It’s a common fact that Walt Disney World, Resort and all of its parks, are busy. Some weeks, however are much busier than others (Hello, Christmas week!). But if you have the travel flexibility, knowing the best weeks to visit Disney World will be definitely in your favor. Here’s the scoop on when to visit.
I’ve visited Walt Disney World every time of year and in every month, happily, and I love seeing the seasonal changes each one offers. But, if I could save money on resort stays, tickets, AND there are less crowds in the parks, you can bet I’ll book at those times regardless – unless Rick Springfield is performing at Epcot, I’ll go no matter what.
I’m starting my best weeks to visit Disney World list beginning at the beginning of the year and working my way to the last month for ease of reading and to keep some order in this post. Plus, it will be easier for you to re-look if you need a memory jogger.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – Two Weeks After New Year’s Day
If you’re thinking the best times to visit Walt Disney World (WDW) and are only thinking of crowd levels, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day aren’t in that low crowd-level mix. But just two weeks after the beginning of the year is an ideal week to visit the parks. As soon as families have to return home from celebrating, that’s your in for low crowds and discounted resort rooms. Epcot International Festival of the Arts should be daily by this time, too.
Also to note: weather during January can either be ideal (60s and 70s) or very chilly. Make sure you check the forecast right before you leave in case to need to repack or add in warm clothes.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – The Last Week of February
Once we’ve gotten past Valentine’s Day and Presidents Day traffic, the last week of February is always a good bet with regard to crowd levels. You will, however, have to deal with cooler temperatures and the two waterparks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon) may close for the day if gets cold enough.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – Second Week of March
In Florida, March Break is a big deal and happens the latter part of the month. To avoid state resident traffic, the second week of March is a great time to book your visit. However, if Easter is in March, avoid several days leading up to and several days after the holiday.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – First and Second Weeks in May
Families are getting ready for the end of school or it’s already over for the year by the end of the month. If you can swing it, visit the first or second week of May. You’ll be able to checkout the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, which is a must-see and the weather will be warming up.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – Last Two Weeks in July
I’m not sure about you, but once July is nearly over, I’m already thinking about autumn. during the last two weeks of July, families are getting ready for school to begin and need to be home.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – Third Week of August
By the third week of August, kids are back in class and, apart from locals visiting on the weekend, the third week of August offers lower crowds. It’s then the Epcot international Food & Wine Festival gets into swing, too.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – Third Week of September
Still reeling with the food & Wine Festival, the third week of September is a great time to visit. Temperatures are not a high as the summer (thank heavens!) and the autumn decorations are up and filled with gorgeous colors.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – Third and Fourth Week of October
If I had to pick one holiday party to attend at WDW, it’s Mickey’s not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom. The festivities actually begin in August but I love attending in October as daylight is shorter and the Halloween fun even better. As for weather, it’s a hit or miss for me. sometimes it’s sweatshirt and jeans weather; sometimes I’m sweating my you-know-what off.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – The Week Before Thanksgiving Break
Thanksgiving is one of the biggest holidays to celebrate at Disney World, so you’re looking at some of the highest crowd levels of the year. To detour from them, visit the week before the week of Thanksgiving. Not only is the weather pretty during this time, you’ll thank yourself for the low crowds.
Best Weeks to Visit Disney World – The Second Week of December
By far, if I had to pick only one week out of the year to visit WDW, it’s the second week of December. Not only are the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party festivities a must-do (Seriously, it snows on Main Street U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom) but there are Christmas trees in every park and holiday music and attraction overlays. You’ll also find seasonal snacks, moderate temperatures, and super low crowds – and Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom always looks gorgeous.