Planning a trip to Disney World is exciting—but also a bit overwhelming. One of the most important questions you’ll need to answer is: When is the best time to go to Disney World? The truth is, the answer depends on your priorities—whether that’s low crowds, cooler weather, or lower costs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best times to visit based on what matters most to you: fewer crowds, cheaper tickets, better weather, and special events.
Why Timing Matters at Disney World
Disney World is magical—but it can also be expensive, crowded, and hot. That’s why choosing the right time to visit can make a huge difference. Here’s how timing impacts your trip:
- Crowd levels affect wait times for rides, restaurant availability, and your overall comfort.
- Ticket prices go up during peak seasons and holidays.
- Weather can affect how long you want to stay in the parks.
- Special events like EPCOT festivals or holiday celebrations may make certain times more fun or more crowded.
Best Times to Avoid Crowds
If you dream of breezing through Disney World with minimal lines and less shoulder-to-shoulder foot traffic, timing is everything. Certain seasons and holidays bring massive crowds, which can mean longer waits, higher prices, and more stress. To make the most of your trip, avoid peak travel dates and aim for quieter times when the parks are less packed.
Here are the busiest times to avoid:
- Mid-March to mid-April (Spring Break): Families from across the country flock to the parks during school vacations.
- Mid-June to mid-August (Summer Break): Hot weather, long days, and school vacations mean peak attendance.
- Thanksgiving week: A popular time for family gatherings and holiday fun, which brings big crowds.
- Christmas through New Year’s: This is the most magical—and most crowded—time of year at Disney.
Instead, plan your visit during these quieter windows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience:
1. Mid-January to Mid-February
- After the New Year’s celebrations end, crowd levels drop significantly.
- Cooler temperatures make walking around the parks more comfortable.
- Schools are back in session, so you’ll find fewer families visiting.
- Wait times are shorter, and deals on hotels and tickets are more common.
2. Late August to Early October
- School is back in session, so family travel slows down.
- Most days are calm with manageable wait times.
- EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival kicks off in late August, drawing mild crowds only to that park.
- Weather can still be hot and humid, but it’s a good trade-off for lower crowd levels.
3. The First Two Weeks of December
- The parks are beautifully decorated for the holidays, offering stunning photo ops.
- Crowds remain low until the mid-December Christmas rush begins.
- It’s a great time to experience the holiday magic without the chaos.
4. Mid-to-Late September
- One of the slowest periods of the entire year, perfect for crowd-free fun.
- You’ll enjoy short wait times and better availability for dining and FastPass selections.
- Keep in mind it’s hurricane season, so there’s a slightly higher chance of rain or storm delays.
- Budget travelers may score major discounts on rooms and tickets during this time.
Best Time for Good Weather
Florida’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during the summer. If you’re hoping for cooler temperatures and lower humidity while enjoying everything Disney World has to offer, planning your trip around the weather is a smart move. Walking around the parks all day is much more enjoyable when the sun isn’t blazing and the air isn’t thick with moisture.
Ideal weather months:
1. Late October to Mid-March
- Comfortable daytime temperatures in the 50s to 70s °F.
- Lower humidity, which means less sweating and more comfort.
- Perfect for long park days without overheating.
- Great time for families with younger kids who need breaks from the heat.
- Bonus: Holiday decorations start appearing in November and last through early January, adding extra magic to your visit.
Months to avoid if you dislike heat and humidity:
- June through September:
- Temperatures can soar into the high 80s or 90s.
- High humidity makes it feel even hotter.
- You’ll need to take more breaks and stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Outdoor rides and long lines can feel exhausting.
- Temperatures can soar into the high 80s or 90s.
- July and August:
- These months bring frequent afternoon thunderstorms, often short but intense.
- Rain showers can disrupt plans, especially if you’re hoping for back-to-back outdoor attractions.
- You’ll also contend with the peak of hurricane season, which may affect travel plans.
- These months bring frequent afternoon thunderstorms, often short but intense.
Tip: If you’re traveling in warmer months, arrive at the parks early in the day, take a midday break indoors or at your hotel, and return in the evening when it’s cooler.
Best Time to Save Money
Disney World is magical, but it’s also one of the most expensive vacation destinations. The good news? If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can visit without breaking the bank. Both ticket prices and hotel rates at Disney World are based on demand, meaning you’ll pay less during off-peak periods. If you’re looking to stretch your budget, timing is everything.
Cheapest times to visit Disney World:
1. Mid-January to Early February
- Right after the holiday season, crowds drop and so do prices.
- Park tickets and Disney resort rates are among the lowest of the year.
- Great time for budget-conscious families or couples.
- Mild weather is a bonus, making long park days more comfortable.
2. Late August to September
- This is one of the least crowded and most affordable times to visit.
- Many families avoid this time because school is back in session.
- Disney often offers free dining promotions or discounts on hotel stays during this period.
- Note: It’s also hurricane season, so you’ll want to buy travel insurance just in case.
3. Select Weekdays in Early May or Late April
- Before summer vacation crowds arrive, prices are more reasonable.
- The weather is warm but not extreme.
- You’ll find shorter lines, more dining availability, and occasional hotel discounts.
- Ideal for adults or families with flexible school schedules.
Money-Saving Benefits During Off-Peak Times:
- Lower park ticket prices: Disney’s dynamic pricing means weekdays and off-seasons are cheaper per day.
- Hotel discounts: Value resorts can drop significantly, and even moderate or deluxe resorts may have special offers.
- More dining flexibility: Easier to get dining reservations, and some restaurants offer discounts during slower seasons.
- Package deals: Disney sometimes releases vacation packages that bundle tickets and rooms for additional savings.
Avoid These Pricey Times If You’re on a Budget:
- Major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s)
- Spring Break (mid-March to mid-April)
- Summer vacation (mid-June to mid-August)
- Holiday weekends (Presidents Day, Labor Day, etc.)
Tip: Use Disney’s price calendar when booking tickets, and always check for special offers on the official website or trusted travel partners.
Best Time for Special Events
If you want your Disney trip to be more than just rides and character meet-and-greets, consider planning around one of Disney World’s many seasonal events. These events offer themed entertainment, special food, unique merchandise, and one-of-a-kind experiences that can make your visit even more magical.
1. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts (Mid-January to Mid-February)
- Features live art demonstrations, Broadway-style performances, and food booths focused on artistic presentation.
- Perfect for art lovers and families who enjoy creativity and culture.
- Usually lower crowd levels and milder weather.
2. EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival (March to July)
- Showcases beautiful topiaries, garden displays, and outdoor kitchens with fresh, seasonal dishes.
- Family-friendly and great for photographers and nature lovers.
- Try to visit in late March or early May for fewer crowds and good weather.
3. EPCOT Food & Wine Festival (Late August to Mid-November)
- One of Disney’s most popular festivals.
- Offers global food and drink kiosks, culinary demos, and live concerts.
- Best for adult travelers, foodies, or couples.
- Visit in late August or September to avoid peak crowds.
4. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (August to October)
- A separately ticketed event at Magic Kingdom with trick-or-treating, a special parade, fireworks, and rare character appearances.
- Kids can wear costumes, and adults will love the spooky but family-friendly vibe.
- September dates usually have lower crowds and cheaper prices than October.
5. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (November to December)
- Another after-hours event at Magic Kingdom, featuring snowfall on Main Street, free cookies & cocoa, holiday parades, and festive shows.
- Holiday decorations and music create a magical atmosphere.
- Early December dates tend to be less crowded and more budget-friendly.
6. RunDisney Races (Held several times a year)
- Includes events like the Walt Disney World Marathon in January and Wine & Dine Half Marathon in November.
- Participants often dress in themed costumes and enjoy special perks.
- A great option if you want to combine fitness with fun.
Tips for Planning Around Special Events:
- Buy event tickets early: Parties and festivals often sell out.
- Check park hours: Some events shorten regular park hours for day guests.
- Use a crowd calendar: Some festivals bring extra visitors—plan park days accordingly.
- Budget for extras: Special events often come with additional ticket costs or premium-priced food items.
Best Time for Families with Young Kids
If you’re traveling with little ones, think about these tips:
- Avoid extreme heat (go in winter or early spring).
- Travel during off-peak times to avoid long lines.
- Choose dates when kids aren’t in school if you don’t mind a few missed days.
Recommended Times:
- Late January or early February
- Early May
- Mid-September
These periods offer milder weather and shorter wait times—perfect for young families.
Best Time for Adults or Couples
If you’re traveling without kids, you have more flexibility. Adults often enjoy:
- Late September or early October: Enjoy the Food & Wine Festival without the summer crowds.
- Early December: Beautiful holiday decorations, mild weather, and fewer kids in the parks.
Avoid school vacation weeks and holiday breaks if you prefer a quieter experience.
What About Crowd Calendars?
You may have heard of Disney crowd calendars—websites that predict daily crowd levels. They can be helpful, but they’re just estimates. Use them as a general guide, not a guarantee.
Keep in mind that:
- Disney doesn’t release official attendance data.
- School calendars and events change every year.
- Weather, special deals, and even ride closures can affect crowds.
Final Tips for Planning Your Visit
Here are a few more things to consider as you plan your Disney trip:
- Book early. The best-priced hotels and park reservations fill up fast.
- Use Genie+ wisely. This service helps you skip lines—but is more useful during busy times.
- Pack for the weather. Florida can be unpredictable—bring ponchos, sunscreen, and layers.
- Make dining reservations early. Some restaurants book up months in advance.
- Arrive early. Getting to the parks before they open gives you a head start on rides before crowds grow.
So, When Is the Best Time to Go?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the best time to go to Disney World. It depends on your priorities:
- Fewer crowds? Try January, September, or early December.
- Better weather? Aim for February to April or November.
- Cheaper trip? Go in late summer or winter.
- Holiday magic or festivals? Visit in November or October.
With the right planning, you can find a time that works for your budget, comfort, and style of fun. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or your fifteenth, timing your trip right can make the magic even better.
