disney tourist blog best time to visit

Best Times to Go to Disney World

We all know that Disney World vacations are memorable and magical. But did you know that the season, month, week, and even day you choose can make a big difference in your in-park experience? In addition, the time period you visit will also have an impact on costs and your ability to make  dining and Genie+ reservations . Therefore, the best time to visit Walt Disney World is an important consideration as you book your family vacation.

Deciding when to visit Disney World will depend on variables like crowds, cost, and weather. You should also weigh other aspects like special events, seasonal festivals, and extended park hours. This article highlights the main factors to consider as you plan the best time to visit Disney World. Let’s get started!

Rather speak directly with someone?  (It’s free!)  Contact a Vacationeer today!

Crowds – Best Time to go to Disney World

Walt Disney World is the single most visited vacation resort on the planet. And with an average annual attendance of over 58 million people, you should expect to encounter crowds on any given day of the year. Sorry – this is just a fact. However, there  are  certain times of the year with fewer crowds. So if you think the best time to go to Disney World is when there are fewer people to contend with, here are a few tips.

When is Disney World the most crowded?

Generally, you can expect the crowds to be  higher  during school vacation weeks, holidays, weekends, and the summer season. In particular, the crowds swell around February school vacation week, Spring Break, Thanksgiving week, Christmas, and holiday weekends (i.e., MLK, Memorial Day, and Labor Day).

You can also expect the park to be busy right after a new section/land or attraction opens (such as  Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge ). Some parks even have days of the week that are generally better or worse than others (see  Best Days to Go To Magic Kingdom ).

When is Disney World the least crowded?

Disney World theme parks are usually  less crowded  from January 2nd until Presidents’ Day weekend (the third Monday in February), the week following Labor Day until the weekend preceding Thanksgiving week, and the week after Thanksgiving weekend until the weekend before  Christmas  vacation week.

There are also some lighter non-vacation weeks in the late winter/early spring. But it goes without saying that Disney World is less crowded when families are busy with school and work and more crowded during school breaks, holidays, and weekends.

When is the best time to go to Disney World in 2023?

The least crowded times to go to Disney World in 2023 are:

• January 9-14
• January 22 – February 15
• March 31 – April 8
• April 17-30 (weekdays only)
• June Tuesdays-Fridays (only if you must go during summer)
• August 22-31
• September 1 – October 5 Weekdays (except Labor Day)
• October Weekdays (beginning and end of the month)
• November Weekdays (not including Thanksgiving week or Wine & Dine Half Marathon)
• December Weekdays (not including the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s Eve)

The worst time to go to Disney World is during school vacation weeks, weekends, holidays, and the beginning and middle of the summer season — but if you have school-aged kids (and they’re not homeschooled ), you might be limited in your choices.

Disney theme park tickets are sold via a surge pricing model – ticket prices rise daily as the demand increases, and some parks are more expensive than others. Disney insists that this policy was instituted as a mechanism to even out the crowds throughout the year. But despite this new ticketing model, the normal seasonal patterns remain in play for the most part. So you’ll still need to factor in crowd levels when you’re  planning your Disney Vacation .

Planning a Disney World trip? Need help figuring out the best time to go?

We highly recommend contacting  The Vacationeer !

Their  expert Disney travel planners  are frequent Disney World visitors themselves, so they know all about juggling schedules and finding the best times to go. They can help you  find just the right balance  of hotel prices, ticket prices, and crowd levels.

The Vacationeer  provides free help planning your Walt Disney World vacation, and they’ll make all your reservations for you!

And best of all, there are no planning fees!  Their services are completely free  to use!

Plus, you’re  never under any obligation  to book. So contact them today — there’s nothing to lose!

Weather – Best Seasons to go to Disney World

Florida is known as the sunshine state. But while everyone loves the sun, most people dislike the heat and humidity that often accompany the Florida sun. Rain showers and thunderstorms are commonplace at Disney World during the summer months, and there’s even a  remote chance of a hurricane  from June through October. Therefore, we recommend you  pack  an array of cooler and wet clothing items in your luggage because  Disney World weather  can be unpredictable.

That said, Disney World experiences really great weather for most of the year. It’s rarely cold, and snowstorms are unheard of.

As far as weather is concerned, we think the best time to go to Disney World Resort is during the spring and autumn seasons. Temperatures tend to be warm yet quite comfortable for walking around the park. Humidity levels are lower than in the summer, and the UV index remains relatively safe. And for the record, winter isn’t so bad either. Summer is the only season that is routinely unpleasant because of the heat and humidity.

Spring at Disney World

The Spring season is short, but it’s gorgeous this time of the year. With its vibrant flowers and blooming, aromatic trees, spring is a wonderful season to go to Disney World. Low temperatures range up to around 82°F with moderately low rainfall and relative humidity of around 50%. The sun is strong for at least nine hours per day, giving you plenty of daylight hours to enjoy the park.

Autumn at Disney World

The Autumn season is near perfect at Disney World. It, too, is a short season, but it’s well worth a visit during this stretch between Labor Day and Christmas. Granted, the start of fall may be on the warm and humid side as summer drags on, but the rest of this time frame experiences crisp air, mild to warm temps, and lower rainfall. Visitors will still have up to 8 hours of full sunshine. Then evening and nighttime temperatures often drop enough for a jacket or sweater. It’s good to keep in mind Florida’s hurricane season.

Winter at Disney World

Don’t let the name scare you off because winter isn’t so bad at Disney World. In fact, it has quite a few things going for it. The average high temperatures are typically in the low 70s and rainfall is less common than in other seasons. In addition, humidity is usually around 59% and the evenings cool off considerably. However, winter suffers from a few drawbacks, including fewer daylight hours, less incentive to jump in the pool because of the cooler temperatures, and the park grounds aren’t as lush and beautiful.

Summer at Disney World

Walt Disney World’s summer is its longest season because it extends from May through September. On the surface, it may seem like the perfect time to visit the park. School is out, there are roughly 14 sunlight hours each day, and the theme parks usually have longer hours and more entertainment offerings. But the major downside is the heat. Mid-day temperatures often reach over 90 degrees and some days are even over 100 or 110! High humidity is also a factor, with an average of 61%. Then there’s the rainfall; Disney’s average precipitation of 6.4″ during the summer months, and July and August normally experience 13 days of rainfall. Yet if pools, water parks, longer park hours, and more entertainment are your top priorities, summer may be the best time to visit Disney if you don’t mind the summer crowds.

Cost – Cheapest Time to go to Disney World

When is the Cheapest Time to go to Disney World?

Generally speaking, the cheapest time to go to Disney World is when the park is least crowded. This is often over the winter months and other slow times of the year and during weekdays. Disney World often runs special promotions and discounted vacation packages during these slow times in an effort to entice more visitors. The most expensive time to visit Disney World is over the warmer-weather months, during school vacation weeks, holiday weeks, and weekends, or when Disney is hosting a popular event or festival.

Disney Theme Park Ticket and Hotel Prices

The cost of Disney World vacation packages fluctuates throughout the year. As far as nightly Disney World Resort Hotel pricing goes, the hotel rates increase during peak periods (like school vacations and holidays) and decrease during the slower, off-peak times of the year. This variable pricing policy is also in effect for theme park tickets. As demand for tickets increases, the price of theme park tickets also increases. As a result, more popular parks (or at least parks with smaller capacity and higher demand) cost a bit more than larger parks or those with lower demand. The advantage of this policy is that crowds are more evenly dispersed throughout the year (or that’s Disney’s stated reasoning, at least).

Disney World Theme Park Ticket Tiers

When Disney first introduced its variable ticket pricing model, there were three tiers of single-day theme park tickets: value, regular, and peak days. That seems like a distant memory, as tickets now have several price points and vary from park to park.

Starting Price for a 1-day Disney World theme park ticket in 2023. Exact price will vary based on which park is selected.

2023 base ticket (one day at one theme park) price ranges:

• Animal Kingdom: $109-$159
• EPCOT: $114-$179
• Hollywood Studios: $124-$179
• Magic Kingdom: $124-$189

Pick your days wisely, and you will save money! It’s always best to go to Disney World when there are fewer crowds. You usually pay less for theme park tickets and hotel stays, and have  shorter lines .

Multi-day theme park tickets work differently than single-day tickets. With multi-day tickets, the more days you purchase, the less you will pay  per day .

2023 multi-day ticket (one park per day) prices:

• 2-Day Ticket: $112+ per day
• 3-Day Ticket: $114+ per day
• 4-Day Ticket: $114+ per day
• 5-Day Ticket: $99+ per day
• 6-Day Ticket: $85+ per day
• 7-Day Ticket: $75+ per day
• 8-Day Ticket: $70+ per day
• 9-Day Ticket: $65+ per day
• 10-Day Ticket: $60+ per day

You might notice that the per-day pricing drops significantly at the five-day mark.

Of course, dining and lodging costs will greatly add to your overall expenses. So an extended stay – just to spend less per day on tickets – is not a money-saving strategy. However, it’s important to note this theme park ticket policy because most people spend more than a single day at Disney parks.

If you can afford it, we recommend Visiting Disney World for an entire week and experiencing at least one day at each theme park. There is so much to see and do!

Disney World Ticket Prices for Children

Disney world hotel prices.

There are more than two dozen official Disney resort hotels on the property. Walt Disney World Resorts are categorized into three tiers: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe.  Disney Value Resorts  are the least expensive tier, followed by  Disney Moderate Resorts  as the middle tier, and  Disney Deluxe Resorts  as the most exclusive and costly.

Like theme park tickets, hotel prices vary based on the time of year. With so many variables in play — room type, location within the resort, location of the resort itself, view from the room, amenities, time of year, and even day of the week — it’s very difficult to provide a single price range for a stay at a Disney Resort Hotel. But the same general rules we give for tickets apply to hotels, too; if it’s a more popular time of year, hotel prices will be higher.

All-Star Sports Resort – Standard Room – 2023 Base Rate

The graph above shows sample starting prices for a stay in a Standard Room at All Star Sports (a Disney Value Resort). Those regular spikes you see represent increased prices around every weekend of the year. You can also see that the prices, in general, are higher during the more popular times of year and lower during the less-crowded times. You’ll pay $113  on January 3rd, 2023; the same room costs  $255  on December 25th, 2023.

This pricing model is generally in place at all Disney Resorts. An Outer Building Theme Park View room at the Grand Floridian (a Disney Deluxe resort) costs $827  on January 3 and  $1,449  on December 25. You can literally save hundreds of dollars per night just by changing your dates; even changing from a weekend to a weekday might save you between $50 and $100.

Perks of Staying at Disney Resort Hotels

Staying at any one of Disney’s hotels is more convenient because of the free  Disney World transportation  to and from the parks. It’s also more cost-effective when you consider all of the extra perks you will receive, and you’ll be about to make your dining and  Individual Lightning Lane  reservations before non-Disney guests. You can also create a  Disney payment plan  to pay off your trip in installments.

There are tons of non-Disney resort hotels in the Orlando area. Most of them are adequate and cheaper than many of Disney’s offerings. However, when you add up all of the perks offered to Disney Resort guests, we think the benefits greatly outweigh the extra cost. Stay at a Disney World Resort and be close to the action! See our  Disney World Resorts Comparison  page for suggestions.

Confused about Prices? The Vacationeer Can Help!

Holiday Festivals and Seasonal Events

For many people, the best time to go to Disney World is during the holiday season. This is the time of year when the park dazzles with decorations, and there is holiday cheer in the air.  Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party  kicks things off in August – October. Then  Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party  takes over for November and December. Popular non-holiday events include the extensive  Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival  and the adult-friendly  Epcot International Food & Wine Festival . Let’s look at what each month offers at Disney World.

January may be the quietest month of the year at Disney World because the holiday vacation crowds are gone, and cool temperatures keep people away. The high temperatures only reach 70 degrees during January. If you don’t mind the frosty early mornings and chilly evening temperatures – and the fact that at least one of  Disney’s water parks  might be closed – then January may be the best time to go to Disney World. The pools are still heated, and the cheaper off-season rates and shorter lines make them worthy of your consideration.

January events include:

• Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
• EPCOT  International Festival of the Arts

With the exception of Presidents’ Day week, Disney World in February usually experiences a rather slow month. And like January, at least one of Disney’s two water parks usually remains closed during this time. In addition, off-peak pricing is in effect for non-holiday weeks. If crowds are a major concern, then February is a decent choice so long as you avoid the school vacation week (Presidents’ Day week). February might lack some of the beauty and excitement that other months at the park have — but it’s also a favorite month for locals precisely because of lower crowds and cooler weather.

February events include:

• Disney’s Princess Half-Marathon weekend
• EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

March experiences heavier crowds because of Spring Break, Bike Week, and Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival. However, the weather begins to rise in March, and the water parks re-open during the first half of the month.

March events include:

• EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

April at Walt Disney World is characterized by heavier Spring break crowds and milder temperatures. Spring Break season and the Easter holiday are especially popular times to visit Disney World, so we would avoid these periods if possible. Temperatures rise to the mid-80s, and the flowers and trees are in full-bloom mode.

April events include:

• RunDisney  Springtime Surprise weekend

Crowds moderate during the month of May because the spring break season is over, and there are no “major” holidays or school vacations. Memorial Day causes a brief blip in crowd levels but the impact is nowhere near the levels seen at Christmas or even President’s Day. Although it’s spring and the flowers are still in full bloom, the weather feels more like summer, with temps reaching into the 90s. Thunderstorms are common occurrences during the afternoon.

May events include:

The summer season kicks off in June . While the first half of the month sees fewer crowds, the latter half experiences heavy traffic as students are off on summer break. Single-day ticket prices increase as the crowds swell, but the parks have extended hours and more shows and activities to even out the lines. June has long days of sunshine and hot weather, so come prepared with your sunscreen. A great time of the year to visit the water parks! (See our  Blizzard Beach vs. Typhoon Lagoon  page)

June events include:

Most people associate July with family vacations, so it’s no surprise that it is Disney’s peak month. Florida is sizzling hot during July, and temperatures can reach 100+ during the afternoon with lots of humidity. Rain and thunderstorms are also common. The good news is that the theme parks have extended hours. So you may want to hit the air-conditioned attractions, eat your meals, or head back to the pool during the hottest times of the day while experiencing the main attractions during the mornings and early evenings. Prices are typically higher during the summer months, so don’t expect to find any deep  discounts .

July events include:

• Fourth of July fireworks at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT
• EPCOT  International Food & Wine Festival

The  Disney World weather  can reach extremes during August , one of the hottest months of the year. You can beat the afternoon heat by seeking shelter at air-conditioned attractions and shows, restaurants, AMC movie theatre (Disney Springs), water parks, and Disney resort pools. Crowds are heavy for most of August, but the parks do thin out (a little) as kids return to school towards the second half of the month. However, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween  Party and EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival help to draw visitors during the latter half of the month. Like July, it’s a hot, humid, wet, and crowded time to go to Disney World.

August events include:

• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party begins in mid-August
• EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

Early September at Disney World is still hot, but temperatures do moderate slightly as the month wears on. While it is  the peak of  hurricane season , storms  usually  don’t cause major impacts to central Florida. The latter half of September is one of the best times to go to Disney World because the weather is decent, and lines are manageable since most kids are back to school. Hotel rates and park tickets are also lower. In addition, EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party are in full swing. September is a great time to visit Disney World!

September events include:

• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

The afternoons are still hot, but the evening temperatures drop considerably during the month of October . Disney’s parks are decorated for autumn, and most evenings showcase Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party events. The EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival is still going strong, and the crowds are moderate. October may be the best month to visit Disney World!

October events include:

November would be an excellent month to visit Disney World if it weren’t for the crowd swell during Thanksgiving week. But if you avoid this week (and weekends around the holiday), you will experience pleasant weather, relatively short lines, and a festive holiday atmosphere. Cast Members are decorating throughout the month, but most of Disney’s Christmas holiday decorations are up by mid-November. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party kicks off, and guests can enjoy many holiday events during the month.

November events include:

• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
• RunDisney  Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
• EPCOT International  Festival of the Holidays

Disney’s theme parks are festively decorated in December , and holiday-themed events happen daily throughout the month. December is a popular time to visit Disney World because most people love the holidays and most children are out on school break. As a result, the beginning of the month experiences slightly lighter crowds, but the latter half of December is among Disney World’s busiest times of the year.

December events include:

• Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
• Special New Year’s Eve fireworks displays at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT

Final Thoughts on the Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World

In conclusion, the best time to go to Disney World will depend on your personal preferences. It will depend on what your budget and timing allow. There is no universal “best time to visit Disney World” because everyone’s vacation goals and lifestyle realities are different.

That said, certain times of the year have better weather and fewer crowds. This is quantifiable. Luckily, many of these periods are also less expensive.

We personally view September – Early December (minus Thanksgiving week) as the best time to go to Disney World, followed by the late winter through the short spring season. These periods have favorable Disney World weather and fewer crowds. Just avoid school break weeks, if possible. At the end of the day, you’ll have to make your own determination as to what works best for you.

We would certainly recommend staying at a Disney Resort and checking out  at least  two of the theme parks. However, you really have to stay at least 3-5 days to get the full Disney experience. And if you can go for a full week – and hit all 4 theme parks (and a water park) – even better!

Hopefully, this information will help you make more informed decisions to get the most enjoyment and value out of your trip. But whatever dates you pick, we are sure you’ll have a magical Disney World vacation!

Enjoy your trip!

Free Help Planning Your Disney World Vacation

As you’ve seen in this article, there’s a LOT to consider when trying to find the best time to visit Disney World. For personalized vacation planning help — all at  no additional cost  to you — we highly recommend contacting  The Vacationeer !

As our pick for the  best Disney travel agency  out there,  The Vacationeer  provides a dedicated agent to handle your trip from start to finish. No more  waiting on hold with a Disney call center  for you! That alone is a prime  reason to use a Disney travel agent . Then, consider the fact that they’ll help you find the best price for your vacation, even adding new discounts to your already-booked trip! Finally, add in the fact that their planning help doesn’t cost you a dime. It’s a no-brainer!

So let  The Vacationeer  handle all of your reservations for you — you won’t regret it!

We hope our Best Time to Visit Disney World has helped you decide the best week for your next vacation.

For more useful Disney World information, please review some additional pages on  MagicGuides  like our  Animal Kingdom Restaurants ,  Best Magic Kingdom Rides ,  Best Hollywood Studios Rides ,  Disney Travel Agents ,  Disney World Youtube Channels ,  Disney World Map ,  and  Adventures by Disney Reviews  articles.

Considering California? Check our Disneyland Crowd Calendar and our Best Time to Visit Disneyland article, too!

Thanks for reading, and we hope you have a magical Walt Disney World vacation!

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What is the Best Time of Year to Go to Disney World in 2024?

This page was updated on April 7, 2024. 

One of the very first things vacation planners need to determine is the time of year for their travels… and that’s no less true when you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort ! Though at first, you may think a trip to Disney World primarily involves rides and sunshine no matter the season, you may be surprised to find out how much your experience may differ depending on WHEN you go.

Are YOU Going to Disney World in 2024?

From crowd levels to weather to Special Events , and more, we are breaking down Walt Disney World MONTH BY MONTH so you can know what to expect for your vacation any time of year!

Walt Disney World in January

The New Year delivers some of the year’s coolest weather to Central Florida and welcomes EPCOT’s first Festival of the calendar year … and much more!

EPCOT Festival of the Arts

HERE are the dates to know for January 2025:

• The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend will take place from January 8-12, 2025!
• New Year, New You! January is Wellness Month and Disney Springs hosts classes and offering discounts at select locations to celebrate. 
• The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts kicks off the Festival year in EPCOT! The 2024 dates were January 12th, 2024 through February 19th, 2024. Stay tuned for 2025 dates!
• The Disney on Broadway Concert Series comes back throughout the Festival of the Arts.

Looking for travel tips and info for January ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for a January trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for January 2025 here. 

Walt Disney World in February

February boasts some of the year’s best weather in Florida, plenty of sweet treats to celebrate your Valentine, and more.

Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies

If you’re traveling to Disney World in February 2025 , HERE are some dates to know!

• The Disney on Broadway Concert Series comes back along with the Festival of the Arts. Stay tuned for 2025 dates!
• February is Black History Month and it’s time to “Celebrate Soulfully!”
• Be on the lookout for sweet treats for your Valentine, Galentine, or to treat yourself for Valentine’s Day around the Resort!
• The run Disney Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is scheduled for  February 20-24, 2025!
• The EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival kicked off on February 28th in 2024.  Stay tuned for 2025 dates!

Looking for travel tips and info for February ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for a February trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for February 2025 here. 

Walt Disney World in March

March delivers sure signs of SPRING to Disney World, from Spring Break crowds to the first full month of EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival and beyond.

Princess Tiana Topiary at the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

If you’re traveling to Disney World in March 2025 , HERE are some great dates to know!

• ONGOING: The EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival ran from February 28th – May 27th, 2024. Stay tuned for 2025 dates!
• Looking for the BEST way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) in Disney World? Raglan Road in Disney Springs hosts the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival ever year.   According to Raglan Road, this is “the most authentic Irish festival in America.”
• And, of course, lots of snacks will be wearin’ GREEN for St. Patrick’s Day in March , too!

Looking for travel tips and info for March ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for a March trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for March 2024 here. 
• Let’s chat about March CROWDS in Disney World! 
• These are 4 Major Changes coming to Disney World in March 2024. 
• THIS is the Disney World Mistake You’ll Make in March .

Walt Disney World in April

Spring, of course, is still in FULL SWING in April! And joining the popular Flower & Garden Festival are seasonal offerings like Animal Kingdom’s celebration of Earth Day and much more!

The Easter Bunny!

Important dates and happenings to know for April 2024  include the following:

• ONGOING: The EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival is running from February 28th – May 27th, 2024!
• New adventures are coming to Star Tours in Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting April 5th, 2024!
• 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is reopening with a NEW Character Dining Experience on April 10th, 2024 ! 
• The  2024 run Disney Springtime Surprise Weekend will take place from  April 18th to April 21st, 2024.
• ONGOING: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in Hollywood Studios is closed for a lengthy refurbishment. The Disney World website states that the popular attraction  will reopen in summer 2024. 
• ONGOING: Country Bear Jamboree closed in Magic Kingdom on January 27th, 2024 to begin a transformation into a new show! Disney announced that the updated Country Bear Musical Jamboree should open THIS SUMMER .

Looking for travel tips and info for April ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for an April trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for April 2024 here. 
• THIS is the Disney World Mistake You’ll Make in April. 
• These Disney World rides will be closed for refurbishment in April .

Looking ahead to 2025 , important dates include the following:

• The 2025 run Disney Springtime Surprise Weekend is ON from April 3-6, 2025!
• Easter Sunday falls on April 20th, 2025.  You are bound to find plenty of themed treats for the occasion during the month.

Walt Disney World in May

Those famous “May Flowers” are still on display for the ongoing EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival . And, of course, Memorial Day Weekend ushers in the unofficial start of SUMMER!

Memorial Day Banners in Magic Kingdom

Important dates and happenings to know for May 2024  include the following:

• A NEW Drone Show — Disney Dreams That Soar — will debut in Disney Springs on May 24th!
• H2O Glow Nights (an extra-ticket after hours event) returns to Typhoon Lagoon for select dates starting May 25th through August 31st. 

Looking for travel tips and info for May ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for an May trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for May 2024 here. 

Walt Disney World in June

Summer break is ON in June in Walt Disney World ! While you can expect rainstorms picking up for the summer season, you can also often anticipate extended hours in the parks to accommodate the increased crowd levels.

A little rain never stopped the fun around here!

Important dates and happenings to know for June 2024  include the following:

• ONGOING :  H2O Glow Nights (an extra-ticket after hours event) returns to Typhoon Lagoon for select dates starting May 25th through August 31st. 
• June 10th is the OPENING DATE for the NEW CommuniCore Hall and Festival Area in EPCOT!
• A NEW Encanto -themed show will open in EPCOT on June 10th, 2024. 
• From June 10th – September 6th, 2024, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of The Lion King with special snacks, merchandise, and a Timon and Rafiki Meet-and-Greet !
• On June 10th, 2024, Joy from Inside Out will begin greeting guests in Disney’s Hollywood Studios .
• June 16th is Father’s Day in the United States in 2024.
• On June 17th , EPCOT’s Test Track will close to undergo a reimagining of the attraction.
•   The Department of Defense (DoD) Warrior Games  are scheduled to take place between  June 21st through the 30th  at the  ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Disney World.
• June is Pride month , and Disney celebrates Pride Month throughout Disney World !

Looking for travel tips and info for June ? Click any of the links below:

• Find the Disney World Park Hours for June 2024 here. 
• From weather to crowds and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for a JUNE trip to Disney World !

Walt Disney World in July

Celebrate Independence Day — and more — in Walt Disney World in July ! It’s well worth noting that the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival typically kicks off this month. (In 2023, it began on July 27th.)

The 2022 RETURN of 4th of July Fireworks!

Important dates and happenings to know for July 2024  include the following:

• The new DVC Cabins will begin to open at Disney’s Fort Wilderness and Campground starting July 1st !
• July typically delivers the annual Flavors of Florida event to Disney Springs! In 2023, it ran from July 1st – August 13th. Stay tuned for 2024 dates!
• July 4th is Independence Day in the United States!
• Magic Kingdom typically hosts  4th of July fireworks — “Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” on July 3rd AND 4th! Stay tuned for 2024 confirmation!
• On July 4th ONLY,   Magic Kingdom often hosts a flyover of the theme park by the U.S. Airforce at 10:30AM . Stay tuned for 2024 confirmation!
• “Heartbeat of Freedom” is typically the special fireworks finale on July 4th. Stay tuned for 2024 confirmation!
• EPCOT also typically celebrates the 4th of July with some VERY special character appearances !
• The 2023 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival dates were July 27th – November 18th. Stay tuned for 2024 dates!

Looking for travel tips and info for July ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for a JULY trip to Disney World!
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for July 2024 here. 

Walt Disney World in August

Surprise! August heralds in the beginning of AUTUMN to Walt Disney World (albeit, a little early 😉 ) with the arrival of fall decorations on Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, U.S.A. in preparation for the park’s Halloween celebrations!

Halloween decorations at Disney World

Important dates and happenings to know for August 2024  include the following:

• The 2023 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival dates were July 27th – November 18th!   Stay tuned for 2024 dates!
• Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party typically kicks off in mid-August and runs through Halloween. 2023 dates were August 11th through November 1st. Stay tuned for 2024 dates!
•   Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining typically kicks off in mid-August and runs through September. 2023 dates were August 13th to October 1st.   Stay tuned for 2024 dates!

Looking for travel tips and info for August ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for an August trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for August 2024 here. 
• These are 5 MAJOR Changes Coming to Disney World in August .
• This is the Disney World MISTAKE You’ll Make in August.
• THIS is the Magic Kingdom Problem You’re Not Expecting in August.

Walt Disney World in September

Planning to visit Walt Disney World in September? Lower crowd levels and the ongoing EPCOT Food and Wine Festival are typically what you’ll experience… and there’s plenty more to consider (including the potential for some interesting weather patterns)!

LOW Wait Time at Pirates of the Caribbean

Important dates and happenings to know for September 2024  include the following:

• The 2023 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival dates were July 27th – November 18th.   Stay tuned for 2024 dates!

Looking for travel tips and info for September ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for a September trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for September 2024 here. 
• THIS is the Disney World Mistake you’ll make in September .

Walt Disney World in October

BOO! Happy Halloween, my friends… It’s October in Walt Disney World ! There are MANY more treats than tricks (like more Festival fun , for instance) to know about when it comes to an October trip.

Mickey Pumpkin

Important dates and happenings to know for October 2024  include the following:

• The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend is ON from October 31, 2024 – November 3, 2024!
• Festive fall and Halloween snacks will be on the scene in October for Spooky Season .

Looking for travel tips and info for October ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for an October trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for October 2024 here. 

Walt Disney World in November

November ushers in the start of the Holiday Season in Walt Disney World , and no area of the Resort goes without a festive touch. Find out what you can look forward to — and should prepare for — with a November trip to Walt Disney World!

Minnie’s Holiday Dine

Looking forward to November 2024 , here are a few good dates to know:

• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party typically kicks off in November! 2023 dates were November 9th through December 22nd. Stay tuned for 2024 dates!
• Thursday, November 28th is Thanksgiving Day in 2024 .
• Thanksgiving isn’t just celebrated for one day in Disney World… you’ll find specialty eats and treats for honoring the holiday throughout much of the month of November!
• The Holiday Season — which kicks off in November — brings TONS of Holiday TREATS to the whole Resort!
• The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays traditionally begins the day after Thanksgiving and runs through December 30th. Stay tuned for 2024 dates!
• The Candlelight Processional is a beloved tradition during the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays and runs for the duration of the event.

Looking for travel tips and info for November ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for an November trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for November 2024 here. 

Walt Disney World in December

It’s called “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” around the globe… and that’s no less true of Walt Disney World in December! “Oh, what fun it is…”

Happy Holidays from Hollywood Studios!

Important dates and happenings to know for December 2024  include the following:

• ONGOING: The Holiday Season continues through December, bringing with it stunning decorations, special events , an  entire Holiday FESTIVAL , and — of course! — the best of the   SEASON’S EATINGS (that means holiday SNACKS!) to celebrate  The Most Wonderful Time of the Year !
• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party typically kicks off in November and runs through most of December! 2023 dates were November 9th through December 22nd. Stay tuned for 2024 dates!
• Magic Kingdom typically shows an exclusive New Year’s fireworks display, ‘Fantasy In The Sky’ , on both  December 30th and December 31st  at two times each day,  6:30PM and 11:50PM. Stay tuned for 2024 information!
• EPCOT also traditionally hosts a special New Year’s Eve fireworks spectacular each year on December 31st. Stay tuned for 2024 information!
• December 24th — Christmas Eve
• December 25th — Christmas Day
• December 25th – Jan 3rd — Hanukkah 
• December 26th — Kwanzaa starts
• December 31st — New Year’s Eve

Looking for travel tips and info for December ? Click any of the links below:

• From weather to crowds to events and more, we’ve got TIPS AND INFO for an December trip to Disney World !
• Find the Disney World Park Hours for December 2024 here. 

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The Best Times to Go to Disney World for Fewer Crowds and Beautiful Weather

Planning a Disney vacation? Here are the best times to visit Walt Disney World.

Mariah Tyler

There’s always a reason to visit the "Most Magical Place on Earth," Walt Disney World. Deciding exactly when to go depends on what matters most to you. Looking to spot the famous Mickey pumpkins that line Main Street, U.S.A., during Halloween season? How about visiting when the temperatures are at their coolest? These factors and many more can affect your decision about when to plan a Disney trip, but if you want general guidelines, consider this overview.

• High Seasons: March to April and June to August
• Shoulder Seasons: December to February, plus the month of May
• Low Season: September to November

Whether traveling with a group of friends or your family, here are the best times to go to Disney World.

Best Times to Visit Disney World for Smaller Crowds

A Walt Disney World vacation involves navigating a variety of details from booking theme park tickets and dining reservations to deciding which rides to try when. The last thing you want to add to that list is heavy crowds.

While Disney parks consistently draw guests year round, there are a few times to visit that are typically less crowded. In the winter, any date outside of the busy weeks of Christmas and New Year's can be fairly quiet. A trip at this time of year also has the added bonus of cooler temperatures — or, to superfans, "Spirit Jersey weather." Disney World's least busy month, though, is almost always September. Crowds begin to thin out as school breaks wind down in August, and once Labor Day is over, the resort is usually as close to empty as it ever gets. Disney World used to remain uncrowded throughout the fall, but the growing popularity of Disney's Halloween offerings does mean that October is increasingly busy.

Best Times to Visit Disney World for Good Weather

There's a reason they call Florida the Sunshine State. The Orlando region can see more than 300 days of sun each year, making for ideal vacation weather almost year-round. Though July and August are risky given their occasional triple-digit temperatures, you can usually expect pleasant conditions in Disney World no matter when you visit.

Temperatures are at their coolest — often as low as 50 degrees — in January. (Yes, it can get chilly in Florida!) But while this may limit some activities, like visiting your resort’s pool or one of Disney's water parks, it does make for a more comfortable time in the theme parks. The winter months are also typically low in precipitation, so chances are you'll avoid the afternoon thunderstorms common in Florida summers — along with the need for pricey ponchos and umbrellas. To take advantage of this mild winter weather, visit between January and March.

Best Times to Visit Disney World for Lower Prices

The most important piece of any Disney vacation is theme park tickets. Disney World uses a dynamic ticket pricing system , meaning park ticket prices are tiered and will cost less during slower times. One-day, one-park admission starts at $109 but can increase significantly from there, especially if you're visiting on a holiday or busy weekend. A visit on Christmas Day, for instance, will set you back $159 per ticket. 

Off-peak times fall around January, February, September, and early November. Discounts on vacation packages booked directly through Disney (which combine park tickets and hotel stays ) can be found year-round, though they're most common at these less-crowded times. The same tends to apply for deals on accommodations and airfare. 

Related: These Are the Cheapest Times to Visit Disney World, According to Experts

Best Times for Adults to Visit Disney World

Walt Disney World can be an adult’s playground all year round, with standout dining and a host of experiences specifically catered to grown-up guests . One of the best times for adults to visit, though, is late summer and early fall, when summer-break crowds give way to (relatively) uncrowded autumn bliss. This time of year also coincides with Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival . At the park's longest-running and largest festival, you can nibble on globally inspired bites from dozens of outdoor kitchens. As the sun sets, enjoy concerts from national acts as part of the Eat to the Beat concert series, included in admission. 

One of Disney's most underrated festivals, the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, is also not to be missed. Celebrating culinary, performing, and visual arts, this falls during one of the slowest points of the year, typically mid-January through February. While more intimate than Food & Wine, it delivers standout eats and entertainment, plus cooler temperatures for those who dislike the heat. 

Best Times to Visit Disney World for Families

Holidays at Disney are truly magical. While you may have to deal with more crowds than usual, the reward is a whimsical transformation of the parks and numerous limited-time offerings — from incredible decor to delicious seasonal foods. Kids will also love Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, the after-hours special events that take over Magic Kingdom park in the final months of each year. Tickets for these parties follow a dynamic pricing system just like standard park admission does, so if you want to attend, plan your visit outside of each holiday's peak dates. While attending a Halloween party in August or a Christmas party in November may seem odd, families can enjoy hefty savings by embracing the festive spirit at unorthodox times.

Summer is ideal if your crew prefers to spend mornings on the rides and afternoons by the pool. Disney’s deluxe resorts — like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — offer the most elaborate pool complexes, complete with slides and poolside lounges. If taking full advantage of your resort’s amenities is a priority, a summertime stay may give you the best experience, despite its higher price tag.

Worst Times to Visit Disney World

A summertime Disney trip is a rite of passage for many families, but various factors can make the season less than ideal. The weather is arguably at its worst this time of year, with temperatures often in the 90s and an average humidity level of around 70 percent. Despite this, prices and crowd size both hit a peak in June, July, and August — so if you want to save money and avoid unpleasantly long lines, you may want to plan your trip for another season.

The winter months can offer good deals and above-average elbow room, but there are still challenges to consider. The weeks surrounding Christmas are some of the busiest (and priciest) of the year, and January's chilly conditions can pose a problem for visitors wanting to enjoy Disney World's pools and water parks .

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Plan Your Dream Trip To Disney!

Best Time To Visit Disney World: When To Go And When To Avoid

October 14, 2022 //  by  Sarah Newton //   Leave a Comment

When is the best time to visit Disney World, Florida? This is undoubtedly the question we get asked a lot and it’s not as easy to answer as it first appears.

Deciding on the best month to visit Disney is an individual decision and depends on so many factors. I mean the real answer is the best time to visit Disney World is when you can. If you have the privilege of being able to choose when you go then fantastic but please know whenever you go Disney is an incredible experience.

The best time to vacation at Disney is when works best for you and your circumstances.

In the article, we will walk you through all the information you need to help you make a decision about when to go to Disney World. Each month and season has its pros and cons and we will walk you through how to get the best out of your vacation whenever you decide to go.

So, are you ready to pack your bags, put on those mouse ears and get ready to meet Mickey? Of course, you are.

Oh and if you need help packing check out our Ultimate Packing Guide .

When Is The Best Time To Visit Disney World? 

The best time to visit Disney World depends on what you want out of a holiday and the capacity you have to choose when to go.

If you have children obviously the best time to visit is the school holidays because that is the only time you can take them.

Don’t handle heat well, then you will need to stay clear of the sticky hot months. Want to experience a particular celebration like Christmas or Halloween then you need to go when the decorations are up.

Keep in mind festivals. like the Food And Wine Festival, if you want to attend you will need to go when that is on. If you are going for a particular ride or entertainment event you will need to make sure it’s working and operational when you go.

If you hate crowds or are really short on time then you will need to visit in the off-season at Disney. Similarly, if you are looking to get the best value for money you will need to visit when the park is at low capacity.

There are so many considerations when it comes to the best month to go to Disney World, Florida. Our suggestion would be to decide on your three top priorities and plan from there.

Things to take into account are the weather, the crowds, the cost, park opening times, special events/festivals or celebrations, rides or entertainment shows you want to see and of course the times you can actually travel.

What Is the Worst Time To Go To Disney World?

There is no real worse time to go to Disney there is only a time that doesn’t work so well for you. However, saying this there are times that visiting Disney can be a more stressful experience than others.

If you can avoid the height of holidays. The park will sometimes get closed at Christmas because it has reached capacity to give you an idea of numbers. Easter and New Year can also be another really busy time.

If you hate the heat then July and August might be really challenging for you.

In general school vacations, weekends, public holidays, and the high summer season are the worst time to go to Disney World. But don’t worry if you have to go during these times there are things you can do to make it easier and more pleasurable.  

What Is The Cheapest Time To Go To Disney?

The cheapest time to visit Disney tends, not surprisingly, to be when the part is less crowded. This tends to be the winter months not including holiday periods so November, January, and February as long as you stay away from certain events.

During the slower times, Disney offers discounted packages and special promotions, particularly in hotels. Park tickets also have value, regular, and peak prices which are based on expected crowds for that day. Also, multi-day tickets tend to be better valued.

This article on How To Buy Discounted Disney World Tickets will help you decide when is the cheapest time to go.

In general the second week in January until spring break starts tends to be the cheapest time to visit Disney World, Florida. If you traveling on a budget early January, early May, late August, or all of September is the best time of year to go to Disney World for you.

If you are looking to save some money here are some money-saving Disney tips.

High And Low Season For Disney World 

While there is a Disney World off season it isn’t like other holidays in that within the low season you will also find huge peak periods. Low season at Disney is really more about quiet periods within the peak periods but you have to look for them.

The off-season at Disney tends to be January to early February and the times when children have gone back to school i.e September, October, and November. However, saying this while hotels might be cheaper in Florida the Halloween celebrations at Disney can make the park very busy.

The best way to think about the low season at Disney is that if the American children are at school it’s generally cheaper. And if you are not in America look this up as the school holidays in America are much longer than those in Europe for example.

While visiting during the Disney World off-season saves you money there are a few things to take note of. The off-season is often when Disney will close some rides for repairs and refurbishments so check before you go. There will also be fewer shows and entertainment on offer.

And while most people think that traveling out of season means you queue less this might not necessarily be the case. Often in low season, the rides run at a lower capacity as there is less staff on duty so the waiting times don’t necessarily reduce. Also, the park hours are reduced so you do get less time in the park.

Here are our tips for reducing wait time at Disney .

Visit Disney In Summer If You: 

For most this is the best time to go to Disney because their children are off school. For others, this is the worst time to go to Disney World due to the crowds, the expense, and the heat.

Summer at Disney World is a long season and really runs from May to September with June, July and early August being the busiest. However, if summer is the only time you go there are some advantages.

Everything at the park during summer will be operating at full capacity. All shows and entertainment will take place and rides and attractions are very unlikely to be closed for maintenance or refurbishment. Park hours are also longer and the sunlight hours are longer. So while the parks are busy everything is operating and you get longer in the parks.

If you also want to spend time in the water, be it in the hotel pools, the sea, or the Disney water parks summer is a great time.

If you are going to Disney World in the summer you do need to prepare for the heat, crowds, and rainfall. It’s not unusual for mid-day temperatures to reach over 100 with humidity of 61%. It is likely to also rain heavily most afternoons.

If you are going in the summer here are some of our tips to beat the heat at Disney . You might also be interested in how to survive Disney in the rain .

Visit Disney World In Winter If You:

Winter in Florida is actually really lovely with temperatures typically in the low 70 degrees. Walking around the parks in winter is so much more comfortable and bearable than in the warmer months.

Depending on when you go in winter it tends to be the least crowded time to visit Disney World apart from the Christmas celebration. It’s likely to be a much more pleasurable experience at this time and there is not as much rain as you are out of hurricane season.

The Festivals of Arts at Epcot also takes place during winter which is one of our favorite Disney festivals.

The park will be open fewer hours though and some events and rides are likely to be closed so keep that in mind.

Winter is the best season to visit Disney if you want cheaper prices and cooler weather.

Here are our tips for Visiting Disney World in the winter.

Visit Disney World In Fall If You:

Most who visit Disney World often believe that fall is the best time to travel to Disney. It’s practically perfect in every way. The weather is warm, the air is crisp and the rainfall is low.

Late August and September can also be some of the cheaper times to visit Disney World and you still have 8 hours of sunlight to play with.

And if you have never experienced Halloween at Disney you are in for a treat. While it can get busy, going on a weekday during the beginning or end of the Halloween season is likely to be less crowded.

Most agree fall is the best time of year to go to Disney World.

Our tips for visiting Disney before Halloween will help you plan.

Visit Disney In Spring If You:

If you are wondering when to go to Disney then how about visiting in Spring? Spring is wonderful at Disney with vibrant flowers, warm temperatures, and nine hours of daylight. There is also likely to be little rainfall as you are out of hurricane season. Humidity tends to also be lower in the spring.

Spring is the best time to vacation in Disney, however, avoid the busiest periods during Easter and Spring Break as the parks get rammed during these times.

Spring is definitely the best season to visit Disney if you want it to be warm but not too crowded. It is a perfect time for Adults to visit Disney .

When To Go To Disney By Month:

If you are still not sure when to go to Disney World then let’s help you a little further. Here we have broken down the best time to go to Disney month by month. This way you can decide which is the best month to go to Disney World depending on what you want to get out of your vacation.

Disney in January.

January is probably the least crowded time to visit Disney World. The Christmas holiday is over and the cooler temperatures tend to keep the crowds away with an average temperature of 70 degrees.

Visiting Disney World in January can also save you money as it tends to be one of the cheaper months due to smaller crowds. However, some things like the water parks and certain rides may be closed and the park hours are shorter.

New Year’s weekend and Martin Luther King Jr. Day are days to avoid if you don’t like crowds. It also can get busy during the Walt Disney World Marathon weekend. The Epcot International Festival of the Arts is also held in January and is a wonderful experience.

January in Disney World is a really rather relaxed and chilled time to visit if you don’t mind the weather a little cooler and some of the attractions and rides possibly not running.

Disney in February

If you are not coming for the sun then February is the best time to vacation at Disney. You will find cooler temperatures with highs in the mid 70’s and fewer crowds.

The exception to this is Presidents’ Day week which sees the crowds flood in. For those not in the US that is the third Monday in February. The Disney Princess Half Marathon weekend tends to be a busy time too.

Disney World in February might lack some of the pizzazz you see in busier months but you will be able to get some great deals.

Disney in March

The best time to travel to Disney for perfect weather is in March. The highs tend to be in the high 70s and the lows in the high 50’s so it’s not too hot or too cold.

March at Disney World can also see fewer crowds but that depends on when Easter and Spring Break fall. During these times the crowds get really heavy.

The Epcot International Flower And Garden Festival also takes place in March and this really is worth seeing.

Disney in April

April in Disney World sees the climb to high temperatures with highs in the mid-80s. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival continues and all the flowers and trees look beautiful in full bloom.

Easter and Spring break can see busy periods in April depending on the dates. There are a lot of ESPN Wide World of Sports held during this month and often the more budget hotels will be booked up.

Next to Christmas April can be one of the more expensive times to visit so keep that in mind.

Disney in May

Many believe that May is the best month to go to Disney World and we would be tempted to agree. The weather is into the 90s but it’s less humid. The flowers are all still in full bloom and there are no major holidays bringing in the crowds.

Memorial Day weekend does see the parks get busier but other than that Disney World in May is probably the best time to visit if you don’t have children in school.

Disney in June

June is Disney World tends to be a month of two halves. The first few weeks tend to be quite quiet with crowds rising as students are off for the summer break.

The increase in crowds sees extended park hours, more shows and activities, and lots of sunlight hours. It’s also a perfect month to visit the water parks.

It is hot and humid in June so make sure you have sunscreen and are prepared. It’s also the start of hurricane season and while they are remote in Orlando rain is very likely so make sure to pack a mac as the weather can be very unpredictable.

While most find the summer months too busy there is a certain buzz that comes from these busy periods that is hard to replicate when the park is quieter.

Getting Disney Genie the old fast pass and planning your days becomes more important in the summer months and you do need to be on the ball a little bit more to avoid frustrations and shattered expectations.

Disney in July

July in Disney World is continuously busy in fact the busiest month of the year. The crowds tend to be much heavier towards the July 4th holiday but other than that it’s pretty even, just always busy.

It’s also incredibly hot and often rains. However, the park hours are longer so you can miss out on the mid-day heat and return later in the day.

There is a certain vibe to Disney in the summer months that can be lacking in the slower months. So although it’s hot, humid, and busy Disney in June still enjoyable if you plan accordingly.

Disney in August

August in Disney World is hot, hot, hot in fact the hottest of the year so you might find yourself seeking shelter in air-conditioned attractions more than normal.

It is busy and crowded but unlike July the crowds tend to thin out towards the second half of the month as children go back to school. However, the events tend to pull people back in.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party begins in August and the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival begins in late August.

For Americans, some of the best deals can be found in late August with off-site hotels having low prices and Disney has in the past offered free dining during these times.

August tends to be peak hurricane season in Florida but the park has only closed a handful of times due to hurricanes during its lifespan. However, this could have an impact on other travel arrangements so keep that in mind.

Disney in September

Many think that September is the best month to visit Disney and they might be right. Especially the later half of September when prices are lower, crowds and less, and the heat is moderately better.

I mean it’s still hot and humid in September but if you can bare the heat it’s the best time to visit Disney World. Also of note is that September tends to be one of the more rainy months so keep an eye on the weather forecast and take a mac. Rain can interfere with some of the live shows and fireworks shows so things can get canceled.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival are still ongoing. Disney World in September is a really great time to visit.

Disney in October

If you love Halloween then Disney World in October is perfect for you. The park looks beautifully decorated for Halloween and while the decorations go up in early September October draws in the crowds.

Halloween and Columbus Day are the busiest days and the crowds tend to be really manageable outside of the weekends. It can still be hot during the day but the evenings do get cooler.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and After Hours Boo Bash is in full swing and The Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is still ongoing.

Disney in November

November in Disney World sees really pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a festive spirit. If you miss out on Thanksgiving week, which is so busy, November is one of the best months to visit Disney.

Most of the Christmas decorations are up by mid to late Christmas and the parks really take on a different feeling when they are up. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party also starts in November on select nights.

Disney in November gives you a taste of the Christmas season at a much lower cost and it’s the best time to visit Disney for good weather, lesser crowds, and Christmas spirit.

Disney in December

December in Disney World sees the Christmas season in full swing. Again December is one of those months where the crowds differ hugely depending on when you visit. Early in the month can be a very pleasant time to visit with lighter crowds, however, the latter half is one of Disney’s busiest times of the year and the most expensive.

You would think that Christmas day might find a bit of relief but no, often the park will close by 10 am as it has reached capacity. Anytime between the 20th and 31st of December see record crowds visiting.

There is a lot that happens during the holiday season though with Christmas parades, firework shows, celebrations shows, and the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays.

Disney in December is picture perfect though and if you can go we feel everyone should experience the Disney Christmas Magic at least once.

Here are our tips for visiting Disney at Christmas .

As you can see when it comes to the best time to visit Disney World the answer isn’t as simple as it first seems. When to go to Disney World is a personal choice and we hope this article has helped make your decision a little bit easier.

What we do know is that whenever you go you will have a great time. There are always ways to make your Disney trip better whenever you go and with planning, you can enjoy even the busiest and hottest months.

To make sure you really enjoy your trip take a look at our article 12 Ways to Ruin A Disney Vacation (And What To Do Instead!)

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The Best Time to Visit Disney World

TripSavvy / Ashley Nicole DeLeon 

Walt Disney World® Resort

Trying to figure out the perfect time to visit Disney World  usually involves weighing many factors. If you're looking to avoid crowds, the best time to visit Disney World is in January or September when the weather is mild, crowds are thin, and prices plummet.

However, if special events and decorations are what you're seeking, the months of August, September, October, November, and December may be better options for you. While Disney's premier destination gives you reasons to visit year-round, considering the weather and monthly events at Disney World will help you figure out your best time to visit.

The Weather at Disney World

Florida is famous for its sunshine, but many visitors are not prepared for the  Florida heat  and humidity. The temperatures in the summer climb above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity can be stifling, but during the winter, the climate is more moderate. Hurricane season runs from June through October. Although the chance of a hurricane hitting Florida while you are visiting is slim, this is something to keep in mind. 

Peak Season at Disney World

Crowds will be the worst during school holidays, such as summer vacation, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring break, but you can make your life easier by locking in ride times and dining experiences with the My Disney Experience app . This app lets you choose your FastPass+ attractions and dining experiences with ease, even when the crowds are large. 

In 2016, Disney introduced a surge pricing model for theme park tickets that follows its long-established practice for hotel room prices, which means that hotel and ticket prices are less expensive during slower periods, such as January and September. However, the pricing is done on a day to day basis, so you may find that Thanksgiving Day is more expensive than a Saturday in July, depending on past attendance records. 

Popular Events & Festivals

Disney has several major events throughout the year, such as the  Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival ,  Epcot's International Food and Wine Festival ,  Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party , and  Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party .

Watch Now: The Do’s and Don’ts of Visiting Disney World

As Disney World continues to draw more crowds year-round,  January is one of the last remaining months considered to be the off-season. The high peak prices from the holiday season just a few weeks prior significantly come down, and the weather is unusually mild, with high temperatures usually hovering around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. 

While days are usually warm and sunny, don't be surprised if you see a frosty dew in the early morning hours or experience chilly evening temperatures, as Orlando has a sub-tropical climate. Post-New Year's Day, the hours in the parks shorten, as workers speed to remove the holiday decorations, but since the attractions lines are shorter than any other time of the year, the lessened hours shouldn't affect your trip.

While the resorts' pools and hot tubs remain heated and open year-round, Disney's two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon, and Blizzard Beach are typically closed for the winter (typically open from March until October).

Events to check out:

• Every January, the park hosts  The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend , which brings in thousands of runners each year. Some of the longer race courses take competitors through each of the four Disney parks.
• The year starts off with a "bang" as Disney hosts a New Year's firework display at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney Hollywood Studios, and at Disney Springs. Keep in mind that Animal Kingdom never has fireworks.

Much like January, February  is still a slow month, except for the Presidents' Day week, which falls on the third week each year. Since most U.S. schools are closed during this week, crowds are to be expected. Valentine's Day is also a popular day for locals, especially at the onsite restaurants, so unless you have reservations, it's best to skip visiting on February 14.  

The park hours are similar to January, and the waterparks usually remain closed during February as well.

Event to check out:

• Ladies, dust off your Nikes! In February, the parks host Disney's Princess Half-Marathon weekend , which is focused on female runners.

In March , the weather in central Florida is still mild, but with spring break, Bike Week, a popular Daytona Beach event, and Epcot's Flower & Garden Festival, the traffic, in addition to park attendance can get heavy this month. Easter is also a popular day for families to visit Disney, but it is an ever-changing holiday that occasionally falls in March, but more often April. 

The waterparks typically reopen in early to mid-March, and as the days get longer (and warmer), the park hours follow.  

• Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival kicks off in March and runs through the end of May. More than 100 elaborate topiaries are spread throughout the parks.
• The Atlanta Braves spend their spring training at Disney. Games take place at Champion Stadium in Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex.

Things begin to heat up in April  as temperatures begin to rise into the mid-80s during the day. Spring breakers continue to flood the parks, and the prices reflect this sudden surge. Avoid visiting on Easter Sunday if it occurs this month, as it will be the most popular park day.

• The Star Wars Rival Run Half-Marathon weekend takes place in April. Runners can compete in the Star Wars 10K, Star Wars 5K, Star Wars Dark Side Challenge, and the runDisney Kids Races, as well as the half marathon.

In  May , although the calendar says it's spring, you will feel like you're in the middle of summer with temps potentially reaching 90 degrees. Thunderstorms in the afternoon are a common occurrence, usually around 3 p.m. Florida is known for its flash rain showers, so while you won't win any style points, it's usually a good idea to pack a poncho if you are visiting from May through September. Crowds are moderate at this time since most schools are in session, and no major holidays or events fall within the month. 

June  is the month with the longest days, so beware of Florida's brutal sun. Though necessary year-round, you must be mindful to constantly reapply sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and bring a hat if you plan on spending the daylight hours at the parks.

The beginning of the month sees few crowds, as many schools are in still in session until mid-June, and it is too close to summer break to justify playing hooky. After June 15, however, the high summer season is in full swing, and with that comes rising prices and fewer accommodations and restaurant choices, but also extended park hours, and in-park shows, activities, and ride openings.

• June kicks off Epcot's Sounds Like Summer Concert Series , which hosts three performances nightly at America Gardens Theater. 

July is the peak month at Disney World. Just about every child in America is enjoying summer break during this month, so families flock to the House of Mouse to enjoy their time off. The temperatures at this time are sometimes unbearably high, especially midday when the sun's rays are strongest.

You can expect wait times for rides to rise well over two hours for the most sought-after attractions and finding a place to eat a sit-down meal might prove impossible if you don't have an advanced reservation. 

The good news is that the parks are open longer. Your best plan of action is to arrive at opening time, then leave and return to your resort for lunch and a refreshing dip in the pool. Afterward, you can return to the parks once the temps drop a little in the late afternoon, and ride anything you may have missed in the morning.

• Fourth of July fireworks at Magic Kingdom are a "can't-miss" for Disney visitors in July. Note that Epcot, Disney Studios, and Disney Springs all have special firework shows as well.

August  is the hottest month of the year. From noon to 3 p.m., your primary goal is to get inside, whether you make a lunchtime reservation in an indoor restaurant, or perhaps catch a movie at the AMC Theater in Disney Springs. You can also beat the heat at the water parks, Typhoon Lagoon, and Blizzard Beach, or take to the sea and rent a paddleboat from your resort's dock and cruise around the Seven Seas Lagoon.

Most of the month is packed with visitors, but Florida children return to school in late August, so you might notice a slight dip in the size of the crowds at the tail end of the month. The end of the month marks the beginning of the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, so you can expect high crowds at this park.

• From August through October, the park hosts Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party on select nights. The event features trick-or-treating in the park and Disney characters dressed in Halloween costumes.

September is one of the best times to visit the theme parks. The lines are again manageable since most school-aged children have returned to school, and hotel rates are the lowest of the year.

The weather is hot but milder than July and August, and the waterparks, as well as Epcot's Food and Wine Festival, remain active during the month. 

• During fall's Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, visitors can try international cuisine from more than 25 different kiosks. There are also various seminars on cooking, and food and wine. The event runs through November.

October  can still be hot during the day, but temperatures start to drop at night. It is a great time to visit since the parks are decorated for the fall season and there is a special Halloween party that happens most evenings. Other than Halloween day, you shouldn't have much crowding issues, aside from in Epcot for the Food and Wine Festival.  

November can be a great time to visit Disney, as long as you avoid Thanksgiving week. Though, if you plan to visit the day following Thanksgiving weekend, you may find no lines at all. The temperatures this month are pleasant during the day, and cooler at night. The holiday decorations won't be fully on display until December 1, but you might get a glimpse of what's to come if you visit later in November. 

• Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party begins in November and runs through the holidays, taking place on select nights at Magic Kingdom. The event includes Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, Holiday Wishes fireworks, and Mickey's Most Merriest Celebration Castle Stage Show.

In  December , the parks are festively decorated for the holidays, and there are plenty of special holiday-themed treats as well as events scheduled throughout the month, such as Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. Naturally, many families love visiting during this month, as many have holiday breaks, therefore, like July, it also has an extremely high amount of visitors.  

• Epcot International Festival of the Holidays brings storytellers from around the world to share holiday customs and traditions from their respective countries. 

January and September are great months to visit Disney World, because they tend to be less crowded. January has cooler weather and in September, days are hotter but the waterparks are still open.

January tends to be the least crowded month, falling between the peak holiday and spring break seasons.

With the kids back at school, September is considered off-season. This is typically when you'll find the lowest hotel rates and lower ticket prices.

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Very Best (and worst) Times to Visit Disney World in 2024!

Are you looking for the best times to visit Disney World this year?

Planning a visit to the happiest place on Earth is always an exciting experience.

And finding the best deals, tips, and tricks to make each theme park adventure is everything ThemeParkHipster is about.

So today I will give you the top strategies and ways to pick the best timeframe to visit Mickey Mouse and all of his friends!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Best Days to Go to Walt Disney World at a Glance:

• The best months to visit Walt Disney World to avoid the crowds are:  Late-January and Early-February
• Your best days to visit Walt Disney World are:  Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
• Be sure to avoid all major holidays such as:  Memorial Day,  4th of July,  Labor Day Weekend,  Halloween ,  Thanksgiving Day,  Christmas Eve,  Christmas  and New Year’s Eve

Keep reading to get a full guide on how to choose the best days for Walt Disney World like a pro!

2024 Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar

Things to Think About When Choosing When to Go to Walt Disney World

Holiday peaks, Disney crowd sizes, park hours, weather, and a few other factors have a lot to do with your Disney experience, including how long you’ll be waiting in line for your favorite rides.

Here are a few tips to get you started on picking the ideal times to travel to Disney alone , or with friends and family.

ORDER NOW to secure your Orlando theme park ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY TICKETS.

6 Easy Tips for Picking the Best Time to Visit Disney World

Let’s first start off with some pro tips for choosing the best dates for Disney World.

1. Avoid All Holidays

If you’re a solo traveler , this one’s especially for you.

Avoiding the Disney Holiday crowd (especially in November and December ) means shorter lines and less traffic.

For parents, this can be a bit tricky. Taking your kids to Disney World sounds like the best gift ever!

The only issue is every other mom and dad has the same exact idea.

Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t take your kids to Disney for Christmas season or any other holiday for that matter; it just means you’ll need to be prepared for a lot of company.

2. Avoid Peak Seasons

The winter season ( Christmas and Thanksgiving breaks especially) as well as spring break and the general summer season are all pretty popular times for the parks.

If you don’t mind long lines and you feel welcome in large crowds, this may not be a deal breaker for you.

Otherwise, I recommend checking out the chart below that compares the months of the year by seasonal weather and crowd size.

Listen to Podcast Episode: If you’re more of a podcast person, then listen to When to Go to Walt Disney World here.

3. Know What are the Best Times to Go to Disney

You’ll notice that January has crowd sizes ranging from low to moderate , while March has crowd sizes ranging from Moderate to High (mostly due to the influx of Spring Breakers).

While you’re planning that perfect day to go, don’t forget to  download the official Disney World Crowd Calendar  to view the crowd level of each day!

Best Time of Year to Visit Disney World (Moderate Crowd, Great Weather)

These months are closely followed by May , September , and October as still pretty decent visiting times.

Worst Time of Year to Visit Disney World (High Crowd, Poor Weather)

December and March aren’t too bad, especially since December is typically a very festive time for the theme parks.

Recommended: 5 Best Disney World Deluxe Resorts to Stay at Right Now

The Florida Weather at Disney World

Florida is mostly filled with perfect weather; however, there are moments when I question my sanity of living here.

Summertime in Florida is like no other state, especially for theme park goers.

If you’re a resident of an area that experiences all four seasons with mild summers, then you will definitely be taken aback by the hot, humid, indescribable weather that Florida is known for.

The weather can truly affect your choice when deciding what season to visit the parks.

You’ll want to be prepared for surviving the Disney heat , but don’t worry I have some summertime survival tips here.

Have a DIFFERENT kind of Orlando vacation with a Resort home next to Disney World. Find Your Disney Resort Vacation Rental here!

Best Month to Visit Disney World in 2024

Before you make you way out to Walt Disney World, let’s breakdown the pros and cons of each Month.

January in Disney World

Gorgeous weather (temps around 70 degrees Fahrenheit) and lower crowd level makes January a top month to visit the parks.

January is one of the last remaining months considered to be the off-season with Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach usually closed for refurbishment.

Overall, late January is one of my favorite times to visit the Disney parks.

Disney January Events:

• Epcot International Festival of the Arts
• Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend

January Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday
• Opening weekend of the Epcot Festival of the Arts

WATCH: Rating Everything I Ate at Epcot Festival of the Arts! 🧁🤩🥂🥨

February in Disney World

February is still a slow month with mild weather and is usually better than January in regards to crowd level.

The Disney water parks may still be closed during this time.

Disney February Events:

• Disney’s Princess Half-Marathon Weekend
• Black History Month

February Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Presidents’ Day
• Valentine’s Day

WATCH NEXT: Top 5 BEST Quick Service Restaurants at Epcot!

March in Disney World

In March, temperatures are starting to warm up, but still manageable. Park attendance begins to pick up this month, but not as bad as summer months.

Disney March Events:

• Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

March Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Daytona Bike Week
• Easter (if it falls in March)
• Local School (Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Polk, Volusia, and Lake Counties) Spring Breaks
• Opening weekend of the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

April in Disney World

Temperatures continue to rise peaking around the mid-80s during the month of April.

The crowd level is still mild to moderate due to the last of the spring breakers.

Disney April Events:

• Earth Day at Animal Kingdom

April Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Spring Break days
• Easter (if it falls in April)

May in Disney World

The season of thunderstorms and downpours starts in May.

Not to mention the introduction of the torturous Florida humidity and heat peaking in the 90-degree Fahrenheit range.

Crowds are usually moderate during this time since it’s the month prior to theme park tourist season.

Disney May Events:

• May the 4th (Star Wars Day)

May Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Memorial Day Weekend

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June in Disney World

This is the month to have your patience ready as the tourist season kicks into full gear along with the never-ending Florida sun rays and constant rainy days.

It’s during this time that water, sunscreen, sunglasses, an umbrella and a well-ventilated hat are a must!

Disney June Events:

• Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

June Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Days after mid-June (school release for summer break)

Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide

July in Disney World

This is one of the busiest times at Walt Disney World . Not only are most kids out of school, you have to deal with one of the major holidays in America, which is Independence Day.

The parks are opened much longer during July, but you still have to fight the crowds and the unforgiving Florida sun.

Hipster Power Tip: Take a break midday after 12 p.m. to avoid the most dangerous U.V. rays from the sun and return towards the evening after 5 p.m.  

Disney July Events:

• Fourth of July fireworks and celebrations at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios
• The Epcot Food and Wine Festival

July Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Independence Day
• Opening weekend of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival

August in Disney World

Believe it or not, by August temperatures are still rising in Florida which makes you feel miserable being outside.

The crowd level is still heavy with a dip coming towards the end of the month as kids head back to school.

Disney August Events:

• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
• Epcot International Food and Wine Festival

August Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• The first two weeks of the month

September in Disney World

In the early part of September , lines began to die down only a little bit.

The weather in September is the same as August, so come prepared as if you’re visiting Florida in the middle of summer.

Plus, it can also be a peak month for hurricane season.

Disney September Events:

• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
• Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

September Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Labor Day Weekend

October in Disney World

During the month of October , the Florida weather starts to cooperate…well, slightly. Days may start off cool (in the mid-60s) and end pretty warm (in the upper-80s).

This is one of the best times to book a trip to Walt Disney World!

You’ll be able to see all of the fall décor lining the famous Main Street U.S.A. of the Magic Kingdom theme park.

The crowd levels tend to pick up mid to late October as everyone gets in their quick Epcot Food and Wine Festival visits.

Disney October Events:

October days to avoid at disney world:.

Get your Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets TODAY!

November in Disney World

The month of November is my favorite time to visit the Disney parks (mainly because it’s my birthday month).

Not only do you get to see the Epcot Festivals and the Disney Christmas décor all in one month, the weather is absolutely gorgeous in Florida.

Perfect mild days complete with cool evenings are the ideal formula for an amazing theme park day.

Disney November Events:

• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
• Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
• Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend

November Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Thanksgiving Week and Weekend

Watch Next: 5 BEST Rides at EPCOT You Can’t Miss!

December in Disney World

The month of December in the magical Walt Disney World Resort is the idea time to visit the parks.

Only problem is that everyone wants the same enchanted experience for the holidays.

The parks are decked out in holiday cheer and the Florida weather is oh so dear.

If you must attend in December, then I recommend coming during the first two weeks of the month as these dates are still fairly quiet at the parks.

Disney December Events:

• Holidays at Disney Springs
• Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios
• Resort Hotel Holiday Decorations

December Days to Avoid at Disney World:

• Last two weeks of December
• Christmas Eve and Christmas
• New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day

If you’re planning a December Trip, you’ll probably just have to weigh-in on whether it’s more important to you to avoid really big crowds, or for you to join in on the Holiday Fun.

Even with this guide, sometimes running into a sea of visitors is unavoidable. There are constant field trips and sometimes just a random influx of visitors.

For times like these, I wanted to share a few more tips to make the best of a situation where beating the crowd isn’t possible.

Save on your Disney World tickets with Tripadvisor TODAY!

4. Book Your Genie+ Reservations

Each morning if you want the “skip-the-line service,” simply log in to your My Disney Experience App and  purchase the Genie+ feature. 

The Genie+ Passes are a great time saver and even more helpful during peak seasons.

So, even if you find yourself in the park with tens of thousands of other people, you can still avoid those long twisted lines.

Join the Conversation on the  Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Community on Facebook!

5. Use Mobile Ordering For Food

Any day you’re at one of the theme parks, you can plan your meals ahead of time using Disney Mobile Ordering .

Like Genie+, it allows you to plan your day first so you can spend the rest of your time enjoying the magical experience.

It’s for same day service only and includes beverages.

You can access the Mobile Food and Beverage Ordering service from the My Disney Experience App.

If you’re not familiar with the feature, I have a pretty detailed article and step-by-step guide here.

6. Make Reservations to Special Events and Restaurants Early

Reserving your seat at special events and highly-coveted restaurants is always a good idea, and Walt Disney World is certainly no exception.

Because the parks are so large, special events book quickly, and the better restaurants fill just as fast.

In the article The 35 Best Walt Disney World Tips , I cover how you can use the My Disney Experience app to get into special events that are otherwise difficult to book.

Just check the app on the site around 7 a.m. and try your luck. You might not get in, but it’s definitely worth a shot.

With the app, I was able to get into the Epcot Food and Wine Festival and a beverage seminar that was booked for a full month!

These are just some of the ways get around thick crowds and the infamous Disney theme park lines.

WATCH: The 5 BEST Snacks at EPCOT You Must Try on Your Visit! 🧁🍕🥂🥳

What to Know Before You Go to Walt Disney World

Before when end this podcast episode, let’s go over some of the most common questions I’m asked.

How much does Disney World cost?

A one-day  REGULAR  season  Disney World ticket  starts at $109* (prices do fluctuate based on the season).

What day of the week is best to go to Walt Disney World?

Tuesday is the best day of the week to have your BEST solo Disney day. If Tuesday doesn’t work, Wednesday and Thursday are good as well.

What is the best month to visit Disney World?

Because of the low crowd level and perfect weather, January is the best month to visit the parks.

What are the off seasons for Disney World?

Honestly, I cannot say that there are off seasons at Walt Disney World.

Keep in mind that this is the top tourist destination in the world, which means people are always planning a vacation here despite the time of year.

What I will say is that January to early March tends to be the least crowded time at Disney World?

What are the best Disney resorts for Solo Travelers?

• Swan and Dolphin Resort
• Encore Resort  (perfect if you’re meeting family or friends later)
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort
• Coronado Springs Resort
• POP Century Resort

Recommended: Where to Stay in Orlando: Top 10 Hotels and Resorts for ALL Budgets

What rides at Disney World have Single Rider Line?

The Magic Kingdom currently does not have any single rider attractions.

While planning out your day, you’ll want to have your Genie Plus Reservations booked as mentioned earlier in this guide and arrive early to the park.

Disney World Single Rider Attractions

• Test Track – Epcot
• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster – Hollywood Studios
• Expedition Everest – Animal Kingdom
• Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run – Hollywood Studios

Get the best price on your Walt Disney World Vacation Package… Guaranteed!

My Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Time to Go to Disney World

When planning a trip to Disney, choosing the perfect day shouldn’t be complicated. I hope I was able to help guide you with some of my best tips.

Let’s quickly review all the tips for understanding the Disney World Crowd Calendar.

How to Pick the Best Days to Visit

• Avoid ALL holidays
• Avoid peak seasons (summer time, spring break, and Christmas break)
• Know when to visit Disney World
• Book Genie Plus Reservations as soon as you can
• Use mobile ordering for food
• RSVP to special events or restaurants early

Let me know your favorite month is at Walt Disney World in the comments section below.

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor , and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!

Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

Planning a trip soon? If so, read the  Disney Vacation Planning Guide  for your next dream trip!

(Original Article Date March 13, 2018/Updated January 18, 2024)

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Top 10 ways to find cheap busch gardens tampa tickets (2024), 4 thoughts on “very best (and worst) times to visit disney world in 2024”.

Great, informative post! We love going in February! Less crowds and the weather isn’t too warm, but also not as cold as December and January.

February is perfect!

How true it is that the days we pick to be at the park can make such a difference in how enjoyable our time there may be. We aim to visit The Mouse during the slower seasons and avoid being there during the busiest seasons.

The slow season is the only time where you can truly enjoy the parks the best!

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The best times of year to visit Disney parks, according to travel experts

• The "perfect" time to visit Disney parks depends on what you're looking for.
• But there are certain times of year when there are smaller crowds, lower prices, and better weather.
• Some travel experts recommend early December to get the festive experience without the crowds.

It seems everyone wants to experience the happiest place on Earth.

The Magic Kingdom park at Disney World was the world's most-visited theme park last year, according to a 2022 report by the Themed Entertainment Association and consulting firm AECOM. It reported an estimated 17.1 million visitors in 2022, a 35% increase over 2021.

With so many people visiting the park, travel agents like Jill Knonenborg know what you really mean when you ask the best time to go — that is, "What time of year is the best balance of least expensive, lowest crowds, and good weather?" she told Insider.

She and three other travel professionals shared their recommendations for the best times to visit Disney parks.

Late January

"As of right now, it's looking like [the best time to visit is] January after Martin Luther King [Jr.] Day," said Knonenborg, a travel agent who specializes in Disney destinations and shares Disney travel advice with her 77,000 followers on TikTok .

Early January is winter break for most schools as well as the Disney World Marathon . But from Martin Luther King Jr. Day through February there are fewer crowds and cooler, nice weather, she said.

Early February

Rachael Saldana, who describes herself as a Disney travel-planning expert at  Allonsy Travel, said that because the parks are so popular with families, it makes sense that they're more expensive when school is out. It means that, in terms of cost, February is a good time to visit.

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"It's kind of just a rule of thumb: If the kids are in school, that's when you want to go," said Saldana, who is known as @rachaelplansDisney on TikTok.

But of course, if you have children and don't want them skipping school, the summer is the best time, particularly early June, according to Stephanie Peters, a certified autism travel professional with Hiatt Magical Vacations, which specializes in customizing vacations for ​​special-needs families and individuals.

"I think especially for those families that really prioritize education and prioritize school, summer is a good time to go," said Peters, who also shares travel advice on TikTok .

"The first week of June tends to be a less expensive time to go in the summer, and the heat isn't quite built up to what August would be."

Late August

Amber Travis, a Missouri-based Disney travel agent with Mickey Travels, said it's also less expensive in late August.

"That late August time is the second-cheapest time I have found with Disney World for this year," said Travis, who shares her Disney-travel strategies on TikTok, too.

With many schools starting back up in mid-August, "Disney offers lower rates at that time to get people to go," she said.

For Travis, September — when visitors can see decorations, entertainment, and themed attractions for Halloween — is another great time to visit. Even Labor Day weekend, which typically marks the start of the school year, tends not to draw huge crowds, according to Travis.

The kicker, of course, is that visitors to the Florida parks have "to be careful with the hurricanes," Travis said.

Early December

Mid-December to the first week of January is the busiest time in Disney's Christmas season, according to data from Touring Plans . However, most holiday celebrations at Disney are underway by the start of December. So, the first two weeks before Christmas crowds descend on the parks is the best way to experience the festive season at Disney.

"It's just one of those events that is just so magical," Peters said.

Watch: 9 of the most exclusive spots in Disney parks

• Main content

What’s the Best Time to Visit Disney World? (With Weather & Crowds)

Posted on Published: 05/27/2023

What’s the best time to visit Disney World? When people ask me questions about Walt Disney World, one of the most common questions I’m asked is what are the best months to go to Disney World.

The answer really varies – depending on who is traveling and what specifically you are trying to see and do. There are multiple “best” times to go to Walt Disney World, based on your situation – and some may need to travel during a peak time.

In my opinion, there is no perfect time for your family vacation, since everyone’s plans are different. Luckily, the theme parks are so much fun no matter when you visit, and the weather in Florida is never too cold (although it can be very hot).

Here are some guidelines to review when deciding what’s the best time to visit Disney World. What do you think is the best month to visit Disney World? Leave us a comment below.

I am a former member of the planDisney Panel and have been on some complimentary press trips at Walt Disney World, but all opinions are my own. I’ve also paid for my own trips. This post contains affiliate links and purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.

When booking your Walt Disney World vacation, consider purchasing through our affiliate Get Away Today . They offer great prices on tickets and can book many hotels.

What’s the Best Time to Visit Disney World?

The best time to visit disney world to avoid crowds.

Although Walt Disney World has introduced its park reservation system, it’s still a good idea to plan to visit during the least crowded times if school schedules allow for it. Even with the reservations, the wait times for attractions can be long.

If you want to avoid crowds, it’s usually best to visit when school is in session during the school year. School vacations, weekends, and summer vacations can be extremely crowded, with long lines for popular attractions. The major holidays and holiday weekends are also some of the busiest times of the year

Undercover Tourist has a crowd calendar online that can help you find a good option for your trip. It’s a good idea to look at it before you make any plans so that you can find a time with low crowds if that’s an important consideration for you.

I have found that early May is my favorite time to visit the Disney theme parks. Typically, the weather is warm (but not usually TOO hot), and the crowd level is fairly low because it doesn’t coincide with school vacations or school holidays. Before we had school-aged children, that was our favorite time of the year to visit.

If you live in the Northeast, late summer (late August) can be a good time because Southern schools are usually back in session, but Northeast schools aren’t. But keep in mind that it’s likely to be hot during August (and the other summer months). If you want to avoid the hot temperatures, however, August isn’t a great time to visit. It’s also during hurricane season so you’ll need to be aware of that.

Other busy times of the year are spring break and long weekends like Presidents’ Day, Veterans, and Labor Day. Thanksgiving and Christmas time are especially busy with high crowd levels – this is typically the peak season with long wait times. The theme parks, especially the Magic Kingdom, often reach capacity on Christmas Day because it’s one of the most popular places to go for Christmas .

Before committing to a specific week for your Walt Disney World vacation, take a look at the special events that are being held. The Walt Disney World Marathon weekend and festival weekends (like the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival) can often be very busy in the parks and the resorts. Sometimes you’ll be surprised that hotels are booked up, and often that’s because a major event is happening.

When to Visit Disney World To Have Good Weather

I like to visit the Orlando Florida area when it’s warm but not super hot. I find that March and October are the best months of the year to visit if you want to experience that type of weather.

I recommend looking at this page from the Weather Channel to see average temps (but keep in mind that temperatures can vary). This past November, I visited on a day that was in the high 80s, which was pretty unusual for that time of year. Even if you know what the average temperatures are, you’ll want to check before you go to make sure you pack appropriately.

October, of course, is still hurricane season, so that’s something else you’ll need to keep in mind. In addition, while you may plan for a specific type of weather, often Mother Nature in Florida has other plans. Be prepared for any changes in the weather, and make sure you understand the change policies for your hotel and airfare. You may experience more rainy days this time of year.

If you want to visit the two water parks, you may want to avoid the winter months. Typically one of the two water parks is closed for refurbishment during this time.

The Best Time to Visit Disney To Experience Peak Magic

The holiday season, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, is when you can experience peak magic on the Disney property. The resort hotels are decorated for the holidays (including a gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian and a carousel at the Beach Club ), as are the theme parks.

You can also attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (an extra fee applies) and the Candlelight Processional at Epcot (included with your ticket, but book one of the meals that include VIP seating). Even if you don’t attend a special event, the holiday decorations are really beautiful to see.

Keep in mind that the holiday season at Walt Disney World is an extremely popular time to visit. As a result, you’ll probably find larger crowds. Be prepared by making early plans – especially park reservations and hotel bookings.

Halloween (and the month preceding it) is also a fun time to visit. You can purchase special tickets to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, and enjoy a night of parades, fireworks, special ride overlays, entertainment, and more. You can still experience the Halloween party if you visit in September since it starts early in the season.

The Best Time to Visit Disney World To Experience a Specific Event

Of course, if you want to experience a specific event , such as the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival , Epcot International Festival of the Arts, or the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, you’ll want to visit during that time. Check out the event schedule in advance so that you can attend on a perfect day.

These events are offered over multiple weekends, so you’ll have lots of options. This past year, the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival was held over more days than ever. Dates are typically released well in advance.

The Best Time to Visit Disney World for the Best Prices

If you are looking to save money on your Disney vacation, you’ll want to pay attention when you are planning your visit. There are some months when Walt Disney World tickets are a bit less expensive. You may also find a good option that includes lower-priced hotel rooms.

You’ll also want to compare those prices with hotel and flight prices. Those can vary widely, however. It’s important to get the prices of all three before deciding to book based on price. You can expect to pay the same food prices regardless of when you visit.

What Age Is the Best Time to Visit Disney World?

This can be a heated question with a lot of different answers. If you are looking to maximize your Disney World vacation budget, you may want to visit the resort at the perfect ages for your kids. I’ve found, however, that many different ages are the perfect times.

Because I love to travel, I knew that I’d want to go on vacation with my kids even when they were very young. Walt Disney World made it so easy to travel with young kids less than two years apart. Everything is set up for families.

Walt Disney World offers baby care centers. These make changing and feeding a baby much easier. There are some negatives to traveling with babies and toddlers though. We weren’t really able to go on many rides with them and they weren’t familiar with the characters.

Elementary-school-aged kids really love the parks, usually. By then, they can go on more rides and know who the characters are. If you can go to the parks while the kids really believe in the characters, that can be especially magical. As a bonus, my small children were always up in the early morning so we were able to visit the parks when they opened (when you’ll find fewer people in line for popular attractions).

Now that I have teens, they love the Disney parks as well. Our experience is very different from when they were babies, however. Now, they love the theme parks for sentimental reasons and always want to go on their favorite rides. It’s still a magical place for us now.

What Specific Days to Visit Walt Disney World

Once you’ve decided the month to visit Walt Disney World, you may be wondering what specific days to visit.

Typically, once I’ve got my vacation plans set, I plan out each day. You’ll be able to make dining reservations 60 days in advance, so you’ll want to have an idea of which theme park you’ll visit each day. You also need to make park reservations now.

If I don’t have a preference for which park to visit each day, I’ll usually make that determination based on the availability of dining. Just remember that you’ll need the park hopper option on your ticket if you want to visit more than one park per day, even if it’s just to dine in a restaurant.

The Best Months to Visit Walt Disney World

Based on all of this, my favorite months to visit Walt Disney World are May and September. However, with my kids in school, we found Thanksgiving week to be the best (albeit very crowded). The weather is usually pretty good, and it isn’t quite as busy as Christmas.

What is your favorite time to visit Walt Disney World?

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you’ll find hotel and ticket prices are higher during peak times.

In general, January, February, and September are the quietest, but you’ll want to avoid the holiday weekends and the Marathon weekend during this time period.

If you are going to visit during a busy time, you’ll want to arrive at the parks early, and take advantage of early entry (if you are staying at a resort that offers it). Genie+ is also a great option when the parks are busy.

Midweek is best since you won’t have long weekenders or as many locals visiting the parks during that time. They won’t be empty, however – there will still be plenty of people visiting during that time.

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Susan H Easterday

Wednesday 2nd of August 2017

September for the lowest crowds and best opportunity for a free dining package! Early May for the perfect weather. If you go for an event or during a crowded time, adjust your expectations. Be happy with the 3 fastpasses, buy VIP tickets for your special event, enjoy the hotel activities, and enjoy the park ambience. This is the time to enjoy the different attractions the park has besides rides.

Sheri Ann Richerson

Monday 26th of December 2016

I love the carousel, it looks like it is made of icing, chocolate and other edible foods, is it? Thanks for the post.

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Fun, Time-Saving Ways to Get Around Walt Disney World

by Lisa Mendillo , Sr. Manager, Digital Integration

There truly are so many ways to easily get from one location to the next at Walt Disney World Resort. Perhaps you and your family even find the complimentary transportation from your Disney Resorts Collection hotel as fun as an attraction in your favorite theme park. And if you are that guest, planDisney supports you!

From monorails to buses, water taxis and more … knowing you have transportation covered and so many options to get you to your destination, truly takes away the stress of planning.

We think planDisney panelist Amy C . says it best, “why drive when you can sail, soar, or glide to your theme park destination? Disney transportation can pick you up and get you right where you belong while you relax, snap pictures, and enjoy time with your family.”

Walt Disney World Bus Service is one of the easiest modes of transportation to spot around property. Thanks to the wonderful cast members driving these iconic buses, traveling from your Disney Resort hotel to your Walt Disney World destination is a snap. Guests who have visited recently might even have noticed some of the new buses that were just added to the fleet. While planDisney panelists are excited about new features like charging stations and updated accessibility for guests in wheelchairs and other mobility devices that will make the boarding process smoother, they are even more excited about spotting the new bus wraps on the roads!

From Zootopia to Ratatouille, 101 Dalmatians and fan-favorite characters, new and updated wraps will be rolling out throughout the year. Did someone mention Orange Bird?

“As a parent, there is so much that goes into planning and executing a vacation for your family,” said Jenna J . “I love that once I arrive at Disney World, transportation is something I don’t even need to think about. It feels like I have a chauffeur making sure my family is wherever they want to be whenever they need to be there.”

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Which color monorail is your favorite? planDisney panelists could debate this topic for days, but one thing they all agree on is the magic of traveling to your destination aboard the Walt Disney World Monorail System. There are three separate lines that travel throughout the resort, making stops at three Disney Resort hotels, two theme parks, and the Transportation and Ticket Center. Another complimentary transportation option for guests of Walt Disney World Resort!

Panelist Lizzie B . fondly remembers catching her first glimpse of Cinderella Castle from aboard the monorail as a little girl.

“In that moment I knew everything about Walt Disney World Resort was truly magical. Now, as a Disney adult, the Resort Monorail has saved my legs after many run Disney race weekends. Can’t stand up at your stop because of weak race legs? No problem! Simply take in the views as you enjoy another loop around Seven Seas Lagoon, acting as if that was the plan all along.”

Disney Skyliner

One of the newest complimentary transportation options, Disney Skyliner , offers guests the opportunity to travel from several Disney Resort hotels to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT. Traveling high above the parks means some incredible views of your favorite Walt Disney World locations. All while traveling in a gondola that features some of your favorite Disney characters.

“My kids love staying at resorts connected to the Disney Skyliner because our transportation becomes our first and last rides of the day!, exclaims Jen W. “My oldest child still talks about the time we had a “VIP view” of an EPCOT nighttime spectacular while we were riding the Disney Skyliner back to our resort at the end of a fun-filled Disney day.”

Water Transportation

Looking for a different way to travel from Magic Kingdom area Resorts to Magic Kingdom Park on your next vacation? Try the water taxis that travel to four Disney Resort hotels. There are also ferryboats connecting Magic Kingdom to the Transportation and Ticket Center. EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are also accessible via FriendShip Boat making stops at five different hotels. And let’s not forget the Sassagoula River Cruise that is accessible from four Disney Resort hotels and travels to Disney Springs!

For panelist Prince , the water is the way to travel around Walt Disney World property. “Take it from a seasoned sailor who’s lived on the open seas, there’s nothing like being out on the water to experience all the forms of water transportation at Walt Disney World Resort! From the winding waterways of a Sassagoula River Cruise, a leisurely launch across the Seven Seas Lagoon or drifting past the evening lights of Disney’s BoardWalk – I always recommend finding a seat where you can enjoy the breeze for a leisurely sail away!”

More Ways to Travel Across Walt Disney World Resort

Lastly there are a few options offered on property that are not complimentary but might be a great solution for your party.  Minnie Van Service, connected by Lyft , is a great alternative for many guests. These fun, themed vehicles are also driven by Disney Cast members. Hours of operation and costs vary, so be sure to check the Lyft app when requesting a ride. For guests who really enjoy having a car on hand to travel from park to park, there is a car rental facility on property with our preferred car rental partners:  Enterprise, Alamo and National . When booking through the  Car Care Center , you have access to a convenient, complimentary shuttle with door-to-door service from Disney Resort hotels to the facility. And remember, if you have driven to your Disney Resort hotel, you will receive complimentary parking at your hotel and all theme parks!

One Extra Transportation Tip for Magic Kingdom Park

Okay, so it may only travel within Magic Kingdom Park, but it is definitely a mode of transportation that Jason K . can’t recommend enough.

“All aboard! The Walt Disney World Railroad is an intra-theme park transportation option that takes an enchanted trip around Magic Kingdom Park . With spectacular views of attractions and scenes along the Rivers of America, Mouseketeers of all ages will enjoy this relaxed journey. The round trip 20-minute journey is the perfect way to travel between lands or to take a quick break from the sun or walking. There are three train stations connected to the attractions of that land. For tiny travelers, the thrill of riding aboard the Walt Disney World Railroad gives them an adventure they have only read about or seen in books and television.”

We have covered a lot when it comes to transportation, but if you still have questions, be sure to visit us at planDisney.com to ask your question and receive a personalized answer from one of our panelists. You can also follow us on Instagram at planDisneypanel.com for more tips and recommendations.

Panelists receive compensation for their participation on planDisney.

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Disney Overhauls DAS to Reduce Abuse & Misuse

Walt Disney World and Disneyland have revealed that they’ll be overhauling Disability Access Service (DAS), and launching tools for guests to plan their visit–including a new method of accommodation for guests who are unable to wait in a regular standby line for extended periods of time. This details DAS changes and how they should cut down on Lightning Lane abuse and misuse.

For starters, Walt Disney World and Disneyland have both updated their Accessibility Services websites, which outline the many options for guests with disabilities visiting the Florida and California parks, respectively. There’s considerable overlap between the coasts, with similar info on planning, parking and transportation, mobility devices, accessing attractions, hotel services, and more.

Disney’s site updates better showcase the variety of accessibility options available at the parks. The goal is to provide greater clarity so each service is used only by the guests who require them–since no single accommodation can serve every unique need. Along with this, Walt Disney World and Disneyland are once again updating DAS policies to support guests who, due to a developmental disability such as autism, are unable to wait in a standby line for an extended period of time.

Disney is working with health professionals to help better assist guests with accessing attraction queues, among other things. To accomplish this, Walt Disney World and Disneyland will be taking several steps over the course of the coming months. In theory at least, these should minimize issues and allay anxieties about the uncertainties that accompany any sweeping systemic changes at Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

The parks will be adding more Cast Members and investing in specialized training to assist guests, in order to better identify and understand the best tools and options, based on their unique needs. The parks will be adding more options for guests needing assistance with lines, including a defined “return to queue” process for guests who need to exit the standby line and re-enter.

Walt Disney World and Disneyland are partnering with Inspire Health Alliance’s trained medical professionals to assist Cast Members as needed in determining eligibility for appropriate accommodations and ensuring that these accommodations are provided only for the guests for whom they are intended and not misused.

To meet these goals, Walt Disney World and Disneyland are also extending Disability Access Service enrollment for eligible guests from 60 days to 120 days  and adjusting DAS party size to include immediate family members only, but otherwise no more than 4 people. Meaning that if you’re a DAS guest visiting with 5 immediate family members, all will be able to accompany you in line. But if you’re heading to the park with 5 friends, only you and 3 others would be able to join the line together via DAS.

The changes identified in this post take effect on May 20, 2024 at Walt Disney World, and on June 18, 2024 at Disneyland Resort. If you’ll be visiting on or after those dates and believe you might need Disability Access Service, it’s a good idea to review the official DAS page for Walt Disney World and official DAS page for Disneyland to familiarize yourself with the various guest services and needs for each.

After that, you can initiate a connection with the team of Cast Members via the official websites if you believe Disability Access Service might be necessary and appropriate for your circumstances. From there, it’ll be a case-by-case conversation that’ll vary a little between the coasts.

At Disneyland Resort, guests can use the virtual video chat system to have a conversation with the Accessibility Services team about their unique needs and the services they might require.

While it’s recommended that guests include this as part of their pre-arrival planning process, the option to have this conversation in person will still be available, and those conversations will move from Guest Relations inside Disneyland and Disney California Adventure to a new designated location in the Esplanade between the two parks.

Over in Florida, guests of Walt Disney World will have a virtual video chat with the Accessibility Services team before their visit, which will include conversations about the guest’s unique needs and the services they might require. Just like in California.

The key difference for Walt Disney World is that the process upon arrival is  not  in-person. You will not speak with a live Cast Member at Guest Relations. Instead, guests seeking accommodations on the day of their visit will be directed to a location to use an iPad and have a virtual chat. Basically, same process as pre-arrival, except you’re wasting time while in the park (instead of when at home).

Given that alone–and the possibility of this taking extra time based on demand–we highly recommend going the pre-arrival route at Walt Disney World. Nothing is going to change, outcome-wise, with getting or not getting DAS. It’s just where you take the time to go through the process.

Cast Members at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland will work with a team of specially trained health professionals from Inspire Health Alliance in conversations needed to determine a guest’s eligibility for DAS. The expertise of Inspire Health Alliance will help make sure that DAS is provided only to the small percentage of guests for whom it is intended and who require it.

The outcome of these personalized conversations may mean registering a guest for DAS. Alternatively, guests may need to be reminded of the other types of services available, such as a line-return option for guests who may need to visit the restroom with greater frequency, ASL interpreting services at select experiences, service animal relief areas, or wheelchair access and location return times for those using a mobility device.

Again, there is no one-size-fits-all accommodation, and Disability Access Service is not simply a free FastPass for disabled guests. It is, and always has been, a service provided to support guests who, because of a disability, are unable to wait in a regular standby line for extended periods of time.

“Disney is dedicated to providing a great experience for all Guests, including those with disabilities, which is why we are so committed to delivering a wide range of innovative support services aimed at helping our Guests with disabilities have a wonderful time when visiting our theme parks,” said a spokesperson for Walt Disney World Resort.

While who qualifies for accommodations does not appear to be changing, the process for evaluating DAS requests sounds as if it will become more rigorous and less of a rubber stamping process with the new-look DAS aimed at accommodating guests with a “developmental disability like autism or similar.” The anticipated outcome is reducing the frequency with which DAS is issued.

There are a number of reasons for this, with the biggest being an explosion in DAS at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Use of the service has more than tripled in the last 5 years; these changes will recalibrate the program and reduce misuse. That will improve the DAS experience for guests who truly need the accommodation.

It will also have second-order effects for both Lightning Lane and standby guests. As we’ve said many times before, queueing is a zero-sum game. Attraction capacity is finite, so if someone is winning, that means someone else is losing. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves–more on all of this in the commentary.

Here’s the process of how the new-look Disability Access Service will work at Walt Disney World, pulled from the official website…

Disney Parks have an unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming, inclusive environment and accessible experiences for our Guests. DAS is one of the programs offered at the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks intended to accommodate only those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.

For Guests visiting from April 9 through May 19, 2024,  please note:

• Pre-arrival conversations to determine eligibility for DAS are available 2-30 days prior to your park visit.
• In-person conversations to determine eligibility for DAS will continue to be at Guest Relations locations.
• You can book up to 2 one-hour return windows for select experiences using our DAS Advance planning option.
• DAS is valid for up to 30 days from the start of the registration. Once the service has elapsed, Guests will need to re-register.

What to Know About DAS

• DAS is intended to accommodate a small percentage of Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.
• DAS doesn’t provide immediate access to experiences, but rather allows Guests to request a return time for a specific experience that is comparable to the current standby wait.
• The Guest who is requesting to use DAS must be present during registration and experience the attraction when redeeming a DAS return time at Walt Disney World theme parks.

Speak with a Cast Member

Guests can meet virtually with a Cast Member using live video chat to determine what services may be appropriate to support their visit to the theme parks, including DAS. You may have a pre-arrival conversation as soon as 30 days in advance of a park visit.

Please note: Guests visiting now through May 19 may visit a theme park Guest Relations location to speak with a Cast Member. In-person registration will no longer be available at Walt Disney World theme park Guest Relations locations starting May 20, 2024.

Same-Day DAS Return Time Self-Selection

Guests registered in the DAS program can make return time selections in the My Disney Experience mobile app on the day of their park visit.

Any member of a DAS party can obtain a return time for the whole party, but the Guest registered for DAS must be present and experience the attraction when the DAS return time is redeemed.

DAS return times are valid until the park closes or an attraction closes for the day. A party can only hold one DAS return time at once. Guests without a mobile device can also visit Guest Relations or a Guest Experience Team location to receive return times.

How to Access  the DAS Return Time Self-Selection Tool

After entering a park, open the My Disney Experience mobile app and log in to your account. Tap on the menu ( ≡ ) at the bottom of the screen. Then, tap the DAS button to select the attraction to make your return time. The tool can also be accessed from attraction detail screens.

Turning to commentary, regular readers probably knew this was coming as it was a big focus of Walt Disney World Cracks Down on DAS Abuse . The catalyst for that article was Walt Disney World trespassing third-party tour guides from the parks due to the sale of unauthorized services, including in-park offerings like Genie+ line-skipping services and access to the Disability Access Service. In an emailed statement at the time, Walt Disney World indicated that that they are taking additional steps to enforce their rules that prohibit commercial activities because of a “significant increase in these rule violations.”

“When this activity happens, it impacts the experience of other guests following the rules — including our guests with disabilities — and impedes our theme park operations,” a Walt Disney World spokesperson wrote. “Just like Starbucks would not permit a third party to come into their stores to sell coffee to their customers, Disney does not permit unauthorized commercial activities in its theme parks.”

While the news was about a crackdown on third party tour guides, our commentary revolved around a crackdown on DAS abuse–as we had heard even then that one was on the horizon. In other posts about pre-arrival Lightning Lane selections , we’ve predicted that DAS reform was a necessary prerequisite to other changes with paid ride reservations. So that another change is happening is wholly unsurprising to us–it’s been in motion for a long time. It’s the specifics that are interesting.

With regard to those specifics, the biggest surprise to me is that Walt Disney World is not using the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) Attractions Assistance Pass that has become somewhat of an industry standard. Most notably for Florida theme park fans, Universal Orlando made the switch to that last year.

With IBCCES, guests must sign up before their visit and upload documentation for review. Upon qualifying via IBCCES for the Attractions Assistance Pass, the theme park operators then contact them about accommodations they may need. However, there’s already been litigation in California involving IBCCES, with one lawsuit focusing on the pre-planning requirement.

That likely explains why the changes to Disability Access Service have been delayed, as Disney opted to partner with Inspire Health Alliance as opposed to IBCCES. It’s also probably why DAS will still offer options upon arrival on both coasts (a more robust day-of system in Disneyland could be due to that litigation, California laws, or Disneyland’s disproportionately local demographics–or a combination of all three).

It sounds to us like the DAS system with Inspire Health Alliance will stop short of introducing the rigor of IBCCES, but that’s just an initial reaction based upon the new DAS literature that’s been shared thus far. It’ll really come down to implementation and execution–both of which are unknowns until the system fully launches in May and June 2024.

Continuing along, I’ll share the same simple statement in previous commentary: two things can be true at the same time . First, that reasonable disability accommodations are very necessary for many Walt Disney World guests to have an enjoyable experience, including those with invisible disabilities. Second, DAS abuse or misuse is widespread and needs addressing.

Above all else, I would implore you to err on the side of courtesy–both in life and in the sure to be contentious issue of DAS reform. There are myriad invisible disabilities from which other guests could suffer, and the rude words or judgmental gaze of guests ‘scanning’ a person using DAS to ‘make sure’ they really have a disability are awful.

We’ve heard from countless readers over the years who are lifelong fans of Disney because the parks made a disabled family member feel like a VIP or at least normal for a little while, and accommodated them like nowhere else on earth. These stories tug at the heartstrings. We’ve also heard from countless individuals who have a serious disability and couldn’t experience the parks like everyone else but for DAS , and other guests made them feel ostracized. Those stories are heartbreaking.

Hearing all of these stories, I will happily wait in line an extra 5 minutes or whatever if it means those guests are able to have positive experiences at the parks. A nice bit of extra time to reflect, count my blessings and all that. Because the bottom line is that anyone using DAS out of necessity would trade places with you in a second and stand in long lines if it meant not being disabled.

To the second point that DAS abuse is widespread and needs addressing, we’ve been hearing ‘rumors’ of this for a while. Not really so much rumors–more unsubstantiated reports from those within the company. This has been an open secret, and a long time coming. Lightning Lane breakdowns of DAS vs. paid Genie+ guests are downright shocking to me. Now Walt Disney World is tacitly admitting that there’s an issue and that it needs to be fixed.

Intuitively, it makes complete sense. Those of you who visited during the phased reopening after FastPass+ had been suspended but before Genie+ rolled out likely saw usage of the FastPass queues. We certainly did! It started out occurring fairly infrequently, and increased ( not so coincidentally ) as crowds and wait times went up. By and large, this was driven by DAS.

Use of the FastPass lines started slow and got progressively busier during the phased reopening. This makes sense, as there’s a greater incentive to use a line-skipping service when there’s a longer line. If a posted wait time is 15 minutes, even those with the ability or privilege to skip might simply opt for standby. If that same attraction has a 60 minute posted wait time, it’s a very different story.

It doesn’t require a vivid imagination to game out how much worse that might become if a paid line-skipping service is introduced. Replacing what was once free with a paid system causes standby lines to come to a crawl as guests are pulled disproportionately from the Lightning Lane.

Not only is there be more of an incentive to (properly) use the Lightning Lane, but there’d be more of an incentive to abuse it. This occurred even when there was a free FastPass+ option; DAS was a way to skip the lines more often and not be so constrained by “only” having 3 selections.

However, misuse and abuse–or even appropriate use of DAS–were almost certainly less common then. Plenty of people viewed (free) FastPass+ as a satisfactory alternative to DAS, and that includes those who otherwise would’ve (and still would!) qualify for the accommodation.

Now, regular line-skipping costs money but there’s an alternative that’s still free. It doesn’t require much imagination to envision a scenario where some guests justifying abusing the system to themselves. “I’m just taking what Walt Disney World used to offer for free and still should.” “Everyone does it, I’m just leveling the playing field.” “I spend a lot of money and have always been loyal to Disney, it’s the least they can do.” And so on, and so on.

During a DAS lawsuit a few years ago, Disney revealed in testimony and discovery that users of its disability passes experience several more attractions over the course of a day on average as compared to non-users. No surprise there–this is how virtual queues work (that’s what DAS is, in essence), allowing guests to effectively be in two places at once.

The company argued that any expansion of the current system would cause wait times to explode, with Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (for example) increasing by 39 minutes from an average wait time of 69 minutes to 108 minutes. Disney has prevailed in several such lawsuits.

The latest changes to DAS will almost certainly give rise to more litigation–it always does, that’s the cost of doing business. And Disney will once again almost certainly prevail because you can be sure Disney Legal had an extensive roll in crafting the new DAS policy to be ADA-complaint.

To be abundantly clear, I’m not suggesting that the increase in DAS usage is entirely those misusing or abusing the system. That definitely is not the case.

What we do now know, though, is that usage of DAS has at least tripled since the FastPass+ era. As discussed before, there are likely multiple explanations for this. A unique form of pent-up demand would make sense, especially among more vulnerable populations. An increase in disability diagnoses for the population as a whole would be another.

These are undoubtedly contributing factors. But you can likely draw a straight line between Genie+ (and then higher prices for Genie+) and a rise in DAS as the free alternative to paying for Lightning Lanes. Anyone who has spent any amount of time on social media is probably aware of the groups and planning resources that essentially coach people on what to say in order to get this “free” form of FastPass.

All of that brings us to Walt Disney World’s solutions of cracking down on third party tour guides last year and now overhauling the DAS process again in Summer 2024 to reduce abuse and misuse. Of course, even with these changes, Walt Disney World still has a system that’s going to be difficult to police without running afoul of the Americans with Disabilities Act. There’s really only so much they can do, but introducing a bit of friction to the process and clarifying who actually  needs  the accommodation of DAS should accomplish a lot.

With that said, changing Disability Access Service is also its own powder keg, and a lightning rod for controversy. There are a lot of people with a vested interest in DAS, including both the legit users and the abusers. You might be inclined to think that legitimate users would want to see DAS crackdowns occur.

Most of them probably do. But it’s not quite so simple. For one thing, any change brings with it uncertainty until it has been implemented, and many of the families who need DAS most also crave consistency and stability. Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t, as they say . Many rightful DAS users might prefer keeping the stable but imperfect product rather than rolling the dice on a replacement. I can certainly empathize with that perspective.

Then there are also the unwitting DAS misusers, for lack of a better term. These are guests who have been granted DAS in the past because Walt Disney World was quite liberal with issuing the service, even if it wasn’t the accommodation that was strictly necessary for that person’s circumstances. These are the people who had no intention of doing anything improper–and were told by Walt Disney World that DAS was meant for them–even if other accommodations might’ve existed that served their needs.

Obviously, this change has just been announced and has not yet taken effect, but this is the guest for whom I feel sympathy. They benefited from DAS and I don’t think any reasonable person would’ve taken issue with them receiving DAS. Yet, some of these people will likely be ‘left behind,’ for lack of a better term, under the updated policies of the service the narrows the scope of DAS to guests with developmental disabilities. (Perhaps I’m biased here, as my dad is probably one of these people.)

The problem is that one bad apple spoils the whole bunch. Which is to say that in order to close the loopholes that have been exploited by the malicious DAS abusers, there is undoubtedly going to be some number of unwitting DAS misusers who are negatively impacted. At least, that’s my interpretation of the new policies–it’ll ultimately come down to execution and Cast Member discretion.

Which brings us to the malicious DAS abusers who will complain in bad faith. This group is the biggest loser, in more ways than one. The closing of loopholes will take away their advantage and level the playing field with other guests. In a nutshell, the abusers are the biggest losers and those who don’t use DAS at all are the biggest winners with these changes.

Knowing that their loophole will soon be closed, these individuals have a strong incentive to voice outrage and complain about these DAS changes, even if it’s baseless. They’ll make these changes seem more controversial than they actually are–as we’ve heard regularly and repeatedly, the majority of legitimate DAS users actively welcome more stringent policies.

Bad faith outrage around DAS might sound shocking…if you haven’t lived through the last several years of social media, in which case, it would be more surprising if this didn’t happen. Either way, it complicates matters and makes an explosive issue even more fraught for Walt Disney World.

It probably goes without saying, but I have zero sympathy for the nefarious DAS abusers. I hold them in lower esteem as eBay pirates, which is not high. Not only are they cheating the system to create an advantage for themselves, but they’re also disadvantaging everyone else (since, again, capacity is finite).

That includes legitimate DAS users, paid Lightning Lane users and even those in the standby line–literally everyone except themselves. These abusers also necessitated closure of the loophole in the first place, which will theoretically have negative ramifications for the sympathetic unwitting DAS misusers demo.

The problem is that, unlike eBay pirates who are buying a dozen-plus identical ugly popcorn buckets or bedazzled Spirit Jerseys, it’s impossible to distinguish the unwitting misusers from the malicious abusers. Which is precisely why we started by imploring you to err on the side of courtesy in this contentious issue.

Ultimately, all of this is why I’m glad to Disability Access Service reform finally happen, but am reticent to cheer too loudly about this change. The problem is that there’s no perfect DAS system, and reform cannot be narrowly tailored in such a way that it  only hurts the abusers. While I think it was a long time coming and the current approach was becoming increasingly unsustainable, I also know there are going to be legitimate mixed feelings about this.

My sincere hope is that Walt Disney World and Disneyland implement these DAS changes with a deft touch that minimizes collateral damage of actual disabled people, significantly reduces abuse, and makes lines shorter for all rule-abiding guests. I’m pretty optimistic those will be the outcomes on balance (not to mention no longer forcing frontline Cast Members at Guest Relations to deal with this–alone a huge win), and these will be largely positive changes to Disability Access Service.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our  Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews  page. For where to eat, read our  Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our  Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets  post. Our  What to Pack for Disney Trips  post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our  Walt Disney World Ride Guides  will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our  Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide  for everything you need to know!

YOUR THOUGHTS

Thoughts on Walt Disney World overhauling Disability Access Service to reduce abuse and misuse? Do you think the new partnership with Inspire Health Alliance and other changes will better ensure DAS is only going to those who truly need it? If you’ve used Disability Access Service at Walt Disney World, what do you think of the experience? Have you noticed high Lightning Lane usage at times when Genie+ was not being offered? Please feel free to share your personal anecdotes about DAS and other thoughts in the comments below! Just be sure to err on the side of kindness and empathy and don’t engage in personal attacks, antagonism, or trolling. Comments that cross any lines will be deleted.

Written by Tom Bricker

well here we go again! Disney adding more ways to complicate visits for disabled guests to visit the park. what’s next? come on seriously… when we were there in February we needed das this time for my hubby. the first cast member we spoke to on the phone was so rude, it really surprised us!! we called back the next day and got assistance from another cast member as we should have in the first place. when someone has a physical disability & sitting in a wheelchair waiting in line for an hour or more does not ease the pain, that’s an issue. Disney has made it so hard to navigate the parks, enjoy the magic, without being constantly on your phone too. guests talk about issues like this and more everyday at the parks.

How is the pain any worse sitting in line as opposed to being in the wheelchair the whole day at the park. At least they get to have the wheelchair to sit in. That should be enough accommodation.

Please people don’t misinterpret this. I have a young adult with anxiety and severe ADD. We never even considered getting a DAS pass for her. Why do kids with anxiety and ADD need this service? Seems like this is a large proportion of DAS users. I have an invisible physical disability and have used DAS but doubt I will qualify now. Not sure I will be returning to Disney with these changes.

Well, having a physical disability, this is an extreme kick in the gut. I have exhaustion from a bone disability. I cannot go to the parks more than three or four hours at most. If they change the das to developmentally disabled only, my trips to Disney will be over. I won’t be able to go any more. I know a lot of other people with physical impairments will be just as crushed…

I know Disney wants to try to frame this as “it’s cracking down on DAS abuse” , which is absolutely a problem, but in actually it is a “we can sell more lightning lanes if less DAS people are in line” problem…. I’m not buying it. Sad.

Hi James, So you presumed that it has historically only been meant for autism, ADHD, etc, when in fact you now admit that you didn’t actually know this for sure. It was just your understanding. And still you felt it necessary to repeatedly comment to multiple users of the system that they were flat out wrong, that it was only ever meant for x,y,x and nothing else. Without really knowing for certain. Just presuming. The truth is that up until today, DAS was absolutely available to (and appropriate for) guests with certain sensory and physical disabilities as well as the ones you listed below and were so certain were the only ones covered. All of these experienced users of the service here on this thread were not wrong in what they were saying and were not wrong to use the service in the first place. And by the way it’s not a line skipping service. It’s really so that its users can wait the same amount of time, just elsewhere.

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The 17 best Disney World hotels for your 2024 stay

Things have certainly changed since Walt Disney World opened more than 50 years ago . There used to be just a handful of hotels and one theme park. Now, you have the magic — and the challenge — of choice. There are more than 25 hotels to choose from and multiple parks to visit when you embark on a Disney vacation.

Related: The best travel credit cards

Choosing the best Disney hotel is a fun challenge, but a challenge all the same. The resorts at Walt Disney World range from those with views of live zebras and giraffes to treehouse villas and even log cabins in the woods.

When you choose a Disney World hotel, you not only stay in the "Disney bubble" but also gain access to the parks 30 minutes early each morning. Additionally, you can purchase individual Lightning Lanes for newer rides — like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Tron / Lightcycle Run — before non-resort guests, starting at 7 a.m. This means you'll have a better chance of snagging those coveted ride passes.

Related: 14 reasons to stay at a Walt Disney World Resort property

Still, not all Disney resorts are created equal. Fortunately, TPG is here to help sort through the best hotel options at Walt Disney World. We've tried dozens of Disney-area hotels and carefully considered the best (and less-than-stellar) features of nearly every on-property resort to bring you this list.

Whether you're looking to be treated like a fairy tale princess or a grown-up who happens to be staying near a theme park, Disney World has you covered.

Here are our top picks:

• Best Deluxe Disney World resorts: Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge , Disney's Contemporary Resort , Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney's Wilderness Lodge
• Best Moderate Disney World resorts: Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter , The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
• Best Value Disney World resorts: Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Disney's Pop Century Resort
• Best Disney World resort pools: Disney's Yacht Club Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort , Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
• Best Disney World resorts for large families: Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa , Disney's All-Star Music Resort
• Best Disney World resorts for adults: Disney's BoardWalk Inn , Disney's Riviera Resort

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Best Deluxe Disney World resorts

The cream of the crop among Disney World hotels in terms of amenities, quality and price are the Deluxe resorts. These resorts have multiple on-site full-service restaurants and extensive pool areas with waterslides. Some are within walking or monorail distance of the theme parks.

All of this comes at a cost, though. Deluxe Disney resorts can range from $400 to $800 per night for a standard room. Renting Disney Vacation Club points can help bring this cost down at times, but a Deluxe resort stay will be an investment compared to the other tiers of Disney hotels.

As mentioned, Deluxe resorts are the most expensive of Disney's hotels.

While some offer luxury amenities like spas and fine dining venues, others emphasize great themes and proximity to the parks. You also get access to select parks two hours later than everyone else when staying in a Deluxe resort on eligible nights.

A true safari involves incredibly long flights and the possibility of malaria pills. For a safari-style vacation closer to home, there's Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge .

Offering an unforgettable wildlife experience within U.S. borders, Animal Kingdom Lodge is its own ecosystem away from the hustle and bustle of most of the Disney World complex.

The soaring ceilings at Jambo House are adorned with traditional decor. If you want to see giraffes, zebras, ostriches and a host of other animals, all you have to do is merely walk past the lobby's expansive windows.

Dining at this Deluxe resort is another highlight of a stay here. Boma and Jiko are excellent choices if you want to experience an authentic African meal at the resort.

Look into the nighttime Starlight Safari , which comes with loaner night vision devices, for a unique experience.

The property is an example of an excellent time to rent DVC points, especially if your family wants more space while saving money. During low seasons, rooms start at just 7 points per night, with DVC points typically available to rent from David's Vacation Club for $21 to $25 per point.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge average around $485 per night.

Disney's Contemporary Resort is another original Disney World resort from the 1971 opening. It's about as close as you can get to The Magic Kingdom without pitching a tent inside the gates (and subsequently getting kicked out by security).

It may have been built over five decades ago, but its amenities have recently been updated. The rooms now sport an incredible new look. While the theme and renovations are a big step up, the main draw of this property is undoubtedly its monorail design and Magic Kingdom-adjacent location.

We prefer tower rooms over garden-wing options as they are more centrally located to the amenities and monorail, and many offer superb views of The Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks.

When you've worked up an appetite, you'll find a few of our favorite Disney World restaurants on-site, including Chef Mickey's. At this popular eatery, you can dine with characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto. For something more upscale, there's California Grill. If you time it right, it has some of the best views of The Magic Kingdom fireworks around.

Related: The 3 best Disney World character meals you've never heard of — and how to book them

If you're ready for a splurge-level stay at the Contemporary, there is also a club level where bites and beverages from the aforementioned restaurants are included.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Contemporary Resort average around $575 per night.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is arguably the most traditional and iconic of Disney World's high-end hotels. You won't find many bright, in-your-face character themes here, but you will have access to some of Disney's most upscale amenities, including a spa and the fanciest (and priciest) restaurant at Disney.

It's one of Disney World's most expensive resorts thanks to its proximity to The Magic Kingdom, top-notch facilities, and over-the-top Christmas displays, including a gingerbread house in the lobby.

Fortunately, the Grand Floridian is undergoing a resort-wide renovation involving converting one of the hotel buildings into beautiful DVC studios. So, there's now one more reason to visit.

Dining is another highlight here. The acclaimed Victoria & Albert's experience is unparalleled, with a dress code and a no-little-kids policy to match. For an equally excellent but more affordable option, grab a cocktail or mocktail at the "Beauty and the Beast"-inspired Enchanted Rose bar on the second floor of the Grand Floridian's lobby.

Related: More rides and fewer crowds: What to expect at Disney After Hours

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa average around $750 per night.

A short drive or boat ride away from The Magic Kingdom, Disney's Wilderness Lodge is equal parts Great Wolf Lodge , Yellowstone National Park and Disney magic. There are great attractions and restaurants on-site, including a water feature that starts in the lobby and becomes a creek that feeds into one of two outdoor pools.

For a fun, reasonably priced family dining experience, try Whispering Canyon Cafe — and be aware that if you ask for ketchup, you may get a lot of ketchup. If rare Disney characters are more your jam, enjoy dinner with the Evil Queen at Story Book Dining at Artist Point .

Those who want more space and ambience than a standard hotel room should reserve one of the Copper Creek Cabins in the woods adjacent to the Wilderness Lodge or the truly spectacular two-bedroom Yosemite Suite . Both are pricey, but we promise you'll love staying in either option.

If you do opt for standard rooms (or even club-level rooms ), the good news is that Disney's Wilderness Lodge is generally one of the more affordable of the Deluxe Disney resorts. So, you can rest easy knowing you're paying a little less than average for Disney's high-end properties.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Wilderness Lodge average around $500 per night.

Best Moderate Disney World resorts

If you want a balance of price and amenities, the Moderate category of Disney resorts can be a sweet spot. At Moderate Disney resorts, there are some full-service restaurants, more on-site amenities, waterslides at the pools, and a great variety of themes and locations to choose from.

Expect rates at these hotels to range from $250 to $400 on most nights for a standard room.

One of the best Moderate resorts at Disney World is Port Orleans. We're especially partial to the French Quarter side, with its charming wrought-iron railings, bubbling fountains and an eatery serving tasty Mickey-shaped beignets.

This property is much more compact than other Moderate resorts like Disney's Coronado Springs Resort and Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. This makes everything from parking and catching a Disney bus to grabbing dinner that much easier.

It isn't the newest or fanciest option in Disney's resort portfolio, but it is a calm and lovely balance of theming and easily accessible amenities. Although you'll need a bus or car to get from this resort to any of the Disney World theme parks, you can catch the free boat to Disney Springs for shopping and dining.

In addition to the property's relaxing vibe and manageable size, the greatest asset of Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is the price.

Rooms here are often more affordable than what you'll find at other Moderate properties, most likely because it's not connected to the theme parks by anything other than ground transportation (and Minnie Vans ).

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter average around $300 per night.

One of Disney World's lesser-known Moderate resorts is also one of its most entertaining.

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort has plenty of campsites for tents and spots for recreational vehicles .

However, if you're not interested in either, The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort are an excellent choice. It gives you the best of many worlds regarding space, price and resort activities — especially if you're not planning to spend all your time at the theme parks. The cabins sleep up to six and offer a queen-size bed, a set of bunk beds and a relatively comfortable pullout sofa bed. And soon, Disney will replace the current cabins with 350 all-new cabins .

Related: How to enjoy Disney World without park tickets

Trust us, there is one essential Fort Wilderness expense you'll want to budget for — golf carts .

It costs $65 to $84 per day to rent one. However, it makes it much easier to travel to the Meadow Trading Post for snacks, the docks for transportation to The Magic Kingdom, and other parts of the 700-acre property. Lock in your golf cart reservation as far in advance as possible since they're known to sell out.

Fort Wilderness has a nonstop list of activities you probably didn't know you could do at Disney World, including pony rides, archery, fishing, and rides in wagons and horse-drawn carriages.

When the day winds down, you can also check out the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue , a lively performance full of dancing, singing and comedic moments.

Rates for standard cabins at The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Lodge average around $460 per night.

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is the poster child of a Moderate Disney property. It's an older resort with two-story buildings spread across a large area.

Complimentary theme park transportation is limited to buses, and on-site dining venues are mostly quick-service options, given the resort's large convention clientele. Additionally, the rooms are on the smaller side, though they were recently renovated.

But one thing changed a couple of years ago that catapulted part of this property onto our favorites list: the new Gran Destino Tower .

This "hotel within a hotel" has a stunning lobby and an equally snazzy lobby bar. If you're looking for a completely different perspective, let an elevator whisk you up to the 16th floor, where the rooftop Dahlia Lounge awaits — along with an award-winning wine list. Gran Destino Tower is light on a Disney theme, but otherwise, its accommodations are on par with many Deluxe resorts.

Gran Destino is also the only Moderate option at Disney World that has a club lounge, should you prefer an exclusive space to visit and grab refreshments throughout your stay.

Rates for standard rooms at the Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort average around $400 per night.

Best Value Disney World resorts

Value Disney resorts are the most affordable Disney World hotels.

Nightly rates start around $125 and increase to about $300 on peak dates. None of these hotels are walkable from the theme parks, but some are close to the Skyliner. Others require bus transportation.

Value Disney hotels don't have full-service restaurants or fun extras like waterslides, but they do offer grab-and-go food outlets, lively pools and colorful themes.

Disney's Art of Animation Resort is the king of Value resorts at Disney World.

The resort features bright colors and memorable Disney cartoon characters. It's also accessible from both Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios thanks to the Disney Skyliner gondola system .

Art of Animation really shines with its family suites, which provide a lot more room and have three beds in each suite (one traditional bed, one Murphy bed and a pullout sofa bed). The family suites have your choice of "The Lion King," "Cars" and "Finding Nemo" themes, while standard rooms feature decor inspired by "The Little Mermaid."

When it comes to pools, the Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation is actually the largest option available at any Disney World resort.

While the food here won't blow you away, Landscape of Flavors is a reliable cafeteria-style venue that can be a nice, easy option for families.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort average around $240 per night.

Disney's Pop Century Resort is across from Art of Animation. While it doesn't have our favorite theme (it's themed to bygone decades), it is usually the lowest-priced Disney resort that isn't one of the All-Star properties.

We generally prefer it to the All-Star resorts, as Pop Century is a stand-alone property that doesn't have to share a bus service. It's less likely to be packed with thousands of cheerleaders and children's sports groups. In addition to the included bus service to the parks, it also sits on the Skyliner route, so you can soar in a gondola to various parks and resorts.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Pop Century Resort average around $200 per night.

Best Disney World resort pools

Nothing beats an afternoon dip in your hotel's pool, so if you want to know which Disney resort hotels have the best pools, here are our top picks.

Disney's Beach Club Resort and its sister property, Disney's Yacht Club Resort , share access to Stormalong Bay, which offers top-notch poolside fun for the whole family.

Both resorts have the distinct feel of a beach in an otherwise landlocked resort thanks to sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, a pirate ship and a wicked waterslide, among other amenities that will keep young swimmers entertained for hours.

Related: The best pools at Walt Disney World

The Yacht Club is marginally more convenient to the large pool complex, but the Beach Club is a little closer to Epcot. Choose accordingly. No matter which property you pick, don't miss the huge sundaes at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, steps from the pool.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Yacht and Beach Clubs average around $540 per night.

Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is one of Disney's Moderate resorts and one of the largest. Because the resort is so spread out, there are multiple pools across the property — six in total. The main Fuentes del Morro Pool is themed to resemble a Spanish fortress, with two waterslides, a zero-entry area, a 12-person hot tub and a pirate-themed splash area for kids.

The resort has a colorful island style, and some guest rooms recently received a Little Mermaid makeover. Despite the resort's size, it does offer convenient transportation options, including bus service and a Disney Skyliner station that can take you to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Rates at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort average around $300 per night.

One of the original Disney World resort hotels inspired by Walt Disney himself, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort sits on the monorail only a few minutes from The Magic Kingdom. Yet, it transports you to a lush Pacific island the moment you enter. It's such a great property we almost warn against staying at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort because it will set the bar pretty high for future Disney resort stays.

At "the Poly," you'll find a couple of our favorite Disney restaurants. Notably, there's Ohana — a Polynesian-inspired dining venue within the resort's main building that serves delectable noodles and a mouthwatering bread pudding — among other options on the family-style, all-you-care-to-enjoy menu.

There are plenty of activities and amenities on the grounds, such as free outdoor movies at night and a 142-foot waterslide that drops riders into the main Lava Pool (there is a secondary quiet pool, as well). There's also a large splash area with several smaller waterslides for younger guests, a zero-entry section, a separate quiet pool and a nearby stand to grab Dole Whip. The icing on the on-site Dole Whip is being able to watch The Magic Kingdom fireworks from the pool in the evenings as the perfectly timed music pipes in.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort average around $640 per night.

Best Disney World resorts for large families

Large families and groups can really rack up a bill when visiting Disney World since most on-property rooms are designed for no more than four or five people. As a result, your choices tend to be limited if you have at least five or six people in your group. Fortunately, a few resorts offer plenty of space for larger families.

Related: The best Orlando hotels for large families

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is another DVC property, with room sizes ranging from studio suites to one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. Deluxe studio rooms have a kitchenette and a balcony or patio, and villas have separate bedrooms, a full kitchen, in-room laundry and a balcony or patio.

The resort also has multiple pools, bike rentals, tennis and basketball courts, and a Community Hall with movies, video games and daily activities like crafts and games.

In the woods behind Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are several Treehouse Villas that sleep up to nine people. Offering three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen, these spacious accommodations can easily fit an extended family.

Rates for Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa average around $500 per night, while the Treehouse Villas average around $1,300 per night.

Best Disney World resorts for adults

We love Disney, but we're not afraid to admit that having a brief break from its intensity is sometimes nice. Luckily, a couple of options are ideal for those who want to stay near the magic without living with Mickey and his friends 24 hours a day.

Disney World's newest stand-alone hotel is easily one of the larger resort's best options for adults who want to balance a Disney trip with some less in-your-face Disney elements.

On the Disney Skyliner route, Disney's Riviera Resort offers easy access to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot without placing you right in the heart of all the theme park action.

The real highlight of this easygoing property, though, is its Mediterranean vibe. The blue-and-white decor, music and cuisine will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.

You'll find all the usual Disney amenities at this Deluxe resort, but it's just a touch more refined and grown-up without being stuffy.

We're serious Riviera fans thanks in part to its design, which includes everything from "Tangled"- and "Peter Pan"-inspired mosaics to marble bathrooms that may be the nicest in all of Disney.

Don't worry if you want to bring the kids, though. There's plenty for them to enjoy, including poolside gelato, a waterslide and our favorite toddler splash area at Disney World.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Riviera Resort average around $500 per night.

Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a DVC resort along Disney's BoardWalk in the Epcot resort area. That means you can easily walk to Epcot to eat and drink global cuisine around the World Showcase or to Disney's Hollywood Studios to fly the Millennium Falcon at Galaxy's Edge. The resort also offers water taxi and bus service around Disney World.

Related: Is a Disney annual pass worth it?

Guest rooms range from standard rooms to multi-bedroom villas, and the resort has three pools. You can splash and slide at the Luna Park Pool (or soak in the hot tub) or head for one of the quieter leisure pools.

This resort is all about location. In addition to being close to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, Disney's BoardWalk Inn is close to the dining, shopping and nightlife that line Disney's BoardWalk area. When you are done visiting the parks, you can visit Abracadabar, a magic-themed cocktail lounge, or Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's BoardWalk Inn average around $600 per night.

Bottom line

Choosing the best resort hotel at Disney World gets easier once you identify your budget and priorities.

Do you want a great pool, more space, proximity to the parks or perhaps an immersive theme? No matter what is most important to you, you'll find a Disney property that will likely satisfy your needs.

Whether you're itching to splash around in the Stormalong Bay pool complex at Disney's Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, stretch your budget at Disney's Pop Century Resort, retreat to a cabin at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort or get an iconic eyeful of the monorail coming through Disney's Contemporary Resort, there's a Disney resort that will have every member of your family excited to be on vacation at Walt Disney World.

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The Best Time To Take A Disney Cruise

I f your family loves Disney, a Disney cruise may be something that is on your mind. Although you won’t be experiencing any attractions or rides, you will enjoy Disney magic while experiencing the world outside of Walt Disney World. Wondering when is the best time to take a Disney cruise? Here is our guide to figuring out the best options for your family.

Disclosure: Over the years we have taken media cruises on the Disney Cruise Line, and have paid full price for many of our sailings. This post contains affiliate links, and if you click through or purchase through one of these links, I may be paid a commission.

When booking a Disney Cruise, I recommend booking with Get Away Today. Plus, when you mention Family Travel Magazine, you get an extra $25 in onboard credits! Give their agents a call at 877-510-2929.

When deciding the best time to take a Disney Cruise, you’ll need to look at a few factors. If you have older kids, you may be stuck with only just a few weeks of availability due to sports, work, and school commitments. My high school kids are so busy that school vacations are really the only times that we can travel for more than a weekend. These times are very fun to travel but are likely to be more expensive – including the airfare.

If your schedule is open, and you are looking for the best times to sail on a Caribbean/Bahamian itinerary, I’d recommend May. The weather is generally nice, it’s not one of the peak times, so prices and crowds aren’t too bad. If you have younger children who aren’t in school yet, definitely take advantage of that time. You also won’t have to worry about hurricane season at that point.

Pricing Considerations for Your Cruise

Pricing is one of the most important factors you should consider. As you’d expect, the peak times of the year, like holidays, spring break, and other school vacations, are when you’ll often see the highest prices. Some discounts, for military and Florida residents, for instance, are not offered on every sailing. Flexibility in booking can give you the opportunity to save some money.

It’s not just the cruise price that you should look at. If you are flying into the port or staying either a night before or a night after your cruise, the flights and hotels may also be more expensive during school vacations and holidays. So you’ll have to weigh whether the extra cost is worth the convenience of traveling during this time.

Some families choose to combine their family cruise with a trip to the theme parks for a Disney land and sea vacation . Again, this is usually a more expensive trip during holidays and school breaks – for both the parks and the cruise line.

When booking, it’s always a good idea to book early. Disney Castaway Club members can often book early when the cruise fares and itineraries are first announced. That way, you have your choice of stateroom categories and won’t be left with the more expensive rooms, especially if you are hoping for a more affordable room category. Interior staterooms and ocean view staterooms (porthole) can be cheaper options for your trip.

If you are already taking a cruise, doing onboard bookings can save you money. Your next cruise can be booked before the end of your cruise. You can book a placeholder if you aren’t sure what itinerary you want to experience next or don’t have your available dates handy. Keep in mind that some of those benefits may have blackout dates during holidays and special events.

You should also look at the price including travel insurance. It’s always a good idea to have your vacation spending protected. Travel insurance may also cover you if you have a medical emergency (but always check coverage) A good travel agent can help you find the best rates for your dates and may even offer onboard credit.

Crowds on Your Cruise

Like prices, crowd levels are often the highest during school vacations and holidays. Although you may only be able to travel during these busy times, it’s important to understand in advance that you’ll need to make your reservations as early as possible and arrive at the airport with plenty of time. On our last cruise, we had to fly on Christmas Day, and the airport was extremely crowded with many delays.

Once your reservation is booked, based on your Castaway Club level, you should also plan your shore excursions early. If you have a port adventure that is especially popular, it likely will book up during the busy sailings. Cabanas at Castaway Cay are especially difficult to book because the demand far exceeds the supply.

Special Events at Sea

Disney Cruise Line offers some special, themed sailings that can be so much fun. These special cruises include Halloween on the High Seas, Disney’s Very Merrytime Cruise , Marvel Day at Sea, Pixar Day at Sea, and Star Wars Day at Sea. During these sailings, you’ll get to experience things like a decorated cruise ship, themed shows, and special events.

Often, these sailings can be more expensive than cruises without a theme. So you’ll need to decide whether or not the special theme is worth it for your family. If you aren’t that excited about the extra decor/entertainment, you may want to save your money and opt for a standard cruise.

Weather/Hurricane Season

Weather is another factor in deciding the best time to take a Disney Cruise. If you are planning a Caribbean/Bahamian itinerary cruise, you’ll want to look at the average temperatures in the islands you’ll be visiting. These cruises are typically offered year-round, although the Bahamian temperatures tend to be cooler in the winter months.

I generally prefer the spring, summer, and fall months when cruising to the Bahamas. Even early December can be nice. Surprisingly, while the summer months are hot, they don’t feel too hot.

The southern Caribbean islands generally have warm temps year-round. It’s definitely important to look at hurricane season, however. A tropical storm or hurricane can affect your sailing so you’ll want to keep this in mind if you decide to cruise in these months. My last September sailing resulted in an extension of two extra days due to a hurricane in Florida.

Itineraries on the Disney Cruise Line

Some of the itineraries on the Disney Cruise Line are only offered at certain times of the year. Alaskan cruises , for example, are only offered during the late spring/summer months because of the cold weather the rest of the year.

Other limited sailings include Northern Europe and San Diego (but can vary by year). So, if you are looking to take one of those sailings, you’ll have limited options for timing.

Ages of Kids on the Disney Cruise Line

Instead of a time of year, you may be wondering what the best ages are to take a Disney Cruise with your kids. You won’t want to go when your kids are too young because they won’t be able to enjoy all of the activities and amenities.

I’d recommend waiting until your kids are old enough to enjoy the kids’ clubs. They are fantastic, and your kids will likely want to stay in the clubs for much of your time at sea. Although the regular youth clubs are open to kids 3 and up, my kids really had fun in them once they were about 5 years old.

After that age, I think that any kid would enjoy sailing on the Disney Cruise Line. We recently went on a trip with our 16 and 18-year-old, and they still have a great time sailing with Disney.

Compare itineraries and prices here .

More Disney Cruise Ships Resources: Click to read more about the Disney Cruise Line ships including restaurants, tips, itineraries, activities, and more.

The post The Best Time To Take A Disney Cruise appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

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Where to Stay in Florence: The Best Neighborhoods For Your Visit

With its iconic Renaissance architecture, picturesque streets, world-class museums, and incredible food, Florence is one of my favorite cities in Italy . I’ve been a handful of times over the years and it never disappoints.

It’s also a compact and easily walkable city, so nothing is too far from anything else. That said, each neighborhood has its own unique feel and accommodation options. For that reason, it’s a good idea to choose a neighborhood that best suits your travel style and budget.

To help you do just that, here’s my list of the best neighborhoods in Florence:

Table of Contents

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors: Centro Storico

Where to stay for budget travelers: santa maria novella, where to stay for food and nightlife: santa croce, where to stay for feeling like a local: oltrarno, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

It’s also a good neighborhood if you’re looking to do some shopping. For luxury, head to Via de’ Tornabuoni, where all the high-end designers have storefronts, while Ponte Vecchio is the place to go if you’re in the market for jewelry.

You’ll also have the largest array of accommodation options here. Just keep in mind that it gets incredibly crowded in the summer, and prices skyrocket accordingly.

Best places to stay in Centro Storico :

• BUDGET : Emerald Palace – Offering affordable private rooms and dorms (including female-only dorms), Emerald Palace is an excellent no-frills option for budget travelers who don’t want to compromise on location. The rooms are spacious, with beautiful painted ceilings and terracotta floors, and everything (including the shared bathrooms) is kept sparkling clean. While there aren’t a ton of amenities here (though there is breakfast and a guest kitchen), it’s a friendly and affordable choice in the heart of the historic center.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Davanzati – This cozy three-star hotel offers a lot of value, with a complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon tea, and an aperitivo hour with prosecco. The rooms are a bit dated in their décor, but they are spacious, with comfy beds, a desk, a flatscreen TV, and a wardrobe. The bathrooms are large too and have heated towel racks, as well as nice showers with excellent water pressure. The staff really go out of their way to help with anything you need too.
• LUXURY : Hotel Bernini Palace – It feels like you’re staying in a palace in this five-star hotel, set in a 15th-century building. The elegant rooms are spacious and feature wood-beamed ceilings, parquet or terracotta floors, glass chandeliers, antique furnishings, and plush beds with gilded headboards. They also have all the amenities you’d expect from a hotel of this caliber, including minibars, flatscreen TVs, desks, and air conditioning. There’s a complimentary breakfast buffet too, served in a room with a frescoed ceiling that used to be a meeting place for members of Italy’s parliament!

The area around Piazza Santa Maria Novella and south toward the river is a bit more upscale, while most hostels are concentrated just to the northeast of the train station. Just avoid staying right next to the train station, as it’s not the not the nicest section of the neighborhood.

Best places to stay in Santa Maria Novella:

• BUDGET : Ostello Bello Firenze – This lively hostel has a cozy common room, guest kitchen, and bar where all guests get a free welcome drink. There’s also a rooftop terrace and lots of social events throughout the week (such as live music or parties). It’s a really easy hostel to meet people in. Plus, all dorm rooms have ensuite bathrooms and lockers and are filled with lots of natural light. It’s one of the best hostels in town.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Alba Palace – This beautiful three-star hotel is decorated in a traditional Florentine style. Each room is unique, with historic features that include antique terracotta floors, arched ceilings, and exposed brick walls. The fantastic complimentary breakfast is served in a tranquil atrium with a glass ceiling. All rooms have a flatscreen TV, minibar, desk, Nespresso machine, hairdryer, and safe. While the bathrooms are small, there’s great water pressure in the showers. There are even rooms with a twin bed in case you’re a solo traveler looking to save money but don’t want to stay in a hostel.
• LUXURY : The Place Firenze – This five-star hotel is located right on Piazza Santa Maria Novella in a restored 17th-century building. All the rooms in this award-winning boutique property are decorated in pastel colors, with unique artwork, chandeliers, bespoke furniture, and elegant marble bathrooms. Each soundproofed room comes with a flatscreen TV, minibar, and a desk. There’s also a complimentary breakfast on the hotel’s outdoor terrace on the piazza, and a rooftop with incredible views, not to mention exceptionally helpful staff.

If you’re after good food and a more low-key atmosphere, head to Sant’Ambrogio, a micro-neighborhood that surrounds the market of the same name.

Best places to stay in Santa Croce:

• BUDGET : B&B Hotel Firenze City Center – This bed-and-breakfast is your best choice for budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Croce. It features simple, light-filled rooms with a desk and flatscreen TV. The bathrooms have a bidet, complimentary toiletries, and a hairdryer. There’s a breakfast buffet in the mornings too (9.50 EUR) with croissants, cakes, muffins, cereals, yoghurt, and eggs.
• MIDRANGE : La Maison du Sage – This four-star hotel is eclectically designed, with Art Deco furniture, hardwood floors, and brightly colored walls. The rooms are spacious, filled with natural light, and include a minibar, flatscreen satellite TV, Nespresso coffee machine, and kettle for tea. The bathrooms are sleekly designed and spacious, with a bidet and a walk-in shower (some rooms have separate tubs). There’s also an excellent breakfast buffet boasting pastries, juice, eggs, ham, cheese, and fresh fruit.
• LUXURY : Relais Santa Croce, by Baglioni Hotels – This five-star hotel is set in an 18th-century building that retains its historic décor (including frescoed ceilings and hardwood floors). Each spacious guestroom contains different historic elements, such as a four-poster bed or exposed beams. All of the airy rooms have a desk, flatscreen TV, minibar, and large bathroom with a bidet, bathrobes, and complimentary bath products. There’s also a tasty free breakfast each morning with lots of variety.

This area is not without its own attractions though, home to both Pitti Palace and the whimsical Boboli Gardens. Overall, Oltrarno is best for travelers looking for a more authentic and local experience away from the tourist crowds.

Best places to stay in Oltrarno:

• BUDGET : “il Pitti” Soggiorno – There aren’t any hostels here (you’ll mostly find midrange accommodation in this area), but this hotel directly across the street from Pitti Palace offers affordable and comfy private rooms with ensuite or shared bathrooms. The rooms are painted in cheery pastel colors and have lots of natural light, as well as parquet floors. The décor is a bit dated, but all rooms have a desk, wardrobe, electric kettle, and bathroom with a rainfall shower and bidet. It’s a great no-frills option for budget travelers that want to stay in a quieter neighborhood.
• MIDRANGE : Hotel Palazzo Guadagni – Situated in a 16th-century Florentine palace on a quiet square, this three-star hotel boasts elegantly decorated rooms with frescoed ceilings, large windows, antique furniture, and fireplaces. In-room amenities include a minibar, flatscreen TV, safe, and tiled bathroom with a heated towel rack, a bidet, fluffy bathrobes, and slippers. There’s also a fantastic complimentary breakfast and a rooftop with stunning views over the city. I think the value for what you get here is fantastic. It feels much more luxurious than your typical three-star hotel.
• LUXURY : Hotel Lungarno – Lungarno Collection – Located just steps from Ponte Vecchio bridge leading into Centro Storico, this gorgeous five-star hotel features original modern art throughout. The spacious, light-filled rooms have Italian white marble bathrooms with a bidet and luxury toiletries, and all rooms have a desk, a flatscreen TV, a minibar, and sound-proofed walls. There’s also a Michelin-starred restaurant and an excellent breakfast spread here.

Florence is like a giant open-air museum. It’s impossibly beautiful and bursting with historic sites and stunning architecture. By using the list above to pick the neighborhood that best suits your needs, you’ll be able to make the most of your stay in Tuscany’s largest city!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Florence: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Florence? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Florence for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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