When Is the Best Time to Go to Disneyland or Disney World?
- Angelica Lynn
- Aug 12
- 3 min read
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Planning a Disney vacation can feel like picking the perfect moment to wish upon a star. Whether you're looking for cheaper prices, shorter lines, or holiday events, timing is everything. In this guide, I’ll help you decide the best time to visit Disneyland or Disney World based on your priorities—plus tips to make the most of your magical adventure!
📅 Best Time to Go to Disneyland or Disney World for Low Crowds
If avoiding long lines is your top priority, here’s when you’ll find fewer guests in the parks:
✅ Low Crowd Periods (Typically):
Mid-January to early March (after holiday crowds leave)
Mid-April to mid-May (before schools let out)
Late August through September (after summer break ends)
Mid-November to early December (pre-holiday sweet spot)
📌 Tip: Weekdays are always better than weekends, especially Tuesday–Thursday!
Other events & dates to avoid for lower crowds include:
Grad Nites
RunDisney weekends
I'll check your desired dates when helping plan your trip to help you avoid events like this.
💸 Best Time to Visit for Lower Prices
Both Disneyland and Disney World use dynamic pricing—meaning tickets and hotel stays cost more during peak times. Here's when you’re likely to snag better rates:
💰 Cheapest Times to Go:
Mid-January through early February
Late August through September
Select weekdays in November and early December
🌟 Pro Tip: Disney hotel rates, and even food costs can all spike during busy seasons. Booking with a travel planner (like me!) means I can help you find promotions, discount ticket bundles, and the best-value dates for your budget.
🎃🌸 Best Time to Go for Seasonal Events & Magic
Disney does seasonal theming better than anyone! If you're excited for themed food, parades, and exclusive entertainment, plan your visit during one of these special seasons:
🧡 Fall & Halloween (Late August–Oct 31):
Oogie Boogie Bash at Disneyland
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World
Decor, snacks, characters in costume, spooky overlays!
🎄 Holidays (Mid-November–Early Jan):
Stunning decorations in both parks
Holiday parades, fireworks, and treats galore
Crowds grow the closer you get to Christmas/New Year’s
🌸 Spring (March–May):
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival at Disney World
Beautiful weather, flowers, and lighter crowds (early spring)
🎆 Summer (June–August):
Longest park hours and new ride openings
Expect high temps and bigger crowds
Great for school breaks if you plan ahead
☀️ Best Time to Go Based on Weather
🌴 Disneyland (Anaheim, CA):
Best weather: March–May & late Sept–early Nov
Hot months: July & August can hit the high 90s or even into the 100s
🌦️ Disney World (Orlando, FL):
Best weather: Late Oct–April (milder, drier)
Hot/humid season: May–Sept (with afternoon thunderstorms)
👨👩👧👦 Best Time to Take Kids to Disney Parks?
Best for Toddlers & Young Kids: Midweek trips in mid-January, early May, or mid-September
Best for School Breaks (without huge crowds): The first week of June or the week before Thanksgiving
Avoid: Spring break, Christmas week, and Presidents Day weekend if you’re sensitive to crowds or cost
✏️ Tip: If you're a homeschooling family, off-peak travel is a huge advantage—less noise, lower prices, and more magic. When you book with me, ask for some in-park learning ideas and I'll build you a list!
🧙♀️ Summary Chart: The Best Time to Visit Disneyland or Disney World
Priority | Best Time to Visit |
💸 Lower Prices | Jan–Feb, late Aug–Sept |
🚶♀️ Lower Crowds | Mid-Jan–early March, mid-Sept |
🎃 Seasonal Events | Aug–Oct (Halloween), Nov–Dec (Holiday) |
🎉 Longer Hours | Summer, Holidays |
☀️ Best Weather | March–May, October |
✨ Let Me Help You Pick the Perfect Dates!
Whether you’re dreaming of castle selfies, your first Dole Whip, or dancing along with a Halloween parade—I’m here to help make your trip completely stress-free. I’ll compare prices, watch for promotions, and build the perfect itinerary for you… all at no extra cost to you.
📧 Click here for a Disney vacation quote, and let’s pick the best time for your happily ever after!
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