Surviving Summer in Walt Disney World
When I think of Summer in Walt Disney World, only one thought comes to mind to perfectly describe the feelings and experience – “face melting humidity.”
To say Summer in Orlando is hot is an understatement. Seriously – it’s the surface of the sun and your skin will melt off. BUT, sometimes it’s the only option. Here are some tips for dealing with the weather, what to pack in your bag and seasonal events.
An Ideal Summer Day at a Walt Disney World park
It will be HOT, HUMID and DISGUSTING every day! Be sure to wear light clothing, drink water, and plan for down time. An ideal day should consist of the following:
Morning - Be Early: Get to the parks before opening (if staying on property you can enter 30 minutes before others – take advantage of this!). Hit some of the hard to get rides first – you’ll be surprised what you can accomplish with 30 extra minutes.
Midday - Take a break: Head back to your hotel to enjoy the pool or just laydown in your room and take in the beautiful AC. Can’t head back? Then utilize the hottest hours to enjoy indoor shows like ______, or take a leisurely lunch at an indoor restaurant. Be sure to book advanced dining reservations between 12 pm and 4 pm.
Evening: Head back to the parks (or head to a new one if you are park hopping) to enjoy the cooler hours.
What’s in your park bag
Insulated Refillable water bottle. Fill with ice and water prior to heading to the park. Refill throughout the day at various spots. Note that quick service locations will give you small cups of water for free as well. I always like to ask for extra water when at a table service restaurant to refill my bottle before leaving.
Cooling towels – these magical items become cold when wet and can really help you beat the heat.
Poncho or rain jacket – it WILL rain every single day. Bring a poncho or rain jacket. If you choose to bring an umbrella, be sure to remove it from your bag PRIOR to going through security. It sets off the alarm.
Extra pair of shoes – between rain and sweat, you’ll need them! This is especially true if you are not planning to take a midday break.
Portable AND Stroller fans. These are amazing for keeping you cool.
Surviving Summer Crowds
Summer in Walt Disney World is crowded. School is out and people are flocking to the most magical place in the world! Crowds will lessen mid to late August (but the weather will just get worse). Here are just a few tips for surviving the crowds:
Take advantage of extra hours: Those staying at a Walt Disney World resort hotel and other select hotels can enter each park 30 minutes early. Utilize this! If you can, get to the park BEFORE that 30 minute window so you can be one of the first in the park. I was able to knock off three must-do attractions at Hollywood Studios with that 30 extra minutes. In addition, those staying at a Deluxe resort have select extended evening hours. These are amazing opportunities to be in the park with limited crowds.
Save some money: For those looking for a deal, mid to late August hotel stays tend to be less expensive than other times of the year. It will also be even hotter - so be warned.
Utilize Genie+ (if you are willing to pay): I hate waiting in line. And more importantly - so does my toddler. Cranky sweaty toddler and face-melting humidity combined with waiting 45 minutes for an attraction does not mix well. I pay extra to skip the lines and am sure to pick a must-do attraction right at 7 am. It is especially useful if you do not want to be there right at park opening.
Save the shows for midday: Once lunchtime hits, that humidity can be unbearable. Utilize these hours to enjoy some AC along with entertainment. That allows you those morning hours and evening hours to enjoy outdoor rides.
Book your Advance Dining Reservations strategically: Midday will be HOT. Book a must-do meal between 12 pm and 4 pm to take a break from the heat. While there, take your time to enjoy the sights, smells and tastes. Do not rush through your meal because then you are back outside in the heat!
Experience your hotel: Walt Disney World Resort hotels are an experience of their own. Each have spectacular pools and a wealth of activities (some free, some paid). Take a day away from the hot parks to soak in all that your hotel has to offer.
Disney World Summer Events and Festivals
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival (mid July – mid November)
This typically runs mid July to mid November. 2022 dates are July 14 through November 19, 2022. Bring your appetites for this festival! There are plenty of food booths and drinks around the World Showcase to enjoy. In addition, you can take part in special dining experiences and witness incredible food demonstrations and seminars (has not yet returned since 2020). The Eat to the Beat! Concert Series (which is included with your park admission) brings bands and musicians from around the world!
Mickey’s Not so Scary Halloween (mid August – Halloween)
I’m so excited to see Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween return for 2022! This Halloween party takes place at Magic Kingdom on select nights in August through October and is fun for the whole family. It includes unique character experiences, attraction overlays, treats, special food and drinks, and so much more! Note that this is a special ticketed event that takes place after normal park hours, which means you often encounter far less guests than a typical park day.
Pro-Tip: Use your party day as a rest day and head to the park prior to the party start. For 2022, guests can enter Magic Kingdom starting at 4pm. The official party begins at 7 pm and ends at midnight. This gives you even more time to enjoy the park, PLUS it’s a great way to enjoy Magic Kingdom without the daytime summer heat.
