Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World: It Depends on What Matters Most
One of the most common questions we hear at Royal Treatment Travel® from clients wanting to vacation at Walt Disney World is: “When is the best time to visit Disney?” While this is a completely understandable question, the honest answer is that there is no single “best” time to visit Walt Disney World.
Any time of the year can be a great time to visit – it really just depends on what is most important to you. Crowds, weather, events, and special experiences all play a role, and the “best” time looks different for every family.
The Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World Based on Crowds
Crowds are a big consideration—and one that can significantly impact your experience.
Higher Crowd Seasons
There are certain times of year when crowds predictably increase, including:
Traditional spring break periods
The holiday season
In addition, shorter school breaks and long weekends can also lead to heavier crowds, even outside of peak seasons.
That said, crowds can be managed with the right planning, park strategy, and expectations—and this is where working with Royal Treatment Travel® truly helps.
The Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World for Special Events
If special events and seasonal offerings are high on your priority list, timing matters.
EPCOT Festivals Throughout the Year
EPCOT is home to several fan-favorite festivals that take place at different times of the year, including:
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
ECPOT International Flower & Garden Festival
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
Each festival brings unique food booths, entertainment, merchandise, and atmosphere. If you enjoy trying new foods, strolling World Showcase, and soaking in seasonal decor, planning your trip around an EPCOT festival can be a great fit.
Magic Kingdom Park Special Ticketed Events
Magic Kingdom Park hosts two extremely popular special ticketed events each year:
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
These events offer exclusive entertainment, themed fireworks, seasonal décor, character experiences, and a more festive nighttime atmosphere. Guests who prioritize a not-too-spooky experience or holiday magic often choose their travel dates specifically to experience one of these parties.
Disney After Hours Events
Disney After Hours is a limited-capacity, late-night event that takes place at:
Magic Kingdom Park
EPCOT
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
These events generally run on select nights beginning earlier in the year and continuing through late summer. Guests enjoy shorter wait times, select snacks included, and extra time in the parks after regular closing hours.
The Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World Based on Weather
Florida weather can vary greatly throughout the year, and this is another major factor to consider.
Hot Weather vs. Mild Weather
Some times of year bring extreme heat and humidity, while others offer much more mild—or even chilly—conditions.
Neither option is “wrong,” but they do require different touring strategies:
Hot weather trips often benefit from:
Midday breaks back at the resort
Pool time during the hottest hours
Returning to the parks in the evening
Cooler weather trips make it easier to:
Stay in the parks longer
Tour more continuously throughout the day
Walk longer distances more comfortably
Knowing what kind of experience you prefer often helps determine which season is best for you.
So… When Is the Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World?
The best time to visit Walt Disney World depends on what you value most:
Lower crowds
Special events and festivals
Cooler or warmer weather
School schedules
Budget flexibility
There is no universal answer—but there is a best time for you.
Ready to start planning your Walt Disney World vacation? Royal Treatment Travel® would love to help! Contact your Travel Advisor or submit a quote request using the button below to get started.
