The month (and the week) you visit Disney World can make or break your trip. Hot weather, cold weather, tropical storms, crowds, inflated prices and even spring pollen can be a downer. We’ve experienced it all so you don’t have to. See our ranked list below of the worst to best months to visit Disney World to learn more.
12. January
January is the coldest month at Walt Disney World and the start of EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts. You might have mild weather or it might be freezing (“real feel” and low temperatures can dip into the 30s). It can be uncomfortable wearing all the layers needed to stay warm. Plus, some attractions close for refurbishment in January and water rides, swimming pools and being outside after sunset won’t be appealing.
11. August
Disney World in August is unbearably hot and rainy (source). There could even be a tropical storm or two. However, the second half of month is usually one of the cheapest times to visit Disney World. Plan to be in the parks first thing in the morning and spend the afternoon at the pool or inside. We also recommend After Hours events and taking advantage of extended evening hours to avoid the sun.
10. July
July is the second hottest month at Disney World, and a trip early in the month is better than at the end. Plan to be indoors in the afternoon and consider After Hours events for fun in the parks after the sun goes down. The Fourth of July celebrations are worth doing at least once. There are epic fireworks shows and magical music performances in EPCOT’s American Pavilion.
9. March
Although the weather is pleasant, spring break takes place in March for many schools. As a result, Disney parks and nearby hotels may be more expensive and crowded compared to other times of the year. Aim to visit the first week of the month to avoid some of the crowds (and check dates for Flower and Garden Festival if you want to attend). Tree pollen is also high, so if you have spring allergies, you’ll want to avoid a March trip.
8. June
If you want to visit Disney World in the summer and avoid some of the humidity and tropical storms, June is the month to go. It’s typically less crowded than March, but most kids are out of school, so there are more of them in the theme parks compared to other times of the year. Plus, no EPCOT festivals this month (subject to change), which might be a deal breaker for you. Be sure to stay at a resort with a nice pool if you want to cool off in the water.
7. December
December is a busy month with variable weather, shortest amount of daylight, and constant Christmas music (which is great if you love the holiday). There are also lots of families and hardcore Disney fans wearing Christmas sweaters, Christmas pajama pants and other festive accessories. Aim to visit the first two weeks of December to avoid the huge end-of-year crowds or plan early to experience EPCOT’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.
6. February
February is becoming a popular time to visit Disney World, especially because some schools have a winter break this month. The weather is usually pleasant, but it’s cool at night and tree pollen starts increasing this month. Avoid Presidents Day and Princess Marathon weekends. The beginning of the month and weekdays are usually a good time to visit, especially to attend EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts.
5. September
September isn’t much cooler than August, but you’ll often find cheaper park tickets and accommodations after Labor Day weekend. Unfortunately, September is also prime time for tropical storms and hurricanes, so you’ll want to have trip insurance (see if your credit card offers this perk or get a card that does). Special events this month include EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival and Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.
4. November
On average, November is warmer than December, January and February if you’re looking for a cooler (but not cold) month to visit. You can view holiday decorations before the December crowds, explore EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival and attend special events in Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. The week after Thanksgiving is one of the best times to visit. The worst is the first week of November when most kids in New Jersey are on a school break.
3. October
There is still plenty of daylight and warm weather in October. It’s a great month to lounge at a pool. Plus, there’s plenty to eat and drink at EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival. Keep in mind that many schools have a fall break in October, so it’s hard to dodge the crowds. For low ride wait times, plan to visit the theme parks during early morning hours, at the very end of the day, during extended evening hours or during an After Hours event.
2. May
Most kids are still in school in May, which means fewer families and lower crowds in theme parks. The weather is warm to hot, but not super hot yet, which is great for pool time and enjoying the Flower and Garden Festival. Memorial Day weekend isn’t a very busy holiday based on our experience (especially arriving a day or two before the weekend starts), so consider a trip at this time or earlier in the month for cooler temperatures.
1. April
The best month for adult trips to Disney World is April. The weather is gorgeous with comfortable temperatures and low chance of rain. Plus, EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival is in full bloom. Plan to visit at the end of the month to avoid spring break crowds and tree pollen. We also recommend checking the festival concert schedule to see if there is a performance worth planning your trip around.
Disney World for Adults 