When Is the Best Time to Visit Disney World? Experts Weigh In

There is a lot of planning that goes into a Walt Disney World vacation, maybe more planning than ever before. Guests have to choose how long to visit, what hotel they want to stay at, where they want to eat, and if they want to purchase extras like Disney Genie+ and Memory Maker. Another big decision that goes into planning a Disney World is when to visit. There’s no real “slow season” anymore, but there are still times that are better to visit than others.

So, when is the best time to visit Disney World Resort? Travel experts spoke to Insider and shared their opinions.

Late January/Early February

As someone who has traveled to Walt Disney World many times, this writer wholeheartedly agrees that late January/early February is one of the best times to visit. The spring/summer heat can be brutal, so it’s great to go to the Parks when the temperatures are in the low 70s. It can get cold at night, but the days are usually perfect. There is also less of a chance of rain because it’s not hurricane season.

The one downside to visiting during this time of year is that it is typically the time when Disney will choose to refurbish some of its more popular rides. But you can head to EPCOT and enjoy the incredible International Festival of the Arts.

Pro-tip: If you do plan on visiting during this time of year, make sure to check the dates for the Walt Disney World Resort Marathon Weekend. That time will be very busy, so, if you are not participating in the event, it’s best to visit after.

Early June or Early August

According to the experts, early June is a good time to visit The Most Magical Place on Earth because it is cheaper than most other times during the summer. Now, it will be hot, but some kids will still be in school, so it won’t be as crowded as July or August. Plus, it will not be as hot in early June as it will be in the later months. If you decide to visit during the summer, try to go when it is coolest.

It’s really hot in August, but if you don’t mind the heat, then this is another good time to go. Most kids are back in school by this time, so the theme park crowds are lower. The prices have also dropped, making it the second-cheapest time to visit during the summer months.

Now, it is important to note that there is a BIG caveat to visiting Disney World during the summer — it is hurricane season. If you plan on traveling to Florida from June through November, always keep an eye on the weather.

September

If you love Halloween and everything to do with fall, then September is a great time to visit. Crowds pick up the closer you get to Halloween, but September teme park crowds are typically lower. Temperatures are also starting to drop, along with the humidity. Not by much, but every little bit helps. You will also have the chance to attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party — a hard ticketed event at the Magic Kingdom.

Just like June and August, September is hurricane season. Not only that, September is typically when hurricane season ramps up. So, again, keep an eye on the weather in the weeks and days leading up to your trip.

Early December

The experts say that Disney sees incredibly heavy crowds from mid-December through the first of the year. More than once, Disney World theme parks — mainly the Magic Kingdom — have reached capacity on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. However, if you want to visit during the merriest time of the year, then consider heading down in early December. Thanksgiving crowds have left, and Christmas crowds are still a couple of weeks away.

In early December, Guests can enjoy the International Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT, as well as the hard-ticketed event Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom.

Many Disney fans will tell you that there is never a bad time to visit Disney World, because it’s always a good time to take a Disney vacation! However, there are definitely times when the crowds, temperatures, and prices are all lower. So, if you are considering the best time for you, consider the above helpful hints!