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Credit: Disney Planning a trip to Disney World is kind of like trying to win the FastPass lottery—timing is everything.
Go during the right week, and it feels like you’ve unlocked a secret level where the crowds are manageable, the weather is decent, and the magic feels just a little more magical. But go at the wrong time, and it’s like trying to ride Space Mountain during a thunderstorm with every other person on Earth.
So if you’re trying to plan the perfect Disney vacation, here’s your unofficial (but very helpful) guide to the five best times to go—and two that you really want to avoid.
The Best Times To Visit Walt Disney World
Let’s get this out of the way first: There is no “dead time” or “offseason” in Disney World anymore. That being said, there are still times you can strategically visit knowing that crowds will be a little less hectic than normal.
1. The First Two Weeks of December
This is a favorite among Disney die-hards. Why? You get all the Christmas magic—snow on Main Street, jaw-dropping decorations, holiday treats, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party—without the massive holiday crowds that will come later.
Most schools are still in session, which keeps the parks a little less packed. Plus, the weather is usually a little cooler and more comfortable, a welcome break from Florida’s usual humidity. If you want to feel like you’re walking through a Christmas card, this is the time.
2. Mid-to-Late January
Once the New Year’s crowds head home and before President’s Day weekend rolls around, the parks typically enter a magical window of lower wait times and cooler temperatures. This is when you’ll see the fewest strollers, the most relaxed cast members, and wait times that don’t make you question your life choices. Bonus: EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts is usually ramping up, making it a fun trip to take.
3. Late April to Early May
Spring break is over, schools are still in session, and the weather hasn’t hit full “Florida oven” mode yet. This is prime time to enjoy the International Flower & Garden Festival at EPCOT, ride everything you want without baking in the sun — though it will still be plenty hot — and catch the parks before the summer surge begins. It’s warm, but not unbearable—just bring sunscreen and pace yourself.
4. Mid-September
September might sound sketchy (thanks, hurricane season), but it’s actually one of the best-kept secrets. With most kids freshly back in school, the parks feel almost calm. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is happening, the weather starts to dip below “surface of the sun,” and you’ll likely find some cheaper hotel rates. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast and consider travel insurance—just in case.
5. Christmas Week (Yes, Really)
Okay, hear us out. Christmas week is absolutely wild in terms of crowds—it’s one of the busiest times of the year. But if your priority is full-on holiday immersion, this is the peak. Every park is dripping in holiday spirit, special shows run daily, and the atmosphere is unbeatable.
You just need to be ready for the crowds and go in with the mindset that you’re here to experience it all, not necessarily ride everything. If you ever get a chance to spend Christmas at Disney, we absolutely say to go for it.
Time to Avoid Visiting Disney World
1. August
Unless you love being drenched in sweat and waiting 95 minutes for Slinky Dog Dash, you’re going to want to steer clear of August. The heat and humidity are brutal, rainstorms are frequent, and summer crowds are still lingering. Oh, and did we mention the mosquitoes? Even with Lightning Lane and early entry, it’s a rough go. If you have to go in August, plan lots of breaks, hydrate like crazy, and bring multiple shirts.
2. The Week of Thanksgiving
This one sneaks up on people. Families often think it’s a “less busy” holiday to travel during, but nope—it’s one of Disney’s busiest weeks of the year. The weather is usually nice, but the crowds can make even getting a churro feel like a major accomplishment. Dining reservations vanish fast, Lightning Lane can only help so much, and it’s just a hectic vibe all around.