Going to WDW in May 20-25, 2018. I'll be in the parks on weekdays (Monday - Thursday). What kind of crowds should I expect?

Always a good time to go in Mid-February to Mid-March

Hoping that its not too chaotic during our trip of March 2018.

We've been during July, but its been manageable. Thanks for all the great trips!

what are the best days of the week (less expensive) to book disneyworld hotels? Over a weekend or M-F?

Hello! I'm so glad I found your site. We are debating and first and maybe only trip to WDW (we live in California) in 2018. Our choices are the week of Feb. 19th or the week of April 16th. I did consult your very information crowd calendar. The crowds are higher in February because it's President's day on Monday, some people have that whole week off. The week in April is much lower for crowds because most people have their spring break around Easter which is in the beginning of April. But the temperatures are higher and everyone from CA says the humidity is so bad in Florida. So in your professional opinion, which is better? Higher crowds and better temps? Or lower crowds and warmer temps? Thanks for your advice!

Hi, what are your thoughts about visiting WDW on November 4 - 11 . How's the crowd and the weather ? We are coming from NJ ? is it safe to travel on that time even though it is hurricane season ? thanks

Hi All,

We are visiting from the UK May 2018. What will crowds be like then? Weather? etc?

Thanks

How bad are the crowds around Memorial Day weekend? We're thinking of going from May 23, 2018 to May 29, 2018.

Hola, pienso viajar desde República Dominicana y llevar a mi hijo de 7 años, cuáles 3 parques me recomiendas para su edad, y si crees que del 01 al 04 de marzo 2018 es una buena fecha.

Gracias!

Hola, estamos planeando estar una semana en Orlando entre el 17 y el 24 de Julio. Es la temporada con más gente pero habrá algunos días preferibles para ir a los parques. Vamos tres días a Universal, Isla de la Aventura y Volcano, un día a Animal y un día a Hollywood Studios.

Gracias!!!

hi frog blog

estoy planeando para noviembre 2017 Orlando 6 días total: pienso en 4 días en disney y 2 en Universal.

6 noviembre: DHS

7 noviembre: MK

8 Noviembre: EP

9 Noviembre: AK

10 Noviembre: IOA

11 Noviembre: US

tickets disney 4 días (1 parque por dia) y para universal ticket de 2 dias (park to park)

que dices respecto a los días asignados en noviembre respecto al parque elegido ???

mi idea estar lo menor gente posible tanto en el parking o estacionamiento como en los mismos parques.

nota: alojare afuera de disney

Saludos

Hello, We will only be able to go to Orlando in July. Does it make difference in terms of crowds at Disney World and Universal Studios during the month of July - whether it's a week day or week end? Thank you.

Hi,

We are planning our trip for either the last week in April 2018 or May 5-11. Which is better weather and crowd-wise please.

Thanks!

Rebecca

We are looking to travel in August 2018 to Disney Animal Kingdom.

Why do you suggest it's best to travel after August 12th?

We are torn between 11/11 - 11/16 or 12/4 - 12/9? I'm not sure if the end of the Veterans Day or Pop Warner would be worse. I'm also worried about the ABC Christmas taping. Any advice?

What makes May weekends a busy time?

Hi there,

My boyfriend and I are visiting Orlando first week of May from Canada. We were planning to do Universal Studios (park-to-park) on Monday, May 1st and Epcot on Wednesday, May 3rd. Would you recommend these dates? Thanks :)

We are considering visiting Magic Kingdom in February 2018. what type of crowds and weather can we expect?

Thanks

Hi we're planning a trip with the three families from November 18th thru November 24th is this a good time to visit Magic Kingdom.

Hi! What are your thoughts on going to Magic Kingdom on June 14th 2017? Or better yet, what would be the best park to visit that day in terms of less crowded.

Hi! First off, great article! My hubby and I have just decided last minute to go to Magic Kingdom on Good Friday, April 14th! I saw a response to another comment that Easter Sunday will be a big day for families. What are your thoughts on Good Friday crowds? And what about Good Friday crowds compared to early June crowds as that's what I'm used to. Thanks!!

why is Feb. 16-25 one of the worst times to go please? and would you recomend the week before or after as being less busy? =)

With school, sports, and work schedules we are only able to make a trip in June. Looking at 6/15-6/19 or 6/29-7/3; I am just not sure if the parks are incredibly busy on the second option as it would be the holiday weekend.

My family and I are making our 7th WDW trip next week (4/12 through 4/18), but it's the first time we'll be at the parks during a major holiday (Easter). I've heard everything from "the crowds will be fine" to "you've just made the biggest mistake of your lives." We're pretty good at arriving early, utilizing Fastpass and navigating through the parks. How do you think the crowds will be this Easter? Thank you.

We are trying to plan a trip and are thinking about either April 21st-28th 2018 or April 28th- May 5th 2018. Which week do you think would be less crowded?

would you recommend either oct 3rd to the 7th

or would oct 30th to nov 3rd be a better time at WDW? also will the xmas decorations be up by nov 3rd?

What are your thoughts on March 2-10, 2018 for a trip to Disney? Any pluses or minuses? Do they ever offer discounts on march?

How does February 9th-16th look? We just got back from a mardi gras at disney and while we were able to ride everything we wanted, it was very crowded. Do you think next year might be better since there will be no marathon at that time?

first, thanks so much for the great resource. I have used your app and plans my last 2 trips.

For FL residents the "Discover Disney" tickets are a pretty great deal but have limited dates. I think that would make an early or late February 2018 trip very attractive even compared to September. Aside from checking refurbishment schedule do you have any other thoughts on that plan? This is assuming they have the "discover disney" tix available again next year.

When do they publish the 'events' that are being held during the year? For ex, we are planning for spring of 2019 (i know..its awhile from now) and was thinking either late feb or early march. Wanting to know when runs are and sporting events (cheer, football, etc- i feel like you can't really avoid these that time of year). When are thinkings posted about crowd predictions? thanks!

We are planning a trip for 2018. My ideal time would be end of February beginning of March, But it's looking like it might have to be during our Canadian March break, March 12-16. I have been many times, but never at peak times. Will the crowds be really bad at that time? Thanks!

I'm planning on taking my girlfriend to Disney World for her birthday next year. Her birthday is April 1st so will probably spend that in Ireland & take the trip a few days later. I see you have listed that up to April 6th is a bad time to visit. So would April 10th - 21st be a good time?

And what's the weather like in Orlando in April? I'd hate to go & be washed out for the 10 days.

We will be returning from a cruise on April 23rd. So, the last day of April vacation. I see you still list this as one of the worst days to visit.

I was hoping it would not be so bad as I would assume most folks would be leaving. If we only have 5-6 hours in the afternoon (we have a 10:30 flight out that night) is it even worth going to MK with our 2 year old?

Due to the fact that we have 2 teachers in our family we are forced to visit in June. Normally we visit in the Spring. Are the crowds really that much worse in June than in April?

Hi I'm looking to do Mickeys not so scary and getting free dining this year if possible. What do you think would be my best week as far as lowest crowds. We are flexible. Thanks

I've decided that I want to risk the rainy weather in exchange for the low crowds in September. However, I'm being super indecisive and can't decide what week in September would be best. Does the latter half of September start to see less rain than the first half? Or is September altogether very rainy? Also, is September a big month for refurbishment? I've gone in October/Nov in past years and haven't had any problems with ride closures.

We are planning our first family trip to Disney (with 4 small children), and trying to decide between March 10-12, or March 17-19. We'd be going to Magic Kingdom on the Saturday, as we will only have partial days there on the other two days. Of those two date ranges, is one a significantly better option in terms of the crowds? The kids have a teacher work day on the 17th, making it a more ideal date however I am concerned that might mean larger crowds and waits as well. TIA!

We are planning our Disney vacation from Dec 5 to Dec 11. How is the weather and crowd during that time? Is there any special things going on at the parks during that time? Hours? Are the water parks open like Blizzards Beach during that time?

hi. how crowded will the first Sunday of May be? I plan on getting to magic kingdom around 1 pm.

what about the Monday and Tuesday that follow?

Hi

Can you advise when will the christmas festive deco be up in Nov for 2017 and when is a good to to visit from Singapore to beat the crowd yet can enjoy christmas theme?

Thanks

We are family of 5and we are planning to go 2nd week of June. 6/9-6/15 to be exact. It will be our first time inWDW/Florida. My main concern is the weather second is the crowd. Though I know that the weather nowadays is so unpredictable, any feedback about the weather in Orlando in month of June will be very much appreciated. (e.g. how much rain can we expect?) Big THANKS!

Im taking my younger sister and brother they will be (15,12) and myself boyfriend and 2 year old in 2018 none of us have ever been.

we need to go in summer break so would end of august be our best bet?

Is the last week in May really that bad? I wanted to take my daughter leaving on May 25 after she gets out of school for the summer.

Any chance of the renovations at the Wilderness Lodge being complete by September?

Struggling with making a decision on when to go...last week of September or first week of October. Does it really make a difference?

Planning to go this year (last week of Nov but after two days after thanksgiving to last day of Nov.) How is the weather like? Is it rainy/stormy? I dont think it will be too hot but most worried about rain. Also, I would be a first timer and I would like to see MVMCP. Is MVMCP worth the extra money? Cause I would already be at MK but paying extra to experience the party. Also, wondering if you go to MK on a christmas party day but don't have the special ticket. Will there still be regular fireworks or just the holiday version of the fireworks?

I'm torn between the week of April 24th or the week of May 8th. Which would you recommend crowd wise?

Our trip is Feb 25th-March 4th. I see on your crowd calendar that Sunday the 26th crowds are expected to be high, yet Magic Kingdom is the recommended park that day. Was just curious why that is? Is the other parks are busier that day?

Our trip is scheduled for Jan. 2018! A long ways away, traveling for our companies convention! The dates are Jan. 15 for arrival, and departure of Jan. 21! I saw where the NFL is doing something there during January and I was just wondering what your thoughts were on the crowds during this time next year!! This is my first trip in a long time, and my kids first trip (will be 12 & 5) and I want to try to make it the best trip ever, as going back could be a long wait from here on!

Planning trip for Move 29th to Dec 6th 8 days of Disney World even with that I'm wondering how bad it will be line wise and crowds was hoping being after thanksgiving and before Christmas it wouldn't be to bad

I will be going to Disney on Feb. 22nd, and Universal Parks on the 23rd. do you recommend the express pass for universal on that date? I want to make sure I can get on most of the rides if not all.

We were there from Jan. 7-14, 2017, and it was very crowded...very long wait times. We were surprised because we had been there December 5-12, 2015, and found the crowds much lighter. The weekend before our visit this year, there was a big marathon that is apparently an annual event, and I read after our trip that many people from the marathon stick around afterwards. So I don't think it's accurate as far as the second week in January being a good time to visit.

I am thinking of going to WDW during the last week of August to the 2nd day of September 2017. It indicates a low-med crowd during this time. I'm a Canadian resident and school doesn't start until after Labour Day. Is this different from American school schedule, causing there to be a lower crowd?

Hi,

Can you please tell why Feb 16-25 is worst time to visit in 2018? What is happening during those dates?

I see Space Mountain closes in early September for holiday overlay, we plan to go to Disneyland the last week in September will it be reopened by then? As far as availability of rides and attractions is that a good time to go? This will be a significant family trip with three generations, none of the kids and a couple of the adults have never been! Thanks

we are planning a trip in May the first week and I heard from my friend that they went in May and had several rides closed for refurbishment. Is there a way to see what rides may be closed down during our visit times? It's one thing to avoid crazy crowds but to the expense of not having all the rides open is something else to think about....

Hi, we have 2 kids who will be 3 and 5 in mid-October. Planning on going to WDW either the last week in September 2017 or the last week in February 2018. Which time would you recommend? Concerned about hurricanes/humidity in Sept, and too cold/not being able to go in the water (I'm a wimp!) in February... Thanks!

We have taken our kids to Disney 4 times now, we always go in March or April. Disney during Easter is very busy , this next trip in 2018 we plan on going in April, not sure what week yet will b the best. Best advise i can give to new Disney lovers is you have to go and be open minded to standing in line to get to your favorite ride, cant b in a hurry, get up early and buy hoppers w/your tickets. That way if you have kids or need a rest you can go back to your resort and come back later to enjoy. also, you need to go longer than 4days, you just cant enjoy and do it in that small amt of time because of the lines everywhere.. Enjoy! we LOVE disney and try to get there every 2-3yrs! hmmm, tell me what week will b best in April 2018, dont mind the heat, but we dont need it in the high 80's 90's either :) enjoy!

We went to WDW two times in 2016 (our first ever visits to WDW)...we are from SC and used to hot weather...but I am not accustom to walking 10 miles in 100* heat...with a 1 year old and 5 year old...pushing a double stroller through traffic jam packed on top of one another...believe me your patience level is tested to THE MAX...you can expect people who are so rude they will make you want to scream....kids included...walk right in front of you without looking....get in your way...look at you like you are stupid when you try to open door or anything you feel is polite...do not expect a thank you that was so kind of you to help me type reply...

Our dates we visited

June 19th - June 30th (hot and super crowded)

Nov 23rd- Nov 27th (perfect weather and EVEN MORE PEOPLE THAN JUNE)

We will NEVER go during these times again....I hear some people say well thanksgiving is busy, but not bad...that is a lie....do not believe them...it is horrible...

Also, do not and i mean do NOT stay at Pop Century...we stayed there during summer and the room is super TINY....might not be bad for 2-3 day trip...but a week or longer...no way no how....family of 3 may be better, but family of 4 ? NO

We stayed off site second visit in a friends timeshare at sheraton vistana and the 1 bedroom was nice...had full kitchen and washer/dryer which is invaluable....just did not like being on site...having disney bus access...etc...

Our next stay will likely be at contemporary so we can walk to MK...to me that is something that would save so much aggravation...Right now if you drive in you have to park...take a tram...then take a boat or get on monorail....we did boat this last time and it was nice...with castle lit up in the background...if it was not busy taking bus would not be bad...but sometimes you have to wait for 2nd or 3rd bus with screaming kids...= not fun :(

I am going to be actively looking for times to go where the crowd levels are consistently 1-2 on UCT app....friends of ours say they have gone every month and the best time is September after labor day....maybe we will try that time...but I do not like little one missing school to have fun....

Thanks for all your help and advise.

We are planning our holiday next year towards the end of October through second week of November. This is so we can capture the Halloween party at Magic Kingdom and also see the change the the Christmas decorations. We are staying off park at a villa as we did in 2015.

Could you recommend better weekdays to visit the parks please ? We are keeping an eye on the waiting times through the Disney App but looks busy most days. Thanks

I have to say we just came back from Disneyworld. We went during Jersey Week, 2nd week of November. Everyone told us that is a generally quiet week. Even all the blogs I read in the past stated the same, that most schools are in session that week and it's not very busy. Don't believe it. I am generally a positive person and have been to Disney around 8 times and used to love it. This had to be one of the busiest times we ever encountered. It was so crowded, we never expected it. The biggest culprit was the food and wine festival in Epcot and so ridiculously expensive. My daughter and I stood on line at one of the stands to get garlic shrimp. 2 portions and 2 bottles of water added up to almost $20. What we got were 2 tiny containers with 2 little ice cream scoop sizes of rice and 4 small shrimp along with some scattered green Edamame looking beans. Then don't get me started on the Fast Passes. Within the last 2 years or so they started with these Magic Bands, which we paid extra for. We did not know that basically the Fast Passes are geared towards Resort Guests, which we were not. Apparently you can reserve your Fast Passes as a resort guest 60 days in advance and if you purchase the tickets as a non-resort guest you have 30 days in advance. My husband said that when he purchased the tickets there was nothing mentioned about that so regardless when we got to the parks, pretty much every good ride was already booked until the end of the night and we ended up with a couple unpopular rides. The lines were anywhere from 30 minutes and up to 2 hour waits at the more popular ones. Once during a parade we got into the Haunted Mansion in 10 minutes. Other than that, the weather was great and Disneyworld looked really beautiful with the Christmas decorations but I don't think I will ever go that week again. One of the employees told us they hardly ever have slow times anymore. Too bad, we used to go in January and February and hardly anyone was there. I can't imagine the crowds in summer with the heat.

I was planning on visiting the two Universal Studios Parks Jan 16-19, 2017. The crowd calendar looks okay for those days, but it says not to go to Islands of adventure on Jan 17th, and not to go to Universal studios on Jan 19th. Why should those parks be avoided on those days?

If you had to choose between going to WDW during the week of April 17-22 or June 5-10, which would you choose? I'm trying to weigh crowd levels and heat for both times for my family of 7. April seems like it will have nicer weather, but I'm worried about the post-Easter crowds. I would appreciate any advice you could give. Thank you!

I Love Going to Disney World Florida

I just read your 'Surviving Thanksgiving week' article and in there it states that the busiest days are Wed, Thur and Fri of Thanksgiving week. But when I check the calendar it shows high travel the entire week. We were planning a last minute trip to go Nov 19th -23rd and be at the parks on Nov 20, 21, 22. I assume the calendar is more accurate than the article. It would be our first trip and with a 4 year old. We are thinking of picking another time as it seems this will be a very very busy time, am I correct? Thank you

We are coming the week after Thanksgiving based upon your crowd calendar. My first and only trip to WDW was 2 years ago and one of my favorite parts was the Osbourne Christmas lights. Has Disney announced anything to replace that huge attraction? Do you have any predictions or insider info for someone like me that fell in love with those lights and now they are gone. I plan to check out the Grand Floridian, Contemporary and the Animal Kingdom Lodge decorations but I will not be paying to attend Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

Hello,

We are planning on going 4/3/17 to 4/7. What is your advise on these dates??

I'm sorry if this has been asked already... I see from the crowd calendar that on November 17, 2016 MK is not a recommended park. I know that it's only open until 4:30, but I was hoping that would mean lower crowds. Do you think that's not the case? Thanks so much!!

We ieave for Disney World on Sept. 30 and will be going from Oct. 1 through Oct. 10. Am I in trouble when it comes to the weather?

Would you recommend the first or second week of February, 2017? I'm guessing we'll be fine regarding crowds, but what about shows, ride closures?

My only problem with some of the quieter dates is quite a few of the attractions are closed for refurbishment during those times (probably for good reason) and we would be very disappointed to come home without experiencing all our favourite rides. We always go for 16 days in December (10th-26th) when all attractions are up and running. The first week is okay but the second week is chaos but we just make good use of EMH and fastpasses.

I'm planning on a trip for May 2017 around Mother's Day week. I've always heard that's a good time to visit because of low crowds but my last trip was in mid September 2015 specifically because that was supposed to be some of the lowest crowd days and it was jam packed! I could not believe how crowded it was. Do you think that was just a fluke and do you think the May crowds will be like they have been in the past. It does seem like the more and more people are going on the low crowd dates (which makes them not so low anymore).

We are planning our trip from June 26 - July 6 2017. I know this is probably the worst time to go for crowds, but it is our honeymoon and we had our hearts set on leaving right after the wedding. If it's just the two of us and we really want to experience all the magic we can, do you think we should wait and have a delayed honeymoon, or do you think we can still have an awesome vacation at this time of year?

Hello! I am planning a trip for January 8th-13th 2017 and have had trouble looking up ride refurbishments for that time. I am also anxiously waiting for them to announce the special offers for that time as well. Can you give any information on what is normally closed during that time and the type of special offers I can expect? Thanks!

Hola! Sabes cuando comienza el spring break 2017? Viajamos del 28 de febrero al 17 de marzo y deseo evitarlo!! Gracias!

Lookink to go at WDW for the fifth time Jan 5-9 2017

It maybe not the best time but it is not the worst?

Hi, I'm planning on going from January 29th (we will be arriving late) until February 4th, the days we are going to go to parks to are January 30th until February 3rd, would those be good dates?

Our family has visited WDW at three different times of the year: early September, late May, and Thanksgiving week. By far, the best of those trips was the one over Thanksgiving. We arrived the weekend before Thanksgiving day and left the weekend after. The crowds were higher than September, obviously, but were not terrible and our longest wait was 45 mins. This is a particularly magical time to visit, in my opinion, because you get to experience the parks as they usually are, but when you wake up on the Friday after Thanksgiving, everything is decorated for Christmas and the Christmas entertainment begins. It was really neat to do both normal Disney and Christmas Disney. I cannot recommend this time of the year enough, but do warn everyone not to spend Thanksgiving Day in MK, but, rather check the projected crowds for the other three parks. We spent the day in EPCOT and had a lovely Thanksgiving dinner at the San Angel Inn. :)

Thanks for the tip. We are going to Disney in late September. I also linked your article to my blog. Now I can't wait until September.

HI we're going the week of August 27th-September 3rd - would you consider this a bad week to go?

I have never been and it is a lifelong dream but I have 5 children and three have autism, and I am a a single mom with physical disabilities. I am planning our trip for sept of 2017 based on the crowd element. I have really waited a long time to go due to how difficult it is just to bring my kids out in public to even the grocery store. We also have a very limited budget and will be driving from new york and back. What else might I have to consider for such a monumental trip? Lines and crowds and heat are huge issues for all of us. But we just have to make this dream come true.

We have always gone the first week of June (after Memorial Day and B4 schools let out) and this has always been a great crowdless time to go...what has changed?

I'm going with my boyfriend on August 19th to August 22nd. According to your calendar it shows moderate crowds 5/10. Do you know how long average wait times would be for those rides? Can I expect to be able to walk onto some rides or should I expect wait times for all rides? I've already scheduled some fast passes, but would like to know what to expect :)

I noticed that you said one of the worst weeks in 2017 for Disney World is the first week of January this year. Why is that? Couldn't find a reasoning. Getting married on January 1st and we were thinking of honeymooning there that week, but I'd rather not if it looks to be that terrible.

Hello,

How will the crowds be 6-10 March 17? The crowd calendar says average 6/10 but it is not recommended in this article. How bad do you think it will be considering it should be before spring break?

Are there any times of the year that full character appearances wouldn't happen? If we went and Anna and Elsa weren't there, we would have one dissapointed little girl. We were thinking January/ February, or October. What do you think?

Hey! I was thinking about going to Disney next October 19th-28th, what will the crowds and hear be like? I've been at the end of may/beginning of June and the heat was unbearable, will it be cooler? Thank you!:)

going to hollywood studios for the day on august 17th Is this a good day to visit as far as crowd level

I was planning on visiting WDW from Jan 11-15 2017 since its my boyfriends 40th Bday. Why do you say its the worst dates to go? what recomendations do you have that can make those days extra special for him?? thanks!!

Hi- we've booked a trip January 25-30, mainly because of low crowds, but I'm concerned about the Pro Bowl.(I didn't know about it when we booked). How do you think the Pro Bowl will affect crowds/ transportation? Similar to marathon weekend?

What about the first week of April. I read multiple places that most spring breaks will be done and it will be before the Easter crowds arrive. I read it will be low crowds but you are saying the opposite??!

Planning on DW trip 2017 from Feb 23 arrival night and leave 27 - will the rides be open or under construction - do you recommend that time period? crowds?

Hi- I'm planning a trip 1/28- 2/4 based on crowds being somewhat lower. It's our kids' 3rd visit and I use your site to maximize our time. It's been great- thank you!!!

One last

How does extra magic hours factor into your crowd calendar? EMH aren't up yet for our dates. Do you factor that in- are we better off going to a park with EMH that is yellow vs a green if staying on property to use EMH?

Do you change the crowd calendar when EMH days come out?

Also - you have 1/29 as a MK day- but it's a Sunday- which worries me- I thought I should be avoid . We will do parks Sunday - Friday with one day off in middle of week- 2 days MK, 1 day Epcot, 1 AK and 1 HS. What would you recommend- doing- should I wait for EMH to decide? I am going to book just a few dinner reservations- so I will need to decide which park I will be in shortly (not doing hopper pass)

Thanks so much!

Julie

How do you think the Probowl in Orlando will impact crowds for 1/28-2/4/2017?

we are considering going to disney 11/4-11/8

how much does "jersey week" affect the crowd and enjoyment levels?

thanks,

hellow,

I only can go once to Disney, so I want to do it right!! We want a vacations with parks but also a little bit of sunbading in the hotel. We wanted to go from 2 may 2017 till 16 may 2017 ... is this oké for the crowds in the parks? and I believe it's 30 degrees than? Or is june of july better for the weather? First I was thinking september? but I hear there is a lot off rain? not very nice for sunbading I think? Thank you for your response...

Liesbeth (Belgium)

was just curious why Feb 17-26th of 2017 is such a busy time was thinking of booking that week. never been to Florida but thought that would be a slow time?

Hi, we are planning to visit first 10 days of February 2016. From what I see crowds be too bad but is it a good time for weather and overall?

Hi, We are planning a trip May27-June 1st. Do you think this is a good time for us? That will be Memorial weekend, but we will still be there Monday thru Friday

My family is planning to go on a trip to Disney in January. Which week is the absolute best week to go? I'm trying to go when there are no crowds! :)

Planning a large family trip in 2017. Depending on who can make it there will be 8-10 adults, 3 teens and 2 kids (1.5 and 4.5). We're considering 1/30-2/6, 5/1-5/8, or early to mid Sept but can't decide which would be best. Planning 5 days in Disney parks and 2 at Universal. Thinking Jan/Feb would be cheapest and less crowded but still might be too cold. Sept might be too hot. And we're concerned may might be too busy. What is your suggestion?

We have always been either in Sept or Oct and have loved both months, but would love to go for the Christmas season next year. Would December 2-10 be a good week to visit? Low crowds, good weather, and all Christmas decorations up? We love using the pools, but I am concerned it will be too cold in Dec. Can someone give me some insight to the weather.... shorts, long sleeves, coats?

I'm planning on going to Disney from 4/15/17 to 4/23/17 while my kids are on spring break, is it crowded at this time and is it hot enough for the water park. Thanks

Hello,

I was thinking about taking my 4 year old to DW on 27 Feb or sometime the beginning of March. Do you know if the weather is usually good during that time of year in FL? Are most of the attractions open? My son is really into the characters are they normally out during this time or should I go later in the year? I just want to make sure I pick the perfect time.

Thank you!

We usually go mid/end of April but with Easter falling mid-April it put a little damper in our plans and changed our dates to the first week of April b/c that looked like a slower time. Now I see a few states are going to have spring break. Do you think the first week will be horrible?

We're planning to visit Fall 2017, either the week starting with Labor day (my dad's birthday) or the first week of October, right before Columbus day (my daughter's birthday). From the calendar, it looks like the crowds are about the same. How about prices? Which week would be better?

Hello,

I am planning on taking my family to WDW on Jan 2-5th 2017. With the holiday season late this year, do you know if they will keep the decorations up or take down right after New Year's ?

Is it still hot enough around the end of September/ beginning of October to go to a WDW waterpark?

First let me say that your blog is awesome! Thank you so much for all the work put you put into it! And I've noticed that the Frog Family does a great job at answering people's questions...thank you!

My question is this: we are planning our first trip to WDW for fall 2018. We have complete flexibility, so we're trying to figure out the best dates. We'll go for 14 days with 7-10 day park passes. Our kids will be 4, 6, and 8. We'll be staying off-site and I want them to be able to swim and relax on our off days. So when would you choose for good crowds/weather AND decent swimming weather?

Last week of September & first week of October

2 weeks in November (likely the first two weeks)

2 weeks in December

Thank you so much for your input!

I really want to take a trip to WDW for my birthday, February 20th. I know you say it's really crowded that week, is it more expensive as well? Would it be better to go the week before?

How far out should I book my trip to get the best prices? We were thinking the last week in July. Is this a super crowded time?

Hello!

We are planning an Orlando trip for later this year, but haven't decided on dates yet. What is your opinion on November vs December? We would go the week before Thanksgiving, the week after Thanksgiving, or early-mid December. Most likely a Tuesday - Sunday (starting at the parks on Tuesday late afternoon or Wednesday). We are wanting to visit all Disney parks, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.

Hi! We visited Disney World the second week of October in 2014 and LOVED it! We're planning another trip next year but we're thinking about going May 20-31. Are the crowds much worse this time of year than in October? We were there around Columbus Day and it was pretty crowded but still manageable. We know a family that is there right now and not enjoying themselves at all. It has us rethinking a visit in May and considering another October vacation instead. Any advice would be much appreciated!

Amber

Why is February 18 - 26 the worst time in 2017 to visit? My 6 year old and I are planning a trip there.

Thanks!

Hi, we are going the week before Thanksgiving starting Sunday for the Christmas party and Mon-Thurs. I am hoping for low crowds that week with the exception of it being busier for the Christmas party.

Hi My family is planning our first visit March 1-6 (arrive 2/28 at night.. 1st day in the park March 1) leave Monday March 6 ( holiday weekend in illinois but no where else!). It is both best and worst.

what are your thoughts When can I start booking the rooms for the BEST deals?

We are going to Orlando the week before Thanksgiving. We were planning on doing Animal Kingdom on 11/13, Magic Kindgdom on 11/15 and Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure on 11/17. We were planning on Animal Kingdom for Sunday thinking it would be more crowded and would leave us more time at the other two parks during the week. Your crowd calendar doesn't seem to agree. Do you think we should switch some of our days?

Hello...we are going 12/10-12/14, and we are not going to the Christmas Party. I don't mind going to MK and leaving by 7:00, since we can see the fireworks at 6:15. My question is, is MK more or less crowded the days of the christmas party? Thanks

Hi! We're thinking of coming from March 1st - 15th 2017 - I know we are going to overlap with Spring break a little.... is it worth waiting and coming after spring break and before UK Easter holidays? xx

Considering a surprise trip for our daughters fifth birthday in 2017. Her birthday is March 4. While it would be great fun to wake her up on her bday and say "we are going to dismeyworld". We would really rather not deal with crowds.really don't want crowds. Would we have better luck with a trip sometime in May 2017?

Just out of curiosity, why is the first couple of weeks in August a bad time to go? The heat?

I've never been to WDW so am new to picking the right time to go. I know not to go during school holidays, so I was thinking of bringing my family (husband, teenage son, his friend, my parents, and my in-laws) out January 8-15th, 2017. Will that be pretty low traffic? And will Christmas decorations still be up?

Hello! I have looked at the Crowd Calendar, but was wondering if I could get feedback from The Frog Family and others on which dates noted would be better (crowd level). Either May 28-June 4, July 25-July 31 or Aug 3-Aug 9. I know these are busy times, just wondering which date may be better. Thank you for the help!

Kind of having a hard time deciding on best time to visit in 2017. Easter week, April 24-28, May 1-5 or May 8-12. Also is the heat bearable at those times? We went this year during Texas Spring Break in March and it was crowded, but not horribly crowded for us. We did wait 2 hours in a couple of lines, but I've gone in the summer many times before and it was way worse. Because Easter is in April this year and almost 5 weeks from TX school spring break, do you think it will be insanely busy then? My son will be 6 in March, but 7 after April and I just wanted to be able to see the things we didn't and enjoy our time this time as we had a bigger group with us this past trip. Thank you, any advice is greatly appreciated.

Hello, I was planning a trip to WDW this july from the 22nd to 31st. I was told it was going to be too hot with long lines. Is september better? If so, what part of the month? THANK YOU!

I have looked at your crowd calendar (by the way, thank you so much!) and still can't decide... should we do the week before Thanksgiving or the week after?? Any suggestions or advice? Thank you!

Hi there! I have a trip planned for Nov 6-12 at the Poly. Totally bummed that free dining isn't available then and doesn't look like any other discounts either. But my biggest question is.....is that week Jersey week? And if so, how bad are the crowds during that time. Not sure if I should cancel or switch dates? What are your thoughts? Thank you!

Thank you for the very descriptive post on when to visit Disney World. Looks like we will have to go in September!

I'm in the process of planning a trip for myself and my two kiddies to Disney. I'm playing around with dates...middle of Oct 2016 or Feb/March 2017....I want nice weather if at all possible. And trying to determine if I should purchase a meal plan....help :-) :-)

Me and my girlfriend are looking at travelling to Disney World from the UK from April 27th 2017 - May 11th 2017. What is your opinion on these chosen travel dates?

You were correct on April 9, 2016 being one of the very worst times to visit Disney. We just got back from our trip and it was horrendous. The lines were extremely long. We waited 80 minutes to ride Peter Pan...80 minutes!! Some of the rides were 120 minutes..I mean it was nuts, crazy packed. I wish I had seen your blog before booking my trip!!!

Hello! Thanks for all the helpful tips. We are going in November for the first time ever. I found out that we will be there during the Wine & Dine 1/2 Marathon. Is this going to be an issue? Are the crowd levels higher during this?

Thank you!

We have a teacher in our group and the only time we can go is Feb 18 - 25. I notice that is NOT the best time to go. Is it crazy busy then? Thanks

We are planning to be in FLA 11/22-11/28 (arriving night before, leaving day after) and want to have about 2-3 days in Orlando either at the beginning or the end. Universal is our priority, but ought to do something WDW while in the area. Can you give a recommendation for whether first few days (T, W before Thksgiving) or last few days of our time period (Sa, Su, Mon after Thksgiving) would be better? Also, on your calendar, why do the two Universal parks appear to have such different crowd levels (one red when the other is green, or vice versa)? Thanks!

What are the best days in april to go or may

I have found alot of great tips on here. We are planning out trip to WDW for the 2nd week in July. I know that is probably the "Worst" time to visit but thats the only time we could squeeze out of our schedule. We have been many times and we are strategically planning this one. So bring on all the madness were ready for it. After all how bad can it be at the happiest place on earth. So excited we will let you know how it goes.

I am planning a quick trip to Magic Kingdom with my four year old daughter on May 2nd, 2016. I have picked the fast passes and am ready to go. I am hoping it will be less crowded than normal. Any insight on how crowded it will be that day?

Also, do you have any suggestions on meeting Elsa/ Anna? The fast passes were gone by the time I signed up the morning after they were available.

Thank You!

A great perk with being a resident of New Orleans is that most schools are closed during the Mardi Gras holiday and many people take advantage of that to go to Disney World because it's not nearly as busy as other holidays. Next time I plan a trip to Disney World, I will be planning it during Mardi Gras, we went during the week of Easter 2016 and I will never make that mistake again!

Hello: We are booked to visit 12/6-12-11 of this year, staying at our fave resort, the Polynesian. What day would you recommend for Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party? Would that Thursday the 8th be okay? I've read it gets busier as the weekend approaches. Thanks!

We're planning our 5th visit for next year but getting so confused! Looking to visit during Feb and possibly into March, either starting or ending with school holiday which is 20-24 February. No crowd calendars seem to take Mardi Gras into account, yet previous experience tells us that this time gets super busy. Any advice or suggestions would be very welcome!

Planning to go between 11/5-11/12 (Jersey Week). How were the crowds during Jersey week in 2015? We are also planning to attend a MVMC party session. Do you have a recommendation on which day we should get tickets?

When is the best time to visit in october near Halloween time in 2016?

My boyfriend and I are thinking about going to DW either Oct 24-28 for our Anniversary OR Dec 5-9 for my birthday.

Which dates would be best. Weather is ok but l'm more worried about the crowds.

Going from June 7th to June 15th. I know it will be crowded and I don't care. My kids aren't little anymore so they won't have an issue with waits. Just happy to be going to Disney one last time before my son leaves for boot camp!

I am planning a trip with college age boys May 11-15, 2016. Riverside is showing only rooms available are princess rooms. Is there something going on at that time? I am scheduling just room, not any kind of special. May have to consider a change. Thanks!

My husband is a teacher and we are looking into going to Disney next April 2017 the week before Easter and leaving the day after easter since it is hard to take off. Break for the my two son's and husband are falling all the same time which is great since it is not always the case. I read that is supposed to be the worst time to go. We were considering the last 2 weeks in August but we are afraid it will be to hot and will rain. I also have one son with special needs. Any recommendations. Would August be better then April?

Hi, we are planning our vacation the week before Thanksgiving, Nov. 13th - 19th. My fear is that this week is becoming more popular and WDW will be more crowded. We went at the end of April last year and crowds were low. Do you think the week before Thanksgiving has become more popular?

Would the day after President's day through the 26th in 2017 be an ok time to visit Disney World?

Looking to go to Disney for the first time with a family of 4 (two children ages 8 and 5). We are trying to decide between November 12-20, November 26-Dec 4 or we could wait for September 2017. In your opinion, which would be the best time to go for crowds/weather? We don't want it to be blistering hot, but not crowded either. I have checked out the crowd calendars...any opinions?

Hello!

I excited for Disney! I have just booked our family vacation for April 19th - 23rd. Will this time be okay? I also reserved our fastpasses for the mornings at each park. Our last pass ends at 1:25 pm. Should I look into changing the times for our fastpasses for the afternoon through the evening? I am reading mixed reviews where people say it is best to get them in the morning since your are able to get more throughout the day by visiting a fastpass kiosk. Other say that I will not be able to get any fastpasses for the afternoon not even at a kiosk because those will most likely be taken. We are also staying at Disney Resort and with the stay I believe we get Extra Magic Hours from 11-1am. Will there still be a large crowed by then? What do you think is my best bet for the fast passes? I have a 10 year old sister and I would really want her first time at Disney World to be as Magical as possible without massive wait times.

Thanks for your help! ;)

Why will January 13-16 2017 be a bad time to visit? Won't most children be back in school by then?

We are planning to go to Orlando from August 17th to the 31st 2017 is it to crowded or will it be ok for universal and Disney?

I was wondering what the crowds are from March 12 - April 16?

Hi there! Thanks for all of the work you put into coming up with these! We are looking at our first disney trip in early 2017. Our kids will be 5,4, and our youngest turns 3 on April 22. We want to go before she turns 3. I was thinking April 2-7 might be good because a lot of schools are out the week before/after easter and that will be 2 weeks before easter. Is that really a bad time? Im stuck! Thanks so much.

Very excited to make your first trip to Disney Orlando, I have been looking online to find the best days to visit and there is always a different answer. I have made our reservations for the week of May 30, 2016 thru June 3rd and am going to just hope for the best. I have the calendars for peak times at the parks and will try to find a day that is not too busy.

I know it's a ways off but we are planning a trip for February 2017. Tentatively our dates are Feb. 26 - March 4th. Mardi Gras falls in our dates and I am wondering if those will impact crowds, it looks like our dates are pretty slow but I'm just curious what to plan for. These are the dates that work best for us due to wanting to avoid horrible heat and spring break crowds. Thanks.

Hello. We have planned a trip to Disney Sunday September 18 - Friday 23rd 2016. With tickets for the 19-22. We will have a 1 year old and 3 1/2 year old. We just really want to focus on a character breakfast, the magic kingdom and the electrical parade. Nothing is up on the official Walt Disney World calender yet, however every site I look on shows no electrical parade while we are there! This is one of the main reasons we are going! I know Mickey's not so scary Halloween event will be starting at that time of year, but I thought it wasn't every night! Please tell me we will have the opportunity to see the parade! I would consider rescheduling our trip if we can't see it! Thank you.

Hello. I'm excited to be planning a trip to WDW from April 5-12, 2016. We are hitting the parks with 4 kids for 4 days from 4/6-4/11 leaving the other days for travel. Should we go to MK on 4/6 or 4/7? MK has EMH on 4/6 but is a lower crowd date. I think we will go back to MK again, which other day would you recommend? Thank you!

Hi we are going to Orlando april 10, 2017 thru april 21st. I know its going to be a busier time while we are there since it will be easter. I was wondering what days you think would be best to go parks. we plan on doing all the Disney parks and the 2 water parks, universal studios, LEGOLAND and seaworld.

Thanks, Amanda

I am looking to take my wife and 9 year old daughter to DW for 9 days in October. This will be our third trip. We have done most of the main attractions on our past vacations and are looking for a much more relaxing trip this time. What would be your ideal dates for a 9 day trip in October 2016 regarding crowd levels specifically. I appreciate in advice you could offer me. Thanks, this a great website...I've also enjoyed your YouTube channel. Thanks!

Hi! We are going to WDW during our daughters' fall break October 2016. Wondering if w/o October 8th or w/o October 15th would be better? (wasn't sure if Columbus Day being October 10th would make first week really busy). Thanks!

My family and I have always gone to Disney last week of April into May. Last year we noticed an increase in crowds and cheerleaders :p we have a vacation booked for early this May, but we are considering changing it to early September. I really like May weather, and the hours of the parks, also not worrying about the extra party cost ect.. I can not for the life of me make this decision. I need some more pros for September. not really a fan of rain daily.

thank you!

Hi

Based on your advice i am thinking of going this year on May 9th-23rd. My Family want to go the week later from May 16th-30th but on your website it says to avoid May 24th- 31st. Could you elaborate on why this would be a week to avoid. Thanks Jason

At WDW right now, trying to figure out why the crowd is SO bad, never been this bad this time of year. Just FYI

I'm planning our first wdw trip. It's gonna be April 10th, 2017 till the 21st. I understand from everything i've read that its gonna be a busy time since it's gonna be around easter. But I want to know if it's gonna be really busy then since easter falls so late that year. And when would you suggest to visit what parks on what days. We plan to visit all 4 disney parks and the 2 waterparks, plus universal, seaworld and legoland. i do plan on going to the ocean on easter since im sure that will be the craziest day at any park.

Thanks, Amanda

Hi we're planning a holiday to Orlando around 30th may 2017 - 10th June 2017 we will be taking our two children aged 6 and 3 as a surprise will the weather be too hot for them? From the uk

Hi

What about go on 10 Apr to 16 Apr 2016

Is it good time for famliy trip to diesny world?

Hi, me and my boyfriend have booked Orlando a for the first two weeks in October. Can I expect some nice warm weather? Also, whats your view on using the Uber app to get from Disney to Universal? As we are staying on site at Disney. Iv'e read taxi journey form Disney to Universal are expensive!

Many thanks- love the blog!

Looking at going November 13-18 is this a good time to go?

We are going to disney in aug 14-21 is that a good time to go has far as crowed and storms

Were planning a 10 day trip November 2016 the first two weeks to celebrate our 40th anniversary. Will we be there for the epcot wine event?

We just planned our vacation for May 4-12th of this year. It was very last minute. Everything I've looked at says it's a "low crowd" time of the year...but it's not on your list...do you anticipate large crowds during this time?

Hi, I am planning my first trip to Orlando but would like to avoid hurricane season:( so what would be the best time ?

We got our tickets (thanks for really fast service) and are days away from fastpass signups. I'm using the touring plans and have the app. Understanding that Spring Break will be very crowded, what is the best way to approach traffic around the Parks? We are staying off site in a house south of WDW. Also, when mapping a route, what destination do we use to get to parking, or is there ample signage? Thanks for the great info here, and the live chat operator (sorry, forgot name) for some very savvy advice! 35 days !!!

Why is February 12-21, 2016 so busy? What should we expect?

Thanks!

Hello! Me and my family are planning on being at WDW Oct. 10-14 of this year since that is my son's Fall Break. I'm crossing my fingers that this a great time to come!

Is October 1st to the 5th a good time to go?

We are planning on going Feb 18 or 19, 2016 for the day. Is thurs or fri better? How are the crowds? We have a 2yr old and 5 so wont be doing any big rides. thank you!

You recommendation that weekends in May are a worst time...is that based on Star Wars weekends (which I've heard are no longer happening)? Or are there other factors?

What is going on? Been here during this time many years and the crowds are almost summer like this week. Wait times on Seven Dwarfs Mine Coaster exceeded 90 min. Space Mountain was 60. Rock n Roller Coaster was 75, Toy Story Mania was over 100 minutes. Never seen crowds like this in January.

Hi, thinking of visiting from UK and would love to see Disney with Christmas theme and decorations. Off for a week from 27th November - is that a good week to visit? Will it be festive? Thanks.

Holy moly, why is Disney world so busy right now? We haven't seen almost any rides that have less than an hour wait the entire time we have been here. This was supposed to be a calm time to visit. Even the Disney employees are wondering what is going on. It's really put a damper on our trip. Anyone know?

We are looking to go to Disney April 30th, 2017 do you think this will be a okay time to go? We will have two 2 year Olds and a 14 year old along with 4 adults on 2 of us have been to Disney before.

Thanks Heather

We are planning a vacation to Disney world this year how does the 2 weeks at the end of April look? Mostly the week before the end of April the week of the 18th, it is our first time as a family and we will be bringing an 11 month old :)

You've picked out March 5-April 3, April 9 as being some of the very worst times to visit. We arrive in Orlando on 2nd April so just after the period you've mentioned. Just wondering what's happening on April 9 for it to stand out?

T thought from the way it was presented on T V in the u k we would be able to actually

book a holiday on this site.

My wife and I have been 5 times before, and always stayed in Kissimmee,

looking to try I drive next time( LOVE ORLANDO)

Gonna have to say the "least crowded after Disney World Marathon" suggestion is little off this year. At least for Magic Kingdom today! We've been in the parks since Jan 3rd and Magic Kingdom was about the busiest we've ever seen people wise. Any idea why the crowds are still so high?

The February dates for the Best times in 2017 overlap with the Worst times in February 2017. Can you specify?

Ok, so I finally have the opportunity to take my kids to Disney this year but I am torn between dates. Both dates show high crowds. I need some recommendations as to which would be a better time. Spring Break: March 19-25 or Summer: June 6-30th. Has anyone been there during these dates?

Thinking of planning a trip to WDW and have three possible times to choose from. The dates are 3/27 thru 4/1, 6/12 thru 6/17, and 12/18 thru 12/23. Out of these dates which one would be the best choice for crowds and weather? Thank you.

Hi. We are planning to visit WDW the first week of February. Last year it seems we went the same week. We followed the calendar and thought that we were going on a green day (2/10). When we got there it was the WDW ESPN HS Cheerleading competition. Magic Kingdom was slammed with very long wait times. They even kept the park open an extra hour because it was so crowded. It appears that the same competition is going on the first weekend in February. There also appears to be a big dance competition the last weekend in January. Would it be best to go early in the week when the dance competition is over and before the cheerleading competition or the middle of the week in between competitions? The value hotels still have availability so I am guessing the middle of the week is best, but would LOVE some advice on this issue. Our daughter is 7 years old. Thank you.

Taking my family to Disney for the first time. Thanks for the calendar link. We have very open and flexible dates. Looking at either May or September. My kids are 2 and 4 (5 if we go in September). How much time do you think we should dedicate to visiting the park? We want to visit some of the other places Orlando has to offer as well, like SeaWorld. Would one day be good for kids that young, or should we plan on 2-3 days? We probably won't be doing too many rides, because of the kids ages, but want to make sure we see and do lots of other things there and make the trip memorable.

Hello,

On the Crowd Calendar, are we supposed to go by the color that the date is highlighted in or the little color strip next to the park name?

Thanks!

Kristin

Hi, how does the week from 18 May 2016 to 26 May 2016 look? Will we miss out anything if we choose to just go during the weekdays and not the weekends?

Hi, some great info here but you don't really mention mid to late April. What's that like for crowds and weather?

Hi there! Flying over from Melbourne Australia for a trip in the first week of May next year; is this an okay time to come? We wanted to be there for Mat 4 so I understand that day is likely to be pretty busy, but will the rest of the time be okay you think? Thank you! Steph :)

Hello! I am trying to take my family of 5 to WDW and Universal. The optimal dates for traveling would be April 5-12....Is that a busy time?

My next available time would be Feb 23-March 1. I am afraid this will be cold. Also, it is last minute by Disney standards. Which dates would you recommend? I am working around high school and college schedules, as well as graduations, so dates are limited. Thanks!

Good Day I was thinking of taking my daughter for a holiday next year round about June July is it when it is hot out there? it will be her first rime as she is very exited about it, we as from SA so just want to know what dates will be nice to go in 2016 June, July...Thanks

You didn't mention the week of the Marathon in early January where a ton of people come to run. Or does if have the opposite effect and scare away visitors, making it a good time to visit?

So pleased I've found this - and especially the dates - we arrive in Orlando on 22nd Feb 2016 in the evening and fly out on 4th March - looks like we've picked the perfect dates... Now we just have to plan what we are doing for each of those 11 days.

Hiya I've booked to go on the 29th October 2016 for two weeks will the Xmas decorations be up in Disney

I am trying to plan a trip for either the week before thanksgiving or the week before Christmas 2016. Which of these weeks would be better? We would be checking out the Monday before both holidays.

I wonder if the tickets expire parks . I travel to Orlando from 13 to 23 , 2016 , which I consider to choose which park to visit every day

I noticed that both 2015 and 2016 each had a 'worst time' in February. What makes these weeks so busy? I thought it might be Marti Gras but in 2016 the busy week is the week after Marti Gras. Love your site!

Hi Leap! Love your blog. We are planning a trip to WDW sometime in November or December 2016. Is either month significantly better, crowd wise? Are there suggested dates or avenues to get tickets that will save us money? (ie, how far in advance should we buy? Is it like airfare where the price is best at just the right time?)

Thanks!

jason.

We're planning on taking our 3 year old daughter from Nov.13th-20th & plan on taking her to Disney on one of these days.Crowds shouldn't be bad around this time right? I downloaded the app for Orlando,I hope it works!

Hi, we are looking at visiting Disney World for two weeks in 2017. The potential dates we are looking at are:

27th March - 10th April

22nd May - 5th June

What would be the better option in terms of crowds, weather, etc?

We just got back from WDW. We were there from 10/19/15 to 10/24/15. I was really surprised at how crowded the parks were. We went 10 years ago for our honeymoon at the same time and were able to get on and off rides with little to no wait. This year, ride wait times were 45 minutes or more...Soarin had 150 minute wait when we went for our fast pass. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train never had less than a 60 minute wait. I expected the same crowd level as when we went for our honeymoon, but was really disappointed. It seemed to be just as busy as the week between Xmas and New Year's when we went in 2007. Is that what we can expect even during the "low crowds" time of the year? If so, I may not be visiting again any time soon. It's not much fun to spend half the day wading through crowds and waiting in long-lines.

I am planning to take my 2 year old son to disneyworld nov 8-15 2015 is this a good time? Whats the weather and crowds like?

We're headed next week and are so excited. Should we expect heavy crowds?

Hello! Planning a stay during the weekend of the marathon into Martin Luther King weekend. Originally booked that week because I read it was low crowds (in between the two holiday weekends). But now I am wondering - is it better to go late January for lower crowds? Basing trip around the crowds entirely. Only doing magic kingdom for a day and staying at port Orleans. Thank you!

We are thinking about going to Disney the first week of December 2015. Is this generally a light time to visit. Also do you think it will be pool weather? Thank you!

Hi Laura - this will be our first trip to Disney and were planning on going to MK on Veterans Day (Nov. 11th). Do you think this will be a good day to visit the park as far as crowds? Also, because we are not staying on-site, we weren't able to get the fastpasses for the times we wanted. I know my girls want to see Cinderella and Ariel but we don't have a clue about anything else. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you in advance for any and all advise!!

I hear the best time to go to Disney world is when the super bowl is on as it's not as crowed is this true ?

Is it easy to find an accommodation near Disney or do i need to make prior arrangements for that first ??

Have you seen any discussion publicly or among Q&A with Disney Parks about what their long term plans are for reducing park congestion? Our generation (I'm mid-30s) remembers Disney as someplace more attainable and not so wildly overcrowded, without so much need to strategize, and you could just go and enjoy the rides, and get to ride whatever you wanted! Do you know if there are plans to either expand Magic Kingdom, open another "Disney" in middle america (maybe on some wide open land in the middle of Texas?!) or otherwise manage the congestion, because at this pace, I feel like it won't be long until it will be sold out entirely during school breaks?

My three friends and I willl be going on the 29th April 2016 till the 13th of May . I thought these would be ok ?

I was wanting to plan a trip to WDW the week of my son's birthday BUT its during one of the worst times of year the week of June 23 next year (2016). Do they offer any type of special pricing for birthdays? Is there any other suggestions that you may have when planning? I wanted to go during the off season BUT with school and all its not going to happen that way. Thanks!

Hi

Is it too early to have an idea about crowds on March/April 2017? I don't want to take my kids out of school in the UK but the vacation times for Easter are different in different parts of the country. I'm thinking of going for two weeks from around 30th March which means returning the day before Good Friday. Is it pretty hectic for the whole of March until Easter is over every year?

Thanks!

We visited magic kingdom on Monday 4th October. We picked this month as it was supposed to be quieter. However, the lines were horrendous all day. Everything had a long line.80 mins jungle cruise, 90 for pooh ride and 30 using our fast pass for thunder mountain railroad. Is this the new 'norm' for October. All in all, it was not pleasant day - even the kids didn't really enjoy it much.

The very best times to visit Disney World in 2016 are ...

•Jan. 3-8

The very worst times to visit Disney World in 2016 are ...

•The first week in January

So which is it?!?

Hello,

Thank you for the blog and the information. I will be visiting US for the first time in 2016 through London. Which Disney is nearest to London by plane and what are the hotels that you recommend to stay in.

Thanks

Hello. I am a fellow disney fan, and I I'm planning a trip to disney world during april 2016. It would be the 24th to the 29th. Or it would be from the 21st to the 29th. Are those dates good to go to Disney world? If anyone could reply, that would be great. Thank you!!

We're going through make a wish thanksgiving week. My 8yo daughter is on a wheelchair. Hiw are the lines for the disabled?

Hi, We are looking at Orlando for Dec 19th to 26th and were planning on doing Universal but my girls 5 & 7 want to do Disney to. How many days will Universal parks take? Would you recommend the extra for Universal Express pass? What days would you recommend for what parks (Universal/Disney ) We currently plan to stay at Drury hotel.

Help! My dream is to spend Christmas far, far away from home in Toronto. I was hoping to plan a trip to WDW in 2016, Dec 16-27. Am I being silly? I was hoping to alternate park days with off days to visit other resorts etc. What should I do?

Hi, every website has said the same, september september september if you dont mind the weather, and yet i have never seen so many people in my life not to mention kids! The schools must be empty? Does anyone have an answer for this? We wasnt expecting empty parks but this feels like school holidays!

Hi!!!

I am starting to plan our trip over to WDW. I live in Australia so I have really no idea when the best time is to go etc. we are a family of 5 (2a + 3c) could you recommend somewhere to stay at WDW. it is very overwhelming when you have no clue where to start. This will be our 2nd trip to the USA we went to Disneyland CA last year and I just found planning that trip so much easier.

Hi,

We're planning to visit all 4 WDW parks - MagicKingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios using a 3-day Park Hopper. (our plans include Universal resort too in this trip).

After reading all these, I'm wondering if this would be do-able.

What would be your suggestion to cover all 4 Disney parks in 3 days (using Hopper)?

I've come up with this plan considering the crowd + park open hours (avoiding Halloween party days which we don't plan to attend)

3 Oct - Sat: Disney EPCOT (9am-9pm)

4 Oct - Sun: Universal Studios (8am-5pm) + Islands of Adventure (9am-7pm)

5 Oct - Mon: Animal Kingdom (9am-6pm) + Disney Hollywood Studios (9am-7.30pm)

6 Oct - Tue: Universal Islands of Adventure (9am-8pm) + Universal Studios (8am-7pm)

7 Oct - Wed: Disney Magic Kingdom (9am-10pm)

I'm planning a trip October 2- October 9 2016 and I'm planning on doing Mickey's not so scary Halloween would this be a good time to go

You say here that the worst time will be till 11-04 buth the crowd calender says from 4 april 2016 will be a good time. ? I was planning to go on 4 April, (hole week) good idea or not?

Hi! I'm so glad I stumbled onto this blog, so much helpful information! In any case, I'm looking into using a travel agent for my 2016 WDW trip, it's my very first time going to WDW and Universal Studios so I want to ensure I'm making the most of my time as I don't know when I will be able to make it back! 1.) For first timers, are park hopper passes necessary/beneficial? Or will each park keep me so consumed I won't have time to get to other parks in one day? 2.) I'm hearing there is a Fastpass+ option. Is this different from the Disneyland Fastpass system? 3.) You mentioned it rains in Sept., I'm looking to go the weeks of either: 9/4/2015 - 9/12/2015 OR 9/11/2016 - 9/19/2016. I will spend 5 days at WDW and 2 days at Universal and then head home, is that time of the month super rainy (and or cold) or does it just depend?

I am SUPER excited by the way and cannot wait to begin booking my trip! I just want to make sure I have a solid plan in place so again I can make the most of this once in a lifetime trip :o)

Thank you!

Thanks for your useful info. We booked our orlando trip from Oct 16-21 . Would it be too cold to visit discovery cove and sea world ( swimming) in Oct ? Actually it is my first time traveling to US with my 9 yrs old son and husband. What you would advise if we want visit Magic kingdom, Epcot, HOllywood studio, seaworld, discovery cove in 4 days only ?

Me and my partner (2 adults with no kids) are planning a trip to Orlando on the last week of September 2016. We've been to Universal parks before but never at Disney. We really want to go to Hollywood Horror Nights in Universal and thought that maybe late September (the first week of HHN) will be less crowded than October. And we want to go the entire week to visit the Disney parks for our first time. Do you think is a good time to actually enjoy the parks and do the rides? What day of the week would you recommend for each park? Also, I'm concerned about the rain you mentioned on your post since I never thought about it. Certainly we don't want for our first visit.

Hi there we are going April 9-16. I was wondering why you are predicting busier crowds through April 11? With Easter being earlier I would think it would be quieter. I am hoping for a good week. The last time we were there was during xmas week 2 years ago and it was crazy!

We have a special needs 3-year old who requires oxygen and would most likely be in a stroller most of the time. We would probably not be interested in many rides, but more character/show watching. I just started researching this and have noted the first week in October, mid-November, first half of December, last week in January, and first week of February. Would any of these times be better than the others? Thanks!

Hi, we are planning to go in 2016 with our autistic son so want crowds as low as we can. We were thinking of the two week after easter. UK schools go back 11th or 18th depending on area. Which two weeks do you think would be less busy, or would the two weeks before the easter weekend be better??? we can go any time in March April May, but thought April would give better weather and longer days.

We are just starting to plan our first family trip to Disney World for April 21-30, 2016. We will likely be purchasing a 5 day pass, 1 park per day (not hopper), some vacation days will be non-park days. At that point our boys will be 9 and 5 1/2, they are not into meeting characters or extremely large crowds, but they love rides. Any words of wisdom? (BTW, really loving your website!! Thanks!)

This information is really useful!!! We booked our disney trip from October 30th-November 9th, we are getting the halloween party, christmas party, and food and wine festival. Can't wait!!

I'm so glad I found this site. Such a wealth of information! We already booked our flights and will be going to Disney World November 21-23 (Sat/Sun/Mon) then heading over to Universal November 23 & 24 (meeting up with another family). Now that I see you crowd calendar I'm second guessing this plan because of the crowds. Are those days prior to Thanksgiving really that busy too or is it mainly Thursday & on?

I have tickets for the Christmas party on the 1st of Dec, which starts at 4. Does the park close early on these days on account of the Christmas party? How does that work? Tks!

We always go in April but not all my family will be able to go April 2016 so I was thinking September 2016. My question is will the parks(Epcot and Magic Kingdom as well as Disney Springs) pretty much be running the same? Would they have the same time park closures, parades(night and day) and firework shows as April? Also would they still continue to run the Electrical Water Pageant nightly as well?

Thank you in advance for your time and website!!!

We were planning our WDW vacation may 15th though may21st 2016 and was just wondering if a good time or not and about the park times if close early ? We have went last 2 1/2 years once in March then this past Dec ... Advice please :)

We will be going from .2/2/16 to 2/7/16. Any thoughts, pros or cons??

We are planning a trip second week of June. I read in another book that early June is not too busy. Any info for this time of year. It is our first time going. We have a 7 and almost 6 year old that we will be taking. My husband and I are both teachers so going "off season" is just not an option. This may be the only time we get to go so we want to make the most of it.

Thanks!

HI! we will be going to Disney World on Dec 04 for 7 days. Good time? not crowded right?

Hi,

What do you think about November 1-4th? I've read that Jersey Week is during that time. Would that be a bad time?

The other time we are considering is the last week in April. Schools in upstate NY are on break that week, but I don't know if other states are off that week. Thanks!

We'll be traveling to Disney October 2-9, 2015. We're staying at old key west. Anything you want to throw my way would be appreciated. I have read through lots of your material also. Can't wait to surprise the kids!!

we are planning for 24th March to 9th April which has easter weekend then almost 2 weeks after that - what would your expectations be for that period please. I see there are some green days on the crowd planner etc.

Please help! this is our first trip and we're planning on going jan 14-21 2016 and it says that's the worse time to go, can you tell me why :( !

Do you think the "best times" discussed here are also the best times to visit Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure? My wife and I are leaning toward October because of the addition of Halloween-themed events, but is Universal Studios not more crowded at this time due to Haunted Hollywood Nights?

My family of 7 is planning a Disney vacation and trying to decide when to go is the biggest question. In the past we have always gone the weekend after Thanksgiving and the crowds weren't too bad at all. The wait for some things was long but most were fine. Scheduling at this time that will not work. We are looking at Columbus day weekend or the week before Christmas. Do you think one will be better than the other?

Planning on going October 14, my sister will be 65 and really wants the opportunity to have a pic with Mickey, so your advice is exceptional. She did say a dance with Mickey but don't think that might happen. Has to be on 14th. Thanks !

We want to plan a trip to Disney the last week of January 2016- first week of February 2016. I have checked the crowd calendars and prior advice on fast passes and getting into the part before it opens. I love the advice and plan to

Hi we are there for the days Tues Sept 13 - Sat Sept 19. As we are doing the Universal Package we will only visit Magic Kingdom one day. I have three questions.

1) Based on your crowd calender we are going a brilliant week. Should I bother with fast passes at Disney with 2/10 days.

2) I have read your site and it says to avoid Early Entry days and the best days look to be the 15th or 16th. Only one has the Halloween night which I know will cost more if we stay. Will we not get the normal Wishes fireworks if we get the Halloween night. It is very important to me and Halloween is not big to us.

3) I may have to visit one park on weekend with our Flex Pass. I assume Seaworld would absorb larger crowds better than Universal or Disney.

Thanks.

I took my mom Thanksgiving week to FL. Stayed at DW's Coronado's Resort. We had a nice room and wonderful service and food. I'd never stayed at the resort...HIGHLY , HIGHLY suggest it. It was nice for DW to pick us up at the airport and take care of everything while we were there including taking our packaged back to the resort for us. It was especially nice to not have to worry about where the car was, waiting in exit line to leave the parking lot. I'd never stayed on grounds before but will never go back to staying off . As for our Thanksgiving Day meal...we found it would of been cheaper to eat at the la cart market at our resort and it ended up being the some food that was at the $35 meal at WD's Pioneer "Cabin" or the Liberty Tavern..in my opinion they were too expensive. I would of rather of go to the cafe . However, the specialty places like Mickey's Cafe and the Dinner at Hollywood park is a must!!! I personally found the crowds not bad but to my mom who drove an electric cart it was very crowded. The only terrible thing for use going in Nov. was the weather. We had packed for warmer temps than home,but it was COLDER at DW at 37-63 degrees where home was 45-68 degrees FYI; We went to Sea World too. The whole day was bad to worse. 1st there is not shuttle service from DW to SW so We had to leave DW grounds walk 5 blocks to a bus stop,wait 45 minutes, ride the transit another 30 minutes, get off the bus and walk 10 blocks the walk through SW parking lot before getting to the ticket booth. By this time it was lunch so we bought their meal pass(highly worth it) and had lunch. After lunch we discovered that most of the animal shows had been cancelled! We had come to go to the Killer Whale dinner so we walked around for three hours! When we go to our dinner we discovered that it wasn't at all what the ads has said. We were to sit and dine under an enclosed tunnel where the whales swim over you, eating on china and the a "private" show. We ended up eating next to a holding tank for whales, eating on paper plates with plastic silverware while a whale and it trainers do tricks! Then at 6:47 we started began walking to the exit best of the weekday hours and the began our evening trek to the bus stop to start our trip back to DW.( the only good thing was the penguin exhibit-I LOVE penguins)

over all, DisneyWorld will be great no matter when you go. You'll have so much fun who needs to go anywhere else!

Hej, we are planning a trip for summer 2016. We know it isn't the best time to be in WDW, we have a periode from July 9th until August 21th. In between we want to go for a two week period. What are the best weeks to consider?

Michel

I really want to plan a family trip. I'm not a believer of taking my kid out of school, but I'm considering it just because the last two years we've missed a lot of school in Jan/Feb. Would it be a good time to visit? I've heard some rides close, is that true? I'm assuming that is water rides? I just want my kid's first experience to be fun and not miserable hot and spent standing in line. Love your blog!

We have a trip planned for Aug 30 - Sept 5th. Hurricane season scares me a bit to be honest, how bad is it expected to get? Thanks!

Went to WDW last year from Sept 2nd to 9th and crowds were amazingly low, weather was nice, and I had a great time. Booked a bounceback for Sept 2015 for Sept 1st to 8th, but I just realized that this year Labour Day falls right in my dates (last year's Labour Day was early on and we arrived after the holiday was over). Will this affect crowd levels? Thanks !

how bad will it be on may 22 the 24 hr day

We are coming to Florida in October. 18th october - 1st November. We are staying in a villa in Kissimmee. I have been before but not for 17years. Can you help me with idea of what the weather would be like & que times for rides please?

Me and my boyfriend are going to be going from May 11th to May 17th 2016. How do you think the crowds and weather will be at that time of the year?

We are going November 5-11th. Any tips on that time about weather, crowds??? When do they decorate for Christmas?

Hi there, planning trip - I had originally hoped to go early May but had to postpone. I can now go anytime from 18th May. I plan to go for two weeks with a 4 year old. Question I have is do I go for the 18th or a bit later and give myself more time to plan.

Thanks

Hi, we are hoping to stay at either Coronado Springs or Caribbean Beach resort in 2016. My husband would like to go last week June through 1st week in July, but I am really worried about crowd level, wait times the heat!!! only other time would be to take our son out of school in May. Any tips for which would be best would be great.

Party of 7 (grandma, mom, dad and 4 young kids) are heading to WDW this winter. The choice being the week of Nov 15th or the week of Nov 30th. Any thoughts on which would be the best week? 2 most important things are - low crowds and Christmas experiences (without doing the Christmas Party). Looks like there are still many Christmas lights in mid November. Anything we would be missing by going in Mid November rather than waiting until week after Thanksgiving?

Hi All, we are hoping to book a trip in 2016 and wondered if you would have any advice for the best time to go that far in advance? Thank you

I thought I had my dates set but now im not so sure. We can either go the last week of september or october 18-25. Now im not so sure as they both have busy days. Any input? Not sure if there is school break or busy due to mickey not so scary.

We are planning on our first trip to WDW the week of July 15. I teach so it's difficult to go during the least busy times. Will it be absolutely miserable, crowd wise during this time?

Hi, going last week of Nov 30 - Dec 6. Would it be less crowed? and will the resort have a cheaper price?

Hi. leaving end of april to may5th 2015. wondering abt the weather in Florida? thank you very much!!!

I am planning our families first trip to Disney World for Dec 24th- Dec 28th. Followed by Universal from Dec 29th- Dec 31st and possibly a day at Aquatica on Dec 23rd. We have a little girl who will turn 5 on the 28th and our son who is 12. We are planning on a stroller as our daughter has pain issues so we feel its better for everyone if she gets a ride but how hard will it be to navigate with her and are we fine if we park our stroller in a parking area for a while and navigate without it when the crowds get to bad. Also how likely is it to get a good weather day to do Aquatica that late in Dec. Thank you guys for all your tricks its so nice to have advice from seasoned pros I have already started getting things together. Any first time tricks would be greatly appreciated

Thanks So Much

Crystal

My family of 6. mom dad and 4 adult kids 21 to 27 are vising Florida WDW and universal for the first time. May 5 to 11th. We are staying off site at our time share. The kids are split on how many days to spend at which resort. my husband wants to go to Epcot. will tag along with daughters to Harry Potters [big Hogwarts fans]. but he is not interested in Disney since we have been many times to Disneyland. but one son loves Disney and wants to get the three day pass.

1. are there better days to see which park?

2. what would be the best day to visit Epcot?

3. 3 of one 2 at the other? visa versa? help calm the family drama.

which way will they be able to see the most?

we are planning on the being there before it opens option. but always staying to the last. but i'm not much a fan of park hopping or how it can add much besides cost.

we are there to see family also. so some time away from parks [ha ha says my son}. the 5 of us will spend most the time together once we can agree on which days at which parks. daughter wants to start to make the reservations for meals and fast passes. help.

We want to take our large family (me, my husband, and our 5 kids) to WDW in October. My vacation budget is $11000. We'll be driving down. Is this budget do-able? Where should we stay? We have a variety of ages-- 3 to 13. Any tips?

We ABSOLUTELY love Disney World. We visit during the month of June and it is very crowded and hot. Although that is so, we still enjoy ourselves and have a great time. We will be visiting this June as well. Looking forward to another Magical Experience.

Hello!

I am planning a Disney World trip on May 10-12. We are staying on site and visiting Animal Kingdom on Sunday and Magic Kingdom on Monday. I noticed that it was red for Magic Kingdom on that Monday. I would have assumed during the week it wouldn't be as crowded. Now I'm wondering if I should change Magic Kingdom to Sunday? Any advice would be great! Thanks!

Hi,

Currently wanting to know the best dates inbetween August the 15th until start September?

thanks!!

No mention of Memorial Day period. I guess I should expect it to be busy Memorial Weekend, but how about the week following Memorial Day? Thanks!

I was raised in the Tampa Bay area. ..so we went to WDW a few times a year. I got married a few years back and have two great step kids (17&11) & one wonderful husband. Also we have a 2year old & 7 month old. It blows my mind that none of them have been. I'm trying to make sure the 1st trip is amazing as the ones I remember as a child. Any tips on dates or other things to do special. I have not been to WDW since 2001. Thanks for the help

We were supposed to have gone the last week of February. Unfortunately we hadt reschedule everything. The next best date we could settle on was May 30 - June 6. I hope its not to horribly crowed. Its my husband and girls ( 7 and 11) first trip.

Staying at camp grounds May3-9 . Is this a good time ? We have 2 special needs kids,both 13

Planning an East Coast USA holiday from Australia with 2 kids (13 & 11). In Orlando for a week from 23rd June which l see is a terrible time, wanting to do both Harry Potter parks with a 3 day pass. Was in Disneyland a couple years ago during Halloween party time, l assume l should expect even bigger crowds then that? Should l add express passes?

Your page has been invaluable thank you.

Hi we're going on the 12 of May to the 26 of May what will the crowds be like then as this is are first time to florida x x

Trying to finalize dates for our trip to Disney with 7 year old and 2 year old. We are looking at Nov29-Dec3, The week of December 5 (Pop WarnerWeek?), or the week of April 26-30. Suggestions for lowest crowds, best weather?

We are planning to go April 13 - 17 - any input on how crowds will be like ? I was told this should be ok as spring break crowds leave around 12th.

We went feb14th-19th and it was NIGHTMARE. SO this article is spot on with those dates. It was so crowded there were workers directing people where and how to walk there were soooo many people.

Why is mar 8 a bad time that's when we are going?

I would like some help me and my kid's went to go these year but they never flight. And also we're can I get the best deal for flight and hotels and sea world,university studio, Disney world.

What is like to go on the first week of March? (2 - 9 of March exactly)

Thanks. :)

My husband and I want to visit for the Xmas decorations and Mickey party but the week we originally were thinking of seems to be predicted for Pop Warner week... Can anyone tell me if we should be looking at a different time to visit. We are interested in lower park crowds and can be flexible on when we travel. Thanks!

We are going the first week of March. Please tell me that is a good time. We are taking are little girl for her birthday. Plus at the Magic Kingdom where is the best places that don't cost so much.

Hello, we have a trip coming up for Tuesday after Memorial Day thru the following Monday. Compared to other crowded times , can anyone tell me how this will stack up. We have been many times to Disney; April, June , July and October. July was the absolute busiest out of those visits and Fall Break Oct 2014 was busier than we expected and April was the best. Just want to make sure we are not going to be wall-to-wall.

We have recently got back from our trip to Disney. We stayed 26th Jan '15 - 10 Feb '15 and specifically used the undercover tourist crowd calendar to choose one of the emptiest periods in the year. According to the calendar it was pretty much GREEN every day and let's remember this is supposed to mean pretty much empty with lines that are straight on or around 5 mins.

Oh my.... how we were disappointed!

Magic Kingdom was the worst by far. We went on 3 separate days (all supposed to be green) and it was RAMMED! The "7 Dwarfs Mine Cart" was at worst 2 hours long and at best 45 mins (not taking into account the first 20 mins of the park opening). Average for everything was around 30 - 45 mins. Walking around was a pain too, shuffling through shops was awful and being bustled all the time.

Epcot was better with most things being 5-10 mins but Soarin' was always over an hour and Test Track hovering around 45-60 mins.

Hollywood Studios was similar with all the good stuff 30-45 mins and the best ride (Toy Story) being well over an hour. Some bits were 10-15 mins.

Animal Kingdom, same again. Good stuff (Expedition Everest & Safari) being 45 mins+ and other bits 10-20mins+.

Now, for the majority of rides those times are not actually too bad. But far far from the stated GREEN periods which we had based the whole holiday around.

What went so horribly wrong? The only thing that seemed consistent was that there were thousands of Brazilians/Argentinians and hordes of Cheerleader/Twirler groups. Is this now a school holiday for those countries?

The only saving grace for us was that due to my son's Autism we get Accessibility Passes; Universal's version is brilliant because if the line is less that 30 minutes you can go straight on. Coupling the power of that with the existing FastPass+ system and being a bit savy about getting there early and following "how to avoid the queues" we got pretty much everything done. It was however, far from the empty experience I was expecting.

Is Magic Kingdom just permanently busy?

What is the weather during March (spring break?) in Disney World? This will be our first vacation to Disney World.

Thanks

Geez I wish I would have found this site earlier!! :) I'm a first time Disney Go-er. Visiting May 26-30, 2015 with my Husband and 4 children (ages 1,5,7,8). I see that I chose a HORRIBLE time to go based on the chart and info provided here. Are there any tips, guidance that anyone could provide that could make this trip as fun, but as painless as possible? Especially with what will be large, busy crowds. Planning to stay at one of the Value resorts.