With tadpoles out of school, many frog families tend to plan Disney trips during their summer vacations. Orlando is located in the middle of Florida, which has a warm, subtropical climate year-round. Although the heat is at its highest over the summer months, it can get hot year-round. Never fear: You can beat the heat at Disney World if you plan and strategize accordingly! We’ve gathered all our knowledge about Florida’s higher temperatures and humidity in this post, so you can stay cool at Disney World!
Overview of Florida’s Climate
Florida’s nickname is the Sunshine State, so it shouldn’t come as a big surprise that it can get HOT out under the sun. As mentioned, the weather is consistently warm year-round, even during the winter months. During the winter season, high temperatures average around mid-70 degrees Fahrenheit with occasional cold snaps. Meanwhile, over the summer season, high temperatures steadily reach the low- to mid-90 degrees. On top of the heat, there are also high humidity levels, which makes it feel even hotter. So you definitely want to prepare!
How to Pack for the Heat
Packing for a warm, humid climate can be tricky, particularly if you don’t quite know what to expect. But rest assured, if you keep these items in mind, you’ll be able to handle the Florida heat and stay cool at Disney World!
Sunscreen
SUNSCREEN IS A MUST. The sun can be brutal, and you don’t want to regret not wearing sunscreen later. While you may look funny turning as red as Sebastian the crab, sunburn is no laughing matter. It hurts and can easily ruin a trip. We highly recommend bringing a tube or spray bottle with you instead of buying it on Disney World property. Most stores at the parks and resorts should have some for sale, but sometimes only certain stores will have them in stock.
Apply in the morning and don't froget to reapply throughout the day. We recommend taking the time every two hours to use the restroom, reapply sunscreen and refill your water bottles. Make it easier by picking a time on the hour or half-hour so you remember to take those quick breaks. If you're using Disney Genie+, use this time to book a new Lightning Lane selection. Taking 10 minutes to reset will help your family continue on with the rest of the day.
Hats and Sunglasses
Protect your face and eyes from the bright rays. A simple baseball cap or visor will do just fine with keeping the sun off your face. Keep your favorite pair of fancy sunglasses home so you don’t have to worry about losing them. You can always find a cheap pair at a local store.
Lightweight, Quick-Dry Clothing
You’ll want to stick to lightweight, quick-dry clothing because of the high humidity. Thick fabrics such as cotton or denim won’t let your skin breathe as easily as moisture-wicking material. Light colors are better than wearing black or darker-colored clothing. It may not be as fashionable, but we’d choose comfort over style when it comes to picking park outfits.
Cool Accessories
Stay fresh all day with a portable misting fan! It may seem like more of a luxury item than a necessity, but honestly, you won’t be disappointed if you bring one. When Tad and Lily (and even Leap) complain about being too hot, I just spray them down to help them stay cool. (Our misting fans from 10 years ago still work, so hang onto your purchase for future years!)
One of our best tips is soaking a cooling towel with cold water at the start of the day and wearing it around your neck. (You bet one of our favorites is the Chilly Pad from frogg toggs.) We also have seen many frogs bring neck fans for a cool breeze all afternoon!
Tips to Beat the Heat at Disney World
1. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is our most important tip for surviving the heat at Disney World. Dehydration and other heat-related illnesses are common ailments that visitors face while they’re at the parks. It’s tempting to quench your thirst with an ice-cold soda or a frozen margarita, but sugary and alcoholic drinks can leave you further dehydrated. So, if you do indulge in these types of drinks, make sure you’re still drinking at least an equal amount (preferably more!) of water. Pack reusable water bottles for every frog in the family, so you can fill up throughout the day instead of constantly buying pricey bottled water. Quick-service restaurants also provide free small cups of water if you simply ask.
2. Take Frequent Breaks
It’s easy to get caught up in planning your trip, as you attempt to squeeze in as much as possible. Be sure to schedule short but frequent periods of downtime during the day, or be flexible enough to stop while you’re at the parks, to allow everyone to take a breather. You know what those wise, old frogs say: “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
3. Visit the Parks in the Mornings and Evenings
Rise and shine, morning frogs! We like using this strategy occasionally when the hot temperatures become too much in the afternoon. Arrive at the parks early in the morning, and make time for a longer break later in the day. Not only will you miss the hottest part of the day, but you’ll also beat the crowds and possibly miss a thunderstorm. Florida is known for its quick afternoon summer showers during its rainy season. Take the time to get some rest back at your hotel and recharge. Then, you’ll be ready for dinner and can continue the fun through the night.
We wouldn't recommend this strategy when the parks close earlier at night. (Take full advantage and maximize your time in the parks!)
4. Eat Cool Snacks
When we say eat cool snacks, we mean it both literally and figuratively. Seize the photo-op for your Instagram-worthy treats and let them cool you down after you snap that perfect shot (but take those pics quickly before they melt!). Our froggy favorites include the classic Dole Whip and Mickey ice cream bars. Also, Disney constantly comes up with creative ice cream desserts, especially around times of celebrations for holidays or new movie releases. It’s the perfect excuse to eat ice cream! Check out our cool guide for the best ice cream stops at Disney World.
5. Go on Water Rides, or Hang Out at Splash Pads
Hopping on water rides is our favorite way to cool down! You don’t have to sacrifice any ride time, and you can escape the heat as you get splashed (or soaked). The ride with the highest chance of getting wet is the river raft ride, Kali River Rapids, in Animal Kingdom. As you walk around the parks, you may come across misting stations or splash pads. Chill out for a few minutes before you continue on your way.
6. Swim at Your Resort’s Pool or a Water Park
Soak up the waves at Disney's water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Each water park has a uniquely themed set of attractions that cater to all members of the family. Check out our cool guide to Blizzard Beach and our splashin' guide to Typhoon Lagoon for all of the deets.
Don't froget to plan some park downtime to take advantage of the hotel pool that’s right downstairs! All of the Disney resorts have fabulous pool areas with at least one large, themed feature pool. Some resorts have pools specifically meant for a relaxing, quiet time, while other resorts are so big that there are multiple pools for convenience. We’ve even ranked our favorites!
7. Seek Air Conditioning Whenever Possible
Fortunately, many of the rides, restaurants, shows and shops are indoors and #blessed with air conditioning. It’s nice hopping from one spot to another knowing that you’ll get some relief from the heat. Another strategy is to book a dining reservation during the hottest parts of the day and eat leisurely. This always gives us time to reflect positively on the day so far and plan out what to do next. Spend some time souvenir shopping, as well. Many gift shops near the front of each park are interconnected so you don’t even have to step outside as you move from store to store.
Best Disney World Attractions and Shows to Beat the Heat
Magic Kingdom
- Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
- Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station
- Country Bear Jamboree
- The Hall of Presidents
- Haunted Mansion
- "it's a small world"
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Mickey's PhilharMagic
- Monster's Inc. Laugh Floor
- Peter Pan's Flight
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Space Mountain
- Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid
- Carousel of Progress
- Enchanted Tiki Room
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
- Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Muppet*Vision 3D
- Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
- Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
- Toy Story Mania!
- Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
EPCOT
- The American Adventure
- Awesome Planet
- Canada Far and Wide
- Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
- Frozen Ever After
- Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros
- Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along and/or Impressions de France
- Journey into Imagination with Figment
- Living with the Land
- Mission: SPACE
- Reflections of China
- Remy's Ratatouille Adventure
- The Sea with Nemo & Friends
- Soarin' Around the World
- Spaceship Earth
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- The Animation Experience at Conservation Station
- Avatar Flight of Passage
- DINOSAUR
- Festival of the Lion King
- It's Tough to be a Bug!
- Kali River Rapids
- Na'vi River Journey
Don't let the summer heat keep you from having fun. Have you figured out any other ways to beat the heat at Disney World? Share in the comments below!
Related: How to Pack for the Theme Parks (and Orlando Weather) Year-Round
Hoppy planning!
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