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Walt Disney World® Resort

Four theme parks, two water parks, elevated dining and shopping, imaginative resorts — and so much more. See why the magic never stops at Walt Disney World® Resort.

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You will never run out of unforgettable, memory-making adventures at Walt Disney World® Resort.

Magic Kingdom® Park

Disney’s animal kingdom® theme park, disney springs®, disney’s blizzard beach water park, disney’s hollywood studios®, disney’s typhoon lagoon water park, experiences at walt disney world® resort, the edison at disney springs.

The Edison is a lavish "Industrial Gothic" themed restaurant and entertainment venue. Set in an…

Disney's Contemporary Resort

Retreat to this ultra-modern Disney Resort hotel and discover award-winning dining, spectacular…

House of Blues

From diverse musical offerings and International & American-inspired cuisine, to Gospel Brunch…

World of Disney® store

Discover the ultimate shopping destination for Disney fans of all ages—newly re-imagined from top to…

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Make your getaway a safari adventure. With views of exotic animals grazing on nearby savannas, this…

Disney Genie Service & Disney Genie+

Available in the My Disney Experience app, the complimentary Disney Genie Service helps you create your best day.

Character Dining

Something magical happens when a Disney character befriends your child. Be sure to make your reservation ahead of time since these official Walt Disney World® Resort character dining experiences book up rather quickly.

Additional Resources

Events near walt disney world® resort, places to stay at walt disney world® resort, related content, dreams do come true: tiana’s bayou adventure at walt disney world® resort.

See what to expect from the newest experience at MAGIC KINGDOM® Park.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana Splashes Into EPCOT® at Walt Disney World® Resort

Interact with water in a whole new way with Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana.

TRON Lightcycle / Run Races Into Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World® Resort

Battle menacing programs in a high-speed race through The Grid at TRON Lightcycle / Run.

One Wild Ride: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Walt Disney World® Resort

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The Force Is Strong With Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®

Live your adventure at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Orlando.

Welcome Aboard the Walt Disney World® Resort Monorail Crawl

Hop on the Walt Disney World® Resort monorail for a spirited journey like no other.

Stay and Play at Magical Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels

Stay in the heart of the magic and enjoy enchanting theme park perks.

Inside Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®

See everything you’ll want to experience at Toy Story Land at WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort.

Walt Disney World® Resort FAQs

Does Walt Disney World® Resort require advance reservations?

Theme park reservations are no longer required for date-based tickets. For other admission types, theme park reservations may be required. These include student group tickets, sport and convention tickets, Florida Resident Disney Thrills tickets, Disney Military Salute Tickets, and Annual Passes. Check with Walt Disney World ahead of your visit for complete details.

How do Disney Genie Service and Lightning Lanes work?

Available for all Walt Disney World® Resort guests in the My Disney Experience app, the complimentary Disney Genie Service offers new features that let you create your best Disney day. These features include a personalized itinerary creator that effortlessly and smartly maps out an entire day inspired by the things guests tell Disney they love — helping you make the most of your park time so you can have more fun.

Similar to a navigation app on a phone, the Disney Genie Service continues to update your itinerary from morning to night as the day changes, so you can stay spontaneous and go with the flow — whether you need a nap, encounter an unexpected rain shower or want to take a detour for a Mickey ice cream bar.

Through the My Disney Experience app, you can also purchase the Disney Genie+ Lightning Lane Entrance for more than 40 attractions across the four Walt Disney World theme parks, as well as Individual Lightning Lane Entrance for highly demanded attractions. As a reminder, attractions continue to offer a traditional standby queue.

What is the best source for discount tickets to Walt Disney World® Resort?

Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com is your trusted source for authorized discount tickets to Walt Disney World and other Orlando experiences.

How far is Walt Disney World® Resort from International Drive and downtown Orlando?

Walt Disney World is approximately 15 minutes south of the heart of Orlando’s International Drive Entertainment District, and about 25 minutes south of downtown Orlando.

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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110 Things You MUST Do at Disney World

by Chad Kennedy | Published on Aug 10, 2018 | Last updated Dec 13, 2023 | Animal Kingdom , Dining , Epcot , Magic Kingdom , Parks , Resorts , Trip Planning

Disney World has a ton of rides, restaurants, and entertainment options. The good news is that you’ll never run out of things to do. The bad news is that it can be hard to know where to begin.

We created this HUGE guide to use our years of experience to help you find all of Disney World’s “must do’s”. There’s info for all four parks, along with resorts and Disney Springs. It’s all in one place, so you can spend less time searching and more time having fun.

Whether you’re planning a full vacation or simply planning your afternoon, we’ve got you covered.

Magic Kingdom Must Do’s

#1. ride space mountain.

You’re doing yourself a disservice if you leave Magic Kingdom without riding on Space Mountain. It’s dark, it’s fast, and it’s a lot of fun. It’s also one of Disney’s most iconic rollercoasters and it’s definitely one you’ll want to use Lightning Lane for! Check out our Magic Kingdom FastPass guide and ride ranking to get some important tips for that.

#2. Watch Happily Ever After fireworks show

The Happily Ever After show is unlike any other fireworks show you’ve ever seen inside Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Not only are the fireworks timed perfectly with epic music, but there are intricate projections animated on the Cinderella Castle for you to enjoy. Going a step further, you can also watch projections and glittering lights on the buildings on Main Street, U.S.A during the show.

#3. Eat a Dole Whip at Aloha Isle

Ah, the legendary Dole Whip. Trust me, it’s worth the hype. It’s one of the best desserts you’ll find at Disney World and it’s a borderline crime not to have one. Getting a Dole Whip is often my first course of action when entering the park.

#4. Ride Tron Lightcycle / Run

Tron is the stellar new ride featuring out-of-this-world technology and fun. Riders mount a futuristic motorcycle and take off at 60mph to race against the fictional lightcyclers of the TRON: Legacy movie. This is one experience we highly recommend for thrill seekers.

#5. Eat at Be Our Guest

If you can get a coveted reservation for Be Our Guest, snatch it up as quick as you can! The restaurant is modeled after the Beauty and the Beast Castle and features an outstanding French-inspired menu. It’s absolutely one of Disney’s best restaurants. Be Our Guest ranks #1 on both our list of Best Magic Kingdom Restaurants for Lunch and our list of Best Magic Kingdom Restaurants for Dinner .

#6. Ride Pirates of the Caribbean

Another great dark water ride at Magic Kingdom. The sets are intricate and interesting and the ride has just enough “thrill” to make it fun for adults but tame enough for hesitant children.

#7. Watch Country Bear Jamboree

Country Bear Jamboree oozes old-school Disney World kitsch. There’s nothing quite like watching oversized animatronic bears perform like they’re at the Grand Ol’ Opry. Consider this one a Magic Kingdom rite of passage.

#8. Eat at Cinderella’s Royal Table

It doesn’t matter who you are- it’s pretty cool to be able to eat inside Cinderella’s Castle. Cinderella’s Royal Table is expensive (it’s considered fine dining), but it’s totally worth it if you want a special experience. It’s also one of the few places that you can meet all of the princesses in one place. They’ll visit your table one-by-one as you eat.

#9. Ride Haunted Mansion

You can’t leave Magic Kingdom without taking a spin on a doom buggy through a dark, spooky mansion. The Haunted Mansion consistently ranks as a favorite among Disney fans who love getting up close to the “happy haunts”.

#10. Get Quick Service at Sleepy Hollow

Sleepy Hollow is one of the best quick service locations in Magic Kingdom, just off Liberty Square with a beautiful view of Cinderella Castle. One of the best recommendations we have for Sleepy Hollow is getting the Fresh Fruit Waffle – filled with nutella and fresh fruit. We’ve ranked it as our number one quick service choice for Best Breakfast in Magic Kingdom – see more breakfast items in this post.

#11. Ride Thunder Mountain

Rounding out “The Three Magic Kingdom Mountains”, Thunder Mountain is another “can’t miss” coaster. You’ll twist and turn through canyons and caverns in a wild west, gold rush setting. Thunder Mountain has a lot of quick turns and it’s known for slinging riders from side to side.

#12. Watch Festival of Fantasy Parade

Another classic and fun pastime is watching the Festival of Fantasy Parade which features lots of interactive floats. Twice a day, you’ll get the chance to see everyone from Mickey and the Fab Five to Disney Princesses and Heroes. These characters parade through the crowd displayed on floats, sitting on trolleys and sometimes riding their own horses.

#13. Ride Seven Dwarves Mine Train

Seven Dwarves Mine Train is one of Magic Kingdom’s newest coasters. It’s also one of the most popular rides at the park with very long wait times to match. The ride’s advanced animatronics and speedy track make it a great use of a Fastpass.

#14. Shop on Main Street

The Main Street Emporium is one of Disney World’s best and largest shops. It spans the entire length of Main Street, U.S.A., so it’s hard to miss. On the other side of the street, you’ll find everything from an art shop, a to crystal shop, an apparel accessory shop. Everything here stays open late, so it’s a good last stop before exiting the park.

#15. Watch Enchanted Tales with Belle

When available, Enchanted Tales with Belle is an interactive storytime attraction in Fantasyland. Belle herself will tell you stories with the help of animatronic Beauty and the Beast characters. Audience members will also be picked to help with the story and each guest gets a free bookmark from Belle at the end of the show. It’s a very cool experience, especially for the kids.

#16. Ride It’s a Small World

That song. Those animatronic children. No matter how much you may want to avoid having the infamous tune stuck in your head, It’s a Small World must be ridden. This ride is as “Disney World” as it gets and you’ve got to experience it at least once, no exceptions!

#17. Watch Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Mickey’s PhilarMagic is a 3D show that features some of the most famous music and scenes from classic Disney movies. Beauty and the Beach, The Lion King, The Little Mermaid- they’re all there. It’s a really cool show that is good for all ages.

#18. Take Pictures with Your Favorite Character

Whether it’s a Disney Princess like Cinderella or a Disney villain like Gaston, you’ve got a lot of character viewing options at Magic Kingdom. It can be tedious to wait in line all day to see every character in the park, so we suggest selecting a character dining restaurant or catching them in a stage show or parade.

#19. Ride Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is the ultimate Magic Kingdom ride for testing friendships. You’ll be pitted up against your fellow riders while you shoot your way through Zurg’s minions. Your score is tracked on a screen for you to compare at the end of the ride. It can get pretty competitive, so don’t say I didn’t warn you!

#20. Eat with Pooh & friends at The Crystal Palace

If you’re a Winnie the Pooh fan then a meal at The Crystal Palace is something you’ll really enjoy. The restaurant’s building is based on a beautiful Victorian greenhouse design. Inside, you’ll have a large buffet to choose from. Over the course of your meal, you’ll be visited by Pooh and the rest of the Hundred Acre Wood residents.

#21. Get Ice Cream from the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor

The Plaza Ice Cream Parlor is easy to spot at the end of Main Street USA. There’s usually a long line out the door, but it usually moves pretty fast, so don’t let that deter you. There are a number of sundaes to choose from, but this is also the best place in Magic Kingdom to get a delicious ice cream sandwich. If you want some ice cream tips, check out our guide to Magic Kingdom’s Best Ice Cream .

#22. Ride Jungle Cruise

The Jungle Cruise is yet another classic Magic Kingdom staple. After boarding the boat, you’ll embark on a comical voyage through a wild jungle. The real draw to the Jungle Cruise are the Skippers. They stand in the front of the boat and offer quirky, tongue-in-cheek commentary throughout the ride.

Epcot Must Do’s

#23. walk around the epcot world showcase.

The front of the park is great, but everyone knows that the World Showcase at the back is what makes Epcot so special. Situated on the World Showcase Lagoon, the World Showcase features 11 themed countries spread along the circular waterfront. There are enough entertainment, dining, and attractions to keep you busy for a long, long time. The World Showcase’s abundance of culture, food, and drinks makes it especially awesome for adults.

If you’re looking for grownup fun at Epcot, take a look at our Insider’s Guide to Epcot for Adults .

We’ve also got a great guide to our 30 Best Epcot Tips & Secrets and a standalone guide to Epcot Dining .

#24. Watch Epcot Forever

Epcot Forever is a nostalgic culmination of Epcot’s new and state-of-the-art technology and music from original attractions. It incorporates top-notch fireworks, a thrilling soundtrack, lights, lasers, pyrotechnics and more to create an amazing spectacle. If you want to guarantee a really awesome show, try to pick your viewing spot 30 minutes to an hour beforehand along any part of the World Showcase Lagoon walkway.

#25.  Ride Soarin’ Around the World

Soarin’ is one of Epcot’s most popular rides. It’s a hang glider simulator that lifts you into the air and places you in front of a gigantic screen. You’ll feel like you’re truly flying through famous locations around the world, from the Matterhorn to the Taj Mahal. Wait times are almost always long and Soarin’ is absolutely worth getting Lightning Lane.

#26.  Eat at Yorkshire County Fish Shop

Located in the UK Pavilion, the Yorkshire County Fish Shop is a simple quick-service restaurant that serves traditional English fish and chips. The fries are great and the fish is always perfectly breaded and fried. This is one of the best quick meals you can find inside a Disney park.

#27.  Ride Spaceship Earth

If you’ve ever seen Epcot’s iconic, gigantic “golf ball” then you’ve seen Spaceship Earth. Inside Spaceship Earth, there is a ride by the same name. It’s a track ride that takes you on a slow-moving journey through the history of mankind. The sets are extremely details and showcase extensive animatronic work. You can’t leave Epcot without experiencing this ride at least once.

#28.  Watch Reflections of China

Reflections of China, located in the China Pavilion, is one of Epcot’s 360-degree video experiences. It’s a short film that takes you on a journey through China’s most breathtaking urban and rural areas. You’ll see everything from the Great Wall to sprawling urban cities.

#29.  Eat at Le Cellier Steakhouse

Le Cellier is a signature restaurant in the Canada Pavilion. It’s known serving some of the best steaks at Disney World. The restaurant is a uniquely themed recreation of a Canadian chateau-style cellar. It’s very popular and seating is limited, so try to get a reservation as far in advance as possible.

#30. Ride Mission: SPACE

Many people are surprised to find out that Mission: SPACE is actually Disney World’s most intense ride. It’s a spaceship simulator that sends you on a trip to Mars. The g-forces really rip, so be careful if you get motion sickness or have claustrophobia. If you want a more timid ride experience, there is a “less intense” line that eliminates the motion aspect of the ride.

#31. Eat Pastries at Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie

Les Halles is one of the best quick-service restaurants at Epcot. It’s located in the back of the France Pavilion and serves an extensive variety of pastries. You can also get small entrees here (the ham sandwiches are particularly good). If fresh beignets, eclairs, macarons, etc are up your alley, then you’re going to really like Les Halles.

#32. See Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along

This cute and short show puts a new twist on the famous tale of Beauty and the Beast. You’ll get to sit in a cozy yet elegant theater and sing all your favorite songs. The twist is that Le Fou (the lead host in this show) was actually the catalyst for Belle’s romance with the Beast. It’s an interesting take on the classic story.

#33. Get Margaritas from La Cava del Tequila (21+)

La Cava is a quick-service margarita shop inside the Mexico Pavilion’s giant pyramid. It’s so well-liked that it’s among the top-rated Tripadvisor restaurants for all of Orlando. You’ll find hundreds of tequilas and plenty of unique margaritas on the menu. It’s dark and cozy inside, perfect for escaping the heat for a while and enjoying a cold drink with some chips and guacamole.

#34. Eat School Bread at Kringla Bakeri og Kafe

School Bread is my favorite dessert at Epcot. It’s a legendary Disney World pastry found in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion. It’s a bread pastry, filled with cold vanilla custard and topped with coconut. School Bread is a large dessert, but it’s not so sweet that it’s hard to eat. Don’t miss this one!

#35. Watch Canada Far & Wide

Canada Far & Wide is the third country-specific movie in the World Showcase. It’s presented in the same 360-degree style as Reflections of China. This film has recently been updated and is now narrated by Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy, who take you on a visual tour of Canada’s provinces.

#36. Ride Test Track

Test Track is an uber-popular ride. You’ll start by designing a car in the line queue, then you’ll move on to “testing” it out on the track. Most of the ride is indoors and the track bobs and weaves around obstacles. The ride ends with a big outdoor loop where you reach top speeds. Wait times are usually really long, so get a Fastpass if you can.

#37. Eat Pizza at Via Napoli

Via Napoli serves the best pizza at Disney World. True story. You’ll find this Neopolitan-style Italian restaurant in the back of the Italy Pavilion. It does serve things other than pizza, but the pizza is its main focus and it does an outstanding job making it. The ingredients are high-quality and the dough is perfect. You can choose from an assortment of pizzas on the menu or simply build your own. Either way, you can’t go wrong.

#38. Explore The Seas with Nemo and Friends

The Seas isn’t just a Nemo ride. It’s a gigantic indoor aquarium complex that’s home to what was (up until recent times) the largest saltwater tank in the world. There is an incredible amount of ocean life inside. Manatees, dolphins, sharks, turtles, fish- you get the picture. The highlight of The Seas is the glass tunnel that leads you to the middle of the aquarium and gives you a 360-degree view of your surroundings.

#39.  Eat at Biergarten

If all-you-can-eat German food with beer and live music sounds good to you, then you’re going to love Biergarten. It’s a German buffet-style restaurant that features a live polka band throughout the day. It’s a lot of fun, especially if you like beer. They serve German brews in steins the size of your head.

#40. Ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

This brand new ride is extremely fun for all ages, especially for those who love the Guardians of the Galaxy. The ride takes you on a fast-paced tour through space as you escape the villain – it even propels you backwards for the majority of the ride and the vehicles can move a full 360 degrees in rotation! The ride will also vary each time, since different tracks of Star Lord’s Awesome Mix are featured on each go around.

#41. Shop at the Mitsukoshi Department Store

The Mitsukoshi Department Store (check out our full guide to the store) is one of the coolest shops at Disney World. It’s a real Japanese department store brought over from Japan. You can find all sorts of things inside. Up front, there’s merchandise from famous animated brands like Hello Kitty, Pokemon, My Neighbor Totoro, and more. Clothing and home goods are in the middle. The back of the store has groceries, especially candy and sweets. I frequent Mitsukoshi to buy ramen noodles and other random foods.

#42. Meet Your Favorite Characters

Like the other parks, Epcot has a number of character viewing and character dining options. Anna, Elsa, Mulan, and Aladdin and Jasmine are some of the favorites. There are plenty of others like Winnie the Pooh and Alice in Wonderland scattered around, too.

#43. Eat Ice Cream at L’Artisan des Glaces

The ice cream served at L’Artisan des Glaces is hands down the best at Disney World. It is one of the very few shops that serve handmade ice cream and it’s delicious. There is a variety of flavors of plain ice cream, along with a menu of specialty items. My personal favorite is the “Croque Glaces”. It’s a special ice cream sandwich that puts a scoop of ice cream between a piece of freshly-baked brioche bread. The bread is then toasted to lightly crisp the exterior and seal the edges. Trust me- it’s awesome. Don’t go without checking out our  Ultimate Guide to Epcot Ice Cream !

#44.  Watch The American Adventure

The American Adventure is arguably Epcot’s greatest entertainment attraction. It is a stage show that portrays American history with detailed sets and impressive animatronics. It’s definitely a special show and shouldn’t be passed over. It’s equal parts American pride and classic Epcot charm.

#45.  Get a Frozen Kirin Beer (21+)

This is an easy one to miss if you don’t know what to look for. At the front of the Japan Pavilion you’ll find a small quick-service window that serves some drinks and small food items. It’s here that you’ll find the frozen Kirin beer on draft. It’s an icy, refreshing way to drink a beer while walking around the World Showcase.

#46. Watch the Street Performers

From Chinese acrobats to Japanese drummers, you’ll find a whole host of street performers scattered around Epcot. If you spot one of the performing groups while you make your way around Epcot, take a moment to check them out. They’re all very impressive and very good.

#47. Listen to the Voices of Liberty perform inside The American Adventure rotunda

The Voices of Liberty are a very talented group of vocalists who perform traditional American songs inside The American Adventure building. You’ll find them in the building’s central rotunda. They perform right before every one of The American Adventure’s showtimes. Their patriotic a capella renditions are outstanding.

#48. Drink Your Way Around the World (21+)

Drinking Around the World is a time-honored tradition for adult Epcot guests. The goal is to band together with your buddies and drink your way around the World Showcase’s 11 countries. If you’ve spent some time at Epcot, you’ve probably seen sleepy-eyed groups of people stumbling their way around Canada or Mexico as they make their final stand.  It’s a lot of fun if it’s done right and done responsibly. We give you more details on how to Drink Around the World at Epcot in this post.

Animal Kingdom Must Do’s

#49. ride kilimanjaro safaris.

Kilimanjaro Safaris is Animal Kingdom’s best attraction. The “ride” puts you into a real, free-moving truck to transport you through the park’s Harambe Reserve wildlife area. You’ll see lions, elephants, hippos, wildebeest, crocodiles, ostriches- the list goes on and on. It’s a truly unique theme park experience and the collection of African wildlife is really impressive. Certain times of the day are best for seeing the animals and we created a guide to Kilimanjaro Safaris to give you some tips for the ride.

Also, be sure to check out our complete list of Animal Kingdom tips and secrets .

#50. Watch the Festival of the Lion King

The Festival of the Lion King is one of Animal Kingdom’s live shows. It’s a huge musical show that takes place in a circular room, so there’s not a bad seat in the house. You’ll see all of your favorite Lion King characters, along with a whole host of singers, dancers, and acrobats. I’m always impressed by the talent on display in this show.

#51. Ride Expedition Everest

Expedition Everest is, in my opinion, Disney World’s best rollercoaster. The unique thing about this coaster is that it actually goes in reverse for a portion of the ride. Overall, Expedition Everest just feels a lot “bigger” than many other Disney rollercoasters. It’s especially good at nighttime.

#52. Eat at Satu’li Canteen

The new Pandora section of Animal Kingdom added a ton of fun to the park. One of the best addition was the quick-service Satu’li Canteen. It serves a number of “bowls” that are extremely good. You pick a meat, a base (rice, potatoes, etc), and a sauce for your meal. Everything is high-quality and it’s one of the best, most unique quick-service meals at Disney.

#53. Ride Avatar Flight of Passage

Flight of Passage is the flagship ride of the new Pandora section of the park. It’s a state-of-the-art 4D experience that places you on the back of a “Banshee” to take a ride through the world of Pandora. The details are so good that it really does feel like flying. The ride’s seating is shaped kind of like a motorcycle, making you feel like you’re actually riding on the back of a Banshee. You’ll even feel it breathe during the ride.

#54. Walk the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail

Spoiler alert: This is where you’ll find the gorillas. The Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail is one of Animal Kingdom’s two walkable wildlife trails. On this one, you’ll see gorillas (the highlight), hippos, and other African animals. The gorillas are usually very entertaining and you can get inches from them (separated by glass).

#55. Eat at Yak & Yeti

Yaki & Yeti is my one of my favorite park restaurants. It’s a Nepalese-themed restaurant that has a large menu of pan-Asian foods. The theme and decor is a nice changeup from what you get at most Asian restaurants and the food is very good.

#56. Walk Around Pandora: The World of Avatar

The new Pandora section of Animal Kingdom is breathtaking. The structures, landscaping, and general theme make it a pretty spectacular sight. It’s at its best when the sun goes down, so make sure to take a stroll through when it’s dark.

#57. Eat at Tiffins

Tiffins is Animal Kingdom’s new-ish signature restaurant. Its theme celebrates the Disney Imagineers’ exploration and preparation when they were creating Animal Kingdom. The menu is one of Disney World’s best, featuring lots of upscale yet wild options.

#58. Watch Finding Nemo: The Musical

Finding Nemo: The Musical is Animal Kingdom’s other major musical stage show. The whole show is elaborate and fun. The music is great and the costumes are some of the most impressive for a Disney show.

#59. Walk the Maharajah Jungle Trek

Maharajah Jungle Trek is Animal Kingdom’s other wildlife trail. It is located in the Asia section of the park and features all sorts of Asian animals. You’ll see everything from tigers to bats to komodo dragons.

#60. Take the Train to Conservation Station

This is an incredible experience and one that guests often forget or don’t realize is available. The attraction is located near the entrance to Gorilla Falls Exploration trail and remains open from 9:30am to 5pm. Conservation Station is a great place for kids to learn about how the zookeepers and veterinarians care for the creatures at Animal Kingdom and there’s even a petting zoo and play area here.

#61. Ride Dinosaur

Dinosaur is a super bumpy ride that sends you back in time to chase down dinosaurs. It’s not overly fast, but what it lacks in speed it makes up for in general rowdiness. The vehicles rocks back and forth like crazy while dinosaurs pop up around you.

#62. Watch Up! A Great Bird Adventure

Up! A Great Bird Adventure is an entertaining stage show featuring multiple species of live birds. The show was updated recently to include Russell and Doug from Pixar’s Up movie. The show’s exotic birds give some pretty impressive performances.

#63. Ride Kali River Rapids

If you don’t mind getting soaked, Kali River Rapids is great. It’s a standard river raft ride that lasts for a while and includes a few good drops.

#64. Ride Na’vi River Journey

The Na’vi River Journey is the second ride in the Pandora section of the park. It’s a dark water ride that takes you through the bioluminescent world of Avatar. It’s not the most thrill-inducing ride, but it has some cool details and impressive animatronics toward the end.

#65. Find DiVine

You’ve got to do some searching for this one. Divine is a live performer, on stilts and covered in foliage. She is one of Animal Kingdom’s best-kept secrets and many people walk right by her without noticing. If she’s out, you’ll likely find her on the Asia pathway, the Africa pathway, or in the Oasis (the front part) of the park.

#66. Get a Pongu Lumpia from Pongu Pongu

There’s a small window in Pandora that serves a handful of drinks and treats. One of the treats is the Pongu Lumpa. It’s a warm empanada-style dessert with cream cheese and pineapple on the inside. It’s a super good quick snack that won’t break the bank.

#67. Eat Lunch at Flame Tree Barbecue

Flame Tree Barbecue is a great quick-service lunch spot with lots of outdoor seating. The menu has plenty of meats like pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. The portions are large and the food is always good.

Hollywood Studios Must Do’s

#68. ride the twilight zone tower of terror.

It doesn’t get more “Hollywood Studios” than the Tower of Terror. It’s my favorite ride at the park and one of the most thrilling experiences at Disney. The theme, the decor, the line queue, the big drop- everything about the Tower of Terror is awesome. Don’t leave Hollywood Studios without riding it at least once!

Want tips on booking fastpasses for Hollywood Studios? Give our Hollywood Studios Fastpass Tiers a look before reserving yours!

#69. Eat at Hollywood Brown Derby

Hollywood Studios isn’t known for having an abundance of great restaurants, but Hollywood Brown Derby is a big exception. It’s the park’s signature restaurant and serves much better food. The restaurant is based on the original Brown Derby Restaurant in real life Hollywood. If you like Cobb salads, Hollywood Brown Derby’s is the most famous around.

#70. Watch Fantasmic !

Fantasmic! is an epic outdoor show that is part fireworks, part stage show, part water show, part lights show. There is so much going on during a Fantasmic performance. You’ll see tons of characters doing all sorts of different performances while fireworks, lights, and water are going off all around. It even incorporates boats that circle the stage. This is definitely Hollywood Studios’ best nighttime show.

#71. Ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has always been a massive part of Hollywood Studios. It’s one of the most intense rollercoasters at Disney and is entirely indoors. The ride is famous for its start, a jolting 0-60 takeoff into a tunnel. Some may think it’s a little too scary – to learn more, read our post on How Scary is Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster? to determine if it’s right for you.

#72. Ride Rise of the Resistance

One of the newest and most technologically avant garde ride in Walt Disney World is Rise of the Resistance in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Being so popular, it can be a challenge to find Lightning Lane passes for this one, but trust us – it is SO worth it for this amazing experience! You can also wait in a standby line for this one.

#73. Eat at the Sci-Fi Dine-In

Even though the Sci-Fi Dine-In’s food is good, the restaurant is really all about the experience. It’s fully indoors, but it’s designed to make you feel like you’re at an old-school drive-in theater. The tables are cars with rows of seats and counters. The big screen plays old thriller/sci-fi movies while you eat.

#74. Drink at Oga’s Cantina

A new establishment introduced with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the iconic “Star Wars Bar”. Oga’s Cantina takes direct inspiration from the first Star Wars movie, Episode IV: A New Hope, where Han Solo takes Luke into a bar on Tatooine. Your mind will be blown stepping inside for the very first time, seeing such similarities and sipping on other-wordly drinks.

#75. Ride the Millennium Falcon

Another new addition to the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge portion of Hollywood Studios is the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run. The ride assigns you a position: Pilot, Engineer or Gunner. Based on the assignment you get, you’ll team up with others to make up one flight crew that guns down enemy ships, steals their cargo and returns it to the Resistance. A truly fun experience, especially for the ultimate Star Wars fans.

#76. See Frozen Sing-Along Celebration

This exciting show tells the full story of Anna and Elsa as seen in the original Frozen movie. The funny cast invites the audience to participate in telling the story and singing along, which is a great time for kids and adults alike. At the end, Elsa even shows up to sprinkle snow on the crowd.

#77. Walk through Walt Disney Presents…

This attraction used to be called “One Man’s Dream” but was recently renamed. It focuses on showing the history behind Walt Disney’s vision for the park and for the Disney company in general. At the end of the tour, you’ll enter a theater where you’ll watch a video about Walt himself. Wait times are never a problem and this is absolutely worth seeing, especially if you’re a true-blue Disney fan.

#78. Ride Slinky Dog Dash

Slink Dog Dash is the flagship ride for Hollywood Studios’ new Toy Story Land. It’s a rollercoaster that strikes a good balance between “thrilling” and “kid-friendly”. The ride also actually lasts for a decent amount of time, which is nice. Don’t hesitate to use a ride pass for this one- the wait times are super high. Also, try riding this one at night. It looks really cool when it’s dark.

#79. Watch Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage

Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage is a stage reenactment of the traditional Beauty and the Beast movie. It shortens the story down but still has plenty of music and performance to make it worthwhile. The costumes are particularly good with appearances from Lumiere, Cogsworth and the gang.

#80. Eat at Woody’s Lunch Box

Woody’s Lunch Box is the main quick-service restaurant in Toy Story Land. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serves a simple menu with normal breakfast items in the morning and some decent sandwiches from the afternoon on. The grilled cheese is great and the “Lunch Box Tarts” (fancy homemade pop-tarts) alone make the restaurant worth visiting. If you want a sugar-high in the morning, get the S’mores Breakfast Sandwich.

Disney Springs Must Do’s

#81. eat at raglan road.

Raglan Road is my favorite Disney Springs hangout. It’s a large Irish pub with live music and dancers every night. You won’t find a more lively spot to spend an evening at Disney. The food is also very, very good. I’ve been to Raglan Road more times than I could ever count and it never gets old. For the price of dinner or drinks, you get top-notch entertainment and a great atmosphere. Raglan Road is one of our top picks on our list of the Best Disney World Restaurants for Adults .

#82. Take an Amphicar Tour

Right next to the Boathouse restaurant, there is a launch that has amphibious cars. For a price, a captain will take you for a 25-minutes sightseeing tour around Disney Spring’s lake. It’s a pretty cool way to see Disney Springs in a new way.

#83. Shop at the Market Co-Op

The Market Co-Op is a collection of Disney shops that sell more unique items than what you’ll find in most other stores. There’s a home good section, a women’s clothing section, a dress/accessory shop, a men’s clothing section, an art section, and more. There are usually some cool finds in here.

#84. Eat Dessert at Amorette’s

Amorette’s is a bakery located right next door to the giant World of Disney store. It serves some of the best baked goods at Disney World, along with some other delicious desserts. Their cakes are works of art and they also provide custom work. This is my go-to Disney Springs dessert spot.

#85. Take a Ride in the Hot Air Balloon

One of the first things you’ll notice walking around Disney Springs is the huge hot ait ballooon routinely rising and falling. You can pay to go up in it. It’s worth the fee ($20 for adults, $15 for kids) once, just to see Disney World from 400 feet in the air.

#86. Go Bowling at Splitsville

This isn’t your rundown hometown bowling alley. Splitsville is a gigantic, upscale bowling alley/restaurant that stays pretty busy in the evenings. The food is decent and the bowling is great.

#87. Eat at Morimoto Asia

Morimoto Asia is another one of Disney Springs’ best restaurants. Celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto is the mind behind the restaurant and he created an awesome menu for it. The restaurant’s building is also pretty incredible. It’s very modern and flashy compared to most other Disney Springs facilities. There’s a great lounge upstairs. If you don’t have a reservation, go to the lounge or go outside to the “Street Food” quick-service extension of the restaurant.

#88. Take a Picture with the Coke Bear

There is a massive Coca-Cola store right next to the Orange Garage at Disney Springs. You’ll find all kinds of Coke products inside, but the highlight is taking a picture with the 7-foot-tall Coke Bear character.

#89. Shop at World of Disney

World of Disney is the largest Disney store in the world. It’s HUGE. You’ll find different departments that carry just about everything you could think of.

#90. Eat at The Boathouse

The Boathouse is a fairly new addition to Disney Springs, but it’s quickly become a fan-favorite. It’s an upscale but casual restaurant that serves outstanding seafood, steaks, and more. It’s a beautiful spot inside and out. Whether you’re dining as a couple or dining with the whole family, this is a great option.

#91. Get Drinks at Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar (21+)

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar is a heavily-themed bar based on Indiana Jones. There are a lot of creative drinks and the building itself is quirky and cool.

#92. Watch a Movie at the AMC Theater

The AMC theater at Disney Springs is a good place to relax for a while and escape the Disney hustle and bustle. It’s especially good if you can watch a Disney movie at Disney World.

#93. SHop at Namebrand stores

There are TONS of other shops scattered around Disney Springs. There’s something for everyone, men, women, and children.

#94. Get a Sundae or a Milkshake from the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop

Chances are good that you’ll smell the chocolate scent coming from the Ghirardelli shop before you see it. It stays constantly busy, serving milkshakes and ice cream galore.

#95. Eat at D-Luxe Burger

D-Luxe Burger is a newer addition to Disney Springs. It’s a fast-casual, Disney-operated restaurant that serves some surprisingly great burgers. Lots of unique combos and some delicious homemade sauces.

#96. Get Drinks at The Edison’s lounge (21+)

The Edison is a full restaurant, but I like it better for drinks than for a meal. The food is decent, but the lounge is the really cool part. Great for late-night drinks on an adults-night-out.

Disney World Resorts Must Do’s

#97. hang out at stormalong bay at the beach & yacht club resort.

If you’re staying at the Beach Club Resort or Yacht Club Resort, you’ll have access to Stormalong Bay. It’s hands down the best pool area at Disney World. Honestly, “pool” isn’t an accurate description. Stormalong Bay is more akin to a miniature water park, with multiple pools, a big waterslide, a lazy river, lots of lounging areas, and more. While you’re there, take a walk around the Epcot Resort Area and visit some of the other nearby resorts.

#98. Eat at ‘Ohana at the Polynesian Resort

If you can get a reservation for ‘Ohana, don’t hesitate to book it. ‘Ohana is uber-popular and for good reason. The food is great and is served all-you-can-eat. You’ll also get some Hawaiin music and entertainment over the course of dinner. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all served. Breakfast features Lilo and Stitch for character dining. ‘Ohana also happens to be an awesome place to watch Magic Kingdom’s fireworks in the evening.

#99. Do a “Monorail Crawl”

Whether you’re eating, drinking, or just sightseeing, it’s a ton of fun to simply hop on the monorail and explore. The Grand Floridian, Polynesian Resort, and Contemporary Resort are linked together via monorail, making it super easy to resort hop. Some of my favorite days at Disney have been spent doing nothing other than making my way around these resorts.

#100. Spend an evening at the Boardwalk

Disney’s Boardwalk is a full resort that features a classic Atlantic City-style boardwalk. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options up and down the boardwalk.

#101. Eat dinner and watch fireworks at California Grill

California Grill is my personal favorite restaurant at Disney World. In my opinion, there’s nothing else like it. The restaurant itself is situated on the very top of the Contemporary Resort, providing the best view of Disney World that you can find. It’s a magical place to have a meal. The restaurant has private outdoor observation decks that are the best spot to watch Magic Kingdom fireworks.

#102. Get drinks at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto

Trader Sam’s is the best bar at Disney World and it’s not even close. As soon as you walk in, you’ll realize you’re not in any old bar. Trader Sam’s is an interactive indoor tiki bar that is decked out with incredible decorations and an amazing staff. The whole bar will react to your drink order, complete with effects and animatronics. The drinks are perfect and are served in special ceramic mugs available for purchase (I have too many of them.)

#103. Eat at Jiko: The Cooking Place at the Animal Kingdom Lodge

Jiko is an upscale African restaurant located inside the main Jambo House building at the Animal Kingdom Lodge. The food is absolutely outstanding and the setting is cozy but elegant. I’ve never had a bad meal here. Try the Botswana Short Rib!

#104. Take a carriage ride around Port Orleans Resort

Port Orleans Resort is without a doubt my favorite Moderate resort at Disney World. The resort has Moderate-level pricing with Deluxe-level outdoor areas. One of the best ways to enjoy the Port Orleans property is to take a 25-minute horsedrawn carriage ride. The carriage will take you down paths by the river and through the middle of the resort.

#105. Eat dinner at Victoria and Albert’s at the Grand Floridian

If you’re looking for the finest fine-dining at Disney World, Victoria and Albert’s is your spot. It’s one of the most prestigious restaurants in Florida with its AAA 5 Diamond rating. A dinner here is expensive, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for an amazing experience.

#106. Watch fireworks or a sunset on the Polynesian Resort beach

Every night, the Polynesian’s beaches fill with guests who want a great view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. The beaches are situated directly across the Seven Seas Lagoon from Magic Kingdom, giving you a head on view from across the water. The beach is also beautiful for sunset-watching.

#107. Get drinks or a meal at Geyser Point at The Wilderness Lodge

Geyser Point is pretty new to the Wilderness Lodge and has quickly become one of my favorite hangouts. It’s an open-air bar and grill that serves good food and good beer. The real draw though is its view of Bay Lake. It’s the perfect spot for kicking back and enjoying a sunset while you have a drink.

#108. Check out the animals at the Animal Kingdom Lodge

There’s nothing quite like having giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife right in the middle of a resort. The Animal Kingdom Lodge has some amazing wildlife enclosures directly in the center of the resort areas, making it easy to leisurely watch the animals run around during the day. Whether you’re staying at the AKL or just stopping by for a meal, make sure to walk outside and take a look.

#109.  Hoot and Holler at the hoop-dee-doo Musical Revue

This fun, family-style dinner show gets everybody out of their seat for a good time. You’ll find it at the Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. The fare is good American-style BBQ in platters big enough for your whole party. While eating, various performers will take the stage for songs and skits and will even select people to join them from the crowd.

#110. Get drinks at Jellyrolls piano bar (21+)

Jellyrolls is a popular dueling piano bar located on the Disney Boardwalk and arguably the most lively and chaotic atmosphere on Disney property. The pianists are very talented and play any tune imaginable, including your Disney favorites. They take requests and can play just about anything you throw at them. It’s a great spot for an adults-night-out, especially if you like good music.

Still in the planning phase of your vacation?

We also created a complete guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation on a Budget . It’s a highly detailed resource to help you decide where to spend your money and enjoy Disney World on any budget.

Our annual Disney World gear guide is another helpful resource for getting you ready for your trip.

This was SO helpful! I’ve been doing a lot of research for our trip, but this is first time I heard about the amphicar tours and exactly why people kept recommending Trader Sam’s. Your posts are super helpful! This might be our only trip to Disney for a long time, so we are trying to research what is worth experiencing and what is worth skipping. Thank you!

Thrilled to have helped! It can be easy to become overwhelmed by the number of things to do at Disney and we totally understand the pressure that can come with planning a trip. Especially if it’s the only one you’ll be taking for a while. It’s always our goal to cover as much as we can, because we hate to see anyone miss out on something simply because they didn’t know it existed. Hope you have an outstanding trip and please let us know if we can help with any other questions you may have!

Love the idea of getting a drink at Trader Sams and watching sunset from Polynesian. Do you think we could do that and make it back to MK for fireworks? we’re going in November.

Absolutely!

From November 3rd (after the time change) on, the sun will be setting at about 5:30 PM. Magic Kingdom’s fireworks show will start at 9:00 PM, unless it’s a special event night (Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party). On Christmas Party nights, the fireworks may take place somewhere between 9:00 and 9:30 PM.

Either way, you shouldn’t have any problem at all doing Trader Sam’s, a Polynesian Resort sunset, and Magic Kingdom fireworks in one fell swoop!

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Hi, I'm Chad. I'm a Disney World local, fortunate enough to be constantly up close and personal with all things Disney. Thousands of hours at parks, resorts, and restaurants have given me a special connection to the magic. I built Magic Insiders in order to share my years of experience with you.

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Disney World in 60 Seconds

Discover how to make the most of your visit to walt disney world in orlando, exploring all the attractions and experiences that await you and your family..

Walt Disney World Resort is an entertainment and recreation center of nearly 40 square miles featuring four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom); two water adventure parks (Disney's Blizzard Beach and Disney's Typhoon Lagoon); dozens of resort hotels (24 owned and operated by Walt Disney World); 81 holes of golf on five courses; two full-service spas; Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports complex; and Disney Springs, an entertainment-shopping-dining complex. 

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park

- Walt Disney World Resort

Embark on a Magical Journey: Theme Parks, Water Adventures, and Entertainment Await at Walt Disney World Resort

Magic kingdom.

Explore six lands of enchantment, one-of-a-kind attractions and magic here at the place where storybook fantasy becomes everyday reality.

Experience  Seven Dwarfs Mine Train , and race through the diamond mine on a swaying family coaster ride. Launch through the darkest reaches of the cosmos on  Space Mountain  or float through a lively bayou of singing critters toward a five-story splashdown on Splash Mountain ,  and swoop through a haunted gold-mining town on a runaway train while aboard  Big Thunder Mountain Railroad .

Animal Kingdom

Explore  Disney’s Animal Kingdom  Theme Park throughout the day and into the night. on an adventure into a world alive with magic. A new exploration will take you to  Pandora—The World of Avatar, a  distant world where you can float down a mystical bioluminescent river and fly on the back of banshees that soar past floating mountains. Back on Earth, at  Disney’s Animal Kingdom  Theme Park view thousands of animals in their natural habitats. Spot them while trekking Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail,  Kilimanjaro Safaris  and at the base of the  Tree of Life.  And behold the Tree of Life , commemorating Earth and its creatures. By day, it’s a visual exploration of animals big and small; by night, animal spirits awaken to tell colorful tales of nature's harmony.

Stroll through the scenic World Showcase and experience the architecture, culture and people of 11 countries. Enjoy sample-sized food, musical performances, and special events throughout the year at Epcot’s four different festivals. Hop aboard  Soarin’  Around the World to fly high on a hang-gliding adventure to famous places across the globe. Voyage to Arendelle aboard an ancient Nordic vessel as you take a musical tour of the wintery world of  Frozen  on  Frozen Ever After .  Feel as if you’ve shrunk to the size of a rat on a 4D culinary adventure when you take a spin around Gustaeu’s kitchen at Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure.

Disney's Hollywood Studios make you feels like you're walking through actual movie sets.

- The Walt Disney World Co.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

At  Star Wars:  Galaxy’s Edge, you’ll experience the smells and tastes of a cantina set in a galaxy far, far away. And, you can feel the rush of taking over control of the  Millennium Falcon . In Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, burst into a crazy colorful cartoon world and join Mickey and Minnie on a runaway adventure. Become the size of a toy with Buzz and Woody and take a ride on Slinky Dog as he careens through Andy’s backyard in  Toy Story Land .

Chill out at Disney's Blizzard Beach.

Disney's Blizzard Beach and Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Parks

Guests can plunge into a world of themed water fun. Challenge Summit Plummet. Snorkel with sharks in Shark Reef. Zoom down side-by-side racing slides. Or, float leisurely down a meandering river. For thrills or just chilling out, a day in a Walt Disney World Water Park is watery fun for one of the most popular theme parks in Florida.

Disney Springs

Shop, dine and be entertained, at hundreds of incredible venues. For shoppers, you can discover well-known brands, unusual finds and keepsakes along with the world’s largest collection of Disney merchandise at more than 100 shops.

Dining?   Choose from more than 60 eateries, from quick bites to special meals – with a an unprecedented number of restaurants inspired by celebrity and award-winning chefs. Entertainment includes bowling, movies. and more.

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2024 Best & Worst Months to Visit Disney World

Choosing when to visit Walt Disney World in 2024 can be difficult, balancing crowd calendars, seasonal events, park hours, weather, and more. This guide does exactly that to rank the best & worst months, plus some of our favorite weeks.

If you’ve yet to narrow down when you want to visit to a specific month or season, our Walt Disney World Crowd Calendars will help you choose dates based on attendance and average wait times, but that’s it. Accordingly, we recommend many readers consult this resource for the “broad strokes” on when to visit Walt Disney World. Here we’ve re-ranked the best and worst months for 2024 based on a variety of mostly qualitative and some quantitative factors.

This considers a variety of variables in conjunction with our evolving expectations about Walt Disney World’s attendance for 2024. To that end, we regularly share big updates, discounts that are released by Walt Disney World, crowd levels change, etc., we send out email notifications. To receive these, subscribe to our free email newsletter . This will give you a good idea of what things are like ‘on the ground’ at Walt Disney World, as well as what to expect in the future.

Unfortunately, Walt Disney World crowd levels can vary, and can not be forecast with 100% accuracy. As such, you should choose when to visit based on other comfort and enjoyment factors in addition to Walt Disney World crowd projections. It’s more pragmatic to choose when you’ll visit based on a mix of attendance levels plus weather, seasonal entertainment, and special events!

As such, these rankings eschew the typical Walt Disney World crowd calendar in favor of a more holistic approach that takes into account more than just crowds when choosing when to visit Walt Disney World.

Low crowds during a time when temperatures are sweltering, humidity is off the charts and there are no special events should not trump moderate crowds during a temperate time of year with a special event. Few people evaluate their vacation’s success by some statistical ‘fun quotient’, so why not do likewise when planning, and perform a qualitative analysis when choosing travel dates?

To cut to the chase, the point of this post is to rank every month of the year for visiting Walt Disney World in light of all variables that (we feel) are important with adjustments made for the ongoing reopening of the parks & resorts, operations scaling back up, capacity increasing, and entertainment returning.

Even months with significant and obvious downsides might have tremendous upside. Take August, for example, which ranks #8. That’s obviously not great, but summer vacation demand usually fizzles out after the first week, making the two-thirds of the month much better than the first half. Even then, it’s hard to rank August higher due to the weather, and since September is such a superior alternative.

There are similar stories throughout the list. November and December have become busier, but these are such qualititatively pleasant and fun months that we’re hard pressed to rank them poorly even given the higher crowds. You’ll have to decide for yourself how you weigh those countervailing factors–we’re just giving you some insight into our thinking and methodology.

Anyway, here is our personal assessment of the best and worst months to visit Walt Disney World. We’d recommend reading the description of each month carefully to make an informed decision about which time frames are best and worst for you…

12. July 2024 – This month ranks dead last due to uncertainty and upside, or lack thereof. Last July was the busiest month of the year at Walt Disney World as the parks got hit by an onslaught of pent-up demand. That’s not normal–in recent years, summer had ceased to be peak season at Walt Disney World.

However, Americans made up for lost time during summer vacation in the last two years, and Florida was one of the top destinations. Last July wasn’t quite as busy, but that could be attributed to inflation and rising gas prices, etc. Obviously, a lot could change between now and July, but we’re expecting above-average crowds.

The big reason behind the low ranking is that July is not a good month to visit Florida because of heat and humidity. The near-certainty of poor weather plus the uncertainty of heavy crowds puts July in last place. With that said, once you plan for the realities of a summer trip, remember: “ even a rainy, potentially crowded day at Walt Disney World is better than a perfect day at home. ” Don’t get too down on trip–it’ll still be a great time so long as you go in with good strategy and realistic expectations.

10. June 2024 – In a typical year, June starts out slow and gets progressively worse as more schools get out and families begin taking their summer vacations. Crowds start in above-average territory and are high by the end of the month. The last few summers have been a bit atypical, but we’d expect that trend to return for June 2024.

Another normal downside to June is the weather. Obviously, it’s a hot month, and the average monthly rainfall in June at Walt Disney World is over 8+ inches, and the probability of rain on any given day is above 50%. The upside to June is that it’s typically the less busy of the summer months, with most summer vacations happening in July or early August.

10. March 2024 – Early March is one of our “sleeper picks” for low crowds–and will be once again come March 2024 with Mardi Gras moving forward to February. Consequently, there should be a brief respite before spring break, but not long enough for March as a whole to rank too highly.

Spring break is the major downside to the second half of March, as is Easter occurring at the end of the month (March 31, 2024). In particular, avoid Orange County’s spring break as that’ll be the worst week-plus of the entire season, since that local school district has the most outsized impact on crowds.

On the plus side, weather is typically temperate by March, as evidenced by the start of Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival at the beginning of the month. Regardless of the year, we are fans of March dates as a great time for cool weather, moderate crowds, and Epcot coming into bloom.

9. April 2024 – James Franco could make a sequel to Spring Breakers set at Walt Disney World, and it would make the events of the original film seem perfectly tame. Okay, maybe not, but that doesn’t change the fact that Spring Break at Walt Disney World is a time to be avoided if you can.

Given that Easter will be in April every year until 2024, it’s a month that we recommend avoiding if you don’t like long lines. The entire month will be above average, but the weeks abutting Easter will be DEFCON 1. You’d better have some fast fingers (and a fast internet connection!) when trying to book a Lightning Lane for Slinky Dog Dash!

Starting on Tax Day Eve, April should improve considerably. Whether crowds drop by enough to move it higher on this list is debatable–but the point is that the last week and a half of April is much better. If that were its own month, it’d rank on the top half of this list.

8. August 2024 – Feel like Mission: Space is insufficient at simulating a visit to outer space? Then you’ll love August in Walt Disney World, when every day feels like a veritable trip to Venus or Mercury! August sees the mercury rising in Central Florida, and that hot, humid, and rainy weather alone makes August among the worst months to visit.

August is qualitatively the worst month to visit Walt Disney World. Quantitatively, it’s harder to say. August marks the end of “Peak Season” ticket prices, meaning people who postponed their visits to save money will start heading to the parks. Annual Passholder blockouts lift in August, causing a slight spike in locals, but it’s usually not bad.

The big thing is that summer vacation demand starts to burn out by the second week of August as families prepare to head back to school schedules. This results in an overall drop-off in attendance and there’s typically a large lull in crowds from mid-August through the end of September. August is a tale of two months–still slightly busy as vacation season winds down to start, but significantly better during the second half. Overall, it’s one of the lowest crowd months of the entire year. It’s the weather that drags it down considerably.

7. October 2024 – For the last several years, October had been dropping. Thanks to a variety of holidays, school breaks, conventions, and other events, October had become one of the busiest months of the year at Walt Disney World in terms of average wait times before that. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party also throws a monkey wrench into Magic Kingdom attendance (but the upside is that it makes heavy crowds easier to predict and outsmart!).

Our expectation is that October 2024 marks a return to normal, as was more or less the case this year. That means some spikes around Columbus Day for fall break, with conventions and youth events also resulting in larger crowds. Other than that, the month is only slightly above average–albeit much worse than September.

Nevertheless, October remains attractive for its seasonal events at Epcot and Magic Kingdom and improving weather. We can’t recommend this month from the perspective of crowds alone, but it’s not a bad subjective choice when Halloween, Food & Wine, and more are added to the equation.

6. February 2024 – For the last few years, February has seen high crowds at Walt Disney World–to the point that we no longer call them “atypically” high crowds. That was once again true last year, with Mardi Gras and Presidents’ Day coinciding to make the second half of the month incredibly busy. Several days were so bad that Genie+ sold out.

It’s not likely to be much different next year. Mardi Gras moves earlier in the month, meaning two busy weeks instead of one  insanely  busy weeks. We expect this month to be slightly worse than January 2024 on that basis. However, if you can avoid the dates around holidays, February is still a decent time to visit.

If you’re already looking forward to February 2024, the first and last weeks of the month are definitely the ones to choose. Those should see lower crowds, pleasant weather, along with two different EPCOT festivals.

5. January 2024 – This is the “holiday hangover” at Walt Disney World. It’s sort of like Walt Disney World ate too many Christmas cookies and is too lazy to get off the couch and take down the decorations, with this mentality continuing long after the tree is dead to the point where its wife is embarrassed when it finally throws out the tree. (Not that I know from experience or anything.) On the plus side, January offers mild weather and the Epcot Festival of the Arts is fantastic.

When it comes to crowds, expect January 2024 to be a repeat of this year and the year before that . Which is to say, that January is a “Tale of Two Seasons.” This year, the month as a whole ended up being 7/10 on the crowd calendar, but that doesn’t even begin to tell the whole story. The first 7 days of the month were on par with the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Crowd levels were 10/10 every day during that stretch…and would’ve been even higher than that if the scale went higher. Attendance spiked again over the MLK Day holiday weekend, too.

However, most of the rest of January was much less busy, with lots of 2/10 and 3/10 days. If you can go after Orange County’s winter break and the Walt Disney World Marathon, January 2024 should be a great time to visit. Basically, aim for the second week or thereafter, and skip the mid-month MLK Day holiday weekend. Outside of those red flag dates, January 2024 should see fairly low crowds, pleasant weather, and EPCOT Festival of the Arts fun.

4. December 2024 – If Disney Vacation Club is the “Best Kept Secret,” the beginning of December being the best time to visit is “Disney’s Second Best Kept Secret.” Unfortunately, there’s just a pinch of sarcasm here. It’s as if the both ‘secrets’ were entrusted to the cast of Encanto , and they wrote a whole song about how they don’t talk about December crowds.

Suffice to say, the secret has gotten out about December. That coupled with Disney’s more strategic use of blockout dates and dynamic ticket pricing has shifted attendance somewhat. Crowds are still not as bad as other peak seasons, but it’s no longer the ghost town that it once was. We still view the first two weeks of the month as desirable times to visit, even despite being about as “secret” as the In-N-Out Secret Menu.

Pleasant weather plus Christmas decorations & entertainment are the big highlights here. It also helps that Pop Warner has moved to Universal, so that won’t contribute to crowds. If you can’t do mid-November, we think early to mid-December is still well worth it from a subjective perspective. And in fact, it might be worth it from an objective perspective, too. Last year, crowds didn’t get truly bad until December 19. Almost every day before that had a crowd level of 5/10 or lower. After that…well…like Bruno, we don’t talk about the chaotic crowds of Christmas and New Year’s Eve!

3. September 2024 – Every single month that was once the off-season has seen soaring crowds at Walt Disney World in recent years, with one exception: September. Nothing has moved the needle on fall off-season crowds–not the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, not the anticipated pre-50th Anniversary lull, and not perpetual picks by crowd calendars that September would be the slowest month of the year.

When judged solely on the basis of crowds, September is always the best month of the year. Aside from Labor Day weekend, September is relatively slow, especially earlier in the month. While Walt Disney World has been able to manipulate crowd levels in other off-season months, that has not happened with September. After Labor Day, the entire month is off-season, with the lowest crowd levels of the year.

September remains resilient and “crowd-proof” because most people simply cannot visit during the month due to school going back into session, or don’t want to do so because of the weather. On that basis, September had been our #1 month of the year at Walt Disney World for ages.

But these are qualitative rankings, and I just can’t give September the nod anymore. Not after last year. Even with seasonal events and low crowds–the likelihood of brutal weather is just too much. Heat and humidity make being outdoors unpleasant during September, and it’s a high point in the storm season. (We highly recommend reading Is It Still Worth Visiting During the Fall Off-Season at Walt Disney World? before booking August or September.)

Despite that, it might be worth bearing with the weather to take advantage of those low crowds. That’s doubly true when you consider the fact that prices are cheaper in September and events are held at EPCOT (Food & Wine Festival) and Magic Kingdom (Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.) Even in the current era of unpredictable crowds, September 2024 should be relatively reliable.

2. May 2024 – The entirety of May 2024 will fall before summer tourist season and our expectation is that–after several months of consistently high crowds for one reason or another–May will be another return to normal as the calm between Spring Break and Summer 2024.

That’s doubly true with  nothing  opening during the month of May 2024, or being new. Last year, TRON Lightcycle Run debuted in the prior month. The year before that, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opened at the end of May, and had previews prior to then. There’s almost no chance that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will be done by May 2024, and no one cares about CommuniCore Hall. There’s nothing else (major) that could debut during the month.

That’s huge from the perspective of crowds, and means the entirety of May 2024 should be slower. Even with the Memorial Day holiday weekend factored into the mix, crowds are typically below average in May. Most schools aren’t out of session this early, and there’s a lag between when kids get out of school and families take their big summer trips, anyway.

The main downside to May is that heat and humidity can really start intensifying in May, but still not as bad as the summer months that follow. However, May is the first month of the year during which it’s not uncommon to see the temperatures broach 90-degrees and the humidity reach high levels.

1. November 2024 – Save for Thanksgiving and Veterans Day weeks, neither of which are as bad as the Christmas and New Year’s holiday weeks in terms of crowds, November is similar to December. Early and mid-November are usually good times to visit Walt Disney World, and the week after Thanksgiving is exceptional.

The upside to November are that the weather is generally more temperate. The downside is that not all Christmas entertainment starts until after Thanksgiving (specifically at Epcot), and some resort hotel decorations are not up during the first half of the month. If that is make or break for you, visit in the last week of November 2024 (which technically  also includes a couple days of December).

With the first half of December seeing lower crowds in the last couple of years, the gap between the two months is closing, but November 2024 should still retain its #1 ranking as an overall superior pick. Again, so long as you about the aforementioned holiday weeks. Only the week of Thanksgiving is truly bad in November, whereas only the first two weeks or so of December 2024 are truly good.

The culmination of all of this? That our favorite week to visit Walt Disney World is the Sunday after Thanksgiving through the first Saturday of December . That means arriving on December 1, 2024. (You might actually consider arriving Saturday to make your first park day Sunday–last year that day was dead. )

That’s the sweet spot for the best prospects of good weather, moderate crowds, and experiencing all of the Christmas festivities. For the last couple of years, that week has seen truly low crowd levels–not just moderate. We wouldn’t be surprised if the numbers rebound a little and crowds are in the 4/10 range. If lower crowds are of paramount importance, you can also target mid-November after Veterans Day–just go before the week of Thanksgiving. That week should be slightly less crowded and offer most Christmas entertainment, outside of Epcot.

Beyond this recommendation for our favorite week of the year, we’d refer you to our 10 Best & Worst Weeks to Visit Walt Disney World in 2024 and 2025 . Those lists were actually inspired by this, and offering a range of recommendations beyond just the months here. That contains recommendations of dates to visit (and avoid!) in virtually every single month of 2024 and 2025. It should be helpful for picking dates, regardless of whether you have maximum flexibility or are locked into weeks when school is out of session.

Ultimately, that’s a rundown of the good & bad of crowds at Walt Disney World. As you might’ve gathered by reading the entries, the various months don’t really demarcate attendance levels. To the contrary, it’s really more about school breaks and holidays, and the stretches before and after those.

Consequently, mid-January to mid-February is more of a distinct window than either January or February, late April has more in common with May than with early April, mid-August is more like September than early August, and the last few months of the year are all about holiday breaks (or the lack thereof).

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

Do you agree or disagree with our 2024 Walt Disney World month by month rankings? Are there any months you think are better or worse than we have them ranked? Any specific ideal weeks that you’d recommend people visit Walt Disney World? Any questions? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

Hi all! We were lucky this year and were able to take two trips to Disney World in 2023. Once in March for 4 day, and the weather was beautiful, yet very windy. But, wow, it was Very crowded, Epcot was so overbooked that you could not move. It took hours to walk around from France to Mexico. This was the second week of March. Then again we returned in May, after the holiday, into the first week of June. When I say it was crowded, I mean shoulder to shoulder, hour long waits, Genie + was 24.-$29. a day, and although we were staying on property and awoke each day early, not one of the 8 days did we “Win” a virtual que space. One of the day we were inside MK so we were able to score the VQ for tron after 2:00. Our return time was 9:00pm. We had to wait in the line for almost 2 more hours to ride. The entire vacation was by far, the worst vacation we have ever taken in Disney. Everything that could have gone wrong, did. The weather was horrible, it stormed for many hours most days, and the nicest day was the day we left. Our, “after hours” event had so many broken down rides, we paid for nothing but walking around the park. In my opinion, there is no best month to visit Disney world any more. Perhaps others will have a better experience with vacations in 2024. At least they will not have park reservations, and I see the dining plan has returned. So, perhaps it was just our bad luck and bad timing.

Hello, I really love your page, it’s super helpful! Looking at the last week of Feb / 1st week of March, how much effect do you think will felt from colleges starting their spring breaks? We’re considering the 1st week of Feb (but hesitant because of less daylight, chance of colder weather), the 1st week of March or a week at the end of April (but hesitant because of higher prices/heat). Thanks a lot in advance for your advice!

Any reason almost every room in deluxe resorts are sold out the last week of November if its expected to be moderate crowds? I was planning on this week but options at polynesian, grand floridian, and contemporary are extremely limited. Makes me wonder if that week is going to be much busier than expected?

You’re such a great resource! Thank you for providing all the insight that you do! It helps make our Disney planning much easier! We’re going to disneyworld in September for the parks (thankfully a low crowd month but hoping the weather isn’t bad). We’re excited to attend the Halloween party at the magic kingdom, it’s part of the reason for the trip. Since the tickets aren’t on sale yet and dates haven’t been released, I haven’t booked any other parks yet. Just wondered if you think I’ll be cutting it too close to book any other parks until after I lock down our trick or treat party tickets. I looked at last years schedule and have an idea of what days of the week they offer in September but not sure if they will keep with that pattern. If you have any thoughts, I’m all ears!

Hi Tom, love your blog. We tend to visit Disney in Sept and we have been lucky with low crowds and no run in with hurricane . We want to experience Disney during Christmas this year. What are your thoughts of crowds 12/3-12/10? Thanks

I have a trip planned for December 27 until January 5th. We have never been to universal and thought we might try it. I have experienced the holiday crowds at Disney before, are the universal crowds as bad? Would we get more done in 1 day with express pass or in 2 days without it? Thinking about January 2nd or 3rd. Any suggestions from anyone? Thanks!!

“When judged solely on the basis of crowds, September is always the best month of the year. Aside from Labor Day weekend, September is relatively slow, especially earlier in the month. While Walt Disney World has been able to manipulate crowd levels in other off-season months, that has not happened with September. After Labor Day, the entire month is off-season, with the lowest crowd levels of the year.”

So, if you were coming for the D23 event September 8-9, would you come the week before or stay after for your vacation? Do you think the D23 event will be worth coming? I have never been.

We took our first Disney trip in 10 years, it was my daughter’s first time, in late October 2022. Not sure how the crowds were ‘down’ as crowds were off the charts. Long wait times, lots of rides down, it was an absolute nightmare. Many parks including MK and HS you couldn’t even move. This wasn’t our first Disney trip, we’ve had plenty before and knew the ropes, but this was the worst and most unpleasant vacation we’ve ever had. An absolute waste of money. We had tickets to MNSSHP and was so exasperated that we actually returned them for a refund. Worst trip ever. Not to mention many lavatories in the parks were really disgusting and didn’t appear to be cleaned. I’ve seen cleaner facilities in Penn Station.

We were there October 2022 for one month into November. The crowds were insane, I’ve never seen it so packed so I would have to disagree about October being a good month. I wish we had the ability to post photos here as then I could show you what every park looked like crowd wise when we were there last year. This year we’re trying November / December – will see how we go.

we r looking at End of September/beginning of October 2023. Hoping that the DINING PLAN comes back!!!

Any Updates on. that????

Cautionary Note on May: The past couple first weeks of May have been in the 90s, and if you are coming from a more temperate place, it can be a big shock. Early May 2022 saw me going from 70 degrees to 90+ and it was an unpleasant shock to my system on days with 20,000+ steps. Hydrate! And of course know that May the Fourth Be With You at DHS was shoulder to shoulder (as expected, but May 3rd was OK–lots of locals on 5/4, esp as the day wears on).

Just keep in mind it’s all relative regarding crowds. I always plan for months when crowds are low. September 2022 was crowded. You can’t sugar coat it. Maybe it’s not shoulder to shoulder crowded but it was packed from my perspective especially with ride breakdowns exacerbating it. September 2019 was awesome as was May 2018. WDW has a crowd problem. We have ended our vacations there for that reason among others.

Hi Tom, First time reply :). I have so enjoyed your blog over the last year. We went during your “sweet spot” week Sept. ’22 🙂 … it was also our anniversary so that was the main reason :). I love September …I don’t find the heat horrible and the crowds are lower. That being said…Ian about did me in. Looking back over the years it seems as if September is the month where WDW has experienced the most hurricane activity? We purchased into DVC this last year and planned on Sept. trips going forward. Now I am thinking November lol. Thanks for your work.

TOM, WHAT ARE THE CHANCES THAT THE WDW RAILROAD WILL BE BACK BY JAN 15TH? I KNOW THAT TRON WILL NOT BE OPEN BY THEN, BUT CAN’T THE RAILROAD OPEN? WHY DO WE NEED TO WAIT FOR TRON TO OPEN?

PS. IF TOM CAN NOT OR DOES NOT SEE THIS COMMENT, COULD SOMEONE ELSE RESPOND? I AM JUST REALLY CURIOUS. IT WOULD REALLY HELP MY HUSBAND OUT TREMENDOUSLY IN THE PARK.

Please knock it off with the all caps. It is shouting.

Seriously, it’s silent… it’s typing . I don’t think the person was intentionally “ yelling”.

Thoughts on the very last week of August which includes the very first days of September? Is it closer to September or would you still consider it terrible?

Hi Tom, We are leaving on Jan 15 thru Jan 22nd. I hope our first two days are not too too bad. But a busy day at Disney is still a better day than not being there at all. We have 4 more days to go, but it is just DRAGGING!

Oh my!! BIG EDIT ABOVE! It’s not 4 days for me to go, but 45 more days! UGH!!!

We went the week of September 12th this year, and it was great. It was a little warmer than the last time we went a few years ago, but the wait times were minimal, and even with a mid-afternoon break, we accomplished a lot.

Hey Tom. February 3-5 2023 is the National Dance Championships, and the Pro Bowl is February 5. Do these impact crowds much and change your third best week of the year?

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A magical guide for how to plan a trip to Disney World this year

Editor's Note

If you want to know how to plan a trip to Disney World, you've come to the right place. This guide includes tips for choosing the right Disney World hotel for your budget, deciding which ticket type is right for you, determining which extras are worth splurging on and how to plan a trip that's fun and memorable without too much stress along the way.

With four theme parks, two water parks, more than 25 on-site hotels, over 200 dining locations and more attractions, experiences, shows and shops than we can list here, the best way to build a magical Disney World vacation is with planning, preparation and realistic expectations.

Planning a trip to Disney World should be fun and build excitement for your upcoming trip, and this guide can help.

How to start planning your trip to Disney World

There are a few questions you will want to answer early in the process of planning your Disney World vacation.

• What is your budget? Your budget will determine most other factors of your vacation, including where you stay and how many days you visit. How much it will cost you to go to Disney World really can vary widely based on the choices you make.
• When will you go? You may be at the mercy of work or school schedules, but if you have the flexibility, you can plan your trip when crowds are smaller or the weather is better. The summer can be very hot and rainy, the week between Christmas and New Year's is one of the busiest and weekdays when most kids are in school are often the least busy days.
• Where will you stay? You will typically pay more to stay in one of Disney's on-site hotels, especially at the moderate and deluxe tiers, but you'll also get perks like early theme park entry. Before you choose, you'll want to consider your budget, whether you want a themed room like the Royal Guest Rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and if you want to be located near a certain Disney park. Pro tip: Renting Disney Vacation Club points can help you stay at a deluxe hotel for a moderate price.
• Which parks will you visit on which days? Depending on the length of your vacation, you may need to prioritize which parks you plan to visit. This will also influence whether you purchase one-park-per-day or Park Hopper tickets that allow you to visit multiple parks daily. If you have little kids, be sure your family will have the stamina for multiple parks per day before shelling out the extra cash to hop.
• Where will you dine? Popular Disney dining reservations are snatched up almost as soon as they become available. You'll want to plan ahead for any character dining or other table service restaurants, so you don't miss out.

It is important to book your hotel, dining and theme park tickets as early as possible for the best rates and availability. Disney also periodically releases special offers on hotels and vacation packages that you can often apply even if you have already made your reservations.

Related: Are the Disney Visa credit cards worth it?

We will dig deeper into each of these topics in this guide. Once you have a rough outline of your vacation based on the questions above, here are important dates to keep in mind so you can make your Disney dream a reality.

How soon can you book a Disney World hotel?

Disney releases hotel availability periodically, so there is no exact date that Disney hotel reservations become available. You can currently book Disney World hotel stays through Dec. 31, 2024.

Disney typically opens reservations for the following year around May or June, so you can expect to see 2025 availability around that time. If your plans change, you can cancel your room-only reservation up to five days in advance of arrival for a full refund. Ticket and hotel vacation packages must be canceled 30 days in advance to receive a full refund.

When can you purchase Disney World tickets?

Disney World tickets follow the same availability calendar as Disney hotel reservations. You can purchase tickets (or vacation packages including a hotel and tickets) through Dec. 31, 2024. Disney typically releases tickets for the following year around May or June, so you can expect to see 2025 availability around that time.

All tickets are date-based, and the price of one-day tickets also varies by park. You can purchase your tickets any time before you visit; the price won't change regardless of how long you wait. Theme park tickets are nonrefundable, but you may be able to change your ticket date if your plans change.

Until Jan. 9, 2024, you must have a Disney ticket and make a theme park reservation to enter a Disney park.

When do Disney World dining reservations become available?

You can begin making dining reservations 60 days prior to your visit. If you are staying in a Disney World hotel, you can make dining reservations 60 days before your check-in day for your entire stay (up to 10 days).

Reservations open on Disney's website or the My Disney Experience app between 5:45 a.m. and 6 a.m. EST or you can call 407-939-DINE beginning at 7 a.m. EST, but coveted reservations may already be snatched up by that time. You can cancel most Disney World dining reservations up to two hours before your reservation. Exceptions will be noted in the confirmation email you receive at the time of booking.

If you're not yet sure where to eat, here are our favorite restaurants at Disney World .

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

What are the 4 parks at Disney World?

Each of Disney World's four theme parks is uniquely themed and packed with fun. You can learn more about each park, including attractions, shows, parade times and interactive maps to help you find your way around in the My Disney Experience app.

Here's a bit more information about each and some tips for choosing the right ticket type to visit them all.

Magic Kingdom

Open since 1971, Magic Kingdom is Disney World's original theme park. This park is a world of fairy tales and fantasy, where you'll find five themed lands — Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, Adventureland and Liberty Square.

Magic Kingdom is home to some of Disney's most iconic attractions, including Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Peter Pan's Flight and the Haunted Mansion, but also exciting new rides like Tron: Lightcycle Run and the soon-to-open Tiana's Bayou Adventure .

Epcot opened in 1982 and has changed drastically in the four decades since. Epcot's core message, however, hasn't changed: sparking visitors' imaginations through science, technology, nature and the human experience. The park is sectioned into "neighborhoods" — World Celebration, World Nature, World Discovery and World Showcase, where you can visit pavilions that celebrate the arts, culture and customs of 11 countries around the world.

There are a lot of new things to see at Epcot, including Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind , Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana and the all-new fireworks spectacular Luminous – The Symphony of Us .

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Disney's Hollywood Studios is a movie-themed park that has lands and attractions inspired by blockbuster films and beloved Disney characters. In Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge , you can pilot the Millennium Falcon and meet familiar (and furry) faces like Kylo Ren, Chewbacca and Rey.

In Toy Story Land, visitors shrink to the size of Woody, Buzz, Jessie (who you can meet here, by the way) and Andy's other toys. The land's Slinky Dog Dash coaster is a family-friendly ride that's perfect for a kid's first roller coaster.

Outside of the lands themed to specific films, much of the park evokes an old-Hollywood glamour that makes you feel like a bona fide movie star. In these areas, you'll find some of the park's most iconic shows and attractions are also some of its longest-running, like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror drop ride, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular .

Disney's Animal Kingdom

More than 2,000 animals — from about 300 species — call Disney's Animal Kingdom "home," but this is not a zoo. However, you can visit many of these animals via walking trails, the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride and even a petting zoo.

In addition to the creatures and landscapes found on Earth, you can visit another planet at Pandora — The World of Avatar or go back in time at DinoLand U.S.A. The animals aren't the only things that are "wild" at Animal Kingdom — Expedition Everest is a thrilling coaster; Avatar Flight of Passage puts you on the back of a banshee as you fly over Pandora; and Dinosaur sends you careening through the Cretaceous Period in an off-road vehicle.

What type of Disney tickets should I buy?

Disney world base tickets.

You can purchase one-day or multi-day Disney World tickets. All tickets are date-based, and the price varies depending on the date of your visit. If you purchase a one-day ticket, the price will also vary based on which park you plan to visit, with Magic Kingdom being the most expensive.

Disney World Park Hopper tickets

A base ticket only gets you into one park per day. If you want to visit multiple parks on the same day, you will need to purchase the Park Hopper option with your ticket (you can also add it on in person after you arrive). You can save money by only visiting one park per day, but it does limit how much you can see and do during your vacation.

A Park Hopper Plus ticket includes two visits to either Disney's golf courses, miniature golf courses or water parks, but this is only worth it if you know you will use it all.

Disney World special event tickets

Some of Disney's after-hours events , like Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party , require a separate ticket. The park is only open to guests with special event tickets during these events. If you plan on visiting for one of these parties, you may be able to forgo a general admission ticket that day and utilize your special event ticket, as you can usually get into the park a few hours before the party starts.

Disney World ticket add-ons

There are two major ticket add-ons that you should consider. Both can be worth it but will add to the cost of your vacation.

The first add-on you might want to strongly consider is Disney Genie+ . This skip-the-line service allows you to skip the standby line and enjoy shorter wait times for rides by utilizing Disney's Lightning Lanes.

Currently, you can only purchase it on the day of your visit beginning at 7 a.m. and the price ranges between $15 and $35 per person, per day. A handful of attractions at each park require a separate individual Lightning Lane purchase to skip the line, often for the newest rides, but many rides are available with Genie+. You don't need to purchase Genie+ to buy individual Lightning Lane selections and vice versa. The individual Lightning Lane attraction pricing varies by attraction but typically ranges between $7 and $25 per person per attraction for rides like Tron: Lightcycle Run and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

Another popular add-on is Disney's Memory Maker . Memory Maker gives you unlimited downloads of pictures taken by PhotoPass photographers during your vacation and on-ride photos. You can purchase a one-day Memory Maker for short visits or a multi-day Memory Maker which covers your entire vacation. You can save $25 on a multi-day Memory Maker when you purchase at least three days prior to your visit, so it's best to purchase it when you buy your tickets.

How to get discounted Disney World tickets

Aside from Disney's own discounts, you can sometimes save money on Disney tickets by purchasing them from an authorized third-party reseller. There are a few reputable sources out there for Disney World tickets, but our go-to is Undercover Tourist . Depending on your ticket type, you can usually save between $5 and $100. One of the best ways to save money with Undercover Tourist is when Disney World raises ticket prices , which usually happens at least once per year. Undercover Tourist typically has a limited number of existing ticket stock available at the old prices while supplies last.

Related: We saved every receipt — here's how much it actually costs to go to Disney World

If you are a Florida resident or are an active or retired U.S. military member , there are generous discounted Disney World tickets available directly through Disney's website.

You can also use points to pay for your Disney tickets , and that's a strategy we strongly recommend to keep costs down. For example, with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , you can earn a welcome bonus of 75,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months, plus a $250 Capital One Travel credit in the first cardholder year. You can use those 75k points as the same as $750 towards travel . And while ticket-only packages from Disney World typically don't code as a travel charge, buying them from Undercover Tourist — or as part of a larger hotel and ticket package directly from Disney — typically does code as a travel charge. With the current offer, you could save $1,000 just like that.

Is booking a Disney vacation package a good idea?

If you are staying in one of Disney World's on-site hotels or a certified " Disney World Good Neighbor " hotel, you have the option to bundle your hotel stay and theme park tickets into a Disney vacation package. Normally, these packages are not discounted, but they can be a great value if Disney runs any special vacation package promotions .

Aside from discounts (and the fact that it all likely codes as a travel charge for point-redemption purposes), there's one major reason to book a vacation package: When you purchase your tickets and hotel together, you only have to pay a $200 deposit at the time of booking. Payment in full is due 30 days prior to arrival. If you purchase your tickets separately from your hotel stay, you will have to pay the full amount at the time of purchase.

This is another great example of why you should book through an authorized Disney travel planner who can compare prices for you and keep an eye out for discounts.

When is the best time to visit Disney World?

Do you want the lowest crowds or the best weather? Do you want to attend a Halloween party or see Magic Kingdom's 65-foot-tall Christmas tree ?

The best time to visit Disney World depends on your reason for visiting.

If you want moderate temperatures and less chance of rain, you may want to plan your visit between October and December. If you want shorter waits, your best bets are late January, early May or just after Thanksgiving before the crowds descend upon the parks for winter break. Of course, weekdays typically see lower crowds than weekends and school breaks.

Or, if you are planning a Disney World vacation on a budget, opt for midweek dates in August and September 2024, when prices start at $109 for a one-day ticket.

Read our full guide on the best times to visit Walt Disney World .

What's the best way to get to Disney World?

Getting to Orlando and getting to Disney World after arriving are two different topics, so let's look at each.

What is the closest airport?

The closest airport to Walt Disney World is Orlando International Airport (MCO). Most major airlines fly into MCO, and you can reach Disney World in about 25 to 30 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. If you are flying Allegiant or Sun Country Airlines, you'll fly into Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). SFB is smaller than MCO and farther from Disney World. From SFB, it is about a 45-minute drive to Disney World.

What is the best way to get to Disney World from the airport?

Because of its size and proximity to Disney World, MCO has more and better options to help you get between the airport and Disney World.

From Orlando International Airport or Orlando Sanford International Airport, you can rent a car or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft. If you do rent a car from MCO, you can forgo paying tolls through the car rental company (which often comes with an additional fee) and pick up a Visitor Toll Pass to save on tolls during your trip.

Disney no longer charges a parking fee for overnight hotel guests, so if you rent a car, you can park at your hotel and drive to Disney's theme parks without additional fees. Keep in mind that you may not need a car if you don't plan on leaving Disney property after you arrive. Disney has a robust internal transportation system that operates between its on-site hotels and theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs.

You can also use Disney's official airport shuttle, Mears Connect , from MCO.

Mears Connect is a shuttle service that picks you up from MCO and will drop you off at official Disney World hotels and a handful of nearby hotels. Pricing starts at $16 one-way for adults and $13 one-way for children. Mears Connect offers shared shuttles, where you will stop at multiple Disney hotels on the way to your own. You can pay an additional fee for an "express shuttle" that takes you direct to your resort. The easiest way to reserve your ride is online through the Mears Connect website.

What is the best way to get around Disney World?

If you are staying on Walt Disney World property, you can utilize Disney's complimentary transportation for travel between your resort and Disney's theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs. Disney offers transportation by bus, boat, Monorail and Disney Skyliner gondola system. Which transportation options you have access to will depend on which hotel you are staying in.

All Disney hotels offer regularly scheduled bus transportation around the resort. Transportation begins 45 minutes prior to the theme park opening and up to one hour after the theme park closing.

Guests of Disney's Magic Kingdom area resorts — Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — can use boat or Monorail transportation to travel to the Magic Kingdom. There is also a monorail line that will take you to the Transportation and Ticket Center, where you can transfer to a separate Monorail line that goes to Epcot. These hotels also offer a walking path to Magic Kingdom.

Guests of Disney's Riviera Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Disney's Pop Century Resort can use the Disney Skyliner gondolas to travel to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot. All Disney World visitors can also use Disney Skyliner to travel between these two parks, regardless of where you are staying. It's a fun and scenic way to get around the resort.

Many Disney World hotels also offer ferry boat transportation to nearby parks. The BoardWalk area hotels, for example, offer boat transportation to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Fort Wilderness, Disney's Wilderness Lodge and others offer boat service to the Magic Kingdom. You can view a full list on Disney's website . You can also walk to Epcot or Hollywood Studios from any BoardWalk area hotel.

Whichever transportation option you choose, you can view the schedule, routes and stop locations in the My Disney Experience app or on video monitors at each stop location.

You can also utilize Disney's Minnie Van service for door-to-door (or door-to-front gate, as it were) service between your hotel and Disney's theme parks. You can book these private rides in red-and-white polka-dot vans directly through the Lyft app. Accessible rides and child safety seats are available.

Though not "official" Disney World hotels, Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotel guests have access to Disney's complimentary ferry boat service to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. A walking path is also available. These resorts also operate their own shuttles to Disney's theme parks, which pick up approximately every 20 to 25 minutes throughout the day.

Disney Springs hotels operate their own shuttle services, independent of Disney's transportation. If you are staying at one of these hotels, you can inquire about scheduling and pick-up times at the front desk.

What's the best place to stay on a Disney vacation?

There are more than two dozen Disney World hotels to choose from, so your main considerations will be your budget and what type of hotel experience you are after. Whether you want over-the-top Disney theming, an upscale cabin in the woods or a luxury villa with access to a club lounge, you can find it at Disney World.

Disney offers three hotel tiers: Value, Moderate and Deluxe.

Value Disney resorts are the most affordable, with prices ranging between $125 and $300 per night. Value resorts offer quick-service, cafeteria-style dining outlets and large pools but don't have full-service restaurants or pool amenities like waterslides and hot tubs.

On average, Moderate Disney resorts run between $250 and $400 and offer amenities you won't find at Value Disney resorts. Some have full-service restaurants, and the pools are better-themed and equipped with waterslides. Many of them are more centrally located near Disney's theme parks, as well.

Deluxe Disney resorts are the most expensive, ranging between $400 to $700 per night and up for a standard room, but they also have the best locations, amenities and dining. You can expect large, well-furnished guest rooms, pool complexes with hot tubs, waterslides and beach areas, multiple full-service restaurants, spas and more.

Regardless of which hotel you choose, Disney's on-site hotels offer perks to enhance your stay:

• A 30-minute jumpstart on your day with Disney's Early Theme Park Entry benefit
• The ability to purchase individual Lightning Lanes for eligible rides begins at 7 a.m. on the day of your visit (non-resort guests can't do this until the park opens)
• Complimentary hotel and theme park parking
• Extended Evening Theme Park Hours for guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels on select nights (this benefit is also available to guests of Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotels, as well as Shades of Green)

Best hotels at Disney World

The best Disney World hotel for you depends on what you are looking for in a hotel stay. If you don't plan on spending much time in your room, you can save a lot of money by staying in a Value resort. If you plan on spending part of your vacation enjoying hotel amenities like the pool and restaurants, you may want to choose a Moderate or Deluxe resort. Or, if you have a large family that won't be comfortable in a standard room, one of Disney's family suites might be your best bet.

Here are a few of our favorites:

Best Disney World resort if you are on a budget: Disney's Pop Century Resort may not be the most glamorous hotel at Disney, but the kitschy 1950s through 1990s theming and the starting price of around $200 per night will surely put a smile on your face. This resort has three pools, a playground and an arcade. Guest rooms are furnished with either one king bed or a queen bed and a space-saving table that folds out into a bed. It is also one of two Value resorts with Skyliner gondola access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Best Disney World resort for large families : Disney's Art of Animation Resort is in Disney's more affordable Value category and has family suites themed to popular Disney films like "Cars," "The Lion King" and "Finding Nemo" that sleep up to six guests. The pool here is the largest at any Disney World resort, and you can take the Disney Skyliner gondolas to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Standard rooms are also available.

Best Disney World resort for swimming : Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are sister properties near Epcot. The two resorts have rooms that average around $600 per night and share access to Stormalong Bay, the best pool at Disney World . Stormalong Bay is really more than a pool, it is a water park with sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, an activities pool with a volleyball net and daily pool games and a shipwreck-themed waterslide.

Best Disney World resort for a luxury stay : If the sky is the limit for your Walt Disney World vacation budget, the Copper Creek Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge are some of the finest accommodations you can choose. With two bedrooms, a fireplace, a screened-in porch, a hot tub and lakeside views, these cabins are anything but rustic. The privacy offers you a chance to wind down after a long Disney day, but you are still close enough to take a boat ride to Magic Kingdom and enjoy the amenities and dining in the resort's main lobby.

If you are leaning toward a luxury Disney stay, you may be able to save money by renting Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points. DVC is Disney's version of a timeshare program. DVC members can rent out their points to non-members through sites like David's Vacation Club Rentals , helping you to save hundreds of dollars versus booking directly through Disney. The trade-off is that availability is limited and that the cancellation policies are much less flexible than if you make the reservation direct through Disney.

Read our full guide on the best hotels at Walt Disney World .

Best hotels near Disney World

Disney World also partners with a handful of off-site hotels where you can still take advantage of certain benefits like Early Theme Park Entry and complimentary transportation while also paying less than you would for an official Disney World hotel. These hotels also participate in major hotel points programs, so you can earn or redeem points for your stay.

The Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotels all participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program. While not technically Disney hotels, they are located on Disney property between Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. If you are a Marriott Bonvoy elite member , these hotels offer benefits like complimentary upgrades, a welcome amenity and more.

Related: This affordable new Disney Springs hotel includes free hot food and 6 nightly drinks

Disney Springs has seven hotels from brands like Wyndham, Hilton, Holiday Inn and others. All of these are adjacent to the Disney Springs shopping and dining district, and some have room rates that start at close to $100 per night. These can be a great option if you want to save money and don't mind leaving the "Disney bubble" at the end of the day.

Read our full guide to Disney Springs hotels here .

What are the best restaurants at Disney World?

With more than 200 restaurants to choose from, you are going to have to decide which Disney World restaurants you most want to visit. Dining options run the gamut from the predictable burger and fries to an out-of-this-world restaurant in space.

Read our full guide to the best restaurants at Disney World .

Hardest Disney reservations to get (and how to get them)

Many of these restaurants are quick-service or snack stands that don't require advance reservations, but there are a few popular restaurants that book up almost as quickly as reservations become available. If you want to dine with Disney royalty at Cinderella's Royal Table, for example, you'll want to make your reservation as soon as you can. Remember, that is 60 days prior to your visit — if you are staying at a Disney World hotel, you can make reservations for your entire vacation 60 days prior to your check-in day.

Related: 'Be our guest' at these 5 best character dining meals at Walt Disney World

Other reservations that book up quickly include Storybook Dining at Artist Point , Space 220 at Epcot, California Grill, 'Ohana, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Hollywood Studios and Topolino's Terrace, especially for the character breakfast. All of these have great food and atmosphere, making them popular for new and returning guests.

Best quick-service restaurants at Disney that don't require a reservation

Luckily, there are plenty of Disney restaurants with delicious food you can get your hands on without a reservation. Satuli Canteen in Pandora — The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom is consistently ranked as one of the best quick-service restaurants anywhere at Disney. The food is fresh, flavorful and surprisingly inexpensive. You can get a build-your-own bowl with beef, chicken or fish for less than $20.

Other must-try quick-service restaurants include Ronto Roasters at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge (the Ronto Breakfast Wrap is the best handheld meal at Disney!), Columbia Harbour House at Magic Kingdom for New England-inspired fare and Regal Eagle Smokehouse at Epcot for all things barbecue.

Using the Disney app to improve your dining experience

The My Disney Experience app is a must for your Disney World vacation for checking wait times, finding your way around and more. When it comes to dining, you can use it to find walk-up dining availability, score last-minute reservations, see what restaurants are nearby, and place mobile orders at select quick-service restaurants.

When you place a mobile order via the app, you choose what time you would like to pick up your order (with the option to modify if plans change). When you arrive at the restaurant, you can click "I'm here. Prepare my order," and you'll receive a notification on your phone when your food is ready.

Should you buy a Disney Dining Plan?

The cost of dining at Disney can add up quickly, and Disney offers two dining plan options that may help you save money. The Disney Dining Plan lets you prepay for a specified number of meals and snacks for your Disney World vacation. You receive a certain number of meal and snack credits for each night of your stay.

The Disney Dining Plan is both convenient and flexible. By prepaying for your meals and snacks, you won't have to pull out your wallet for every meal and snack, and you aren't required to use a set number of credits each day. You can redeem them anytime during your stay in the way that best works for you.

There are two options — the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan. The first is a bit less expensive and allows for more flexibility. The second is best if you plan on more sit-down dining and character meals during your vacation.

Whether or not you can save money with a Disney Dining Plan depends on how you utilize the credits. It is possible to break even or come out ahead if you maximize the value of your credits and actually eat all of the food available on the plan. If you don't use all of your credits, you are essentially leaving money on the table, but our guide can help you out with the math.

Read our full guide to the Disney Dining Plan .

How to save time in line at Disney World

Most Walt Disney World attractions offer a standby line. The only exceptions are new attractions, which will often offer a virtual queue for a limited time after opening. When Disney World is busy, though, standby lines for popular attractions can climb as high as two hours. Luckily, Disney has a service called Disney Genie+ that helps you skip the standby line and get on more attractions with shorter waits.

With Disney Genie+, you can skip the standby line and utilize a much shorter "Lightning Lane" for most attractions. You can only purchase this add-on service on the day of your visit, beginning at midnight (though you will likely be safe waiting until you wake up in the morning except on Disney's busiest days).

The cost of Disney Genie+ varies per park and per day. The service starts at $15 per person per day and occasionally reaches a per-person price of $35 per day during the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season or in April during spring break. You can purchase Genie+ for one of Disney World's four theme parks or a "multiple park" option valid at all four parks when you purchase through the My Disney Experience app.

Most attractions are included in the Disney Genie+ service, but one or two attractions at each park require a separate Lightning Lane purchase to skip the line. It's not necessary to purchase Genie+ to buy individual Lightning Lane selections and vice versa. The individual Lightning Lane attraction pricing varies by attraction but typically ranges between $7 and $25 per person, per attraction.

Read our full guide to Disney Genie+ .

If you are staying in one of Disney's on-site hotels or in select "Good Neighbor" hotels, as mentioned in the section above, you can also save time in line by utilizing Early Theme Park Entry and/or Extended Evening Theme Park Hours. You can get into the parks 30 minutes early with the Early Entry benefit, but you actually want to arrive at the front gates 30-45 minutes before that time. This will give you time to get through security and to the roped-off area where they hold guests, making you one of the first in line to rush to your favorite ride when early entry starts.

Related: Your guide to visiting Disney World with a child on the autism spectrum

If you or someone in your party has a disability that makes it difficult for you to wait in a traditional standby queue, you can also save time by registering for Disney's Disability Access Service (DAS). You need to start the registration process before your visit, and full instructions are available on Disney's website .

How to plan a Disney World trip on a budget

While sensational stories about $2,500 meals at Disney make for good headlines, it is totally possible to visit Disney World on a budget .

Related: Yes, you can visit Disney World on a budget: Here's how I did it

Here are some of the most important things you can do to make your Disney vacation budget manageable:

• Stay at a Disney Value resort like Disney's All-Star Movies Resort or use Marriott points to stay at the Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve. Here are the best cards to get those points.
• Utilize Disney's complimentary parking and transportation for on-site guests instead of renting a car.
• Purchase groceries for some meals and snacks, and only buy one or two meals in the parks each day.
• Don't visit the parks every day you are at Disney and stick to one park per day, avoiding park hopping. You can save on tickets by spending a day swimming or visiting Disney Springs.
• Don't forget to periodically check Disney's website for discounts. Even after you book, you may be able to apply a hotel or vacation package discount that can save you even more money.
• Be on the lookout for discounted Disney gift cards to help cover the cost of your trip and/or use points for the tickets.
• Visit during less busy times of the year. Ticket prices are cheapest in August and September, with one-day tickets starting at $109.

Disney World pretrip checklist

Now that you've determined your budget, purchased your tickets, booked your hotel and made a few dining reservations, your trip is nearly planned. There are some other details you'll need to consider to make your trip as magical as it should be. Here's our ultimate Disney World pre-trip checklist:

• Pack accordingly : Depending on when you visit, you could be dealing with heat, humidity, afternoon showers, chilly temperatures or a mix of all of the above. It's important to pack comfortable shoes and clothing no matter when you visit, but you may also want rain gear, sun protection or a warm jacket, depending on the weather. You can read our full Disney World packing guide here .
• Download the My Disney Experience app : This app is an invaluable tool that you will use daily during your visit. You can use it to check everything from wait times to walk-up dining availability. You can also use it to navigate the parks with turn-by-turn walking directions, purchase Disney Genie+ and individual Lightning Lanes and even open your hotel room door.
• Check the park hours before your visit : You can view the park hours on the Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app. Each park has separate opening and closing times, and parks occasionally close early for special events like Halloween and Christmas parties. When you view the park hours, you'll also be able to see times for any parades or fireworks shows happening each day of your visit and plan for early entry or extended theme park hours for eligible on-site hotel guests.
• Check the height requirements for attractions: If you are traveling to Disney World with young children, you can check the height requirements for attractions on Disney World's website or in the My Disney Experience app. There are also measuring stations at all attractions that have a minimum height requirement, but it's better to know ahead of time to avoid tears if your child isn't quite tall enough.
• Know where to find your favorite characters : Most Disney characters have designated meeting times and locations, which you can find in the My Disney Experience app. Booking a character meal can be a great way to meet multiple characters at once, but you can also meet many characters in the parks. Popular meet-and-greets also offer Genie+ Lightning Lane access, which can cut down on the time you spend waiting to meet Mickey, Moana or Cinderella.
• Decide if you want to purchase PhotoPass photos : You can save money on Disney Memory Maker by purchasing in advance before you visit. It's the easiest way to capture your vacation memories and an add-on we highly recommend. You can view and download your photos in the My Disney Experience app.
• Study up on Genie+: As helpful as Genie+ can be, there is a bit of a learning curve. Study up using our Genie+ guide and Disney's own overview before your visit. It's good to know which attractions participate in Genie+, how to reserve Lightning Lane access and how to make the most of the service.
• Plan for downtime: One of the biggest mistakes people make at Disney World is overscheduling their trip and leaving no time for rest and relaxation. If you are visiting for more than a few days, try and schedule a day away from the parks where you swim, explore the other resorts or just lounge around the hotel. It'll help rejuvenate you for the rest of your trip. For shorter trips, you may want to schedule a slow morning or return to your hotel early one day instead of being at the parks from opening to closing every day of your trip.

Read all of our best Disney World tips here .

Bottom line

There you have it — the ultimate guide to visiting Walt Disney World.

In addition to the planning and preparation you've now mastered, there are two very important things you must do during your Disney World vacation — don't overplan and have fun. It's much better to have a short list of "must-do" rides, restaurants and activities than to have a minute-by-minute itinerary that most certainly will not play out exactly how you planned.

Keeping a loose itinerary leaves room for magic moments like stumbling upon a favorite character, noticing a super-short line for a ride or deciding last-minute to watch a parade you happened upon. You can't do everything in one trip anyway, so do the things you can and save the rest for next time when you are a certified Disney pro.

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

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• The best Disney World hotels for your stay
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• Disney's take on timeshares: Guide to Disney Vacation Club
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When to Visit Disney World

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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Disney World Florida Resident Discounts 2024 – New Discounts Released!

Disney World often offers special limited-time discounts for Florida Residents throughout the year for tickets and hotels! To access these discounts, you need to provide proof of Florida residency. These discounts are a great way for Florida residents to save on their Disney World trip.

We will break down some of the seasonal discounts below for 2024, what they include, and other details on Florida Resident discounts for this year.

See our full guide to Disney World discounts for information on non-Florida resident discounts.

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Disney World Florida Resident Hotel Discounts 2024

Florida residents can save on their Disney World Resort Hotel stays with discounts throughout the year. We will cover the offers that are available for 2024 below!

Early 2024 Florida Resident Hotel Discount

For early 2024, Florida Residents can save up to 30% most nights February 25, 2024 through March 24, 2024.

Save Up to 30% for stays most nights February 25, 2024 to March 24, 2024 at the following resorts:

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
• Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort
• Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Deluxe Studios

Save Up to 25% for stays most nights February 25, 2024 to March 24, 2024 at the following resorts:

• Disney’s Beach Club Resort
• The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
• Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Save Up to 20% for stays most nights February 25, 2024 to March 24, 2024 at the following resorts:

• Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Family Suites
• Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Save Up to 10% for stays most nights February 25, 2024 to March 24, 2024 at the following resorts:

• Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Little Mermaid Standard Rooms
• Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
• Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney World Resort Hotel Florida Resident Spring and Early Summer Discount

Florida residents will be able to save up to save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels, valid for stays most nights from March 25 through July 7, 2024. See everything you need to know about visiting during Spring at Disney World and Summer at Disney World !

Save up to 30% at the following resorts:

• Disney's Riviera Resort
• Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• Disney's Yacht Club Resort
• The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Save up to 25% at the following resorts:

• The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
• Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
• Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Save up to 2o% at the following resorts:

Save up to 10% at the following resorts:

• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Standard Rooms
• Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Disney World Florida Resident Ticket Discounts 2024

Walt Disney World offers special discounted tickets for Florida residents throughout the year. One current offer is the Florida Resident Disney Thrills Ticket.

This ticket offer is valid from January 11, 2024 through March 15, 2024, including weekends, with an advance park reservation. Tickets can be used on consecutive or non-consecutive days.

Below are the options available for the Florida Resident Disney Thrills Ticket :

• 2-Day Ticket: $199 (before tax)
• 3-Day Ticket: $219 (before tax)

You also can choose from the following add-ons for the Florida Resident Disney Thrills Ticket:

• Park Hopper Option: $40 More Per Ticket (plus tax)
• Water Park and Sports Option: $35 More Per Ticket (plus tax)
• Park Hopper Plus Option: $55 More Per Ticket (plus tax)

Be sure to check out our EPCOT Festival Guide for details about all 2023 EPCOT Festivals, including the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival occurring in the spring.

Florida Resident Discovery Ticket

Florida residents will be able to purchase a 4-Day Discover Disney Ticket, which is valid from April 2 to September 28, 2024. A special price for a 3-day ticket is also available. Advance park reservations are required. The tickets can be used on either consecutive or nonconsecutive days.

Below are the pricing options available for the Florida Resident Discovery Ticket :

• 4-Day Ticket: $235 ($59 per day)
• 3-Day Ticket: $219 ($73 per day)

You also can choose from the following add-ons for the Florida Resident Discovery Ticket:

Disney World also gives Florida residents the opportunity to save 40% on 4-Day Tickets and 30% on 3-Day Tickets compared to regular pricing.

Disney World frequently announces new seasonal discounts, so be sure to stay up-to-date with the best prices for hotels and tickets in our guide to the best 2024 Walt Disney World discounts and information on all current Disney World discounts .

Plan Your Disney Vacation Today!

To get started planning your Disney trip, be sure to subscribe to our FREE Deals newsletter​ , where you will receive helpful​ planning information, breaking Disney news, and access to the lowest priced Disney tickets anywhere. Read our other planning guides for helpful information on planning your trip:

• Walt Disney World 2024 Planning Guide: Experience More, Save Money at Disney
• Every Character Dining Disney World 2024 Experience Reviewed

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About Emily Midgley

Emily Midgley is a writer from San Diego, California. She was introduced to Disneyland when she was two and has been in love with all things Disney ever since! At Mickey Visit, she will keep you updated with the latest news from the Disney Parks and provide helpful planning content for your vacation. Her favorite rides at Disneyland are Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout, Space Mountain, and Rise of the Resistance. She loves Marvel (especially Guardians of the Galaxy) and lives and breathes anything to do with Star Wars.

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You can visit Disney World, Universal for under $100 a day: Summer ticket deals

C entral Florida can swelter in the summer, with high temperatures and what feels like even higher humidity. But it’s still a popular time to visit the region’s theme parks . 

This year, those who brave the heat can be rewarded with ticket deals at destinations like Walt Disney World , Universal Orlando Resort and LEGOLAND Florida , all starting at under $100 a day. SeaWorld Orlando tickets drop as low as $60 on select dates.

Here’s what travelers planning summer theme park vacations should know. 

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How much is a ticket to Disney World?

Disney World tickets vary by date and park. For one-day, one-park admission for guests ages 10 and up, starting prices range from $109 at Disney's Animal Kingdom to $124 at Magic Kingdom.

However, the resort is offering two ticket deals for spring and summer.

• The 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket costs $396, which works out to $99 a day. It includes one day at each of Disney World’s four theme parks, without park-hopping or repeating parks. Visits must start between April 2 and Sept. 22 and end within seven days of the start date.
• The 3-Day, 3-Park Magic Ticket costs $267, which works out to $89 a day. It includes one day each at EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, without park-hopping or repeating parks. Admission to Magic Kingdom is not included. Visits must start between April 2 and Sept. 24 and end within five days of the start date.

Your next Disney trip could cost more, depending on when and where you visit

How much does it cost to get into Orlando’s Universal Studios?

One-day, one-park admission to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure starts at $119 for guests ages 10 and up.

Universal Orlando Resort is offering a 2-Park Play 4 Days Promotional Ticket starting at $306.99, however, which works out to just under $77 a day. Guests can visit both parks each day. Visits don’t have to be consecutive, but they must all fall within seven days of the start date. The deal is available through the mid-December on the resort’s website.

How can I save money at SeaWorld Orlando?

Non-discounted SeaWorld Orlando tickets cost $139.99. However the park's website offers various deals throughout the year.

In March, there was a $60 throwback ticket in honor of SeaWorld’s 60th anniversary, March 21. Prices don't typically drop that low, but the best deals are usually online.

Who gets in free at LEGOLAND Florida?

Admission is free for guests under the age of 2 at LEGOLAND Florida . 

After that, one-day theme park tickets start at $74 online or $119 at the front gate, according to the resort’s website. Admission to neighboring LEGOLAND Water Park or Peppa Pig Theme Park costs extra. There’s also a convenience fee for online purchases.

Through Aug. 29, travelers can get specially priced $29 kids tickets with the purchase of a full-priced multi-park ticket starting at $94. Up to four kids’ tickets, for children ages 2 to 12, can be purchased in one transaction.

Travelers should note LEGOLAND Florida is in Winter Haven, about 50 miles from Orlando.

Is Busch Gardens the most expensive?

No, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is not the most expensive theme park in Central Florida. Its website lists non-discounted tickets at $139.99, tying in price with sister park SeaWorld Orlando. Also, like SeaWorld, Busch Gardens’ website regularly offers discounts bringing starting prices below $100. Offers and prices vary by date.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is more than 80 miles from Orlando, but the park operates a free shuttle to and from Orlando for ticketed guests.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You can visit Disney World, Universal for under $100 a day: Summer ticket deals

Guests Who Visit From the Lone Star State (and a Few Other States) Are In For a Shock When They Arrive at Disney World

in Disney , Disneyland Resort , Featured , Theme Parks , Walt Disney World

For guests of the Walt Disney World Resort who call the great state of Texas home, visiting the Central Florida Disney Parks can come with a bit of a challenge.

That’s because, for some Texans, an 82-year partnership initiated by Walt Disney himself means that one of some Texans’ most beloved pastimes simply cannot be offered inside the parks, making for a rather unmagical experience overall.

Texans Like Certain Things (Just Like You Do in Your State)

Texans are known for their friendliness, and they’ve long been associated with their preferences.

Fall Friday nights are dedicated to high school football, and that’s even for people who have no affiliation with a high school because they have children in school. People in Texas love their Dallas Cowboys (and their Houston Texans), win or lose, and many families own one of a variety of “Texas Edition” trucks made by Ford Motor Company, Toyota, GMC, or Chevrolet.

Texans have varying degrees of passion about things like barbecue, sweet tea, Buc-ee’s , the Schlitterbahn, and even Dr. Pepper (though this writer parted ways with the sugary soda years ago).

Related: Yet Another Theme Park Resort Announces It’s Coming to North Texas, Following Universal’s Lead

Dr. Pepper, a beloved Texas tradition that often needs no explaining to Texans, strikes non-Texans as a bit strange. That’s ok, though, because if you stick around a Dr. Pepper-drinking Texan for long enough, he’ll probably offer to give you the whole history of the love affair between Texas and Dr. Pepper, which began in a little place called Waco, Texas, in 1885.

There’s a huge museum dedicated to Dr. Pepper, which was first introduced to the public in 1904 at the World’s Fair. It, too, is located in Waco, not too far from Chip and Joanna Gaines’s Magnolia location.

Sorry Texas Disney Fans!

Texans love their Dr. Pepper, but it’s unavailable at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, leading to some confusion among visitors who can’t fathom why Disney opts for Coca-Cola and not for Dr. Pepper. The reason is simple, however, and lies within the boundaries of a now more-than-80-year partnership between Coca-Cola and Disney, a relationship that began in 1942 with Walt Disney’s appearance on a Coca-Cola radio program.

According to the Disney Parks Blog , the collaboration started when Walt Disney was featured on the Coca-Cola radio show titled The Pause That Refreshes on the Air in 1942. By 1950, Coca-Cola returned the favor, sponsoring Disney’s television special titled One Hour in Wonderland , and when Disneyland opened on July 17, 1955, it was Coca-Cola that sponsored the Refreshment Corner, located on Main Street, U.S.A.

During the construction of Disneyland Resort in California, Walt Disney sought corporate sponsors for funding , with Coca-Cola sponsoring the Coca-Cola Refreshment Corner and Pepsi-Cola sponsoring the Golden Horseshoe.

Related: Please, Disney! Don’t Switch to Pepsi in the Parks!

Sadly, however, Dr. Pepper has yet to stake its claim in any part of Disney Parks’ history.

Sorry, Texans. The hard truth is that you’ll have to love Disney World minus the Dr. Pepper. And as long as we’re on the subject, this writer might as well enlighten you to this hard truth as well: the nearest Whataburger is quite far away as well.

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From Disney to Discovery Cove, here are Florida theme park deals you can’t miss

• Updated: Jul. 19, 2024, 1:52 p.m.
• | Published: Jul. 19, 2024, 1:32 p.m.

Florida's theme parks are offering discounted deals. Matt Stroshane

• Jennifer Torres | [email protected]

If you’re dreaming of magical moments, thrilling rides and underwater adventures without breaking the bank, now’s your chance. From Hogwarts to roller coasters, dolphin swims to epic parades, Florida’s top theme parks are rolling out the deals for residents (and some for nonresidents, too).

Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure

Florida residents can now purchase the “Florida Unlimited Days Ticket” for $199, plus tax, granting unlimited access to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure theme parks now through Dec. 18, 2024 — just in time to attend Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Holiday Parade.

For tickets and more information, visit Universal Orlando’s website .

Walt Disney World

With an average cost of around $160 — depending on the season, a day ticket to Disney World can run between $109 to $189. But right now, the park is offering a deal for Florida residents of just $59 per day, plus tax.

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With four parks to choose from, including the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, residents can purchase a four-day “Discover Disney” ticket for $235, plus tax, which allows them to visit one theme park per day for four days in a row — or on four separate days of their choosing (subject to daily capacity) through Sept. 28, 2024.

For tickets and more information, visit Walt Disney World’s website .

Sea World Orlando/Aquatica

For this deal, you’ll have to act fact. Sea World’s summer sale offers up to 55% off tickets, fun cards and passes during the park’s summer sale going on through July 21. Single-day tickets (originally $139.99) start at $60 — or get a “Fun Card” that allows you to enjoy unlimited visits (with some restrictions) to SeaWorld and Aquatica Orlando until Dec. 31, 2024, for just $99.

But if you’re an active, Florida-certified K-12 teacher, you get an even better deal — free admission. The park is offering a complimentary “SeaWorld Florida Teacher Card” to all who qualify. With it, Florida teachers get unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando through Sept. 5, 2024.

For tickets and more information, visit Sea World’s website .

Discovery Cove Orlando

Another quick deal to grab is Discovery Cove’s Signature Dolphin Swim Package. Through July 21, all guests can save up to 40% on an all-inclusive day at Discovery Cove, including breakfast, lunch, unlimited snacks, nonalcoholic beverages and select beer and wine.

While tickets are typically $274 per person, right now prices start at $192.50.

For tickets and more information, visit the Discovery Cove Orlando website .

Bush Gardens Tampa Bay

Save up to 50% on unlimited visits to Bush Gardens Tampa Bay through Dec. 31, 2024, with the “Fun Card.” Normally sold for $139.99 each, they’re available now for $79.99 — and you can add on Bush Gardens Adventure Island for just $20 more.

For tickets and more information, visit Bush Gardens Tampa Bay’s website.

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