Walt Disney World Resort holidays

Q: What's the best time of year to visit Walt Disney World?

Late autumn and spring (outside the Christmas , New Year and Easter weeks) tend to bring smaller crowds and more comfortable temperatures than the busy, hot summer months.

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It’s the place where dreams come true. Imagine four Disney Parks and two Water Parks, two exciting night-time entertainment districts, and a state-of-the-art sports complex. Now add in over 25 themed Disney Resort Hotels, plus countless opportunities for dining, shopping and recreation, and it’s easy to see why Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. With something for everyone, it's no wonder this fantastical spot in Orlando promises the holiday of your dreams. And come true they do, just like magic.

Meet your favourite Disney Characters, enjoy the thrilling attractions, make a splash at the Water Parks or relax on the beach. From shopping and golfing to world class entertainment and dining, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. And with the option to stay right in the heart of the action, with a selection of Disney Resort Hotels, you can make the most of your holiday by doing as little or as much as you want.

Shopping

If you’ve made room in your suitcase for souvenirs, then Walt Disney World Resort is the place for you. This shoppers’ paradise has over 260 shopping locations offering just about everything imaginable, from Italian leather handbags to a crystal replica of Cinderella Castle.

Dining

At Walt Disney World Resort there are enough restaurants and places to eat to try somewhere new every day of your holiday. Alongside the themed restaurants within the Disney Resort Hotels and Disney Parks, there are dedicated areas within the Resort – Disney Springs and Disney’s BoardWalk – that are packed with restaurants serving a range of food from around the world. Why not try grabbing a quick bite for lunch then savouring the world-class fine dining experiences available in the evening? Day or night, there are endless mouth-watering possibilities.

Beyond the Parks

After visiting the Magic Kingdom Park to watch the spectacular firework displays over Cinderella Castle, you’ll find there’s lots of evening entertainment to enjoy. Experience the timeless charm of Disney’s BoardWalk, stroll along the picturesque lake and be entertained by the traditional street performers. The long promenade hosts a variety of bars and dining experiences, so you’ll be able to find something to suit your appetite.

Disney Springs is the new after-dark place to go, with its mesmerising entertainment, bustling atmosphere and fantastic restaurants. Previously known as Downtown Disney, the nightlife is split into three elegantly themed neighbourhoods for you to discover. The Landing is where you’ll find delicious seafood and peaceful bars by the waterside. You can then shop for popular brands in the Marketplace and unique boutiques in the Town Center. Head down to West Side to be entertained by live music, theatre and dance performances.

So much to see and do

If you’re overwhelmed by the sheer amount to experience at Walt Disney World Resort there are various tools to guide you, from interactive maps to suggested itineraries. Once you’ve booked your trip, download the My Disney Experience app and start planning your own personalised itinerary. Basically, a world of magic at your fingertips!

©Disney

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30 ℃

Best time to visit Orlando: Spring or autumn when you get all that lovely Florida sunshine but without the intense heat.

8-9 hoursFly to Orlando International Airport (MCO), 27 km away. Or Sanford Airport (SFB), 67 km north-east of Walt Disney World Resort.

Map of Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resort is best for...

FAMILIES
See the kids' faces light up as they meet their favourite Disney Characters on Walt Disney World Resort holidays.

Getting around Walt Disney World Resort

By hire car: The best way to get around Orlando is by hire car. Be aware that you'll come across a number of toll booths during your holiday, and finding a parking space outside major tourist hotspots can be a challenge.

By bus: Walt Disney World Resort runs bus services between their hotels and theme parks.

Fast facts for Walt Disney World Resort

Language: The language spoken at Walt Disney World Resort is English.

Currency: The currency used in Walt Disney World Resort is the American Dollar ($).

Local time: Walt Disney World Resort is 5 hours behind GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Orlando International Airport. The transfer time to Walt Disney World Resort is 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Flight time from UK: 9 hours

Tourist Information: Find out more at Visit Orlando.

Visa / Health: Before you travel, check the USA travel advice from the FCDO for info on visas, health and more for your holiday to Walt Disney World Resort.

Events in Walt Disney World Resort

Christmas: Magic Kingdom Park turns into a winter wonderland at Christmas time. Crisp white snowflakes descend on the park as Santa joins Mickey Mouse in a festive parade.

Walt Disney World Resort safety and security

For up to date advice on travelling to Walt Disney World Resort, please visit UK government advice for the United States.

Walt Disney World Resort weather

Temperature: Average temperatures in the early 30s (°C).

Best time to visit Walt Disney World Resort Orlando: Spring or autumn, when you get all that lovely Florida sunshine but without the intense heat.

Orlando weather is hot and humid during the summer. At this time, try to avoid the theme parks in the middle of the day when the sun is at its hottest. Winters are mild, but remember to bring a light jacket if you're planning to venture out in the evenings.

More hotels in Walt Disney World Resort

Places similar to Walt Disney World Resort to visit

Lake Buena VistaSitting on the eastern edge of Walt Disney World Resort, and just a short drive from Universal Orlando®, is Lake Buena Vista. Beyond the magical parades and thrilling theme parks, this lakeside resort in Florida is also perfect for lazy days by the pool, retail therapy, and energetic activities.

Universal ResortWelcome to the world-famous Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, where holidays are anything but ordinary, and awesome experiences await you at every turn. With three amazing theme parks, immersive hotels plus incredible dining and entertainment, you won't want to miss a second of the action.

International DriveInternational Drive is in the heart of Orlando’s downtown area and is the perfect place to stay if you want to be close to the action of each theme park, as well as Florida’s other attractions. ICON Park as it’s known to locals, is a buzzing area full of great restaurants, larger-than-life attractions, great shops and luxurious hotels.

FAQs

How many days do you need at Walt Disney World?

A week's generally the sweet spot for Orlando – enough time to take on all four theme parks without rushing, plus a day or two by the pool or at the water parks when you need a break from the queues.

What's included in a Walt Disney World Resort holiday?

A typical package includes flights, transfers, on-site or nearby hotel accommodation and theme park tickets, with many on-site hotels also offering perks like early park entry.

Is it worth staying on-site at Walt Disney World?

Staying on-site brings benefits like early theme park entry, complimentary transport between parks, and being fully immersed in the Disney atmosphere, though it usually costs more than off-site accommodation nearby.

What's the best time of year to visit Walt Disney World?

Late autumn and spring (outside the Christmas, New Year and Easter weeks) tend to bring smaller crowds and more comfortable temperatures than the busy, hot summer months.

How do you get to Walt Disney World from the UK?

Direct flights from the UK land at Orlando International Airport (MCO) in around nine to ten hours, with Walt Disney World Resort roughly a 20 to 30 minute transfer away.