Disney ParksPlanningTips

Top Reasons Why Winter Is a Good Time for a Disney Vacation

It might seem strange to think about winter in the middle of a heat wave, but now is the perfect time. If you are considering a winter trip to Walt Disney World, now is the time to book that vacation. Winter can be an excellent time for a Walt Disney World vacation.

We will share why winter might be the best time to visit Walt Disney World.

Adults in EPCOT
Adults in EPCOT

Cooler Temperatures

We all know that May through October can see sweltering and humid conditions at Walt Disney World. These conditions can make it hard to tour Disney Parks and remain comfortable.

The winter months provide much cooler and more manageable conditions. Guests traveling to Walt Disney World can experience mild temperatures from late October through early February. During the winter months in Walt Disney World, Guests can expect to experience temperatures in the 70s most days.

When traveling during the winter, make sure you pack layers. In the evenings, you might experience temperatures in the 40s or lower. Having a jacket, sweater, or evening hat and mittens for everyone will make the evenings in the Parks much more enjoyable.

These cooler temperatures in the winter make it easier to spend more time in Disney Parks without needing a break.

Related: How to Pack for Disney in the Winter

Rainbow over Cinderella Castle
Credit: Disney

Less Rain

Another great reason to visit Walt Disney World in winter is because there is less rain. Most rainfall occurs at Walt Disney World in the summer and fall (typically June through October). This can make touring the Parks difficult. Rides shows, and nighttime entertainment can all be impacted by the weather.

This is less likely to impact your vacation plans during the winter months. The winter months don’t see a lot of rain. Because of this, you can easily tour and enjoy the Park without worrying about rain shutting down your favorite ride or canceling your favorite show.

Also, most of us prefer to stay dry during our visit. Those summer storms can make you drenched no matter how much rain gear you pack. Be ready for a less soggy trip when visiting Disney in the winter.

Crowds at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Crowds at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Lower Crowds

This might not seem realistic when we think about winter having Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, but typically crowds drop off during the winter months at Walt Disney World. As most families return to school, fewer families are in the Parks. Usually, you will see more adult crowds wanting to escape the winter.

Although Covid-19 and online schooling has adjusted the crowd levels slightly in the last few years, we still see the winter months having a lower crowd level than the spring and summer months.

If you have some flexibility with your schedule, you can enjoy a less crowded Walt Disney World.

BigThunderMountain
Credit: Disney

Lower Waits

Along with lower crowds come lower waits. With fewer people in the Parks during the winter months, you will often experience a lot lower wait time for rides. This means that during the winter, you can experience more in Disney Parks because you will spend less time waiting.

With lower crowds, you could also save some money. Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes might be optional when traveling during the winter months. If you can experience some top rides with low wait times, you can skip using Genie+.

California Grill
Credit: Disney

More Dining Options

Another excellent reason for visiting during the winter is you will have more dining options. Because the Parks and Resorts aren’t as busy, you will find more availability regarding your dining options.

Popular restaurants such as Space 220, California Grill, or Ohaha will be easier to book because of the overall lower crowd level at Walt Disney World.

These low crowds are also helpful when mobile ordering quick service. You will find more availability at the last minute, and your food will be prepared faster. This will save you time and get you back to the entertainment more quickly.

Magic Kingdom Holiday Parade
Credit; Disney

Holiday Decorations

A top reason to visit Walt Disney World during the winter months is the fantastic holiday decorations you can experience. The Parks and Resorts bring the holidays alive with decorations. From larger-than-life trees to snow in the Parks, Disney brings holiday magic to Guests.

Holiday decorations begin going up early so you can still experience the holiday magic without going during the busy Christmas break. Look at the time before Thanksgiving and Christmas to enjoy the decorations without the crowds.

Take time during the holidays to visit Disney Resorts. Disney Resorts transform during the holiday season, and you won’t want to miss out on it.

EPCOT Candlelight Processional
Credit: Disney

Holiday Events

Finally, you will want to visit during the winter because of the holiday events you can experience. Each year Disney creates memorable holiday experiences for Guests. When visiting during the winter, you can enjoy Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, including a holiday parade, a fireworks show, and magic throughout Magic Kingdom.

Over at EPCOT, take advantage of Candlelight Processional and the different storytellers around the World Showcase. The Candlelight Processional is one of the most moving experiences at Walt Disney World. A mass choir, orchestra, and unique narrator work together to tell the remarkable birth of Jesus.

These fantastic holiday experiences are why winter is an excellent time to visit Walt Disney World. We love the additional magic brought in during this time of year.

When considering traveling to Walt Disney World, consider a visit during the winter months. You will find better temperatures, less rain, and extra magic to make your trip memorable.

Jennifer Retzlaff

Jennifer became a lifelong Disney fan during her first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of her life. She quickly started to introduce her love of Disney to her family with a Disney honeymoon and then family trips when her youngest was 18 months old. She loves the magic that Disney brings to people through theme parks, cruises, and adventures. As a teacher, she tries to bring Disney magic into her classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” She is also part of the Magic Vacation Planner team as a personal travel advisor. With this team, she can now help others plan magical vacations. She loves bringing her love to Disney to readers with How to Disney.

Related Articles

Close

Adblock Detected

Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker