When planning a vacation to Walt Disney World, most of us think of warm, sunny temperatures. Although most of the time, that is the case in the Sunshine State, sometimes we see cooler temperatures make their way across the state.
Not all is lost if you are heading to Walt Disney World, and it looks like the temperatures will be colder than you wanted. There are some great tips and tricks for managing cooler temperatures while still having a magical time.
Pack Layers
The first step for managing the colder temperatures is ensuring you are packed for them. Start by packing layers. Have light jackets or cardigans that you can put on in the morning and evenings but easily have in your Park day when the sun warms the afternoons up.
For those that enjoy skirts and dresses, pack leggings to wear underneath. This will keep you warm while still looking adorable.
Layers are so important during those cooler days because you quickly take them on and off, depending on the temperatures.
Bring Winter Gear
None of us like to think about it, but if you see cooler temperatures, bring winter gear. Even if you are from the north, where it gets super, dangerously cold, you will want winter gear even in Florida.
We like to bring winter jackets that are small and easy to pack. Hats, mittens, scarves, and even hot hands are winter gear we toss in. Think back to those cold Halloween days or those sporting events where you are outside for an extended period. That is the gear you will want to pack with you.
Blankets
Another item that we like to toss into our bags is a blanket. These come handy during colder evenings as we wait for parades or nighttime shows.
We use the blankets to put on the cold ground or to wrap up in if we are extra cold that evening. So many lovely, small blankets are convenient to carry around and don’t take up much space. You will appreciate having one for those colder evening fireworks and night-time shows.
Enjoy the Inside Attractions
We often share inside attractions to help battle the summer heat, but you can also use those attractions to get warm during a cold spell.
In Magic Kingdom, numerous attractions are perfect for getting out of the cold and warming up. Over in Tomorrowland, enjoy a more extended break on Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress. Being a longer attraction, it will give you plenty of time to warm up.
Adventureland has the Enchanted Tiki Room. This is another excellent show that provides both escape from colder temperatures and fun entertainment. Like Enchanted Tiki Room in Adventureland, Country Bear Jamboree in Frontierland is good for a laugh and warmth.
Hall of Presidents is an educational and moving show that celebrates our country but will also keep you warm.
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along is the perfect escape in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This entertaining show tells the story of our favorite sisters with songs and humor. Also in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is Vacation Fun- An Original Animated Short Featuring Mickey and Minnie. This adorable theatre is perfect for a quick break from the cooler temperatures outside.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom has two excellent shows perfect for escaping the cold. Both Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond are Broadway-caliber shows that bring these two amazing stories to the Parks. Guests will be blown away by both shows’ musical talent and outstanding costumes.
Over at EPCOT, there are numerous options for staying warm. Visit either the Land or Seas Pavilion for a variety of activities. We enjoy walking around the fantastic aquarium, riding Living with the Land, and visiting Crush.
EPCOT also has a handful of films that provide education and warmth. Visit those in France, China, and the Land Pavilion currently.
Even though we would love to ride Test Track or Big Thunder Mountain, knowing where these indoor attractions are can be significant, even in the winter.
Enjoy Your Meals
Suppose you are looking for ways to stay warm and schedule time for meals. This could be sit-down meals, quick service meals, or a stop at one of the great lounges. Use that time to warm up no matter where you want to eat.
We enjoy Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Tambu Lounge over at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Ale & Compass Lounge is fantastic at Yacht Club, and don’t forget to try out Nomad Lounge at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Check out Comic Rays or Columbia Harbour House at Magic Kingdom for extensive quick service options that provide indoor seating and a lot of it. ABC Commissary at Disney’s Hollywood Studios also has a lot of indoor seating and some great new entrees for Guests.
EPCOT has two fantastic quick service locations now with ample seating. Sunshine Seasons and Connections Eatery provides a good menu with many seating options for Guests.
Use those meal times to warm up and be ready to head back out.
We know many want warm and sunny when visiting Walt Disney World. Don’t fret if you see a different weather forecast for your trip. You can still have a magical time in Disney with cooler temperatures if you plan. Take time to pack appropriately and have a plan for touring the Parks that will allow everyone to stay warm and have breaks. Doing this will keep everyone happy and ready for magic no matter the temperature when you arrive.
