WORLD
- Very late February–very early March (busy and expensive, but your best Spring Break bet)
- Between the second week after Easter and the week before Memorial Day
- Mid-late October
- November other than the first full week and Thanksgiving week
- December up until a week before Christmas
- (For returning visitors, January and February, except the Presidents Day and Martin Luther King Day holiday weeks, are also excellent)
These periods are highlighted in this site’s 2012 Weeks to Visit and 2013 Weeks to visit–each ranking the weeks of the year in order of best to worst.
WORST TIMES TO VISIT WALT DISNEY WORLD
Pretty much all other times, but especially Christmas week, New Year’s week, and the weeks before and after Easter.
More specifically,
Walt Disney World is the most crowded when kids are out of school: over summer through mid-August, Thanksgiving week, Christmas and New Years weeks, the college spring break month of March; and the weeks before and after Easter. Crowds matter because they can increase waiting times by a factor of 3-4, lengthening your trip and/or reducing its value as a vacation while you are there.- The times when kids are out of school are (mostly) also the most expensive times to visit–Disney increases resort prices at times of higher demand, so that for example the same room at the Polynesian is $1800 more during Christmas week than during the week this site recommends.
Walt Disney World pricing is complicated, and prices do vary during these busy periods–for example, prices go down quite bit in August, even though the first two weeks are busy. Click the thumbnail for the exact relationship on prices vs. crowds at Walt Disney World (when it opens, click it again to enlarge it more).- But generally you will pay more during the periods when kids are out of school.
Rides are mostly likely to be closed (for refurbishment) between New Years and mid-February. For more on winter ride closures at Walt Disney World, click here- The hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, but strongly peaks from mid-August through early October.
- Warm weather becomes materially less likely starting in mid-November, and the chance of good pool weather does not sharply improve again until mid-February. See Weather and When to Go.
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 forecasting crowds at Walt Disney World, see this
- For the 2012 Crowd Calendar, click here
- For the 2013 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 weather at Walt Disney World, see this
313 comments
Hello, so glad to have found your site. We are FL residents (8hrs from Disney still) season pass holders and we plan to go to Disney twice this year for about a two week trip each time. We are very fortunate in having completely open schedules. We would like to go once in the spring and once in the fall/winter (hopefully to catch Mickey’s Christmas party…we did Halloween this past Oct.). My question is, what are the best two week time periods to do this? We care the most about low crowds. It seems like May used to be low crowds years ago, but seems to be increasing?
Kimberly–for your spring trip, your best bet is still the first two weeks of May–unless you don’t care about the possible cold, in which case the first two weeks of February are better–less crowded and less expensive. If February, depart by the 18th to avoid the President’s Day crowds.
For your fall trip, to include the Xmas party, pick an arrival date between November 27 and December 8. That will yield two weeks with lower crowds and lotsa Xmas opportunities!
We are thinking of going tomorrow, apr 4th and 5th, how are those dates for crowds? Is it still a huge spring break crowd?
Hi Gena!
Spring Break crowds have been pretty high this year, and that’s likely to continue this week…
You have a wonderful site! Thank you so much for all the wonderful work.
I was wondering what your thoughts are for this upcoming week at Disney. We arrive April 9th and depart April 15th. I’m trying to decide if we need to add park hopper to our tickets. Thanks again!
Hi Laurie, and thanks!
I think next week will be one of the better weeks of Spring Break. Hardly any kids are on break, and with Easter week following, few families take it off. It may be quite crowded, but less so than other Spring Break weeks
Remember–you can add your hopper after you arrive, if you decide you need it, at no extra cost compared to buying it now…
Hello! We were thinking about going May 16-21. Is that a busy/popular time?
Thanks!
Pam, that’s a good time! Moderately hot and humid, and moderate to lower crowds. The late Easter, combined with summer breaks that typically begin later than your week, make it not that popular.
We are planning a trip to disney and unfortunately the only time we have available is 8-7-11 through 8-14-11. We were going to go in May but our daughter is having shoulder surgery this month. We have been in Sept. and in May and have had wonderful experiences both times. I am aware of the crowed time we have chosen. Just wanting some guidance on how to have the “best” vacation possible. Our kids are 15 and 12. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Betsy, since you’ve been there before, you know how to handle the crowds–arrive before the parks open, head straight for the most popular rides, and use FASTPASSES! You should figure to take noon to 5 off for the pools and napping, to avoid the peak of the crowds and the mid-day waether! Have a great trip, and tell me how it goes.
I have read in many places to avoid parks on the days they have extra magic hours. We arrive on April 9th and the 10th has extra magic hours at WDW. Should we avoid it? I heard Sundays are a good day to visit WDW but since it’s an Evening Extra magic hour day, I’m wondering if we should avoid it. Can’t decide because I’m sure it will be most fun to go there on our first full day in town! thanks.
Hi Shari! A park is more crowded than it would otherwise be on extra magic hours days. But that doesn’t mean therefore to always avoid it–it just means know your purpose and weigh it against the extra crowds. E.g. if that Sunday your purpose is to see the evening parade and fireworks and eat at a counter service, then the crowds don’t matter much; if your purpose is to ride Peter Pan and Space Mountain, and try to get a sit down meal from walking up wihtout a reservation, then it matters a lot.
April 16th through the 21st. We are on spring break in NC, how are the crowds @ Disney. Were hoping it’s not a big week? Thanks
Dave, unfortunately that’s the most common week for kids to be on Spring Break in 2011. So I expect the parks to be horribly crowded then. See Spring Break 2011
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Kind of in the same boat as Shari. We are arriving 5/4/11 and was thinking of taking the family to WDW the very next day which is EMH day. I heard on some of the websites that it would be best to go the day after a EMH day. Do you think it would be better to go the Friday after the EMH?
Hi Ron! Hard to say without knowing how long you are staying and where you are staying, but for the Magic Kingdmo I’d concur with you and avoid the 5th.
I am staying off site and will be in Orlando from 5/4/11-5/9/11.
Ok Ron, short answer: Epcot May 5, Magic Kingdom 5/6 and 5/7, AK 5/8 Studios and Fantasmic 5/9. I can give the longer logic behind this if you want!
My family will be at Disney Dec. 17-23. I’m sure this week will be crowded. We want to attend Mickey’s Christmas Party. I’ve read that Tuesday is the best day for the party. Is that what you would recommend?
Hi Allison!
First, yes I’d go with Tuesday for the Party.
Second, I’m not–right now–seeing the first part of that week as crowded. This call may change as more schools publish their 2011-2012 calendars and I get more data on just when the Xmas breaks will be…but at least right now I’m seeing a lot of schools beginning their breaks the 23rd…
1st time family trip to disney– 4 kids ages 3 -9 at time of travel. wondering if we should go 1st week in Feb. 2012 or 1st week in May 2012? would still like to use pool and maybe water park.
Hi Cassie!
May, no question. February is cheaper and has very low crowds. May a little more money and crowds. But pool weather in early feb is VERY iffy whereas that part of may is about as good as wdw weather gets!
Hi! This will be our first trip to Disney World. We have two boys – 11 & 15. Any recommendations on when we should go (10/15, 10/22, later?) and what places we should be sure to visit since our boys are older? Thanks for any advice you can give.
Hi Jan!
The weeks you noted are both recommended weeks–I rank them 6th and 7th best of the year. For more, see 2011 Weeks to Visit Ranked in Order.
Though your boys are older, the horizotal axis of The Comprehensive Guide to Rides should still be valid for them!
We are looking at being at Disney December 12-16th. Is that a bad week to go to Disney this year. We have never been before and we want the kids to really enjoy the parks. Also, our kids are 4, 7, 9, and 12, what parks do your recommend. I am looking for any advice here. We have a place to stay, so we are good. Just don’t know what to do about dates. Also, any suggestion on where to buy park passes for 2 adults and my children? We would love a 2 day at the park and 1 day maybe a water park, but would water parks be open during December? Lots of questions for anyone who could help me. Thx
Hi Dewayne!
I rank your week the 2nd best of the year for first time family visitors. For more, see 2011 Weeks to Visit Ranked in Order.
One of the water parks will be open, but it may be too cold to be any fun–if its way cold, they will close it for the day.
For your other questions, see the links in red on the right side of the site!
We are going to WDW with our grandchildren ages 5 & 12 5/24-5/26. First trip for both. Because of the 5 year old and the short period of time we are only going to MK. but haven’t decided on just 2 days or all 3 at the park. What do you suggest? What is EMH and how would that effect the days we will be there?
Hi Mary are you staying at a WDW resort?
Of course I recommend three days, but the ticket price difference between two and three days is significant.
According to the Disney calendars (see How to Use the Disney Park Calendars) the only EMH you will face at MK is the morning of the 26th. The 26th, though, is the only day that not only has the evening parade showing (the fireworks are on all three days), but also on which the park does not close right after the fireworks (which leads to a real mob scene when it happens).
I’m a fan of having the evening parade and fireworks happen on your last night, and not having the park then immediately close, and since that’s also the only night the parade is on, I’d make that one of your days at the MK.
If you are staying at a WDW resort, then you can also come for morning EMH and be at the MK only two days–the 26th morning and evening, and the 24th.
If you are not staying at a WDW resort, then you want to avoid MK the 26th until evening parade time (arrive 90 mins before the first parade), so you’d want to go to it both the prior days, for a total of 3 days.
We are planning our first ever Disney trip in 2012. Our options are to go from March 29 through April 7th, otherwise we will have to wait until the last week in May when the kids are out of school. Any suggestions or tips? I’m at a complete loss!
Hi Dawn!!
Your March/April dates cover Easter week, a horrible time to go to WDW–the crowds are almost unimaginable.
Your May option will be much better. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Great site… thanks! We are very limited when we can go to Disney. Which would be the least crowded: December 24th -30th 2011 or April 1-7 2012 or Nov. 19-25 2012. I know both are terrible but we have a highschooler and this is it… or nothing! Can you rank these three from best choice to worst? Thank you so much!!
Hi Ellen!
Best to worst is Thanksgiving, Easter, Christmas.
One note–based on your highschooler’s summer schedule, could you go in early June or late Augist? Either would be better than the three above!
See also: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Oh really?? We could go August 15-21 2011. I thought that would be more crowded. Please advise comparing that to Thanksgiving week. Thanks again!
The week after would be better, but regardless, the 15-21 will be much less crowded than Thanksgiving. This is because different school districts go back to school at different times, ranging from early August to after Labor Day. Hence the shoulders of the summer–early June and late August–are not too bad.
Later August is also less crowded because the peak of the hurricane season starts in mid-August. Hurricanes are rarely an issue, but people do avoid Florida then because of them. 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/
As a result of these school and hurricane issues, later August is also typically about as cheap a time as you can go, in terms of WDW resort price seasons.
I’m currently predicting that the price break will start on 8/17/2012 for the values and moderates (it starts in mid-July for the deluxes). See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/26/walt-disney-world-2012-price-seasons/ Note that this is just my forecast–the official 2012 price seasons will likely come out in early August 2011.
You have been so very helpful. I would like your advice on one last option. Would Dec. 17-25 2011 or August 15-21 2011 be less crowded?
I’m currently ranking the week of 12/17 higher than that August week. See http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/11/20/2011-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/ . However, I don’t yet have enuf 2011-2012 school year calendars to be as confident in the week of 12/17 as I wish I were, so that may end up changing…
I am planning a trip to Disney World for my family of 6 adults and one 3 year old child. We were not expecting to be able to go so I am getting a late start. The two times we are looking at are the last week of July or the first week of October. Currently, there are promotions for July so that trip will be about $1800 less than the October trip. Which time would you recommend given weather and crowds?
Hi Cherice!!
Here’s the deal. Late July will be much more crowded, and much more uncomfortable–heat and humidity.
The only thing wrong with the October date is that its still in the peak of the hurricane season (hurricanes rarely affect a WDW trip, but if they do, its likely to be between mid-August and mid-October…)
If I was sure the price difference was gonna stay at $1800 then I’d probably pick July.
But there’s every possibility that a deal will come out that will cover your October dates that might narrow or even eliminate the price difference…no guaratees, but I’d call it at least a 50-50 chance. That makes me lean towards October, which wins hands down at equal prices.
Another option: book July and cancel and re-book if a better deal comes out for October. This could cost you quite a bit–it depends on the specifics of your July booking–but it will cost you at least the prcie of a hotel night. If you take this approach, I’d do it via a travel agent who could get you into the deal structure that is the least costly to cancel.
Hello! I’m taking my family to Disney World next week, May 2, 3, 4, & 5. Can you give my any idea what kind of crowds to expect and which parks to visit each day to avoid them? We do have the hopper passes.
Thank you!
Hi Lee!
Crowds should be moderate or better those days.
Here’s the parks to avoid by day:
May 2: Avoid the Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios
May 3: Avoid Epcot and the Hollywood Studios except for that evening–see below
May 4: Avoid the Animal Kingdom
May 5: Avoid the Magic Kingdom
May 3 is the only day in your period that Hollywood Studios is showing Fantasmic. So you will want to use your hopper and go there in the evening to see it (see the second of the two shows (at 10.30), and arrive at least 60 mins before)
Hello! We are a South Florida family who never makes the journey up the road to Disney. We are tossing the idea around for next week since we have family coming in from out of state to visit the parks. Here is the itinery: Mon 5/09 & tues 5/10 Magic Kingdom. Wednesday 5/12 Animal Kingdom, with some hotel time and other parks taking up the other days. I have been told that Magic Kingdom is horribly crowded on Mondays and that Thursdays are a better bet, what is your take on this?
Hi Hilarry!
Crowds within a week are largely driven by the extra magic hours schedule. For the three days you mentioned, AK has am EMH 5/9 and 5/11, and MK has it in the evening of 5/9.
Unless you are staying at a WDW resort, the only good day for AK is Tuesday the 10th. MK will be fine on the 10th, but increasingly crowded over the day on the 9th.
Thursdays are almost always bad at MK, as it almost always has am EMH on Thursdays. Sundays and Mondays (ignoring the emh factor) do tend to be busier at MK because people often arrive on Sat or Sun and spend their first full day at MK. Add the EMH effect on 5/9 and you are better off at another park. Suggest if you can you do MK Friday the 13th…
To check out the EMH schedules, park hours, etc, see The Disney Park Calendars
What will the crowds be like from may 29th – June 4th. I know first two days will be crazy busy because memorial day. How will the days after be like?
Hi Ken!
Your June days in particular should be fine. Hardly any kids are off school for the summer yet that week–about 20% of districts–so crowds aren’t bad.
HI
We are Aussie family of 5 (kids 5,9,11) arriving 28th Aug staying at Hilton Orlando for 3 nights and Portofino 4 nights…hope they are nice..
What do you think of my proposed park plan please
Mon 29 Aug a half day at Epcot or AK or Hollywood Studios followed by dinner at park
Tue MK with maybe a break and I have booked Cindereela Royal table for lunch for my duaghter and I and Crystal palace for dinner and fireworks..are they better than Epcot illuminations?
the 1st Sept Universal and 3rd Sep Island of Adventures (hubby can’t do too many parks)
ANY advice would be great!
Thanks
Hi Amanda!!
Portofino is stunning. The Hilton is fine. It’s been more than 5 years since I’ve stayed there, but it was a little dull back then…it caters to both conventions and WDW guests so its not as imaginative as the WDW resorts or Portofino.
On your itinerary thoughts, in general, if you plan to spend that few days in the parks, and go 50-50 Universal and WDW, your proposal basically works. I expect Sept 3 to be a high crowd day at Islands of Adventure (it’s the beginning of a three day holiday weekend) but your Portofino early entry to Harry Potter and other privileges should make it fine for you.
Of the three parks you are considering for a half day and dinner on the 29th, Epcot will be the least crowded, but AK and HS have more kid appeal given the ages of your little ones. AK has morning extra magic hours (Hilton guests are eligible for EMH) that day so you want to be there bright and early. It closes at 5 that day so may not be the best choice from the point of view of dinner. HS has evening extra magic hours that day and will be open to you til 10p.
And yes, if I had to pick between Wishes (the MK fireworks) and Illuminations I’d go with Wishes in a heartbeat!
Personally, given the ages of your kids, I’d do Islands of Adventure the 1st and hold on deciding whether to do Universal the 3rd or a WDW park on the 2nd (if WDW do it the second to avoid the holiday crowds on the 3rd) til you’ve experienced both. If you stay flexible this way I’d bet that you will end up doing the Magic Kingdom again on the 2nd…
I am planning a trip to disney world next year. When would be the best time to go these are my criteria has to be nice weather in order to go swimming and not to feel chilly, but not to be scorching hot, to avoid hurrican season, the park hours have to be great, and its not too crowded.
Hi Alicia! Late April and late October meet almost all of your criteria. See http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/12/23/the-most-comfortable-time-to-go-to-walt-disney-world/ .
The only thing you can’t get is great hours and low crowds at the same time–Disney cuts back hours during lower-crowd periods.
We arrive late on 6/2 and leave 6/9. One son is Star Wars Fanatic so were planning on going to Hollywood Studios 6/3. Do you have recommendations on a game plan or alternate day for HS? We thought we should do HS and AK one day each and Epcot and MK two days each. What are your ideas?
Hi Diana!
You might want to shift your Studios day to 6/4, as gay days is at the Studios 6/3 and that combined with the Star Wars weekend may make the Studios much more crowded than it will be 6/4.
See this for more on Star Wars weekends if you aren’t already up on it: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/hollywood-studios/special-events/star-wars-weekend/
For the rest of your period, your allocation of days is spot-on, and see the links on this page http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/06/itineraries-for-walt-disney-world/ especially towards the bottom: the Summer itinerary for a general approach (it’s Sat-Sun so doen’t quite match your dates), and the first two links under “HELPFUL ITINERARY LINKS” for figuring out which parks when
Hope this helps and have a great trip!! Dave
Hi Dave,
Looking at Disneyworld between 1st May to 10th May, 2012. WE will do 5 days there trying to pick the best days where possible. We are a family of 4 from Australia and that will be week 5 of a big trip. Already looking forward to it. Tried to go well after easter and before memorial Day…. hope my thinking is right.
Thanks
mick
Hi Mick!
Yup, you’ve picked a great time–your dates are in my recommended weeks–see http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/ .
Have a great trip!! Dave
hi we are planning a trip end of october first week of november.
what I am wondering is how the 5 or 6 day pass works with the special event days? will we have to pay extra if we go on a day for the halloween festivities? or is it obsorbed in the multi-day pass?
thanks.
Nick
Hi Nick!
On the special party days, the park will be open til 7p for the use of regular ticket holders (e.g. a five or six day pass). You do need a special ticket to attend the halloween party itself, which starts at 7p.
See this for more: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/27/halloween-2011-at-walt-disney-world/
Planning a first ever family trip to DW hopefully 3rd week of october 2012. I know this seems to be a great time of year to go from all the info i got on your site. I should be getting my vacation planning guide in mail soon. The questions I have are about the ticket prices. We are planning on renting a home just miles from disney, so we really wont get to use the bus systems or resorts deals. Should my family still invest in park hopper passes for 2 adults and 1 child 5yrs or just buy regular tickets for 4 parks? Are the parks even open late at night that time of year? Also, do you have to pay to park in the disney parks??? We are planning to do mickey’s halloween party, i realize you have to buy those tickets seperate and in advanced.
Hi Kate!
I would skip the park hoppers for now.
If you discover once you are there that you want them, you can add them to your tickets at the same price as if you had added them now–except that prices will likely go up 3-5% in August 2011.
For more on ticket prices and how they work see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/02/14/walt-disney-world-admission-ticket-prices-2010/
I am debating on a Disney trip the week before the 4th of July…June 27-July 1…I was wondering how long to expect to wait in lines and how crowded it would be? Also would u recommend the dining plan, and staying inside the park or outside the park? Thanks a bunch!
Hi Tia!
It will be very crowded–you can beat the corwds by arriving before the parks open in the morning, and using FASTPASSES, but it waits of an hour or more will be common.
Yes, stay inside Walt Disney World, but skip the dining plan–the most fun restaurants will have long sold out (they start selling out 6 months before), so it won’t be worth it!
Dave,
My wife and I are planning our first trip with our then-4-year-old girl late mid-late October. We really just want a long weekend Thursday to Monday where she can see some characters (mainly princesses since she’s obsessed), do the bibbity bobbity boo thing, do some small rides if possible, see some some animals, and maybe some fireworks one night. We just don’t think we can handle more time at Disney than that. We’re looking at the Carribean Beach Resort. Is that one any good? Do we need a dining plan? Any tips or suggestions? Been perusing your site and it’s got a lot of helpful info. Thanks for putting it all together!
-Bryan
Hi Bryan that’s a great time to go–though avoid if you can the Columbus Day weekend.
Caribbean Beach is my top-ranked moderate, but I don’t recommend moderates for first time visits–see this for more: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-stay/next-best-resort-choices/where-not-to-stay/ For my hotel recommendations, see http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-stay/next-best-resort-choices/
For figuring out which rides will work best for your 4 year old, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/09/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-rides-and-attractions/ That will also help you pick your parks–though from your thoughts it’s sounding like Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.
You can then use this to build your overall plans for the visit: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/how-long-to-stay/other-trip-lengths/designing-your-own-walt-disney-world-itinerary/
Hope this helps and have a great trip!!
Dave
Thanks Dave
Now moved the Hilton booking to Beach Club followed by Portofino…thanks for your tips..really helpful
Amanda
You are welcome and have a great trip!!
We are wanting t0 take a trip to WDW around march 8-20th 2012 with our girls age 7&9, will there be big crowds at that time and what will the weather be like there. We are from Texas and don’t know what to expect in Florida that time of year.
Love your site!! I have a few questions. Our family took our first WDW trip this past May (7th – 14th). Crowds were moderate and actually great the beginning of the week, but by Fri MK was packed with field trips. The weather was just too hot for us. It was in the 90′s most of the week and waiting for the parades to start was just plain miserable. So we really don’t want to go that time of year again. As I’m trying to plan our next trip, I’m struggling between either Nov or Feb. As you can see we want cooler weather!
Yet, we would still like to swim. We would love to see the Christmas decor, so I’m really leaning towards Nov. It looks like costs aren’t too much higher than Feb. How are the crowds the week before Thanksgiving? Also, what about “Jersey Week” –does that really make the crowds that much larger? Our biggest concern is crowds & weather…which month would you suggest? Also, trying to decide between the Poly & Beach Club. Have never stayed onsite so I really want us to be drowning in the Disney magic!! 
Which resort do you think gives you the best Disney experience? Thanks so much for your help!!
Hi Martha!
I’m expecting that week to be very crowded. March weather is all over the place, with typical highs ranging from the mid-60s to the mid 80s. See this for more: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/
Hi Amanda!
For the best crowd/cool weather balance for a returning visitor, go for early Feb. Arrive early enuf in the month so that you depart by 2/17 or you will run into Presidents day crowds and prices.
See also http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/ but note that these rankings are for first time visitors! I rank the Jan and early feb weeks much higher for returning visitors…
Poly, poly, poly hands down. See http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-stay/
We have changed our plans to go to dw from october 2012 to march 2012 now. I noticed the Star wars tours is during the spring. Do u happen to know if its open in march and what date? or is not available till later. Have a 4.5 old son who loves star wars. Is he old enough to participate? I’m sure i will have more questions since it seems we are going to disney sooner rather then later!!!
Hi Kate, glad to help.
First March after the 9th will be wildly crowded…
Second there’s a couple of different Star Wars things at one of the theme parks, Hollywood Studios, that he might like. Two are open everyday: Star Tours, a ride, and the Jedi Training Academy, where he can learn to use a night saber and battle Darth Vader. That one requires you to be at the park when it opens and sign up.
Then typically in late May and early June there’s something called “Star Wars” weekends at the same park where he can see lots of Star Wars charaters, etc. This happens on weekends (Fri-Sun) over three or four weeks.
Hope this helps! Dave
Thank you Dave. He will love the star wars training academy! I hate that we are not going in fall, i was really looking forward to that time of yr there. But we are most likely going the first week of march, so hopefully a bit less crowded. Most of us going are first timers to dw.
Hi Kate! The first week of March should be not nearly as crowded as the rest of the month! Have fun, Dave
Hi was wondering if the week of november 22, 2012- november 27, would be busy
Hi Macy!
Because of Thanksgiving, it will be very busy the 22nd-24th, ok the 25th, and uncrowded the 26th and 27.
Hello
Hope you are doing well today.
We are visiting Florida from Aug. 13-27th
We are going to all the disney parks but not til our second week (21st-26th)
We are trying to plan an itinerary and I am getting conflicting results so I wondered if you could help.
Right now we have: Sunday: Waterpark; Mon: Epcot, Tues: Hollywood Studios; Wed: Magic Kingdom; Thurs. Animal Kingdom
But the problem is that my parents want to come to Magic Kingdom with us but they will be leaving on the 24th.
We also want to make sure we get in Fantasmic at hollywood studios (which I know is on Sun. Tues. Thurs.)
This may be hopeless but I thought I’d try
Some sites say that hollywood studios is fine on Sunday’s and some say it’s not.
What would our reccommended itinerary be based on the info I gave you?
Hi Jenny!
Disney has added a lot of showings of Fantasmic in August–it is now showing every night of your planned WDW visit.
This makes things simpler. I’d advise doing MK the 22nd, the Studios the 23rd, Epcot the 24th, and AK the 25th.
There’s no sense to saying a particular park is good or bad on a particular day–eg no one can say accurately “all Sundays are bad at HS.”
It all depends on the Extra Magic Hours schedule, which has a couple of typical patterns but does vary, and in the case of the Studios, if it has a limited slate of Fantasmics in a period. If it does, then Fantasmic days will be much more crowded. This does not apply to your period, so I’ve based the recommended days based just on the EMH schedule for those days…
Hope this helps!! Dave
Dave,
We will be at WDW 8/14/2011 – 8/20/2011. We have a child who is 4 and one that will be turning 12 on the 18th. We would like to do something special on the evening of the 18th but not sure what, any suggestions? (He is mature for his age.) This website is the first time I have ever heard of not attending parks on certain days. On our previous trip (5 years ago), we attended which ever park had early hours and collected fastpasses. We would stay until around lunch time, head back to the resort to rest, and then go to park that had late magic hours. We are staying at a Disney resort and have park hopper and waterpark fun-n-more options. We are expecting to split up some days because of the age difference in our children. You seem to have a lot of knowledge in this area, any input would be appreciated!
Thank you for your time!
Lara
Hi Lara!
Your approach (morning and evening EMH) works great for Summer EMH schedules and operating hours if you have a park hopper! No need to change it…
I’m thinking about the special celebration for the 12 year old and not coming up with any great ideas…have you done Hoop Dee Doo Revue? that’s a possibilty tho likely sold out for your dates…if other ideas come I’ll add them here!
is the first week of november 2011 good to go? thanks!
It’s an OK week. Because of Jersey Week (see http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/02/jersey-week-at-walt-disney-world/ ) crowds are a little higher than the weeks before and after.
Hi all! I’m planning on going next July. I know this is an extremely busy time, but its all i can get. I was wondering if any week in july was less crowded than another. Also, I plan on proposing to my girlfriend while we are there. Any suggestions for a ‘disney’ proposal?
Hi Brandon!
Re July, the worst week is the one that includes the fourth of July and corwds get slightly better in the second half of the month.
Re the proposal, what a great idea! See this page: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/12/21/mail-and-comments-where-to-propose-at-walt-disney-world/ and I’m also gonna reach out to my network for more ideas!
Brandon, here’s some more ideas I’ve got from others:
On the beach at the Polynesian Resort during Wishes
During Illuminations at Epcot
From the deck at Narcoossee’s, a restaurant at the Grand Floridian, during Wishes
From Splash Mountain–see http://www.disneyweddingblog.com/2011/03/splash-mountain-surprise-marriage.html The blog that link is to might be helpful also!
I’ve bolded items you can read more about on this site–use the search box at the top right…
Will post more ideas if they come in!
Dave
Thanks a lot dave! I really appreciate the time you took to do this! I love the idea of the beach at the Polynesian. I’m also thinking something in the Animal Kingdom, as she loves animals. Thanks again!
Glad to help. Re the Animal Kingdom, note that most of the recommendartions so far are related to fireworks shows…and the AK doesn’t have those…I’ll noodle on other AK options and post here if I come up with anything!
Hi
I have booked to go to Orlando from 19th March 2012 to 2nd April 2012. First 8 days in Orlando 2nd week in Tampa. Have now found out that this is Spring Break in the USA!!! Have I made a huge mistake?? We will be taking twin 4 year olds and dont want to spend the whole time queueing up. Can you advise what the queues will be like?
Many thanks
Hi Faye!
I have both those weeks ranked as very high crowds, 10s on my scale of 1-11. There are ways to manage the crowds, especially if you are staying at a Walt Dinsey World resort hotel, but I’d avoid them if I could…
For more on Sprng Break see this http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/11/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-spring-break-2012/
And if you are able to change your dates see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Brandon: this podcast was suggested by one of my buds: http://thelostboyslist.blogspot.com/2011/06/proposing-at-walt-disney-world.html
Thanks Dave. I have managed to change dates today to 1st March until 14th March which I gather will be slightly better with regards to crowds…..just hope the weather is still Ok?! Thanks
That’s great! The crowds at WDW will be reasonable until around the 10th…the weather can be all over the place in early March, but not in a much different way than your original weeks…
i was just reading some of the questions above – we are going in December 2011 not exactly sure how our days will pan out – am i reading correctly that i could get regular day passes and add on the hopper once i am there – if we would decide to go to two parks in one day – and that would be approximately $52 per day – am i figuring this correctly – my husband i would probaably only do one park a day – but the rest of the family may do more – but not sure since the parks do close earlier – thank you so much and by the way your informaiton is GREAT!!!!!
hi never been to disney world, but i am planning a trip and was wondering when I should go, im worried about crowds and weather. I want to be able to swim, but not have to worry about hurricanes.
Hi Deb, and thanks!
You are mostly right except the price!
You can add the hopper only when you decide you really need it, at no more cost than if you bought it in advance, and its ~$50 per person, not per day–Each person has a ticket with between 1 and 10 days of park access, and the hopper is still just ~$50 more whether the ticket is for 1, 5 or 10 days.
(You can also add days at no extra cost compared to buying them before you arrive–if you start wiht a 4 day ticket, you can make it a 5 day ticket when you want (within 14 days of first use) at no more cost than buying all 5 days to start with.)
Shoot for the time between the week after Easter (that is, arriving 6-7 days after Easter) and early May.
Crowds will be low, and the weather at this time of year is as good as it gets! And the hurricane season doesn’t begin until June 1, and isn’t really important until mid-August.
For 2012, see the April and May weeks on this page: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Promised my now 4 and 10 year olds we go next year. My youngest has never been but the oldest has. Want everything: great swimming weather, shorter lines and cheapest flights from NY. We don’t mind missing a couple days of school (3 at the most combined with a weekend). What time of year is best?
Hi Melanie–I can’t comment on NY flight prices, but to combine short lines and great weather, arrive in mid April–e.g. April 14 or 21. See this for more: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Hello,
My family and I have been to WDW a few times and are planning on going back this fall. We homeschool so we have the option of going at any time during the year. We’d really like to go right after soccer season ends which is November 5th. I understand that the first full week in November is Jersey week and that it might be more full then. Is that right? Is it that big of a difference? We have other plans for Thanksgiving and need a few days to get home and repack for that trip. Would it be a good time to go from say the 9th to the 19th?
Thanks!
Hi Jennifer!
See this for more on Jersey week: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/02/jersey-week-at-walt-disney-world/
It’s not that bad, it’s just worse than the other fall non-holiday weeks.
Jersey week will peak the 9th through 12th, and crowds will then be great the 13th thru the 19th, so your 9th-19th dates would work OK–the first few days busy, great the rest of the time.
Thank you! Can you recommend which parks we should do those first busy days?
Sure!
You want to avoid the most popular parks–Magic Kingdom and Islands of Adventure–all those days, and also avoid extra magic hours parks (and the crowds they draw).
That suggests to me the Animal Kingdom or Epcot the 10th, Hollywood Studios the 11th, and whichever of AK or Epcot you did not see the 10th on the 12th…
I will be in Orlando Aug 24-26 for a work conference. On Aug 25th (Thursday) I will have free time after 5:30 and would love to go to Magic Kingdom. What do you think the crowds/lines will be like during that time of the day and that week. I know probably Epcot would be less busy but if I have my choice I would rather hit Magic Kingdom. I’m trying to maximize the short window of time I have off so any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your input.
Hi Kris, MK should be OK that day. Most kids are back in school, so the summer crowding will be largely over.
Hello-
We are coming to Disney with a 6, 3 and 1 yr old on November 18-25. Any ideas which days to do which parks to avoid the crowds as much as we can?
Hi Kristin!
My specific advice is to get to the Magic Kingdom the 18th and 19th, as crowds will begin to really build the 20th.
Otherwise the key is to avoid parks that have morning extra magic hours that day. For more see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/07/26/which-days-at-which-park-at-walt-disney-world/
Dave, I sent you a email last week but I don’t think you got it so I’ll try again.
I’m going to WD Sept 6th through the 9th. Now I’m thinking I should have waited another week. I noticed the parks hours change the second week of Sept. What say you?
Mike
Mike–these are “comments,” not emails
–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012-week-picker-prices-1/comment-page-1/#comment-17067
that said, I’ll send you an email too!!
We are going to Disney for the first time with our 14yr old and our 7yr old from December 15th – 19th. I was wondering how the crowds were at that time of the year?
Hi Brenda! If you mean 2011, crowds should be fine. I epxect them to start building the 17th, and start getting even higher after you leave!
For more, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/05/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-christmasnew-years-2011-2012/
We want to go to Disney December 17-22 but just not sure if it will be worth it due to the crowds. This will be our first visit to Disney as a family. So we really don’t know much on how to plan this trip. Would it just be better to go sometime next year instead??
Hi Karen!
I think that week on average will be OK. It will start great, but get really crowded beginning Wednesday or so. See http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/05/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-christmasnew-years-2011-2012/
However, if I’m wrong, it will be more crowded than I predict.
Thus, if I were you, I’d take a close look at this page and see if any of the recommedned weeks work for your family: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Hello! We are headed to WDW staying at Beach Club Villas from 11/23 through 11/29….will it be very crowded the entire time due to Thanksgiving week, or is it more just the holiday itself that it’s crowded? We want to do Magic Kingdom and Epcot and try to see the Candlelight Processional. I can’t change the dates to early Dec., or I would do so.
Hi Stacey!
The peak crowds will be the 23rd through the 26th. The rest of your dates should be great, especilly the 28th and 29th…
Hello!
We will be arriving on 11/16 around 3:30 in the mid afternoon leaving 11/22 early. We are traveling with a 5 yr old. Which parks would you visit on each day?
Thanks for your input!!!
Hi Kelly! The trick for you is that crowds will start building the 20th.
My advice varies a little depending on whether or not you are staying in a Disney hotel. In the following I’m assuming you aren’t. I’m also leaving Epcot out as there’s little of interest there to a 5 year old
17: Animal Kingdom
18: Magic Kingdom
19: Magic Kingdom
20: Hollywood Studios
21: Pick your favorite and head back
Hi! Great site! Based on your advice, my family and I booked a trip for December 5-9th. I was very excited until I saw that the Pop Warner kids will be in Orlando during the same time frame. Should I be worried?
Hi Nina! Pop Warner has little impact, so not to worry. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/30/pop-warner-week-at-walt-disney-world/
Hi,
A family group is loking into the week of 6/16-6/23. Could you please give me your opinion on that week as relates to weather, crowd and cost? Would it be less to stay outside the park and shuttle in? Are there better weeks in the summer (off from school) to go?
Thanks
Hi DT!
I’m not keen on that week–it’s crowded, hot and expensive. See this for better summer weeks: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/20/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-summer-2012-crowds/
It almost always costs less to stay outside the parks in term of pure hotel costs–but see this:http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/01/27/the-tightwads-guide-to-staying-off-site-at-walt-disney-world/
greetings!
love your site and just subscribed. We are previous Disneyland pass holders and are planning our first trip to Disney World. Unfortunately, because our boys are 13, 11 and cannot afford to miss a week of school, we are going 12/31/11 through 1/7/12, during their holiday break. We are excited to see the holiday decorations and plan to navigate the crowds by waking up early each day or plan to. We will be staying at the Beach Resort/Disney property, will have the park hopper options, as well as monorail access, although we will have trek through Epcot to get to the monorail.
My questions:
When do all the Christmas decorations come down at each park? I really want to see the
Osborne Spectacle of Lights, Illuminations at Epcot/Candle Light Processional. Etc..
What else should be a priority the first few most crowded days before they are gone?
NYE will be wild and crowded but we are arriving that day at 4pm and will goto Epcot, best place to see the fireworks? Or will it be so crowded that we will not be able to get in?
I just made a preliminary itinerary but have some holes:
12/31 Epcot
1/1. Animal Kindom / ?
1/2.
1/3. DHS
1/4. Epcot/
1/5. Magic Kingdom/
1/6
1/7. DHS 8am-11:30, return to Hotel to check out and go home:)
I want to utilize our park hopper options but not sure where to go in the evenings taking into acct travel time/our location and seeing things at night!
Having gone to Disneyland CA, a dozen times recently, it will be a priority for my preteens to ride new rides and see age appropriate shows, boys are not fans of the more kiddie shows. With that said they will still want to ride all the rides they are familiar with at least once to see if they are any different, space mountain, tower of terror, splash mountain, haunted mansion etc…
I have your book and have started to tag pages, and now with the web subscription, I am over armed with info!!!! Thanks for any reply and specific recommendations for our specific trip!!!!! We are warriors and look forward to a well planned trip to maneuver around the crowds and to see as much as possible at WDW.
Annette
From CA
Hi Annette! I actually don’t have anything to do with either TouringPlans.com or The Unofficial Guide, other than the highest repsect (mostly) and an affiliation agreement.
Most of the special Xmas events end 12/30 or 12/31–the exception is the Osbornes, which end Jan 3. The decorations stay up longer, as it takes several weeks for Disney to get them all down!
Epcot the 31st is fine. After that focus on the Magic Kingdom and HS after the 2nd–picking the days they do NOT have morning EMH.
You want to avoid morning EMH as even though you get an extra hour, by late morning the park is even busier than it would have been on a non-EMH day. While you can park-hop then, park hopping takes 45 to 90 mins and so doesn’t always pay off. it’s best reserved for days that look like this: early at one park, afternoon sleeping or at the pool, evening at another park.
See this for more: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/07/26/which-days-at-which-park-at-walt-disney-world/
Suggest you redo your calendar to avoid morning EMH…
Dave,
We’re traveling to WDW in May with an 11mo old, 11yr old and 8yr old. Can you help me out with the BEST week to go for avoiding crowds (I’ll sacrifice a lot to avoid mass crowds with kids). Is there anything else that would be specifically special to see in May? Please advise me on the weather/precipitation and, if you know, the ins and outs of taking a baby on rides (will a front carrier work?). I really appreciate all your advice!
Thanks, Tara
Hi Tara. The short version is the earlier in May the better.
See this for the best weeks: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
For weather, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/ The rainy season typically starts in mid-May.
There’s a special garden show at Epcot that ends May 20. See this: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/special-events/epcot-international-flower-and-garden-festival/
I don’t have much expertise on babies at WDW (I focus on older kids) but there’s a great section in The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
See also the links on the left side of the site!
Hope this helps, Dave
We are thinking of coming to WDW Dec. 17 thru Dec. 24? What will the crowds be like? I have been before but it was the end of Sept. ,first of October. The kids are in school and cannot get out to come any other time. I do not want to stand in line to ride for hours.
Thanks
Hi Sharon! I think it will be OK until the 22nd or the 23rd. Not as quiet as Sept/Oct, but still manageable. Xmas crowds will start pouring in at the end of the week… see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/05/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-christmasnew-years-2011-2012/
Hello:) How are you? Thank you for your insight!
My family and I are collectively trying to put together a 40th birthday trip for my sister inlaw. There will be 9 of us (6 adults, 3 kids aged 6,10,14). Her birthday is October 22nd, 2012. Just wondering….is we were going to try to see Halloween and Christmas in Disney what 2 weeks would you recommend? Thanking you:)
Hi Tania!
There’s no complete overlap, as Halloween celebrations typically end Nov 1 and the Xmas program is not in full swing until the Friday after Thanksgiving.\
However, the special Mickey’s Very Merry Xmas Party recently has started around Nov 8 or so, so in 2012 if you arrived say Oct 28th and departed Nov 10th you might be able to see both parties.
This would put you there during Jersey Week, which is not bad, but not one of my recommended weeks.
For more on the Xmas party see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/05/01/mickey%E2%80%99s-very-merry-christmas-party-2011-at-walt-disney-world/ For more on the halloween party see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/27/halloween-2011-at-walt-disney-world/ and for more on Jersey Week see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/02/jersey-week-at-walt-disney-world/
Looking to go sometime in May 2012 – when is the best time during that month when the crowd would be the least?
Thanks!
Hi Jen!
The short answer is the earlier in May the better. For more, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
We are planning on coming to Disney Dec 19-24. I have read all the sites about the crowds and I am concerned we have picked the worst time to come. Is it just miserably crowded then?
Hi, your first few days should be OK. I don’t expect the crazy crowds to start building until the 22nd. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/05/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-christmasnew-years-2011-2012/
Hi, Dave! We will be going to WDW from November 22 through December 7. We are renting a home a few miles from Disney, and plan on visiting WDW and Universal. Obviously, the crowds will be heavier until the 26th or so, but any adcvise on which days to go where? And will it still be warm enough to go to a water park? Thank you!
Hi Nicci!
You have a nice long trip that will allow you to pick and choose.
I’d avoid any parks til the 26th. That day forward, avoid parks on days they have morning extra magic hours, but otherwise it won’t matter much–crowds will be so low that you can’t seriouly err.
The best time to visit Universal is on the weekends and Monday, so target 12/3, 4 and 5.
Waterparks are a crap shoot. Highs can be in the 80s or the 50s. For more on winter highs, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/chance-date-will-have-high-temperature-75/
Hi Dave,
We are visiting Orlando and are arriving on the 27th of march-12th of April 2012 from Ireland.
Im worried now we probably have picked a very busy time. Our daughter is 3yrs old on the 3rd of April and wanted to visit WDW around that week. Will the crowds be very high? And will it be more expensive? We are stayin on International Drive. Thank you.
Hi AnneMarie.
This is indeed one of the most crowded and most expensive times of the year, and I’d change my dates if you can.
For spring break crowds, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/11/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-spring-break-2012/ and for prices see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/26/walt-disney-world-2012-price-seasons/
Prices on I-Drive will follow this pattern as they are also shaped by the increased demand.
For better weeks, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Thanks Dave,
What will be more expensive? Are you talking food and park tickets?We have our park tickets purchased here a while so we dont have to buy them over in Orlando. I dont know if we will be able to change flights as we got them at a good price with Aerlingus direct from Ireland. Im raging now we didnt book it for the febuary break we have over here. As i dont like my kids missing too much off school.
Our daughter is 3yrs on the 3rd of April so that is why we really wanted to go that time too.
Thank you for your help anyway.
Annemarie–I was thinking your hotel would be quite expensive compared to other times…
Thank you Dave,
We have our hotel paid for already awhile so we are ok that way. Im just worried that prices of food and merchandising will be up?? thanks
Hey Annemarie, you should be fine then. Merchandise prices won’t change. Food may be a little more expensive at sit-down venues–e.g.$3-$5 more per person…
Oh thank you Dave
Happy to hear that as we were getting worried 
lol
Thank you for your help!
You’re welcome and have a great trip!!
What a plethora of information you are! My family is planning a trip to Disney world in mid-July 2012, possibly the 15th, for a week, as we need to wait until everyone is out of school/work. My sister and I will be celebrating our 40th birthday on the 17th and we will also be celebrating both of our husbands retirement. This will be our mother and stepfathers first trip to Disney, as well, so we want to make it amazing! We would love to stay at the boardwalk, but don’t seem to be finding any packages to include park hoppers and meal plans, or do you think this is not the way to go? There are 11 of us total coming from new York, though I can’t get airline pricing yet either. We know it will be crazy busy in July but do you have any suggestions for our group to make the most of it? 5 kids ages range from 6-12. Thank you, in advance.
Hi, by “packages” I assume you mean discounts or deals? None have been announced past March of 2012. I doubt that much other than possibly a room discount deal will be available during your dates, as demand is high enough then that Disney does not need to discount much.
You may want to work with a travel agent who can help you set things up so that if a discount is announced you can have the best chance of being eligble. See the form on the lower right for getting in touch.
You can do fine in July if you follow one of my itneraries. The one most likely to apply is the summer itinerary (won’t know for sure until Disney releases its July calendar in early December)–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/12/06/summer-itinerary-for-walt-disney-world-v2/
For hotel options for such a large group see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/special-circumstances/special-circumstances-large-families/
I would say late Jan into Early Feb. (mid Feb would be too crowded due to school vacation weeks for New England and other northern states where a lot of people plan trips down feb break and april break. Early Feb would be quiet.
also the definition of pool weather would vary depending on which state or country you come from. For example someone from my area in Boston will have a different view of pool weather than someone from Atlanta Georgia or Phoenix AZ. I would be fine swimming when its 70 or higher. whereas floridians might not.
Hi Jeff!
The recommendations are for first-timers who may never return.
As a result, common ride closures keep me from recommending Jan-mid Feb, which can be great otherwise as you note.
See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/12/winter-ride-closures-at-walt-disney-world/
Yup!
Hi Dave
Thanks so much for your wonderful site. My sister and her husband are both disabled (CP) and in their fifties. We would love to surprise them with an overseas visit to Disney World – a long time dream. Do you have any recommendations for where to stay so that their wheelchairs won’t become a major hassle with transportation or grounds difficult to navigate? I saw your recommendations on the Polynesian, but it’s just too much for our budget.
Hi Sarah, what a sweet idea.
At the next price level, Port Orleans French Quarter is the most compact–see http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/10/23/review-disneys-port-orleans-french-quarter-resort/
Also consider buying PassPorter’s Open Mouse for Walt Disney World and the Disney Cruise Line: Easy Access Vacations for Travelers with Extra Challenges
Hi Dave
Your recommendation of that book is invaluable. I had no idea it existed, and it will be so helpful. Thank you SO much!!
You’re welcome, Sarah. That book has helped many, it’s a wonderful resource. Have a great trip! Dave
We have the opportunity to go to Disney on Dec 30-Jan 2. How terrible will the crowd be? Any recommendations for our family? (children are 13 & 18)
Camille the crowds will be terrible through the 31st, and very bad the next two days. The keys are arriving early and using FASTPASSES. For more see this, which I wrote for last year but whose principles still apply: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/12/19/adventure-or-inconvenience-walt-disney-world-over-the-holidays/
Hello Dave, thank you for this website. I’d love to read all the comments but I am pressed for a free time. I need a little of your wisdom. We have an almost 3 month old and a 2 yr old. We will be visiting the Disney Parks from 12/18-12/21 with other family and relatives. Is this a good time to be taking a baby there? How cold is Orlando around that time? Thank you very much!
Hi Gleecko! Crowds should start OK but will build over your visit. Weather in December is all over the place, it can be 45 or 85–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/
Dave, first I want to say that your web site is great. We are flying into Tampa on Dec 24 2011 from Switzerland and will be in Disney with a 6 day, 1 park per day pass, from Dec 25 to Dec 30, leaving for Miami on Dec 31. One different park per day, with 2nd days for EPCOT and the Studios. What would be the best days for each park? Are we really missing out by not taking the park hopper option? Our kids are 11, 14 and 17. Many thanks.
Alain, both the value of a hopper and the which parks which days questions are profoundly affected by whehter or not you are staying in a WDW hotel…can you let me know?
Dave, we will be at a Ramada hotel, just south of Animal Kingdom and the All -Star Music and Movies hotels, on 192. So we are not in a WDW hotel.
Thanks Alain.
Here’s the deal. Because you are not a WDW hotel guest, you are more at risk of being excluded from a park when it hits capacity, and also need to avoid parks when they have morning extra magic hours–as they will already be near packed when you arrive.
For more on park closings, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/11/30/park-closings-at-walt-disney-world/
Because of the park closure potential, there is value to a hopper. If you go to a park in the am, go back to your hotel for a nap, and return to find it closed, the hopper will let you go to another park.
No days this week are good–especially at the Magic Kingdom–as your period is the most crowded time of the year. That said, some days are better than others because of the am EMH factor.
So do Animal Kingdom the 25th, Epcot the 26th, MK the 27th, Epcot the 28th, and the Studios the 29th and 30th.
Hope this helps, and have a great trip!
Nice site. I’m confused as to why you rank the last week in March as being extremely crowded. I checked and found that very few colleges have spring break that week, and it is not close to Easter.
Hi Paul and thanks! If you are talking about the week beginning March 24, you are right that if I am wrong it will be a lot better than how I have it rated. For more on how it came to be rated this eway, see this:http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/11/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-spring-break-2012/
Great site. Me and my wife went on out honeymoon to Disney World back on August 7th-13th. Very crowded. We are already planning our return trip for our Anniversary but are wanting to go in early December 2012. Probably December 9th-15th. How are those dates usually?
Hi Kenny! That’s a really good week–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Hello, I just wanted to say that your site is the best Disney site on the web. You are so nice to respond to everyones comments. I’m so impressed by your attentiveness. Keep up the wonderful work!
Thanks Lisa! What a nice christmas present…
Hey i am leaving Orlando in the 15th of January, there are any great day to go to any of the parks, Island of Adventures and Magic Kingdom?
Hi! I found this site to be very helpful, however, I want to make sure I’m reading it correctly. A large group of my family will be going to Disney World October 21-28, 2012. We went before in November and found the crowd to be very low, which we loved. What is the crowd level during the Oct dates mentioned. Is this a good time to go?
Hi Lucca, I’m not quite understanding when you will be in Orlando and for how long…
Hi Gina, yes, that’s a great week–I rate corwds as a 2. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/29/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-3/
Hi Dave, I’ll be at Disney World from May 27 through the 31. I realize this isn’t ideal but it’s the only time I can manage. How are the crowds during this time compared to spring break and July?
Hi Grace! MUCH better. The 27th and 28th will be busy, and the rest of your time moderately busy…but much better than spring break or July…
Hi Dave! We will be at Disney march 31st through April 6. I know this is not the ideal time to go,but my daughter takes all honors classes and cannot miss any school.will it be extremely crowded? And how can we avoid the crowds and still do everything we want to do?
Hi Angela, yes it will be extremely crowded–that’s the second most corwded week of the year. To minimize crowds, avoid parks with morning extra magic hours, arrive well before they open, and use FASTPASSES….
Hi! I absolutely love your site! I will be in the World on March 4th through 9th. I understand that you ranked this week to be number 13 for the year. However, I am very nervous that it will be crowded due to Spring Break for Canada…(someone mentioned this on facebook to me a couple of days ago)…as well as Disney offered up the free dining plan for this week as well. Do you think these two things will have a big impact on crowd levels? I have been twice before, both times at the beginning of Feb and there were no crowds, which made for an awesome experience. Will it be that big of a difference?
Hi Amanda and thanks!
WDW may be a little more corwded than I am forecasting, because of the discounts–if I’m wrong, though, I don’t expect it to exceed moderate crowds. That’s a lot more than the beginning of Feb–but since you know your way around, know to avoid morning EMH (unless you park hop), know to arrive before the gates open, know to ride the most popular rides first at opening, and know how to use FASTPASS, you should be fine!
I had someone suggest to me that I should rename that week “Quebec Week…” But here’s the deal…Canadian visitors are on the order of 7-10% of WDW guests. So even if they triple past normal, the parks would still have just 20-30% more people…in this week, given how few US kids are off, not in itself enough to make a big difference in waits if you follow the arrive early etc approach…
Hello Dave! I´m very glad to have found your site!!! It is really very interesting and complete
My familiy ( husband & 3 teenagers ) will be visiting Orlando in March…..we had no idea about the existence of your Spring Break!!!! now I´m a bit nervous!! …from March 22th through March 30th and will not stay at a WDW resort. We want to visit the 4 WDW parks, one water park and both Universal´s parks .What are your recomendations ? Which are the best days to visit Islands of Adventures and Magic Kingdom?
Best regards from sunny Buenos Aires.
Hi Susana, and thanks!
First a bit of good news–while it may be quite crowded then, it may not be as crowded then as my forecasts–for why see this:
http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/09/28/spring-break-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
However, it’s hard to give specific advice, because if it is crowded, Disney may add “extra magic hours” and you want to avoid a park any day it has extra magic hours.
Right now per the schedule avoid MK the 22nd, Epcot the 23rd, HS the 24th, MK the 25th, AK and HS the 26th, Epcot the 27th, AK the 28th, MK the 29th, and Epcot the 30th.
As noted though Disney may add more of these EMH on short notice. To keep up, check Disney’s calendar every now and then–for how to check it, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/03/30/walt-disney-world-hours-of-operation/
Generally, the best days to see Universal are Sundays and Mondays–see this:http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/31/the-best-and-worst-days-of-the-week-to-see-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter/
Hope this helps and have a great trip! Dave
Wao!!!
Thank you so much for this site its amazing!!! Well, you make it amazing since you help us a lot!!
We are a panamanian family (Panama, Central America) coming in July 16th until July 24th and we are staying at the AKL..
How is the crowd during this dates? I tried to book quite in the middle from the crowded season but its my son’s birthday and want to celebrate it Disney.
Which parks you suggest we should visit to avoid the crowd?
We want to go: Animal Kingdom (obvious), Magic Kingdom, Typhoon Lagoon, Universal Studios, Island of Adventure, Hollywood Studios…
Also, how is the weather? I’m pretty sure its nicer than ours!
Thanks so much for your help!
Please let me know asap your tips.
Cheers,
Kathy
Hi Kathy and thanks!
All the parks will be crowded. The key to getting ahead of the crowds is is to arrive early–before they open–ride the most popular rides first, and use FASTPASSES. For more on FASTPASSES see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/01/09/fastpasses-at-walt-disney-world/
The best days for Universal tend to be Sunday and Monday. For an approach to Disney, see this– http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/12/06/summer-itinerary-for-walt-disney-world-v2/ It doesn’t quite fit your days, but gives you a place to start.
AKL is a great choice, you’ll love it!
Weather is very hot and humid, with brief afternoon thunderstorms common…
Also check out the instructions on the home page– http://yourfirstvisit.net/
Hope this helps and have a great trip!
Hello Dave,
I’ve been reading, and can’t decide which would be the best date to visit for the first time, since I’m from Monterrey, Mexico I do not know exaclty which are the dates “Between the second week after Easter and the week before Memorial Day”, so can I have a little help? Thanks a lot!
Hi Jenny, two things.
First, in 2012, that advice means arrive April 14 or later, and depart by May 27.
Second, see this page: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Hope this helps, and have a great trip! Dave
Amazing site! Struggling to make a decision between arriving on 12/8/12 or 12/15/12 for a surprise Christmas gift for my 5 year old. We have visited before in late January and early October. Prices appear to be the same on Disney’s website for these 2 weeks. Any thoughts to help me make a decision would be SO appreciated!
Hi Becky, and thanks!.
12/8, hands down. For why, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/ which ranks the week of the 8th number 1, and this, http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/24/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order-continued/ which ranks the week beginning the 15th number 18
hi… i wanted to plan a family trip to disneyland park in anaheim the last week of may or first week of june? do you think that would be the best time to go with prices and crowded people? The family i am going with are the ages from 2 yrs old to 12yrs old… and what do you think about the weather? this will be our first time going.. we just need to know what is first things to do? first time planning something big for our family.. please help me… thank you….
Hi Titania. I’m not an expert on DIsneyland in Anahiem, and its summer crowds are greatly affected by swchool breaks in southern california, whihc I know little about. Suggest you take a look at the Disneyland section on Touringplans.com…
Hi Dave. As per your advice I went to DW the week of Feb 7th through the 10th. The crowd level was low and only a few rides had a wait time longer than 10 mins so you were right on going that week! If you remember I went in November (can’t remember the week but before the TG break) also and there were very low crowds then …Actually November was a tad less crowded. Thank you again for suggesting those weeks. I’m planning on another visit this September and you know I’ll be hitting you up before then for the best week. Thanks for all your help!!!! Mike
Hey Mike, good to hear from you again! I’m glad the site helped, and don’t forget to tell your 100 closest friends…and the travel editors of the New York Times…about it
Hi Dave. Amazing site and very helpful
I have a couple of questions about the holidays. I’m planning a trip with my wife to Orlando from 11/30/12 to 12/20/12 and will be staying on an apartment near WDW.
We need to know if there is a difference in the parades or fireworks shows between the days before Christmas and Christmas day on any of the 4 parks???, also if there is a difference with the shows and parades on new years day???, cause I’ve read that the main difference is only the days of the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom.
And the other question is, do you know when the tickets for the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party come out this year 2012???, so we can buy them in advance, and is it true that if we go to Magic Kingdom like 3 o 4 days before Christmas the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is include in the park admission ticket????
Thank you Dave, and have a great day.
Hi Fernando, and thanks!
There is a difference in the fireworks and parades beginning the week before Xmas, when the special parade and fireworks that were shown only at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are shown to all guests.
Nothing else from the Christmas party is moved into this week.
New Years Eve fireworks are also different than normal nights at MK and at Epcot, but not New Years Day.
I don’t know when MVMCP tickets will come out–based on past practice, I’d guess July or August….hope this helps, and post any other questions you have! Dave
Hi Dave,
I could use some advice. Ive planned several WDW trips but am at a loss with this one. I’m taking my sister,my 2 yr old niece & my 11 yr old nephew for a 4day trip with 3 day tickets. I just cant figure out when to go. I’m trying to avoid crowds,save money & make it before the 2 year old makes 3 on 9/4. I’m hoping August 29th- September 2nd.I would also like to get out before the hurricane seasons peak. Some sites say its one of the least crowded weeks other than early winter. Will it help that we are getting out before Labor Day? I was also offered the free dining but I dont think its a good fit for us. It just seems like we would have to upgrade. It just feels like Im either paying for it now or when I get there & not making a difference. I would appreciate any advice…Thanks!
Hi Dave,
We are traveliing from Ireland and just wondering where is the cheapest place in Orlando(we are staying on I-Drive) to buy Universal park tickets for 7days ? We are not sure wether to buy them here or not! If we just got a rough idea with the price,,
Thanks a mil.
Hi, that is the peak of the hurricane season. See 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 rate crowds then as low/3 See http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/29/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-3/
Not following you on free dining…what would you have to “upgrade”?
Hi Annemarie, I’m sorry but I don’t track hotels outside of Disney World, or Universal tickets. A travel agent is your best bet…
Okay dave thanks.
Hi again Dave,
To clarify there is a free dining promotion until sept. 29th that covers 2 quick service meals a day. We would need to upgrade it by moving up to the 2nd plan the one thats actually called the disney dining plan & includes one quick & one table service.It wouldnt work b/c we eat mostly table service meals. I dont think I explained it correctly in my first comment. I’ve had time to think about it & I think we probably will go Aug. 29th to Sept 2nd & hope for the best. At least we are getting out before the peak of hurricane season & before the Labor Day crowds…
K I get you. My guess is all in free dining will still be cheaper, even if you have to upgrade to the regular plan, and spend some cash for extra table service…You will still be there in the peak of the hurricane season, which begins in later August…but hurricanes rarely have an impact on WDW…
Hi Dave,
Thats exactly what I decided to do. I went ahead & booked free dining with the upgrade. after making a sample menu of where & what we would eat using online menus our tab was at $657. So I decided it was worth it. Just keep your fingers crossed for the weather for us,please. Im hoping this will be a slow season! Thanks for ALL your help!
Fingers crossed, and glad to help!
Hi Dave,
I would love to plan a trip to Disney World with my two children ages 2 & 4 this year. Unfortunately, I don’t really know where to start to get the best deal and experience for my family. My husband is in the military and I believe we can get discounted tickets and possibly hotel/ condo. Also, there is the free dining I’ve heard about. We don’t want to mess with a huge crowd and would like warm enough weather to swim in the pool. Any suggestions on where to start would greatly be appreciated!
Stacy, you have multiple options.
One approach is to go in September. Crowds are low, and you can get any of four discounts: free dining, reduced price tickets, reduced price hotel rooms, or a lower-cost deluxe room at Shades of Green. You can combine the reduced price tickets with a stay at shades. but not easily with the other two deals. See http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/special-circumstances/military-families/
This 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/
Your next best option is Shades in the second half of Ocotber. This is out of the peak of the hurricane season, more comfortable weather overall, but still low crowd. The other discounts-tix, reduced hotel prices, and free dining–will all have expired by then. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
I have been searching for the not so scary halloween 2012 dates and eat to the beat 2012 schedule. Can you help or are these not out yet?
Thanks!
They aren’t out yet. For my guesses on September Halloween dates, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/02/14/halloween-2012-at-walt-disney-world/ I’ll post similar guesses for Ocotober after the October calendar is released..which should be in the next week or so…
I will be watching. Thanks for your help!
You bet!
Dave, This is my first WDW trip and first time to Florida. I will be traveling with my boyfriend and parents. We are booked at a condo 5 minutes away from WDW. I purchased all of our tickets for 4 days at WDW, 2 days at Universal, and a day at Seaworld. We are going to be busy bees. Anyway I already booked our dates and put in for vacation without much research on the dates. Will April 21- April 29 be a good time to go? Crowd wise and weather wise. We are hoping for moderate to low crowds and nice warm weather, not hot. Any input would be appreciated. Thank you!
Hi Ashley! You’ve picked a near-perfect time to go. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/12/23/the-most-comfortable-time-to-go-to-walt-disney-world/
Hi Dave,
Thank you so much for running this page it is so helpful, my question is this I have been scouring to web to find out which days are best for which park during our visit, and
I get conflicting advise. Could you help? We are planning a trip to the parks June 7th – June 11th. Also, we were going to stay at Shades of green but were told we could get a better deal renting a home with Orlandovacation.com. Any thoughts? And thank you again for taking the time to answer all these questions.
Hi Jamie!
For the parks, avoid MK the 7th, 8th and 11th, avoid HS the 11th, avoid AK the 9th and 11th, and avoid Epcot the 8th.
You may be able to get a better deal offiste–tho Shades gives great value for money. But then you’d need a car…and would face added complexity…
Thanks so much! We are renting a car anyways as to be able to use our carseats. If we HAD to go to MK on the 7th or 8th which would you say?
Jamie, if you are at Shades, you can use extra magic hours, and so I’d pick the 7th and arrive at the turnstiles by 7.30a a. If you are off-site, then the 8th would be better…
Hi Dave,
My family of four is arriving on 4/10 and leaving on 4/12 and is the worst time to go, but because it’s spring break., we dared the high cost. I’ve a one day hopper and staying at Coronado Springs. what would be the best approach to use the hopper . I’ve a 23 y/o and a 9 y/o. Thanks.
Hi Phoebe–just to confirm you have only a one-day ticket?
Thanks!
Hi Dave,
Your website is truly brilliant! My family with one child, 5 years old will be visiting disney world from april 30 to may 7.
I’m hoping you can tell me which parks to visit on which dates. i do have dining reservations but am willing to change some of them in order to catch the shows such as Fantasmic.
here’s what i have so far:
may 4 – animal kingdom
may 5 – hollywood studios
may 6 – magic kingdom
we have 4 park hopper tickets.
thanks for your help!
Hi Rupi, and thanks!
These are days to avoid specific parks:
Avoid MK May 3 and May 6
Avoid HS 4/30 and 5/5
Avoid AK 4/30, 5/2,and 5/7
Avoid Epcot 5/1 and 5/4
Hope this helps and have a great trip–that’s a great time to go…
Your dates are right in the middle of sinprg break, one of Orlando’s busiest times. Disney offers no discounts, they don’t need to, certainy not in high season. Their lowest price rooms are probably sold out at this point. You can check by going to their website. Instead, try one of the hundreds of hotels motels off property either on International Drive or Irlo Bronson Highway. There are plenty to choose from. Many have free shuttle service to ALL of the theme parks lets you avoid the parking fee (Disney is $12 per day)Expect to pay full price for Disney tickets, unless you qualify to buy them ahead of time from a place like Triple AAA. Sign up for your free birthday pass if your birthday falls on those dates.Also, check out the tourist magazines found everyplace in the area. They will give you coupons for hotels, food entertainment. Have a great trip.
Hi Dave, we will be visiting Disney May 5 though 12 and really wanted to spend our first day at Magic Kingdom. However, I see that Sun the 6th is an extra magic hour at MK (and we are staying off-resort). We have 3 children (4 months old/2 years old/3 years old) so we really want to avoid lengthy waiting lines as often as possible and will be avoiding all the attractions that wouldn’t interest or suit them. Should we rearrange our plans and go to MK later in the week? If so, what should we do that first day to make it “just as special”? We have reservations for character dining at Hollywood & Vine for Mon 7th (breakfast) and for Rainforest Cafe on Thurs 10th (lunch), so were going to spend those days in those parks. Are these okay days to go as well? Many thanks for your help!
Hi Jenn! I’d move HS and Hollywood and Vine to Sunday–Monday is an EMH day there. MK is best on Tues and Weds…AK is fine on Thurs.
Hi Dave,
My family and I will be visiting for the first time April 21-28. Family includes my husband, chilren, ages 9 and 5 and my parents. I had everything planned but now with the changes to the April schedule, I was wondering if you think my week is ok or if I should switch some stuff around. We have a 6 day park hopper but could extend to 7 if needed.
4/21 – arriving at airport at 4:30. Do you think we should try and do some park time that night yet?
4/22 @HS
4/23 @ Epcot
4/24 @ AK
4/25 @ MK
4/26 – revisit parks and hoop-dee-doo in evening.
4/27 – revisit parks or seaworld? Not sure if you give any advice on Seaworld or not, but wondering if its worth it or better to have an extra day in the parks.
Thanks Dave! Your site has been extremely helpful in plannng this trip!
Hiya Amy, glad the site has helped!
The April changes–and I don’t know why they flipped the typical Friday and Sat EMH schedules–don’t look to have any impact on your itinerary which, to me, looks great!
Re Sea World, I would hold making the decision until 4/26. My guess is you’ll want to take the morning and afternoon of the 26th off, and to return to MK–which is really a two day park–on the 27th. By holding the decision until you have complete information you’ll have the best chance of making the right one!
All the best, Dave
we are from n.j. we have vacationed at w.d.w. every other year for the past 6 years,we allways are there the first week of november give or take a day. our next trip will be in 2013. due to school comitments we will be traveling, possible the last week of august.my question is due to the heat and weather conditions in your opinion do you think this will affect our good time. and if so how would you handle it. thanks dave c
We are thinking of going to Disney World for the last two weeks of January 2013 or the last week in February & the first week of March 2013. We have two young children (ages 6 & 4), which time is the best time to go. We are worried about ride closures / early park closing times and the weather in January but the crowds sound like they pick up in March, yet the parks will likely stay open longer & more rides/ parades & shows will be there. What is your advice on which time we should go? Thanks!
Hi Dave…the last week of August is good from the point of view of crwods and prices, but 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/
The risk of a hurricane affecting you is slight–as you note, the real issue is heat and humidity. To manage that, think of your afternoons as being off–pools and naps–and focus your park visits to early morning and evening…
Hi Lori!!
It depends a lot on whether you hope to return in a few years–and I hope you do, as your kids are young for this to be their only visit.
If you can return, I’d take the January dates in a heartbeat.
Anything that might be closed you can see on your return visit, and the only show that can be hard to see because of schedules in the period–the evening parade at MK–is not a problem given how long you will be there–it’ll be on at least 6 times over the two weeks. Operating hours are shorter, but that’s becasue crowds are so low that everybody can see everything without MK being open til 1am!
If you will or may never return, then first see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/how-oldtall-your-children-should-be/ Then, if it does not persuade you, pick the late feb/early March dates. Plan to do more in the Feb week, as I’m worried the March week may be crowded…
Hope this helps! Dave
hi! im in a pickle! it seems that august may be a problem for my party to travel to w.d.w.i was considering going in nov. around thaksgiving in 2013.ariving nov.23(sat)and leaving sun dec 1st. thanksgiving fall on thur. 28th.on our first day sat we usualy loung around our resort and start going to the parks on sun.our last day sun dec 1st is the day we depart back to jersey(no parks that day),from experiance what days during the holiday week would you go to what parks, to maximize your time to avoid long lines for atractions,(example sun,. mon-ak,tues mk, wed,epoct,thus,dh.fri,sat. we usualy get the park hopper for the duration of our trip and take one day somwere in the week to go to universal.if you were me how would you scedual your park time. a million thanks dave c
Hi Dave! I can’t really comment yet on best days in 2013, as I’d be guessing. Disney posts its calendars 6 months in advance, and that’s what I use for better and worse days. So check with me in April/May 2013!
Hey Dave,
We are arriving to on Mon. May 28th 2012(memorial day) and are leaving on the 2nd of June. Can you let me know if that week is going to be too crazy. We have four day hopper tickets and dont plan to start using them until the day after memorial day. We are staying on property with 4 kids ages 6-14 and hope that we still can have great fun. Thanks for the info.
Hi Alfie! I expect Monday–and maybe even Tuesday–will be nuts, but the rets of your dates should be OK.
HI DAVE, We are planning a disnet world trip in january after new years day,the weekend following. we are dvc members,our home base is bay lake.we have 11 month advanved booking. all other resorts are 7 month advance for us. we have interest at staying at the boardwalk,my question is at that time of year what are our chances of getting two 2beadroom villas.if you cant help me is there someone out there who is familier with this resort thanks dave
Dave I’m not an expert on DVC availabilty to members, so you might want to check the dvc section on disboards.com.
That said, the BoardWalk Villas has a lot of capacity and the week you are aiming at does not have a ton of general public demand, so I’d think the odds are pretty good…
How do you like BLT?
HI DAVE thanks for the response! just joined the dvc last year .havent stayed at bay lake yet.but toured the propert. looks fantastic! using my club points to go to disneyland in oct,for a short vacation.problem is i cant get in to the grand californian,but was able to get a room at the disneyland hotel,same amount of points ,lesser acomidations.but thats ok we will be able to see were it all begain! thanks for your help! dave c
Hey Dave! I bet you’ll love BLT, but avoid the studios unless you have just one short kid…I’ve stayed at the Disneyland Hotel post its renovation and thought it real let-down compared to the Grand Californian, but you’ll have a ball at DL and DCA anyway!
Hi Dave,
Thanks for all of the great info. We are heading down to WDW, and have booked a villa at the AKL – Kidani for Sept 17 to the 21st. We are planning to attend the Hallowe’en party on the 18th. We will buy the extra tickets to attend that, but we did not purchase the parkhopper tickets at this point. This is our first time going to Disney as adults and with our children. We are 2 families totalling 10 people so there will be a lot of planning required to get everything done
We are thinking of going to AK on the 17th (Monday), MK on the 18th, HS on the 19th, and Epcot on the 20th. When I look at the calendars, it looks like we will be able to get everything done that way. What do you think?
Also, is the weather that hot during that time period?
Still 6 months until our trip, but I already can’t wait!
Thanks,
L
Hi! Yes, September can be remarkably hot and humid–see this http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/02/15/september-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
With one exception, I like your itinerary.
Suggest you consider swapping your AK and Epcot days. AK has morning extra magic hours the 17th. That will make it great for the first two hours, but the rest of the day will be more crowded than the 20th will be…as you are going during a low-crowd time anyway, not a big deal, but it’s what I’d do…
Hi, my Disney trip has been planned for months. I just had emergency gallbladder surgery on 3/26/12 and our trip is for 4/14/12. Any recommendations? Thank you!
Hi Ana, and I hope you are doing ok.
I’m assuming your surgery was endocscopic, and you’ve talked to your doc about the level of mobility WDW will take.
Your best bet may be to rent a scooter–you can do that either for all your trip or at the parks themselves, although the parks sometime sell out. This book may also be worth buying: PassPorter’s Open Mouse for Walt Disney World and the Disney Cruise Line: Easy Access Vacations for Travelers with Extra Challenges
My birthday is late October (24) and would like to schedule a visit sometime around then for my self-gift. When would be a good 2-week span? (I’d like to check some other Orlando sites out as well).
Karen, the second half of October is a wonderful time at WDW–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/12/23/the-most-comfortable-time-to-go-to-walt-disney-world/
I can’t decide if early May would be better or late September. I just want a time that has cooler weather (less humidity). Whats a better pick weather wise?
Hi Sara! I’d pick early May in a heartbeat. While there’s some variability to when the rainy/humid season begins, mid-May is typical…and it continues through September, and the summer heat continues into September as well. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/12/23/the-most-comfortable-time-to-go-to-walt-disney-world/
Hi, love your site…definitely the best…we will be visiting WDW 4/21/12-4/28/12 with 2 tiny princesses age 4 and 2 for their 1st visit…planning on 5 parks days the 23-27…can you recommend which parks on which days to avoid the crowds? Thanks!
Hi Dev, and thanks! For kids that age, there’s next to nothing at Epcot…here’s parks to avoid:
4/23 Avoid AK, HS
4/24 Avoid Epcot
4/25 Avoid AK
4/26 Avoid MK
4/27 Avid Epcot
Dave,
I will be at WDW with my daughter and her family Oct 21-Oct 28. Besides hitting all 4 parks (not waterparks) our goal is to attend a Not So Scary Halloween party and eat a breakfast at Cinderella’s Royal Table. We have 8 day hopper passes.
Can you advise the best or worse times or days for this schedule?
Thank You!
Jacque
Hi Jaque! Can you give me the ages of kids?
10 and 7.
Thanks
OK, Jaque, here’s some thoughts.
It looks like the party will be 10/21, 23, 25, 27 and 28. I’d aim for the 23rd–likely to be least crowded of these nights.
The 21st, avoid HS; the 22nd, avoid AK and MK; the 23rd and 24th, avoid Epcot; the 25th, avoid MK; the 26th avoid AK, and the 27th avoid HS.
Also take a look at 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/ but also this http://yourfirstvisit.net/required-september-2012-itinerary-and-to-do-list-changes/ The fit of these is not perfect to your trip, but is pretty close…
Dave,
I appreciate you advice! It will help us plan a better trip. Thanks so much for your time!
Jacque
Dave,
After going back and forth when to go,i finally booked for Sept 29 – Oct 6.I realize the food and wine festival is at Epcot but any pointers for this week what to avoid ect.?and when do you think Mickey’s Not So Scary tickets will be available? trying to plan .Thanks A Bunch
Hi Amy, I think that will be a great week. Food and Wine puts a lot more traffic into the World Showcase, but doesn’t have much effect on wait times. Not sure about the Scary tickets–late June/early July would be my guess. I have no specific suggestions for that week other than in general to avoid parks on days they have EMH…unless you have park hopper tix and plan to hop…
Jaque, good luck and have fun!
Hi! So my family is planing to go to Disney world October 16th 2012 to October 21 so what would you recommend we have 3 adults and 3 kids (2 only 3 years old) thanks a bunch
!
Hi! Me and my family are going to WDW in October
and do you know what the dates are for “Mickeys not so scary Halloween” thanks 
Hi Lexy! See this for my forecasts of the party dates: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/02/14/halloween-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
Hi Alexis! How old is the third kid?
We will be staying in FL for two weeks in June (9 – 23). I am wanting to take a trip over to the Magic Kingdom one of the days of our stay since it is only approx. 1 hour from the beach where we are staying. Could you give me some advice on which day of these 2 weeks would be best for our trip? We have been to DW before, but I thought this would be a nice surprise for them on one of our days. We plan to get up, drive over, spend the day, then return to the condo at the beach for what I’m sure will be much needed relaxation. Thank you!
Hi Britt, in your window I’d target June 12 or June 13…
Hi Dave,
Fantastic info you’ve got here. My family including our 2 and 4 yr.old have booked to come June 10-June 17, 2012. Any advice on crowds or which parks to do on which days? Anything would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Maria, and thanks!
First, there’s little at Epcot, and not much at Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, for kids that young. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/09/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-rides-and-attractions/
The parks will be busy with the beginning of summer break crowds your week. Parks to avoid:
6/10: Avoid MK
6/11: Avoid AK and HS
6/12 Avoid Epcot
6/13: Avoid AK
6/14 Avoid MK
6/15: Avoid Epcot, MK
6/16: Avoid HS
6/17: Avoid MK
Hope this helps, and have a great trip!
We will be spending June 4-10 at Disney Park, 7-day pass (four children, 18, 10, 9, 3 and two grandparents. Appreciate any information regarding crowds or specific groups booking park for that week. I have M-F planned MK, Epcot, HS, AK ,Water park with two days used to return to our favorite. Any information is appreciated.
Hi Marilyn, I would flip your Epcot and HS days as doing so will result in lower crowds. Take a look at this http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/09/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-rides-and-attractions/ and this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/12/06/summer-itinerary-for-walt-disney-world-v2/ The second link does not fit your dates or trip lenghts, but the daily schedules can still help you plan your days…
Hi Dave,
Thanks so much for the info. Two things, I’ve been told that avoiding Magic kingdom on Mondays is a good idea, any thoughts on that? And second, what’s your take on the character dining experiences? I have tentatively reserved two; one at Cinderellas’s Royal Table (dinner) and a breakfast at Askersus(?) in Epcot. Is one better than the other? I’m looking for an awesome princess experience for my little girl (aged 5), and really only want to do one. Would we be able to see the fireworks from Cinderellas castle during our dinner reso (8:30pm)? That might help make the decision…
Hi Maria, most weeks Mondays are one of the two busiest days at MK. You can’t see the fireworks from within the Castle–you really want to be on the Main Street side of the outside of the Castle for the fireworks, which will likely be at 10p, altho I don’t know when you are going.
The choice between the two is tough, partly because the rest of Epcot is so un-interesting for a 5yo, and because the setting of Cinderella is more magical. On the other hand, Akershus is cheaper…between them I’d pick Cinderella…
Hello Dave!
Awesome info but would like to ask you a few additional questions. We are planning on taking our son to Disney before he turns 3 on December 2012 for his first trip to see Mickey. I am also on a project that is scheduled to go live on October 12th 2012. As a precaution, I do not want to book this trip too close to that date in case things do not go as planned so basically wanting to hold off until about October 24th before travelling.
1) What dates you recommend between 10/24/12 and 12/10/12 (we will have alot of flexibility around those dates and are not looking specifically at any particular days of the week)
2) How long do you recommend we stay with an almost 3 year old and where? We were thinking Contemporary due to its location
3) What itinerary, you recommend for a toddler?
We thank you in advance for all your help and very appreciative for this great information.
Hi Susana! There’s 7 top ranked weeks in your window–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
There’s not a ton for toddlers outside of the Magic Kingdom…three easy days will take care of that. All my itineraries are designed for older kids, but see the bottom row of the image on this page, or check out the touring plans you can find here: http://touringplans.com/?utm_campaign=referral&utm_medium=website&utm_source=yourfirstvisit&utm_content=r1&property_id=1
I think the Contemporary is a solid choice–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/06/review-disneys-contemporary-resort/ but also consider the Wilderness Lodge: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/08/25/review-disneys-wilderness-lodge/
We are scheduled to go to Disney next week, May 1st-8th, but my husband hurt his back, and if we have the ability to change the dates, we were thinking about the second half of October 2012. We really want to have lesser crowds. We went the third week of April in 2008, and we thought it was extremely crowded thought the weather was perfect. (and we loved the pirate and princess night) If we end up going next week, how bad will the crowds be? It looks like it will be hot. It is much less crowded in the second half of Oct, or about the same as the first week in May? thanks
Hi Shari! Crowds are low and about the same both periods–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/29/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-3/
I am trying to decide on Disney World 2013. We might go either 3rd week in April or 1st Week in May. Wed thru Sunday. Is either one of those weeks better than the other.
Hi Sharon, those are both great weeks, and barely different. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/09/19/2013-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
We will be staying at Pop Century Resort September 23-29, 2012. I’m concerned that the free dining promo is going to result in crowded parks during a time that is typically light. Will that be an issue? Thanks!
Hi Chrissie, no it won’t; it’s the other way around.
They offer this discount because it’s so hard to get people into the parks then–parents don’t like taking kids out of school at the beginning of the school term, and savvy travelers know it is the peak of the hurricane season.
Despite the deal (which Disney has offered for years) September remains one of the two least crowded months of the year.
The restaurants will be packed, but the parks will be fine.
Hi,
We are planning to visit Disneyworld with 2 children, ages 8 and 3 over the summer of 2012. Is August a good time for low crowds, low rates & good weather for swimming?
Hi Dave!
So glad I found this site! We will be in Disneyworld May 5 – May 11 2012 with our kids, ages 5 & 8…so excited, the kids first visit! What parks do you recommend for each of those days? Seems like this is a pretty good week to go? Thanks for any advice!
Hi Deborah, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/01/22/august-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
Hi Kristen, yes it is a good week!!
The 5th, avoid HS
The 6th, avoid MK
The 7th, avoid HS and AK
The 8th, avoid Epcot
The 9th, avoid AK
The 10th, avoid MK
The 11th, avoid Epcot
See also http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/how-long-to-stay/other-trip-lengths/designing-your-own-walt-disney-world-itinerary/
visiting walt disney world June 28 to July 5, 2012. Which days should we avoid which parks and why?
Hi Kit Kat. The basic point is to avoid parks on days they have EMH, especially AM EMH.
So for your dates,
28: avoid MK
29: avoid Epcot and MK
30: avoid HS
1: Avoid Epcot
2: Avoid HS and AK
3: Avoid MK
4: See below
5: avoid MK
July 4 is a special case. It’s one of the busiest days of the year, especially at Epcot and MK, because of special fireworks. AK has EMH, so HS is the best option…
Hi Dave!
We were planning on visiting Walt Disney World this year for the week of Memorial Day, 5/28 – 6/1. I know that Monday will be exceptionally crowded, but I was hoping the rest of the week would be ok. We are now considering the week after instead (6/4 – 6/8) because of our work schedules. Do you think this second week would be a lot more crowded then the last week in May? We need to figure out how hard we should try to change our work schedules to go the first week or if the second week choice would still be ok.
Thank you very much for any advice!!
Hiya Leslie!
Yes I do think the June week will be better than Memorial Day week–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/29/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-3/ and also this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/11/28/june-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
Dave, Thank you very much for taking the time to answer me. I very much appreciate the advice! I will now use your website this evening to plan the rest of our trip! Leslie
You bet Leslie! Post any more questions as they occur to you…
We are from nj and will be visiting 11/4/12 to 11/10/12. What are the chances of Disney continuing some military discounts for rooms etc.
Sorry also I recently saw something about reduced price tickets for military for the Merry Christmas party how do I go about getting these?
Hi Janice–see this: http://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discounts/2012-military-discount-prices-on-mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party/
Janice, I’d put the odds at better than 50-50…
Hi, I was reading the post of the traveler going 9/23-9/29 to take advantage of the free dining plan because I was planning on the same. I wanted to know why you said the restaurants would be packed but not the parks.. just how hot and humid and wet it really is that week normally??
Hi Billie! The parks aren’t crowded because its hard for parents to take their kids out of school the first month of the term, but the restaurants are crowded because so many WDW hotel guests have free dining and thus make reservations…September is like summer, it’s hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms common. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/weather/
Hi,
My girlfriend and I are looking to visit Flordia this year, however, we are torn between whether to go mid September or begining of October. We both love hot hot weather but are quite concerned about hurricane season.
What would you recomend?
Also, we would like to stay in a park eg Walt Disney, Universal etc and are looking to visit all waterparks, sea world, theme parks etc as we are there for 2 weeks – would you recomend any hotels for us? we are 21 and 22 years old.
Thanks very much for your help. Look forward to hearing from you.
Hi Jack–that’s a tough call, as October on average is cooler than Sept. However, it’s still typically quite warm, so I’d pick the October dates. That also puts you there during the food and wine festival at Epcot, which given your ages can be fun. See these pages: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/high-temperatures-year-round/ and http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/03/18/the-2012-epcot-international-food-and-wine-festival-at-walt-disney-world/
I’d actually recommend doing two hotels, one at WDW and one at Universal for the days you plan to go there. It’s hard to recommend without having a sense of your budget, as WDW hotels start at around $100/night and go over $400 a night. (Universal hotels have a tighter price range and are all high end…) Let me know what you are thinking about hotel costs, or just see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-stay/ and this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/07/12/review-loews-royal-pacific-resort-at-universal-orlando/
Hello! Debating between 10/12 to 10/19 or 10/27 to 11/3… any comments on which would be better? Thanks!
Hi Dave!
My boyfriend and I are in our early 30s–no kids–and are planning our first trip to WDW! We are SO excited, as we both consider OURSELVES to be kids-at-heart!
Our dates are most likely going to be the last week in January. Do you recommend that time frame? We are fairly flexible. We want to do all of the crazy fun ridiculous classic activities, and don’t want to miss out on ANYTHING! Is there an all-inclusive park fastpass that will allow us to skip lines & be able to see the major parks? Do you reccomend the Dining Passes for adults without kids? Would love to hear your feedback on the best way to do an adult-only magical vaycay!
thanks!
Hi Lori! They are both great weeks, but I have a slight preference for the earlier one–see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/
Hi Katie, with a coupla of exceptions that’s a wonderful time to go.
The first problem is that its in the peak of the ride closure season, so a few special rides might be closed. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/05/12/winter-ride-closures-at-walt-disney-world/
Second is that weather can be all over the place, so you can’t count on pool time–see this http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-to-go/next-best-dates/weather-and-when-to-go/
But crowds and prices are as low as they get!
Disney does not have a “head of the line” pass you can buy. (Universal does) It has a FASTPASS program that lets you skip lines, free and built into your ticket. See http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/01/09/fastpasses-at-walt-disney-world/
The dining plan is more of a budgeting help than a big money saving plan. For it to save any money, you would have planned to have on average a waiter-service meal every day. That takes planning, as the best waiter-service meals (Disney calls them table service) book out in advance. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/when-your-plans-need-to-be-firm/
Hope this helps to start and keep the questions coming!
Hi Dave,
I have so many questions, I am going to WDW for the first time, for my honeymoon starting oct 14, any must see things for this time of year, also are you aware of any special things for honeymooners? Thank you!
Hi Dave,
Awesome site! We’re planning our first family trip to Disney World for next year, either the second week of May or the 3rd week of November. I see you rank those 2 weeks about the same, and wonder if you could recommend one over the other specifically for family traveling with 2 little ones ( age 4 and 2)? Will Monday Nov. 11 (Vateran’s day) be very crowded? Is November too cold to enjoy the kiddie pool? Thank you so much!
Hi Ken! I focus on visits with kids, and am not an expert on honeymoons. Give me a sense of your hotel budget (i.e. $/night)and how long you will be there, and I’ll get back to you with some thoughts.
In the meantime see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/03/18/the-2012-epcot-international-food-and-wine-festival-at-walt-disney-world/
this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/03/09/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-rides-and-attractions/
this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/where-to-eat/dining-alternatives/the-comprehensive-guide-to-walt-disney-world-dining/
and this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2012/02/14/halloween-2012-at-walt-disney-world/
Hi Jessica and thanks!
Kids that young love above all else playing in the pool with their parents. November weather can be all over the place, so I’d vote for May…
Hello Dave,
Thank you so much for your prompt reply! We’outplay for May next year! We can only stay for 3-4 nights – do you think we should focus on Magic Kingdom only or should we try a day in Epcot? We’re considering staying at monorail resort if good discounts come out. The pools at the new Art of Animation resort also look interesting as my kids love finding Nemo, but I’m not sure if the bus ride is too much for traveling with our 2 little ones and 2 strollers. Which would you go for? Thanks again for sharing your wonderful wealth of knowledge! So glad to find your site:)
You’re welcome, Jessica! First, at those ages I’d focus solely on MK, and if you were to add a park, Epcot would be last. Think of spending two mornings, one mid-afternoon (for the afternoon parade) and one evening (for the evening parade and fireworks) at MK.
For strollers, the Contemporary has a lot going for it–as you can, if you wish, walk back and forth, or take the monorail. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/06/review-disneys-contemporary-resort/
well we aready booked the hotel, we are staying in Port Orleans Riverside and are staying 7 nights.
Really appreciate your advise, Dave! Thanks again & Have a wonderful day
Ken, OK…in addition to what I suggested looking at yesterday, check out the links for October 13 that you can find on this page: http://yourfirstvisit.net/planning-your-first-family-trip/basic-itinerary/alternative-itineraries/ It’s not an exact fit for yuo dates, but it will give you an idea. Note that the restaurants in it are largely picked for kid appeal…
I find Port Orleans French Quarter the most romantic and usable of the moderates–if you are interested in changing your reservation, see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/10/23/review-disneys-port-orleans-french-quarter-resort/ and also this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/25/personal-favorites-the-moderate-resorts/
Jessica, have a great trip and come back and let me know how it went…
Hi Dave, need your advise again! We might be able to rent DVC points to stay at Bay Lake Tower studio for our visit next May ( it will be cheaper than getting a room at Contemporary if it works out). I know you don’t recommend DVC resort for first time visitors, and you also mentioned the studio is very small. Would it be a really bad choice for us ( family of 4 with a 4yr old & 2 yr old)? The fact that we can walk to MK in less than 10 min and cost less than Contemporary seems very attractive. What would you advise? Thank you so much!
Jessica, that can work if the 2yo is in a crib…that way you don’t have to extend the sofabed for the 4yo…it will be cramped–not much room for the crib…
Thanks again Dave! Your site & feedback are making my planning process more fun
would you recommend us getting the dining plan? I assume our 2 yr old is free and will just eat out of our plate, right?
Hi, I want to visit Disney from May 25 to 29 it will be to crowded? Thank you for your help!
Hi Dave, planning continue… As you suggested before, we will only go to Magic Kingdom for our 4 nights stay in May next year. Which days of the week is least crowded at MK? Shall we schedule a Sunday arrival and mid-week departure (Sun-Thurs) or Monday/Tuesday arrival and weekend departure? Hoping to plan a pool day for kids & us to relax in between park days. Thank you so much again!
Thanks for the info Dave! Also you have a great site, with alot of info!
Hi Jessica! First, I don’t think you can get the dining plan if you rent points–the person who rents you the points has to get it for you…it can pay off a little bit but only if you use all your credits, and would have done that many waiter-service meals anyway…and yes the 2 year old can eat off you your plate! Portions at Disney are huge…
Monica, because of the Memorial Day holiday, it will be pretty crowded…not as bad as in mid-summer, but more crowded than most weeks. See this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2011/06/29/disney-world-crowds-in-2012-3/
Hi Jessica! Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least crowded MK days, and Sat-Mon the most crowded. So shoot for a Monday arrival!
Thanks Ken!
Thank you so much again for taking your time to provide us valuable advise! Have a great day!
You bet Jessica!
hi dave i have looked at youre dates and considering weather and crowds and first time to orlando we have a chance to visit arriving on may 31st from the uk for 9 days or 3rd week in october. we have 1 week of free tickets for universal and island of adventures but really would like to do seaworld, mk, maybe animal kigdom and my husband and son are big star wars fans we would like to chill by the pool not just dash around the parks we will do anouther visit sometime in the future the kids are 5 and a girl of 7 i am overwellmed with youre site when should we come i havent got much time to plan if its may but thats ok. the choices of hotel are hiltons on wd , or international drive please give me any advice you think would help and thankyou so much.
Aimie, honestly I’d wait til October. Prices, crowds and heat will be better, and you’ll have more time to plan things like fun meals, which will be pretty much already sold out for the May/June dates…see this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2010/10/20/2012-weeks-to-visit-walt-disney-world-ranked-in-order/ and also this: http://yourfirstvisit.net/2009/12/23/the-most-comfortable-time-to-go-to-walt-disney-world/
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