Conference koolit::disney

rep to < Note 131.0 by WOTVAX::BATTY "So Long, And Thanks For All The Fish!" >

>    This topic is mentioned in many replies, but I feel that it deserves
>    a note to itself. (Move it if you disagree Mr. Moderator Sir.)

    No I  won't move it, (unless Len feel's like it?  ;^)), it does deserve
    it own topic, you mean it doesn't already?
        
>    We now have the chance to go back over Christmas!!! (Depart 13th
>    December, Return 27th December) Weather is well covered in the notes,
>    We are hoping for the first week or so to be quiet, so that we can
>    just walk onto the rides. What do we miss, Electric Parade etc.?

    Probably the worst time to go to WDW are
    
        Late June, July and early August summer months - Crowds/Heat
        Thanksgiving Week - Crowds
        Christmas/New Year's Vacation weeks - Crowds/Cold
        Easter (2 weeks surrounding Easter Sunday)- Crowds
    
    And it seems your about to cover 2 of those ;^).  As long  as you cover
    WDW prior to say Dec 20th, the crowds shouldn't be that bad, unless you
    like crowds don't  go  on  the  25th,  that  when  the MK had it record
    attendance a few years back.
    
    The  best  time  to  go  (IMHO)  is  the  late  September/October/early
    November.  The crowds have dwindled, the rainny  season  is coming to a
    close and the weather is still nice.  I  only  wish  I  could  go again
    during this time but with a kid in school it's  tough  ;^).  Other wise
    late spring is also a good time to go for basicly  the  same reasons as
    above.   Other's I talk to like the Jnauary/Febuary months but the  way
    the winter have been lately in Florida, I don't like the Idea of having
    to dress up to go to WDW.
    
    Claude

    We are also going this December 12-19th.
    
    2 years ago my in-laws went this time and said it was actually dead.
    They only waited the most in line was 10 minutes.  This week is
    considered to be an off-season week.  The parks close early 8/9PM, and
    I'm not sure if you/we will actually miss any of the parades etc..
    
    Karen
    

    When you have kids in school you're really limited to when you can go.
    I'd go in late May to early June if I had my druthers because of a 
    number of reasons:
    
           - Weather is not too hot
    
           - Crowds aren't that big
    
           - Everything is pretty much opened
    
    Having gone in September and in June I've noticed that more things were
    happening in June.
    
    If you have kids in school and want to avoid the Summer crowds I would
    guess that a good time to go would be the second or third week in
    August. This year the "off-peak" period starts August 13th.
    
    Of course the kids REALLY come down to Earth when they come back from
    WDW and WHAMM! right back to school.
    
    Mike

    I am going down next year April 20th - 29th.  This is the week after
    Easter Sunday (I will be down on Friday and I hope that the school
    kids are getting ready to come back home on Saturday) is this a
    good time to go crowd wise and weather wise?  Will they still have
    the Electrical Parade?

I think that the best time to go is the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The crowds are way down and the weather is generally very nice.  You can
appreciate Florida's weather (tho' not as much as you can in Feb.) without
getting heat stroke.  Also, if you stay off-property, this is the time to get
the best room values.

Note, however, that smaller crowds do not necessarily mean smaller lines in the
MK.  During non-peak times, many of the rides only have one side open, causing
the lines to move more slowly.  In EPCOT and (presumably) MGM, smaller crowds
definitely mean smaller lines.

--Jay

    Christmas time [except Christmas day] really isn't that bad.  I
    like the crowds.  People watching is fun.  And there is more street
    entertainment.  I don't consider it fun to race in and out of each
    attarction.  Doesn't allow for time to talk about the last one.
    
    Of course my expectations were set at the begining haveing gone
    to WDW shortly after it was opened and spending 2-4 hours in line
    for each attartaction.
    
    ed
    

    Any time......
    
    
       A bad day at Disney is better than a good day at work!!!:-)

    My S.O. and I spent two nights at the Grand Floridian last December,
    the 22nd and 23rd.  We'd only booked them in November.  There was no
    way, however, that we could've gotten a room (probably anywhere in WDW)
    for December 24th - New Year's.  An employee at the Grand Floridian
    told us that the least-crowded time of year is the period between
    Thanksgiving and Christmas.

    Another non-crowded time is the period between New Year's and when
    February vacations start.  Of course, during these time periods, the
    parks are open shorter hours, so you have to make tradeoffs between
    crowds and longer hours.  Though if the crowds are small, you can see
    more during those hours that the parks are open... :-)

    The first time I went to WDW was at the end of January, and we had
    great weather - sunny, temperatures in the 70s.  Last December 22
    and 23 it was also warm and sunny there.  But Florida has also been
    known to have freezing spells at that time of year, too...

							-- Nina

    I went the same week of the year in 1986 and in 1988.  We went
    the week before Memorial Day each year. It seems that Memorial 
    weekend is very busy, but that is the when we left.  The crowds
    were minimal (according to Birnbaum's book, about 20,000 people).
    20,000 people is nothing compared to 120,000 during Easter week.
    The longest we waited in line was maybe 15 minutes for Space
    Mountain.  As for EPCOT, we went to the countries in the moring
    and future world in the afternoon, so we hardly waited in line
    at all.  
    
    The weather is perfect that time of year. It is just starting to
    get hot, but not too humid yet.  Sunscreen and an afternoon dip
    in the pool were commonplace during our week.
    
    I would definitely go again during that time of year.  Kids are
    still in school, so I think that also helps with smaller crowds.
    
    The other time of year that I heard is really good is between
    Thanksgiving and Christmas.
    
    I can't wait til my next trip !
    

    	I'm heading down to WDW on Aug. 27 1989.  It seems from what
    I have read that this is off peak time, so maybe the crowds will
    be smaller.  Can anyone let me know how it is this time of year
    from first hand knowledge?  I know it's kind of late to be asking
    but as you know there is a lot to read in this file.
       Also thanks to all for the value packed infomation you shared   
    it will be helpfull.  
    
      9 days left.............Dole whip here I come!
    Thanks again,
    John C.
    
    

    
    Well, you are going at the beginning of the hottest time of the
    year in Florida.  My parents live there about 45 mins from WDW.
    Locals stay in this time of year.
    
    In my opinion, the first decision regarding when to go is "do you
    have kids?" If not, then you can go at the best times. If you have
    kids, then you can't go at the less busy times between vacations
    and non holidays if they are school age.  It's probably fairly 
    obvious that the worst time to go, if you want to avoid crowds, is
    Christmas week, the two weeks around Easter, Forth of July week, 
    Spring breaks, etc. July, August and September is the hot time,
    with locals saying that September is the hottest month. 
    
    You have to balance this off with what kind of whether you like,
    will you be staying on WDW grounds, etc.  If you stay on the lagoon
    for example, then you can go early, leave at 12 or 1, swim and nap
    during the hot/busy times in the afternoon, and go back in at 5
    or 6.  Then, as we did this past July, you can work around the heat.
    
    You also need to consider the closing times that vary depending
    on the week of the year. They close early during the slower times.
    You need to time it so you can go during the longer days when it's
    not that busy. Avoid Mondays if possible, the busiest day on average.
    Fridays is slowest on average.
    
    Our absolute favorite time is mid to late May. October is very good.
    
    Regards, Jim
    
    
    

    John (see .11) is going down in late August.
    
    That brought up a question that I'd like to throw into this note.
    
    Has anyone visited WDW in both July and August? That is, if you have
    visited WDW in those two months were there significant differences in 
    crowds, closing times, attractions, etc?
    
    Thanks,
    
    Mike_who_may_be_more_than_318_days_away_depending_upon_future_replies
    

    Well, I guess a lot depends on your timing...
    
    My fianc�e and I went down last summer (July of '88).  We arrived in
    Orlando on July 7th (a Thursday) and spent Friday, Saturday and Sunday
    at WDW.  In anticipation of the trip, I was a little hesitant about
    this time of year because of the crowds and the heat but when we got
    down there, the weather wasn't too bad.  It was pretty hot but it
    didn't seem too humid to me and I'm not one for the warm weather.  And
    the hottest day seemed to be Monday when we went to Sea World.
    
    But the crowds.  I was really surprised because we ran into very
    limited crowds.  We didn't wait in any lines longer than 15 minutes
    (including the more popular ones like Space Mountain).  It must have
    been because we were there on the weekend (when the crowds are smaller
    anyway) and shortly after the 4th of July (when the crowds were really
    huge).  I guess we were the lull *after* the storm...
    
    Of course, it'd be hard to time your vacation this way...
    
    - Skip

    Sad to say, another consideration is if you don't have kids but have
    a teacher for a wife.. your also stuck in the busier times.
    
    George_who_is_going_down_April_week_after_Easter_to_brave_the_crowds.
    

    
    I really don't want to throw a wet towel on anyone's trip in Aug
    or Sept, but my wife and I kept saying to ourselves this July "never
    again in this heat....".
    
    Jim
    

    When is the best time of year to visit Disney.  By this I mean
    when it won't be as crowded.  We visited Disney in October a number
    of years ago and it was great.  We are thinking of February or March.
    
    Also, there will be seven of us, we need a hotel that will not be too
    expensive.  We'd love to stay at one of Disney's new hotels, but
    from what I heard it's way too expensive for us.
    
    Are any airlines having good fares?  
    
    Any suggestions.
    
    Thanks,
    

    I guess heat depends on the person. Most of the visits I've made
    have been in the latter half of August. But I like hot weather a
    lot. My wife and son are not as big on hot weather but we've always
    liked August visits to WDW. The crowds are a little smaller in the
    second half of August then the first half. A lot of schools start
    up in August unlike here in NH where nothing starts until after
    Labor day.
    
    We've also been between Christmas and New Years. The crowds are bigger.
    In fact if your car wasn't in the parking lot by 9:30 forget it. We
    were staying on the grounds so that was not a problem for us. The
    wweather was not so hot though. It was almost cold. We were not ready
    for that and bought a bunch of sweat shirts.
    
    I've never been in the off season but I'd like to sometime just to see
    if it's as much fun without the crowds. So far I've enjoyed August
    visits a lot though. 
    
    			Alfred

    
    RE .18
    
     I think that Oct./early Nov. is the best time for Disney.  Feb
    and Mar. usually begin to get crouded because schools in the northeast
    have a Feb vacation, then the colleges have spring breaks around
    Mar + April.  The closer it gets to Easter, the worse it becomes...
    
     Northwest just announced special fares throughout the continental
    U.S and to Europe good for this Fall (certain restrictions apply).
    
    Good luck!
    Rich

    I have been to Disney twice in May, the weather was hot but not
    too humid and the crowds were good.  We waited in line the longest
    I would say about 10 minutes for the Pirates.  I love going down
    that time of year.  In 1990 we are going down the week after Easter
    April 20th - 29th.  I hope we can brave it all.

    RE < Note 131.18 by TIGEMS::BEALAND >

>    When is the best time of year to visit Disney.  By this I mean
>    when it won't be as crowded.  We visited Disney in October a number
>    of years ago and it was great.  We are thinking of February or March.

    Have you read the rest of the replies in this note??? 
    
>    Also, there will be seven of us, we need a hotel that will not be too
>    expensive.  We'd love to stay at one of Disney's new hotels, but
>    from what I heard it's way too expensive for us.

    There are plenty of notes in this conference about hotels - just do 
    some looking.  Maybe a DIR/TITLE=HOTEL or a DIR/KEYWORD=ORLANDO_HOTELS
    would help.  (Type SHOW KEYWORD to get a listing of all the keywords
    defined for this conference.)
    
							-- Nina

	I find that January is a real pleasant time to go.  The weather is
	cool (upper 60's or low 70's), and there are NO lines (you can walk
	into all attractions).  I've gone during school vacation (spring and 
	summer) and the heat and the lines are unbearable.  I've gone in May
	too and lines are short (other than memorial day weekend).  I'd say
	that January, May, and September (after school starts) followed by 
	October and November (other than the week of Thanksgiving) are the 
	best times.

    I guess my best time would be June, July, or August because:
    
       o I have school age children
    
       o Attractions are usually at 100%
    
       o Guaranteed decent weather (Winter months can be cold)
    
       o No need to worry about climate "shock"
    
    Mike_who_is_311_days_away

    re: 131.1
    
    (IMHO)?
    

    IMHO=  in my humble opinion

    	Well after just getting back (yesterday), late August early
    September is'nt too bad.  My sister had just gone down the week
    before I did and she said it was packed and very hot.  We were lucky
    enough to encounter one really hot day and very few lines, most
    were at the Magic Kingdom and some late in the day at MGM.  Restruant
    reservations were easily obtained and if a reservation was not made	
    the wait was no more than 15 min.  
    	

    Well to add my two cents...My wife and I went for 11 days in March, '85
    and after being there in October, and February, I would prefer to go
    again in either March or April. Yes, the parks are crowded, but they
    ARE open late (11:00PM MK, 12:00PM EPCOT...at least when we were
    there). Most people leave around 7:00PM for various reasons, and the
    parks are generlly free of crowds. But I think one of the most import-
    ant reasons is being in the parks at night, when they are all lit up.
    Its breath-taking!!! Especially coming into EPCOT on the monorail and
    viewing all of WORLD SHOWCASE at one time!!! And the weather was great.
    We had 11 days of sunshine and 80-90 degree weather. I'm sure we lucked
    out, but it was tremendous.
    
    
    		John F...
    

    Can anyone tell me roughly when the "hurricane season" finishes in Florida?
    
    We dodged a pretty nasty tropical storm when we were there in September
    1987 and the last two Septembers have been really bad according to what
    I've seen on the news...
    
    We are thinking of going next year in May/June or mid October.  Is the bad
    weather likely to have finished by mid October?
    
    Thanks,
    
    Karen

    Hurricane season in the Atlantic is June through November.  Doesn't
    leave much time, does it?

    
    Of the last 4 Octobers I have been to WDW 3 times in the middle
    to the end of the month.  Of the 30'ish days that I was there I
    only recall one rainy day.  Often there is a quick shower in the 
    afternoon but for the most part it has been sunny.

    
    dan

    My first trip to WDW was during hurricane Agnus(15 years agao).  It
    really didn't *dampen* our enjoyment.  I think it would take a direct
    hit for them to close the park anyhow.  Central Florida has less
    problems with hurricanes than the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
    
    I've been through more hurricanes in Pennsylvania (2), Florida (1)
    
    

    Re .29
    
    ...no it doesn't!!!
    
    We've taken the plunge and booked up for late April/early May.
    
    Not too long to go!
    
    Karen

    We've been at three times of the year:
    
        Jun 28 - Jul 2:  Advantages are longer hours for parks, electrical
            parade and fireworks.  Disadvantages are heat, humidity and
            crowds.  This was too close to July 4 so the lines were
    	    miserable in 7/1 and 7/2.  I would never go at this time of
            year again.
    
        Last two weeks of August:
    
            Week 1:  Advantages are, parks were open until midnight,
                     electrical parade, fireworks, lower prices since is
    		     off season and smaller crowds.  Disadvantages are
                     heat and humidity (can be cured by swimming
                     for most of the day and then going into the
                     park at night).
    
            Week 2:  Essentially the same as week 1 except parks weren't
                     open until midnight.  Another advantage is the US
                     Labor Day holiday is usually on the Monday after
                     this so you have more time to recover.
    
        Oct 30 - Nov 5:  Advantages are smaller crowds, off season prices,
                     warm weather but no humidity.  Disadvantages are no
                     electrical parade, no fireworks (excluding Epcot's
                     Illuminations) and shorter park hours.
    
    So far we think October is the best time to go.  However, we are
    thinking of going back for the last week of May 1990 to take
    advantage of our annual passes and celebrate our anniversary.  Any
    comments?

    We just returned from WDW.  We originally choose this time of year
    because we read that The period between Thanksgiving and Christmas was
    the least crowded time of year.

    Friends who went during the same time last year said they never waited
    in a single line.  They said they could walk onto any ride.  I think
    that attendance must be up because there were some lines while I was
    down there.

    Most high capacity rides like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean,
    Big Thunder MT Railroad, etc had no lines to speak of; you just walked
    right onto the ride.  Likewise, EPCOT center rides were typically
    empty.

    However, there were many exceptions. I would say that most rides had a
    line approaching five minutes and some were longer.  For example the
    Dumbo's had a 25 minute wait in the middle of one afternoon.  My
    younger kids wanted to ride that really bad so my wife brought them on
    that ride while my older daughter and I rode Jungle cruise once and
    Pirates twice in the same amount of time.  Many rides are batch loaders
    like the Country Bear Jamboree, Cranium Command, and Kitchen Cabaret. 
    For those, you have to wait for the next show unless you happen to
    arrive just as a show is starting.   

    MGM was terrible as far as lines go.  For the Monster Sound Show,
    Superstar Television, and Animation Tour, the lines were longer than
    what was admitted into the next show.  Therefore, the wait was about
    1/2 hour.   I did luck out and walk into the Indiana Jones Stunt show
    but that was just about full (2000 people).   The great movie ride was
    just about empty both times we rode it.  I would say the wait was about
    2-3 minutes which was not bad.

    All in all, I would estimate the average wait for the rides was about 5
    minutes

    One exceptional surprise was the fact that everything was running
    except for the Davy Crockett Canoes.  This really surprised me since I
    had thought they would perform maintenance on the rides during the off
    season.   We rode every ride ride at least once.  Most rides that we
    liked we rode several times.  My daughter rode Space Mountain 3 times
    in a row with no waiting one afternoon.

    We had beautiful weather.  It was generally cool with the afternoons in
    the 70's which made it comfortable to walk around. Many people were
    wearing shorts but we didn't because we didn't want to have to change
    clothes at night. We needed a light jacket in the evenings.  We never
    had a drop of rain for all 9 days which was very nice.  One day was
    cold with a high in the 60's.  The locals were really complaining but
    we didn't mind.

    We only went swimming twice, once at the Polynesian and once at River
    Country.  Both days were nice.

    One nice part about the relative lack of crowds was the fact we could
    let the kids wander a bit.  My children are 3, 5, and 7 years old and
    it was generally OK for them to separate themselves from us when
    walking around.  As long as they were within voice distance, say 25
    feet or so, we were comfortable.   During special events, like
    illuminations, it was necessary to keep the kids at our sides because
    there were a lot of people around and it would be easy to get lost.  On
    the way out of the EPCOT after illuminations, it was very crowded and
    we definitely had to hold hands.  It was nice not to have to do that
    during the day when the crowds were dispersed.

    Of course, a big disadvantage of going in December is you have to take
    the children out of school.  Last year, my wife was steadfast against
    doing that so we did not go.  However, last year about 1/2 the kids in
    my daughters 1st grade class went to WDW during the school year (3 were
    down there during the same week).  That softened my wife up a bit. 
    That coupled with the fact that my daughter is a straight A student
    finally got my wife to the point where she consented to us going down
    during the school year.

    My next trip will possibly be this June and I am expecting things to be
    quite different.  I hope I am not too spoiled.  The parks will be
    opened later so we will probably go into the parks in the early morning,
    swim and then nap in the afternoons, and go back into the parks in the
    evening.  An advantage of the longer hours will be the electric light
    parade and fireworks in MK.

    /Jim Pappas

    Well, most of what I've read here is very encouraging.  I had been
    toying on taking our trip down in Oct/Nov, of '89, but we waited
    It seems that time period is *generally* one of the slowest, but
    I think there was added traffic this year with MGM being so new.
    
    Anyways, we're going Jan 20-27th, and from what I've read so far,
    I believe we made a good choice.  
    
    Reading this file has doubled my excitement for the trip, and 
    tripled my knowledge.  I've already printed so many of your notes
    and they are now referred to as our "Disney Bible".  
    
    I do have one, probably dumb sounding, question.  Is it really
    horrible when it's raining?  I mean, do things just stop?
    
                                           cj *->

    re: .35 

    Actually, a rainy day is a great time to tour Walt Disney World.  Most
    of the crowds take off, and you can walk on to almost anything.

    The first day we were there in November '87 they got over 3" of rain.  
    We were able to do all of Future World in Epcot in one afternoon,
    running from one pavilion to another.  

    Just make sure you are dressed properly.  We bought the plastic ponchos
    they sell, and they were OK, but I wished we had some kind of
    waterproof shoes.

    Obviously, you wouldn't want to spend much time admiring the gardens or
    swimming on a day like that.

    I was also kind of surprised that they didn't have a better way to
    control the water being tracked into the buildings.  In several places
    the floors were very wet and slippery.

    I went in October and did not have to wait in very long lines, plus the
    park was not packed with people and it was very enjoyable to walk
    around.  I think with all the kids back to school and summer vacations
    that are over for the year, I would recommend this time.
    
    
    Lynne

    
    WE ARE PLANNING ON GOING THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 19TH.  CAN ANYONE
    TELL ME IF THAT IS VACATION WEEK, OTHERWISE WE COULD GO THE WEEK
    OF THE 5TH ?
    
    ..RKE
    

>   < Note 131.38 by GIAMEM::ERSKINE >
>   
>   WE ARE PLANNING ON GOING THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 19TH.  CAN ANYONE
>   TELL ME IF THAT IS VACATION WEEK, 

    Yes, it is.  "February school vacation" is usually the week that
    starts with Washington's Birthday (observed), which is the 19th
    this year.  Other school vacation times seem to vary quite a bit
    by area, but that one week in February is common in many places.
    Not all, but many.

Feb 19 is the beginning of school vacation in Mass.

    January had the reputation as a "slow" time at WDW. However Disney has
    a resident plan that lets local residents to buy discount tickets that
    only good 3 months of the year. January is one of those months. This
    seems to achieve Disney's objective of raising attendance during the
    slow periods, in particular the last weekend of those months. (The
    residents want to get at least some use of their tickets, so if they
    have not gone that month they try hard to go that weekend.) The last
    weekend of the January is also Super Bowl weekend, and the MK is
    flooded with football widows and orphans. 

    mike

    I just read through the replies to this note and have a question:
    A few people mentioned that Thanksgiving week was one of the more crowded
    times. Since we're short on vacation time, we really wanted to plan our
    trip around a holiday weekend and had heard from friends that
    Thanksgiving was a good one since people are usually with family
    instead of "vacationing".  
    
    Any feedback?
    
    Thanks,
    Sandy
     

�   Thanksgiving was a good one since people are usually with family
�   instead of "vacationing".  
    
    Good theory, but it doesn't hold at WDW.
    
    We were at WDW from the Thursday before Thanksgiving through the
    Tuesday before last year.  (see my trip report in 34.84-34.91).

    Thursday and Friday were fine, the lines were very manageable.  By
    Saturday you could feel the crowds beginning to build, Sunday is
    supposed to be the slowest day in the MK, it wasn't, more like summer
    weekday crowds.  Monday and Tuesday were a little more crowded than
    Sunday.

    The cast members we talked to were gearing up for the BIGGEST WEEKEND
    OF THE YEAR.  Thanksgiving weekend attracts >150,000/day people to WDW. 
    On the other hand, the parks are open late, and they run the Main St.
    Electrical Parade.

    This year we arrive the Sunday AFTER Thanksgiving.  That week until the
    beginning of Christmas vacation is among the slowest times in the World.
    
    See note 47.* for more details on attendence figures at different times
    of the year.

    The best authority on Thanksgiving week crowds is Peter Karam. Look for
    Peter's comments in the trip report note.
    
    Mike

You may wish to consider Labor Day week, if you can stand the heat.  The 
value season starts in mid-August, and the super value season starts the day
after Labor Day.  

Just don't go in 92 :-).  The World Science Fiction Convention will be in 
Orlando that year over Labor Day weekend; I'm already thinking about turning 
that into a long vacation.

   Gary

    This past year my family was there up to the Sunday before
    Thanksgiving.  The week before the holiday week was wonderful, both
    from the size of the crowds (small) and the weather (warm for a New
    England family).  We did notice that on Saturday, our last at the theme
    parks, that the crowds were picking up, especially late in the day.
    When checking out on Sunday, from the CBR, there were many, many people
    checking in (that may not indicate much, the CBR was booked full the 11 
    days we were there).
    
    You may be correct saying that many people spend Thanksgiving with
    family, but you may want to add "at WDW" to that statement.
    
    Mike - We have never discussed going to WDW during a holiday period. 
    One of our priorities is to go during a less crowded time giving us
    more opportunities at the theme parks to go on rides and just enjoy
    viewing the buildings/landscaping.  Our other priority is
    heat/humidity, we don't like either!
    
    peter

    I am leaving july 23 how will the crowds be.I read in an ealier
    note that you should go in the afternoon about 3:00.Is this a good
    time.I am going to buy steve birnbam book but would like some personal
    opinions.I was told here to go in the morning leave and go back.But
    if I can go at #:00 and not worry about huge lines I will.What do
    you guys think I would like a few opinions if you guys don't mind.
    
    Ted

    
    
       The first time I ever went was in August of "75" the year I got
    out of high school. I was in Tampa visiting family. At that time
    EPCOT was not open. I did most of what I wanted in the day I was
    there. It was very hot, and at around 4 o'clock it poured for about
    20 minutes. After the rain it was even hotter.
       The next time I went was early October of "87". Me my wife and
    our oldest son (only son at the time) who was 2 1/2. Everyone said
    he was to young, he won't enjoy it, he won't understand, he won't
    remember. They were all "wrong... wrong... wrong... and wrong.
    He loved it. He drove us crazy wanting to go back. Not only did
    he remember, but in detail. So if anyone is thinking about wether
    or not to bring young kids, I say yes. As far as October, great
    time of year. It's hot but not very humid, there were hardly any
    lines either at MK or EPCOT. In fact we went on Small World 4 times
    in a row. Got off and right back on again. I don't know who liked
    it better, my son or my wife. The only thing with October is the
    park closes at 8.
       Last year we went on the Disney cruise. Four nights on the ship
    to and from the Bahamas and 3 days ar WDW. We stayed at the Caribean
    (sp) beach. Great place, and not very expensive. This time the oldest
    was 4 1/2 and the youngest was just a year a week before we left.
    Again it was in October, again great whether and no lines. The baby
    was a little difficult on the ship, but he loved the park. We're
    hoping to get back there in 91. Maybe this time we'll try the spring.
    
    
                                  Phil... 

    Just came back from WDW.  I agree with the previous noter that October
    is the bset time to go.  The weather was beautiful (90F max, sunshine,
    no rain), and the crowds were exceptionally light.  We never had to
    wait more than 20 minutes in any line; in fact we usually waited less
    than 5 minutes in EPCOT & MGM.
    
    The down side:  since this is the slow season for the Orlando area,
    there's a lot of construction inside and outside of WDW.  There were a
    number of attractions closed down for renovation.

    I'm not sure if I was at the same Disney World you were but I didn't
    have the great weather you describe! From Oct. 8 to 12 it was raining
    every day, starting at about 1 p.m., raining every 15 minutes for 5
    miuntes. For example, IllumiNations on Oct. 10 meant standing in puring
    rain for the whole time! And it *was* humid, I tell you.
    On Oct. 12 it stop raining and the weekend was wonderful. When we left
    it was a lot less humid then the week before - must be perfect right
    now!
    
    In The World I was in the parks closed at 7, not 8 (except Epcot)!
    
    Crowds were different, but sure no walk in! 10 minutes were normal, for
    rides like Jungle Cruise (45 min) or Space Mountain (40 min) you had
    to stand in line for quite longer!
    
    Details in trip report to follow!
    
    Billie 

    We are thinking of going to Florida on one fo the Premeir packages (3
    night cruise, 4 days at Disney).  My questions is, when would be better
    to be at Diney.  Weekdays of Weekend?  I would have thought Weekdays,
    but I read somewhere that Mondays and Fridays are real crowded.  We are
    thinking of going in the Fall, so maybe it wouldn't make that big of a
    difference.  The crowds would be small, anyway.  Originally we thought
    of going over Thanksgiving, but that looks like a real peak time!
    
    Would I be better off booking this vacation through American Express
    here at Digital or using the Magic Kingdom Club.
    
    Thanks

    In general weekends tend to be the least crowed times at WDW, but if
    you plan to go in the months of September, October, November or December
    (with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks) it doesn't
    matter that much.

    In the past two years we have been there the week before Thanksgiving,
    and the week after.  The week after is much less crowded, starting
    around Sunday after Thanksgiving.  Perhaps you could work out being on
    the ship for the holiday, and arrive at WDW on the following week.

    On the other hand, the parks are open late and all the fireworks and
    the Main Street Electrical Parade runs on the Friday and Saturday after
    Thanksgiving.  It is also "high season" as far as hotel rates go.

    You might want to check both AMEX and MKC and see who can give you the
    best rate.  MKC offers a 10% discount on the cruise package.

    There is a definite crowd difference on the weekends. I think more so
    on Sunday then Saturday. I planned my last trip so I'd have two sets of 
    weekends rather than two sets of Mondays and Tuesdays.
    
    On one Sunday I was talking with a clerk at one of the resorts and he
    told me their busy day is Sunday...a lot of people coming and going on
    Sunday...which leaves less people in the parks.
    
    I cashed a Traveler's check during the week at the CBR custom house and 
    there were 4 windows open. The next Sunday I had to cash another check
    and ALL the windows (15?) were open.
    
    If you want the Summer hours but don't want the crowds I suggest you
    try for mid-August.......try to avoid Mondays. Heck don't you get
    better airfare if you take off during the week?
    
    Mike

    
    
    
        Hello out there fellow Disney lovers. I've got a couple
    of questions regarding Disney World in the summer months. The 
    last 2 times we've gone (1987 & 89) it was October. The weather
    was nice and the crowds were small. On the down side, the park
    closes early MK at 7:30 and EPCOT at 8:00. 
    
        We will be heading down on July 2nd. I know it's going to 
    hot and more then likely much more crowded. But I also know
    that the parks stay open late, I've heard midnight. What I'd
    like to know from people who've been there during this time of
    year is, Is it better to go at night when it's cooler, are the
    crowds smaller? What time are the fireworks? I've heard the 
    "electric light parade" is great!! 

    YOu'll get a mix of "reviews" on WDW in the Summer months. Keep in mind
    the following:
    
         o School is out so the parks will be loaded.
    
         o The temp will be in the 90's almost every day.
    
         o The lines will be longest between 11-5.
    
    I guess those three points are the negative aspects of going in the
    Summer.
    
    Now some positives:
    
         o Parks are operating at longer hours so you get more for your
           admission dollar.
    
         o Attractions are operating at or near 100% at this time of
           year...very little PM at this time.
    
         o Fireworks!!!!
    
         o Electrical Light Parade.
    
         o Guaranteed warm weather.
    
    Here are some guidelines for Summer visits to Walter's World:
    
         o Get to the parks early and go to the attractions you love first.
         
         o Plan on leaving the parks in mid-day (get away from the crowd
           and the heat).
    
         o Keep cool at a pool or waterpark between 12-5.
    
         o Return to the parks around 5 or 6 and have diner around that
           time.
    
         o At The Magic Kingdom don't waste your time watching the 9 P.M.
           ELP...do the most popular attractions "Pirates...", "Haunted
           Mansion", "Space Mountain", "Big Thunder.." at that time.
    
         o At EPCOT upon opening make a beeline to The World Showcase and
           do the popular countries/attractions (Norway, "American
           Adventure", Etc.) before the crowd gets there.
    
         o Go to Communicore to make reservations for lunch or dinner.
    
         o Do Spaceship Earth on the way out.
    
         o At MGM go right over to Star Wars when the park opens.
    
         o In MGM after Star Tours go to TGMR.
    
         o After TGMR do the Backstage Tour...then leave for a water park.
    
    These are just some suggestions to start your day off. Remember that
    both the crowd number and the mercury will be high from Noon until 4
    P.M. so you may want to get a lot in early and then come back in the
    early evening to do some other things.
    
    I happen to think it's the BEST time to go to Orlando.
    
    Oh yeah...it'll be wall to wall people on July 4th. Remember, it will
    always be SUPERCROWDED on July 4th, Easter Sunday, and Christmas
    because the locals will be there too.
    
    And lest we forget........Bring a poncho for the rain.
    
    Mike_who_hopes_to_be_heeding_his_own_advice_in_about_427_days
    
          

We went down last year during from late June to early July. We took the train.

I thought that it was very hot but it was not as humid as it is up here
in Ma. in the summer. We found it fairly comfortable. But be sure and
plaster on the Sun screen, you'll burn pretty quick under the intense
sun. Also take it easy and slow.

The weekend before July 4th (and as it got closer to July 4th) the
parks got very crowded, Before that weekend however, the crowds weren't too
bad.

We were really surprised about the lack of humidity. When we got back to
Ma. it was HUMID.

Doug

    
    
    
    
          We are thinking of going down during the last week of August
    (right before labor day) and was wondering how late the parks are
    usually open then.    I know it is hot at the end of August and would
    like to spend some time later in the day at the various parks to avoid
    the mid-day heat.
    
    Thanks
    
    Mark
    

    
    
    Mark,
    
    We've been down twice on the last week of August 88, 90 and the parks
    have been open late the cowds vary day to day. Make sure you check with
    guest relations every day though, since they change some scheduled
    events without warning at this time of year. Our last visit was a
    little troubled by the great mosquito scare so night activities were
    curtailed ie: hotel pools, King Neptunes Water Pagent, and the campfire
    activities at Fort Wilderness. We found that early arrival an easy pace
    and a 1pm MOL departure back to the room or pool with a return around
    5-7 pm worked out rather nicely for avoiding the mid-day hots because
    it is HOT!! Another heat avoider are the less popular but
    airconditioned attractions such as the Hall of Presidents, The Walt
    Disney Story, and the Movie House by Mickey's Starland. They are good
    for a great cooling rest usualy without much of a crowd. We found water
    bottles, a kerchief or hat to dunk in the fountains were great helps in
    the battle to keep COOL.
    
    enjoy the trip
    
    steve

    
    
    Thanks for the quick response.
    
    

    In addition to -1, my wife and I would hit the Grand Floridian lobby to
    sit and relax in the afternoon and enjoy the music and
    air-conditioning.  We are also heading down for the last week of August
    and the first week of September.  We found it hot but bearable last
    time we were there (89).  The only place that's realllllllly hot is 
    at MGM (not too much shade anywhere in MGM).
    
    But lets face it I'll take any type of weather at WDW...   :-)

        RE: Note 131.57  by  HDLITE::SAVERY     
    
>          We are thinking of going down during the last week of August
>    (right before labor day) and was wondering how late the parks are
>    usually open then.    I know it is hot at the end of August and would
>    like to spend some time later in the day at the various parks to avoid
>    the mid-day heat.

        We are going down to WDW for approx the last two weeks of
        August.  I called WDW information about a month ago and was
        told the following:


           Park			before 8/24/91		after 8/24/91

           Magic Kingdom	9 - midnight		9 - 10
           EPCOT		9 - 10			9 - 9
           Disney-MGM		9 - 10:30		9 - 9
           Typhoon Lagoon	9 - 9			10 - 5


           The only planned down time for an attraction was the Wedway
           people mover closing on 8/26.
    

    I've been many times and so far my favorite time of year is early May. 
    (I have not been in October or November yet)
    The parks are open until a decent hour, although not midnight and the
    weather was perfect - for me.  There was little rain and it was around
    78 to 80 the entire week.  We had little or no wait (about 10 minutes) for
    any ride.  Of course - if you can't take your kids out of school 
    that month poses some problems.  
    
    Kathy
    

    * Please feel free to move this if necessary *
    
    I've added my entry to the 1992 WDW visitors note - and now I am in
    need of some advice.
    
    I have only 3 nights/4 days in WDW in July of '92 so I want to get the
    most for my $$$$$.  I chose July since it will be open late and I have
    a limited amount of days there.  My question is this - the airlines
    suggest I stay over a Saturday night to get the best fare, should I
    start the trip on Saturday and go into Tuesday of have Saturday at the
    end of the trip?  Is Thursday/Friday busier than Monday/Tuesday? or
    does it even matter?
    
    You're opinions will be most appreciated.
    
    I know, I know - you told me it would happen.... ;)
    
    Kathy
    

    As locals, we find the best time to visit any of the attractions is on
    Sat & Sundays.  These seem to be transition days, people are ending or
    just arriving for their vacations.  And if you read any of the tourist
    guides they always say the most busiest days are Mondays & Fridays.
    

We've (spouse and 3 children) been to WDW twice and both time we were there on 
a Sunday. Both of these trips were taken in July, 1 during the 4th week and 
1 the week after the 4th. Those two Sundays were my best days. We went to EPCOT early one sunday
morning an have the place all to ourselves until noon time and then the crowds
were no were near as crowded as the rest of the week. All moring long we were 
able to walk into any EPCOT attraction. On the other trip we went to the MK
and we were able to get on most rides with only a 5 min or less wait until 
around noon. All my trips will have a sunday in them from now on.

norb

    I always plan on my trips falling over a span of two weekends for this
    same reason. 
    
    Plan accordingly.
    
    Mike

    The exception to the Sunday rule is super bowl sunday in Jan. 
    Jan is local resident discount month, and that weekend is the last or
    next to last weekend the discount is good for, so many people take
    advantage.
    
    mike

>    The exception to the Sunday rule is super bowl sunday in Jan. 
    
*Unless* the Super Bowl happens to be taking place in Tampa.  The first time I
went to EPCOT was on a Super Bowl Sunday several years ago when the Super Bowl
was in Tampa, and EPCOT was practically empty!  It was great!  :-)

							-- Nina

A note from Newbury in the UK...

I'm planning to visit WDW next year in April '92. Easter Monday is April 20th.
We were thinking of arriving Thursday 9th and leaving Tuesday 14th.

What are the crowds really gonna be like at this time?

How long will we have to wait for the attractions & rides?

Have I left it too late to book?

Thanks,
Dave

    Dave, 
    	  Who cares about waiting a little while for the rides? When
    Mickey gives you a big hug and sprinkles some of that magic dust all
    over you, time just slips by!
    
    Time stands still in Mickey's magic world!
    
    Have a good time!
    
    Steven_who's_counting_the_days
    
    
    

    Just thought I'd toss in this argument for going in the Summer Months.
    
    Note 98 is concerned with not just the operating hours but also things
    like SpectroMagic, Fantasy in the Sky, and Sorcery in the Sky.
    
    During the Summer nights SpectroMagic operates 2 times a night, at 9
    and at 11. 
    
    I know people are concerned about crowds in the Summer but just think 
    about how low the lines are during the 9 P.M. Spectromagic event. Then
    you will enjoy an uncrowded (relatively speaking) parade route for the
    11 P.M. parade.
    
    For those who elect to go during the Summer months (for argument's sake
    I am referring to the middle of May to the middle of August) you won't
    need to plan your vacation around which nights these nocturnal events
    (Illuminations too) occur because they are on EVERY NIGHT!
    
    Okay I'll get off the soapbox.
    
    Mike  

    I've struggled with going in the summer for quite a few years now.
    The only way I know I can handle it is by leaving the parks around
    11:30am and not returning until 5:00 or 6:00pm.  During the "away
    hours" I'll be at a pool or TL or RC.  Early mornings and evenings are
    cooler but let's face it Summer is HOT and you have to go with the
    mindset of not blazing through the parks are lighting speed from
    morning till night - that'll be too much of a drain IMO.  I also would
    not bring very young children at that time of year (under 5?)  The
    summer heat is just unbearable.  The GOOD thing is everything is open
    and happening and it's open very late!
    
    Kathy
    

    The key is to avoid being in the sun for a prolonged period of time.
    
    By June and July our bodies have become acclimated to the heat but
    direct sunlight over an extended period is not wise.
    
    Try to plan your days around the heat. If you want to freeze yer toes
    off take in the Diamond Horsehoe Revue during the Summer. We actually
    had to request the air conditioning be turned down.
    
    Mike

    My husband and I are planning a trip to Disney World for September.
    I have to let the travel agent know TODAY what week we will go.
    
    Here's the question.  Is it really crowded Labor day week 
    (Sept. 5-12)??  We'd really like to go that week (because we'd
    only have to use 4 vacation days instead of 5!!).  But being
    a holiday week and all, I just don't know.  
    
    I bought Birnbaum's Walt Disney World Guide, and it says "Last
    Week of August through Labor Day" is average crowds.  
    
    Has anyone ever been there during that timeframe?  Is it more
    crowded due to families getting in the last vacation before
    school begins?  Would I be better off to go Sept. 12-19?
    
    Any help would be appreciated.
    
    Linda

    Linda,
    
    If I'm not mistaken, many schools (certainly here in New England) would
    start classes during the Labor Day week so you'd likely see some crowds
    during the Labor Day weekend, but then attendance would fall off later
    in the week.
    
    But I don't think the crowds would be anything like peak periods during
    school vacation weeks, etc.
    
    Keep in mind too that the parks' operating hours might change around
    this time of the year as you head into 'off-season'.
    
    - Skip

    	While we're n the subject, has anyone been at WDW in late July?
    
    	o How hot is it?
    	o How crowded is it?
    	o How late are the parks usually open?
    	o How is the traffic?
    
    	That does it.
    
    	Thanks
    	Tom

>>>    	o How hot is it?

          Just like New England in the Summer but a steadier heat wave.
          The humidity will be higher than you'd experience in NE and
          you'll probably enjoy a T-shower every day. But think about how
          great the water will feel.

>>>    	o How crowded is it?

          Historically this is a high traffic time for WDW but if you've
          been reading this conference you'll find out how to beat the
          crowd.

          If you saw some of my video tapes from my July '90 trip you would
          say "What big crowd?"
    
>>>    	o How late are the parks usually open?

          Come June-July-August you'll see TMK open 'til Midnight and
          EC and MGM open 'til 11 P.M. This means more for your money.

>>>    	o How is the traffic?

          Traffic depends upon how many people are using the busses. More
          busses means less cars. It's really not that bad...if you stay
          on the property use the transportation.

          *    *    *     *
        Tom,

        Please remember that I'm a Summer WDW person and that I don't go
        any other time of the year so my answers are more positive than
        you may get from someone not into Summer heat/crowds.

        In a nutshell I like to go in July because...


            - Kids are out of school....we can stay longer.
            - Guaranteed good weather.
            - Long operating hours - more for your money.
            - Fireworks EVERY NIGHT.
            - Everything operating at 100%.
            - No climate shock of going from cold weather to hot weather.
            - My birthday is in July ;^).
            - Water activities at their peak.
            - Plus the vacation lasts longer due to the Summer days.
    
        Again, that's me....I love it down there in the Summer.

        Mike_who_has_around_50_days_to_practice_what_he_preaches

    Any more advice for September??  I'm leaving for the travel agency
    soon and still haven't made up my mind.
    
    Also, how about September weather?  Still burning hot, or is it
    beginning to cool off?
    
    Linda

    
    Well you may have already left; but Sept 5-12th should
    be fine...
    
    We've been down there twice over Labor Day Weekend....
    
    It is not very crowded; Thru that Sunday (9/6 everything will
    	be running) then they will start cutting back hours/times
    	starting that Monday or Tuesday. The park has been very light
    	at that time. It's still pretty humid; and you do get rain in
        the afternoon just about daily for a short period of time.
    
    I don't remember waiting in line much for anything; except for
    the Saturday (or was it Sunday) night; as that was "supposedly" the
    last time that ELP was going to be run. They did end up running ELP
    the next two weekends in September then it headed for EuroDisney.
    We've got alot of pictures from that time periood; where it looks
    like we are the only ones in the park... Again that doesn't mean
    it can't be busy for some reason or another; 
    \
    		- Annie
    

    My last trip was over a Labor Day weekend. Both Sunday and Monday were
    relatively crowded. The rest of the week was fine. My sense was that
    the Magic Kingdom was the most crowded, particularly with teens on the
    "last weekend" binge. 
    
    Florida kids are back in school during the last week of August (as are
    most kids in the South). The first week in Sept visitors are usually
    families where school starts that week.
    
    

    
    It's a toss up:
    
    	Late August - Early September (Labor Day weekend)
    		The crowds are light; the late night activities
    		fireworks etc are still running; and the parks are
    		still open late; but it's really humid and it does
    		rain in the afternoon. Typically can get excellent
    		on property rates for places like Yacht and Beach
    		Club and Polynesian, Contemporary, Sometimes
    		Grand Floridian, Disney Inn, etc.
    
        Late March/Early April - This is after College breaks are
    		over with; before the spring break/easter crowds.
    		The weather is nice - about 55-60 in the evening;
    		maybe reaches 80 during the day; Almost no rain;
    		light crowds; Pretty much everything is running;
    		You typically miss the fireworks at MGM: because
    		the park closes before it's dark; and the late
    		night fireworks at the MK. This would be my first
    		choice.... I like the cooler dryer weather....
    
    		- Annie
      

    	Thanks Mike, that brings up another question.  Busses...
    
    	o Where can I get a schedule for busses from along RT192 to WDW?
    
    	o Are there many lines that run that route?
    
    	o I'm planning on staying at the Gala Vista (They met my
          prerequisites of 1-Pool, 2-Close (2 miles), and 3-No cockroaches
    	  (at least I hope)) and I need to know if I'll need a car or if I
    	  can reliably get around with busses.  We plan on doing WDW only.
    
    Tom

    Tom,
    
    Hopefully some of the more recent vacationers can provide you with
    up-to-date info on bus availability. Usually there are busses (at a
    cost) provided for by the hotels. If the bus isn't complimentary (a
    good bet it isn't) then expect to pay a not-so-cheap price for
    transportation to a WDW theme park.
    
    Hence another good reason for staying on-site.
    
    When you put the cost of an off-site hotel together with the cost of a 
    bus ride (per person) staying on the property sure seems the way to go.
    
    Also, remember that the busses will drop you off at the TTC when you go
    to TMK....WDW busses drop you off at the front of TMK. IT's a
    convenience many people don't appreciate unless you've had it.
    
    M

	re: 131.75

Last year, we went the last week in August, and crowds were minimal, except
for a few lines in MK Fantasyland.  Florida was already in school.

Weather was hot but bearable, and we had one (short) rainstorm and one
sprinkle all week. I think MK closed at 9 and MGM and EPCOT closed at 10.
The water parks were something like 10-5 for RC and 9-5 for TL.

I believe that even more school systems will start before Labor Day because
Labor Day is so late this coming year (Sept 7).

Eileen

    Thanks to everyone for your help.  We decided to go Sept. 5-12.
    We got a really good deal too.  7 nights hotel (Quality Inn Plaza
    on International Drive), rental car, and airfare for $399 per
    person! 
    
    In the last reply (Eileen), stated that the park was open until 9 or 
    10 PM.  Great!  I thought because the "busy" season was coming to
    an end that the park would only be open until 7.  Both times that
    we've gone, because of the park closing early, we've missed all
    the night activities.
    
    Can't wait to go!
    
    Linda
    
    

    
    
    Im heading to Disney on June 9th and will be there for 5 days.
    I have heard 2 different opinions on how busy it will be. 
    One was that it will not be that busy since school does not
    get out for another week or so.  The other was that since
    the schools down south get out in May, it will be quite busy.
    
    Have any of you been down there during the first couple of weeks
    of June?  What can I expect for crowds that week?
    
    Thanks 
    
    MikeR
    

    I've been down in June and the crowds you'll experience are the basic
    Summer crowds. June is a warm month so you best plan your days in the
    parks as mentioned in other notes....early mornings and late afternoons
    and evenings. Plan on spending Noon to 5 in some cool place....do some
    shopping or anything that will keep you cool.
    
    You should be enjoying some maximum operating hours in June.
    
    Mike

    
    
    
    Thanks for the info.  What would you consider a "summer crowd"?
    Will we be waiting long in lines?  I do plan on skipping out
    during the heat of the day.  
    
    thanks
    
    MikeR
    

    
    Crowds at WDW generally range from as few as 50,000 to 160,000 on any
    given day. These figures from a turnstile guy at the MK. I believe this
    is for all of WDW. I'm sure you can appreciate that when kids are in
    school there is less traffic. Hence the Xmas, April vacations, 4th of
    July and Thanksgiving are the four most busy times. But the summer is
    in general relatively busier than winter. This for the weather and the
    vacations. 
    
    The day of week is also very important. We always try to hit the MK on
    a Sunday or Saturday. Never on a Monday (see Burnbaum, he's right).
    
    All of that said, the biggest problem with summer is not the crowds,
    but the heat. You can be standing in line for Journey in Epcot at 11AM
    and be melting like warm Jello. We did WDW just once in July. And that
    was July 4th week. We swore that we would never do a July or August
    trip again in our entire life. It was incredibly hot. And the crowds
    that week were unbelievable. 
    
    It depends on how you view your trip there. If you don't mind getting
    up early, getting in and doing till 12, hitting the pool till 5 and
    going back, then the summer is passable. Thing is, if you buy a 4 or 5
    day pass, most folks using them want to go-go-go all day to get the
    most time and you die from the heat. Little kids don't make it. Our
    daughter was 4 that July 4th trip and never made it past 2PM.
    
    We buy annual passes most years and with them, you psychologically
    don't mind just going in for two hours here and there. That feeling of
    "I gotta use that 3rd day of my pass to the max!" goes away. It's worth
    the annual just for the free parking and the stress it takes off of us.
    
    I guess that doesn't answer your question about summer crowds
    specifically, but there is no specific answer. It depends on you and
    your family, how much the heat bothers you and what is a "long line" to
    you...
    
    Regards...
    
     

    Jim's right!
    
    Everyone is different. Some like it hot (hmm good title for a movie)
    and others prefer cooler weather.
    
    I guess a typical Summer crowd may mean the turnstiles go over 6
    figures for the day. Remember the crowds peak from 12-4.
    
    I too avoid the parks on Mondays.
    
    Mike

When is Spring vacation this (school) year?  We are thinking of visiting
at the end of April, beginning of May (1993).  I don't want to run into
Spring Break crowds.

       Carol

    Rep to <<< Note 131.91 by CSC32::DUBOIS "Love" >>>

>When is Spring vacation this (school) year?  We are thinking of visiting
>at the end of April, beginning of May (1993).  I don't want to run into
>Spring Break crowds.

    Carol,
    
    According to  the  schedule  my  son  recieved at the end of the school
    year, the Spring  Break  for NH Elementary and HS was the week of April
    26th. As far as College's go they seem to be staggered from Feb-Apr.
    
    First week in May is probably a better choice for smaller crowds.
    
    Claude

    For a non-US visitor......
    
    When is Labor Day in 1992?
    
    Tnks,
    
    JK

    Rep to <<< Note 131.93 by VOGON::KAPPLER "Smiths Knoll Automatic - Rising, Good." >>>

>    For a non-US visitor......
>    When is Labor Day in 1992?
    
    Always the first Monday in September, so this year it's Sept.  7th, and
    my son will start school on the 2nd ;^(.
    
    Claude

    re: .94 
    
    �Always the first Monday in September, so this year it's Sept.  7th, and
    �my son will start school on the 2nd ;^(.
    
    Actually it is the first Monday after the first Tuesday in September. 
    For some reason, they don't want Labor day to fall on September 1.
    
    --Jay
    

    Rep to <<< Note 131.95 by UTOPIA::FEELEY "Growing older but not up..." >>>

>    Actually it is the first Monday after the first Tuesday in September. 

    Jay,
    
    Hmmm, then why was it Sept 2nd last year? 
    
    It's possible that's  it'll not fall on September 1st, but it definetly
    is not the Monday  following the first Tuesday of the Month.  According
    to my date book '93  is Sept 6th and '94 is Sept 5th, these 2 days also
    don't follow the first Tuesday rule.
    
    Claude

    re: .96
    
    Good point.  As I think about it, I should have said: it's the first
    Monday after the first SUNDAY in September.  That will allow it to fall
    anywhere between Sept. 2-8.
    

    Hmmm, just looking at the WDW operating hours for October thru January
    really makes a good case for going during the Summer months. Why?
    
    Well beyond the obvious longer operating hours and low down time for
    attractions look at the following:
    
      - The Magic Kingdom will perform Spectromagic only 35 times between 
        Oct. 1 and Jan. 31. The parade is shown twice nightly in the
        Summer.
    
      - Fantasy in the Sky will be shown 18 times between Oct. 1 and Jan.
        31. It's shown every night in the Summer.
    
      - Sorcery in the Sky will be shown 14 times between Oct. 1 and Jan.
        31 and NOT AT ALL in OCTOBER. It's shown every night in the Summer.
    
    You sure don't get your money's worth IMHO.
    
    Mike 

    We usually go in the fall.  This year we went the last two weeks in
    August.

    Never again.  (I know, never say never).

    In the fall we never wait in line for anything.  At most we have to
    wait until the next show in a theatre begins.  -- And Dumbo.  I think
    Dumbo was built with a 20 minute line.--

    In the fall you can STROLL around and not be pushed, bumped, and
    trod upon.  You don't have to get a good spot for the parade >1 hr.
    ahead.

    In the fall you can usually get same day reservations in restaurants.
    If you plan to be there over a weekend, you can see the night-time
    fireworks and parades.  Since it gets dark early, you still can get the
    night-time feeling in the parks from 5-9.

    In the fall you can STROLL around and not be pushed, bumped, and
    trod upon.  You don't have to get a good spot for the parade >1 hr.
    ahead.

    In the fall you can usually get same day reservations in restaurants.
    If you plan to be there over a weekend, you can see the night-time
    fireworks and parades.  Since it gets dark early, you still can get the
    night-time feeling in the parks from 5-9.

    In the fall you can stay in the parks all day with out feeling like
    you're walking in a sauna.  So what if the park closes at 7 or 9.  It
    gives you time for a quiet dinner at a resort restaurant or an evening
    at Pleasure Island.

    And best of all, (are you listening Mike?), there are *NO* obnoxious
    tour groups!
 

    I just returned from a business trip at the Dolphin (last week), stayed
    at a FW trailer and went to TMK and Epcot a few times for a few
    hours.(annual pass)
     
    Although I've only gone in November before and will be going again this
    November for a week, I'd have to say I agree with rep -.1.
    
    1. It was too hot and humid even in Sept, although I'm very much a
    summer person I could not imagine being in the park during most of the
    open hours of a summer day...I'd be in a pool.
    
    2. The lines were even too long for be last week (10-15 minutes), I
    hate waiting.  Bascially I'd rather go on say space mountain 3-4 four
    times in a 1/2 hour before moving on to a new land.
    
    BUT...
    
    Since I like to stay down there I also use the limitation on opening
    time as an excuse...Oh come on honey, TMK closes early so lets go for 7
    days instead of 5 or 10 days instead of 7 :-)
    
    -Jay
    

    What's it like during March, April and May at Disney?  Is it busy,
    what's the weather like and is this a reasonably time to do or should
    we wait until Sept, October time frame?????
    
    Thanks,
    

    
    we've always gone in late May and found the weather to be great, mostly
    sunny, occasional afternoon shower.
    
    The first three weeks of may are less busy than the week just before
    Memorial Day weekend, but they are all pleasant touring crowds (except
    for Saturday and Sundays with large local turnouts), AND you can
    still get off-season rates on Hotels.  Great time of year to go...
    our trip in 1995 will be the third week in May.
    
    One year we went the first part of April and there were no crowds
    to speak of, but it was little bit too chilly for us to fully enjoy
    the water parks, pool, or trip to Daytona Beach.
    
    --Bert

    When we go to Orlando we normally go in April during school vacation week.
    Like .1 said May is usually very nice wheather wise etc. We have had
    very nice weather almost every April day we went, swimming weather almost
    every day. Most days in 80's to 90's, a few a little less. Out of the
    3 years we went in late April, probably only 1 day out 7 was lousy
    because of rain.
    
    CAUTION  the important thing to watch for is EASTER !!!! Easter
    moves around in Mar/April. This year I believe it is April 3.
    Do not go down anytime during at least 7 days before or after Easter
    unless you like things like
    
    		1 to 1 1/2 hour lines for any significant ride.
    
    It is bad everywhere, EPCOT, MK,  Universal, Sea World.
    
    A typical Easter time (week before and after) day at Universal STudios
    when we went last year or 2 years before broke down as follows:
    	
    		time actually enjoying rides     20 minutes
    		time waiting in lines		580 minutes	
    
    based on 10 hours inside studio. WDW was about the same.
    Average wait for a significant ride was 1 hr +. Some as high at
    1 1/2 hours.
    
    Check the guide on WDW, it usually lists the months and how busy they
    are.
    
    I've been to Epcot/MK in Oct. way back in 1983 and it was heaven
    compared to Easter time. Sure there were a few things closed
    in October, but lines were tiny with small waits and you could
    really enjoy the place. 
    
    Spending money to enter WDW or any other major attraction in
    Florida during the Easter time is big waste of money in my opinion.
    The extra long hours the parks are open only prolongs the agony.
    
    				Harold C.
          
    

    Another thing I forgot to mention. If you want to go to Florida
    during the April School vacation week normally observed in
    Mass. (the week that includes Patriot' day) then get flight 
    reservations very early. This year the week is Monday April 18 to
    Friday April 22.
    
    The problem with this week is not that Florida is crowded, it is just
    that there are so many New England families going South this week to keep
    from taking their kids out of school, that includes my family.
    The availability of low cost flights out of Boston can really get
    slim and the best flights/times can disappear 6 months ahead. 
    I made my reservations for 94 two weeks ago. Our Friday to Friday
    flight was $381 each roundtrip, and would have been $450 each
    if we went Sat/Sat or Sun/Sun. There are some real cheap flights
    down ($192 or $220 roundtrip). These flights are fully booked already
    for this week.
    
    If you did plan on going this week and you need to fly from New England
    then plan well ahead for low cost air travel arrangements.
    
    				Harold
    
    

    Disney*land* or Disney*world*?
    
    Jodi-

I will be landing at Orlando on Saturday May 21st 1994 and leaving on 
Saturday June 4th. As this time straddles Memorial day (May 30th) could 
someone advise me on the best days to visit the individual parks and 
which days to specifically avoid.

Thanks in anticipation

Robin (Warrington, England)

    
    Robin,
    
    I have recently returned from Orlando/St Pete.  If you would like any
    booklets on the major attractions, give me a shout!  I too am located
    at Warrington.  ext 2809
    
    Liz.

    Hi Robin,
    
    We were there for nine days including Memorial Day weekend this year 
    (which reminds me that I never finished my trip report) - May 29 through
    June 6, 1993.  The week before Memorial Day should be pretty good with
    respect to crowds but MD weekend will definitely be busier - especially
    the Magic Kingdom On Saturday, the 28th.  MD (officially observed on the
    31st, Monday this year) wasn't too bad - but we were at MGM - not sure
    how the MK was that day.  The week after MD weekend will be busier than
    the week before, but still "moderate", not too "heavy".  Some schools in 
    the U.S. start getting out for the summer before MD, especially in the
    South, so the family vacation crowds generally start to appear around
    MD weekend and steadily build toward the summer months.  My overall
    advice would be to plan to see/do the most popular things during the
    first week that you are there.  Have fun!
    
    Bob

    Hi,
    
    I've have been to twice the end Sept and once in Apr, week before
    school vacation.  If I go again it will be fall.  Was very crowded,
    lines long, had 2 small children and the days where just to long for
    them.  The times I went in the fall, lines where short, but the park did
    close early, but I think if your on the go from 1st thing in the morning
    till 7 at night thats enough.  The weather in the fall was warm enough
    for shorts and a light sweater at night, Apr weather wise was the same. 
    Both times where warm enough to swim in the pool. yrs gone 1980, 1986,1990.
    Hope to go soon again?
    
    D.J
      

    I've just got the chance to go to Orlando in February (courtesy of
    Hoover UK's free flight promotion). This is likely to take in the
    Lincoln's birthday weekend, is that a big holiday, should I avoid the
    parks over that period, also what sort of weather could I expect, I
    would also like to spend some time on the Gulf coast.
    
    Richard Bell
    (Also in Warrington)

    Don't worry about Lincoln' birthday.  Although some gov't offices do
    close, almost everyone else works.  Right now we are in the 'dead'
    season and don't expect to see the crowds until we near Easter when
    spring break (mostly college/university students) head this way - and
    they tend to party mostly on the beaches.
    
    Weather wise, we should have days in the 60-70's(F) and mostly sunny
    but do bring some warm clothes because occasional cold fronts do dip
    down to this area at night.  In fact, we're under a freeze watch for
    tonight and expect only high 50's today.  You should be able to get
    some swimming in either the Atlantic or Gulf waters but check to see if
    a pool is heated before taking a plung - unheated pools lose their
    warmth from the night chill.
    
    Dan

    We went from May 14 - 222 and it was gorgeous.  Temps went up to low
    90's, but no humidity.  We had 20 minutes of rain one night...that was
    it.  The crowds moved along...we only waited once for about 20 minutes,
    but we also made a point of arriving at the parks early and carefully
    choosing the attractions so we didn't waste time.  I loved the month of
    May and would highly recommend it.  We had to take our daughter out of
    school in order to do it, but it was well worth it.
    

Could someone tell what it is like in March, were going for a long weekend, 24th thru the 
28th.  Is it crowded at this time??  How's the weather??

Pam

    Pam, 
    
    We have never been to WDW in March before, but will be there three of 
    same days as you. Crowds are supposed to be smaller than February 
    or April; Birnbaum lists that time as average attendance. Weather right
    now is 70's to 80's, so we're hoping for more of the same. 
    
    Where are you staying? We will be at Port Orleans March 19-26. 
    
    Linda

    I went down once in March and the weather was pretty nice. Most days
    it was plenty warm enough to want to swim. I think crowd wise you
    will be ok but just barely. March 28 is Monday of the week before
    Easter Sunday April 3. The week before and after Easter have big
    time crowds. If your trip allows going to WDW on each of the
    days you listed, Thu. Mar 24 to Mon. Mar 28 then try to get everything
    in as early as possible. I would expect Monday March 28 is going
    to be extremely crowded! Based on information that the MK is usually
    the most crowded I would make sure you do not visit it on Monday the
    28th, go to it on Thu and/or Fri., then leave the other days for
    Epcot and MGM etc. Try to put the least critical thing on the Monday
    because everything in Orlando will be busy that day.
    
    I've been to Orlando/Universal/WDW during the Easter 2 week window
    and it is not fun at all. I think you will be ok as long as you
    watch out for that Monday. Of course if your idea of fun is
    60 to 90 minute lines and wall to wall people then Monday would be fine.
    
    				Have fun,
    				Harold C.
    
    

RE:                  <<< Note 131.101 by 57126::BRNDAN::bisson >>>
>>                           -< Long weekend in March >-
>>
>>Could someone tell what it is like in March, were going for a long weekend, 
>>24th thru the 28th.  Is it crowded at this time??  How's the weather??

I went March 25-April 1 a few years back and it was COLD - daytime temps. were 
in 60's and low 70's.  At night it was 30's and 40's.  Didn't get to wear 
shorts. Swimming was out of the question.  It WAS sunny every day, though. I 
think we just hit an unusually cold week. But be prepared because we really 
weren't.

    feb 20-march 3 was no bargin.  TOO HOT.  spent days off in the pool.
    nights were hot.  this was the latest we ever were down south.  next
    time we will stick to december/jan when the temp is jusjt right.
    ed
    

    Does anyone have any idea of the conditions in WDW on the weekend after
    Thanksgiving.  I'm considering a surprize trip for my wife and myself
    (without the kids) for the fall and am looking at that weekend as being
    ideal mainly because it falls over her birthday.  If all goes right I
    will not even tell her about it until we get to the airport! ;^)
    
    John

    
    John,
    
    I'm not sure if you're asking for the weekend immediately following
    Thanksgiving or the next one.  Anyway, I heard that Thanksgiving
    weekend is very crowded.  The next weekend is fantastic!  I did the
    same thing for my husband's birthday a year and a half ago.  We flew
    down on Dec. 2nd so that he could wake up in WDW on his birthday, the
    3rd.  The weather was shorts and T's for the day and jeans and a
    sweatshirt at night.  Never rained at all.  We were there only for 4
    nights and it was also without the kids.  All the Christmas decorations
    were up and the place was so beautiful!
    Now as far as keeping it a surprise, I tried the same thing.  I even
    contacted his manager to get the half week off.  I ended up keeping the
    secret for 3 whole weeks!  I gave in because we were talking about a
    friend who was to go the week before and he was having so much fun
    planning the trip.  I asked my husband is a round about way if planning
    was fun for him.  It turned out that he felt that the planning and
    anticipation was a lot of fun.  So I told him.  That way he felt the
    excitement for the 3 months before the trip in addition to the great
    trip.  I hope to do this again for him and I'll tell him only after all
    the plans are made.
    
    Have a great trip, your wife will be so happy with such a great gift!
    
    Rose

    I was asking about he weekend immediatly following Thanksgiving which
    would be Nov 25, 26, 27 of 1994.  My wifes b'day is the 26th.  We never
    had a honeymoon when we got married (16 years ago) so this would be it. 
    The thing manking this possible is that my brother (Jim, former DECUS
    VP) has way too many frequent flyer vouchers that will expire at the
    end of 1994 and is willing to give them away to family members who can
    use them.  Sooooo....  Free airfare, then I buy the annual passes that
    we are going to use on our family trip next June anyway and I get a
    weekend trip for just meals and lodging.   Next is to decide where to
    stay.  Hmmmmmmmmm......
    
    As far as the secret, I don't think that is a problem since 1) we are
    already in the planning stages for our June/July '95 trip and 2) I'm
    driving her crazy with the '95 trip planning already.
    
    Any other input for Thanksgiving time would be appreciated. 
    
    Tnx,
    
    John
    

    Re -.1
    
    John, I think the weekend *immediately* following Thanksgiving is
    considered 'Thanksgiving Weekend', as most people have the Friday
    afterwards off, making it a four day one.  This is the busy weekend -
    if possible, I'd try to put it off until the 1st weekend of December 
    ( the next weekend ).  Of course, it won't be on your wife's b-day, but
    it'll be a lot less crowded . . .
    
    						- JC

    I have decided NOT to go that weekend, even though it means using more
    vacation (for me that means unpaid time off!).  I'm scheduling this for
    the following weekend.  We're leaving on Thursday night and returning
    Monday or Tuesday afternoon.
    
    John
    

    Hi all,
    
      I will be going to Disney next year either in the March or April time
    frame with my wife and 4 year old son. We will be staying on Disney
    property for about 4 or 5 days and then take in a couple of other 
    attractions. Question I have are as follows. (p.s. We will be driving
    down because my wife doesn't fly)
    
    1. In this above time frame which weeks (2) will be the best to go?
    
    2. We have a friend planning the trip for us. Should we spend the extra
       cash and get the food and fun cards?
    
    3. Can someone give me a rough idea as to the time the parks are open
       til?
    
       This will me my 2nd and their 1st trip to Disney.
    
         Thanks in advance,
    
            Tom

    Mar/Apr seems to be pretty busy, but you will get very large
    crowds the week before and the week after the easter  weekend.
    So if you like 1 hour+ waits for everything imaginable inside or
    outside of Disney then go those two weeks. The hours are extended the
    two Easter weeks but the crowds are brutal.

    My annual end of year trip to FL happens soon (parents live in 
    Winter Park, in-laws in Indialantic).  Our son is 4 and we are 
    considering a day visit to WDW during our stay in FL (week before 
    and week after Christmas).
    
    In this 2 week window, is there any hope of beating the crowds ? 
    We want this to be a good experience and and anything over a 15 minute 
    wait will not be pleasant.

    Anytime during the week before Christmas should be fairly quiet.
    With Christmas Day on Sunday this year, crowds may start to get 
    heavy on the 24th. After that they stay heavy through New Year's 
    Day. 
    
    Linda 

    
    
    I'll be going to WDW january 6 to the 15...can I expect No crowds
    and possibly no waiting in lines???
    
    John
    

    There should be very few people at that time. You might want to check at 
    the last minute to see what attractions are closed for renovation while
    you are there.
    
    Weather can be cool, so be sure to bring some sweaters or light jackets
    with you.  It will still be warmer and nicer than here in the
    northeast. 
    
    Linda

    RE:.127
    John,
    
    I was there in '92 from 1/12 to 1/20 and there were no lines.
    In fact there were only two of us on the bus one day enroute to
    Epcot! The temperature ranged from the low 50s to low 60s.
    Cool at night. It was warmer than here and it was nice to visit
    DisneyWorld again!
    
    Have a great time!  
    
    Regards,
    Ron               

    
    
    EXCELLENT!!!!  If there is one thing I hate most it's lines..... being
    
    in the military did this to me!
    
    
    Thanks for the reply's
    
    John

    
    Could someone please give a confused Brit some help...
    
    I'm taking my family to Florida for our first holiday there ever.
    
    We're spending two weeks in the Catalina(Sp?) Inn and then onto Tampa
    for a further week (Days Inn Marina).
    
    As we have free car hire and no idea of what we want to see I could do
    with some pointers.
    
    I have a five day Disney Pass and thats it....No strategy, No planning,
    really struggling.
    
    We'll (Myself, Wife and two kids one aged 9 and the other 2 1/2) be
    travelling out on the 12th May and Staying until 2nd/3rd June.
    
    Could someone give me some clues as to what the
    weather/humidity/crowds etc are expected to be?
    
    Any help appreciated. I'm busy checking out this notesfile, with 16000
    entries it may take some time so please mail me (Tony Nash@NEW) if you
    can help.
    
    Regards,
    
    Tony.

<    Could someone give me some clues as to what the
<    weather/humidity/crowds etc are expected to be?
    
Well, I've never been, but I can give you what I have learned and can 
guess since I'll be there the week before you will.  :-)

Crowds will be low to medium.  Overall, I think they will be pretty low.
Probably 0-20 minutes to get onto a ride, depending on which ride on which
days.  Some of the most popular rides, though, could take much more, but 
I don't think you'll have too hard a time of it.

Weather, as I recorded it from other notes, is:
  early May - 78-80 F., little rain
  late May-early June - high heat, 5-15 minute thundershowers

     Carol

    I am planning to take my family to WDW mid-late Oct96. What are the 
    advantages/disadvantages for that time of year?
    
    I realise that there is less daylight and the park will probably close
    earlier, but is that outweighed by less crowds and the temperature
    being more tolerable.
    We hope to be able to afford to stay at one the WDW resorts, not sure
    which one yet though.
    Will any of the attractions be closed, will Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard
    Beach etc be open, because my kids will definately want to go swimming
    in them.
    
    Is 1996 the 25th anniversary if WDW opening?.
    
    I realise that it is a long time ahead, but I look forward to any
    input.
    
    
    					Dave
    
    
    Looking forward to your input 

    Dave,
    
    Hurricane Season.
    
    Mike

     OH DEAR!!!
    
    
    
    				Dave :-(

This is the info I collected regarding crowds, weather, and attractions. 
Again, I haven't been there yet, but hope this information is correct (compiled
it from various notes). 

     Carol

LEAST CROWDED:
  Thanksgiving to Xmas 
      (young children have room to wander when walking)
NON-CROWDED:
  week after Labor Day until Thanksgiving
  Jan 2-February vacations.
  2nd week of January through 1st week of Feb
CROWDED, IN NORMALLY NON-CROWDED TIME:
  January, last weekend - has Superbowl, and football widows/orphans and 
        residents get a special deal
  Thanksgiving weekend is busiest weekend of the year. possibly - see 47.*
  February vacations in many states can make it somewhat crowded then.
      
WEATHER:
  Sept - can be *very* hot, hottest month of year
  Oct - hot but not humid, 90 max
  after Thanksgiving to Dec 9 - 70's
  mid-December - 70's usually but can be low 60's to low 80's
  Jan - upper 60's, low 70's, can downpour (brief, or forever 334.1)
  Feb - 70's, some rain (usually 70-75)
        CAN be 40's to 80's (all daytime) and 20's to 50's at night.
  mid March - 65 to 72-77
  late March, early April - 70's (85 max), little-no rain
  April - Most days in 80's to 90's, probably only 1 day out 7 did it rain.
  early May - 78-80, little rain
  late May-early June - high heat, 5-15 minute thundershowers
       mostly sunny, occasional afternoon shower.
 Hurricane season is June through November

If RAINing, stay out of back 3 rows of tram.  Sudden (normal?) stops pour H20.
           
ATTRACTIONS CLOSED:
 Oct - lots
 Feb - Thunder Mtn RR was closed in late Feb. 93
 late March/early April - few
 BEST CHANCE of having them open in off-season is before or after big crowd
        time, like between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
             

    don't let the hurricane season scare you!  My family went to Orlando
    last Thanksgiving.  Arrived in a torrent of rain and there was a foot
    and a half of water in the parking lot the next morning.  In less than
    a day the water had drained off and the heat was back (80s).
    
    You should always expect some bad weather, have a schedule that's
    flexible.  If you don't get to MK on Monday, there's still Tues &
    Wed...
    
    Mark

    I've gone two years during the middle of November and once in October.
    Every time it was beautiful although it can get chilly at night.
    
    -Jay
    

    
    We have been twice in oct and are planning another trip the same time
    as you are...mid Oct. 96.  We always have great weather...if it rains
    it is just for 15 mins. to 1/2 hour and it is so warm you don't even have 
    to worry about it...a bonus to going in Oct. if you are into horror is that
    for the month they have halloween horror nights at Universal Studios.
    This is unbelievable...not suggested for little kids.  My niece and
    nephew went last time and they were 14 and 15 and it was almost too 
    much for them...there was alot my husband could not go and do because
    of them...they still had fun...it is like stepping into a horror movie
    in the theater...my husband was even scared...Our son was only 8 months
    old so I got out of going last time...I just know he is going to make
    me go this coming time...I am surprised I have not seen this mentioned
    in this note before..it is unreal..
    
    	Just remember that Oct. is great weather...lines are pretty short
    and the people are great...as americans you will be a
    minority...everybody is visiting from england,scottland,Australia. 
    They are nice, friendly people,  Until my son hits school age we will 
    always go in Oct. 
    
    Pat Jacob
    

    I was there at the end of October in 1991.  The weather was beautiful
    and in the 80's.  To me, it is the best time to go.  There were no
    crowds to speak of and we enjoyed it so much, that I would definately
    go back in October if I had a choice.  The humidity was low enough so
    that you don't get sticky and miserable walking around all day.  The
    temperature was warm enough though to enjoy the waterparks and pools.
    At night it did get a little chilly and I carried a sweater.  There
    were some attractions closed.  I think 20,000 leagues was closed at
    the time.  I didn't care much about it, but for some people that is a
    biggie.  I think the only attractions we waited more than 5 or so
    minutes for were Space Mountain (about 15 minutes) and  Big Thunder
    Mountain Railroad (again about 15 minutes). 
    
    I was there in September of 1993 (after Labor Day), and I'd take October 
    over September anytime because of the heat and the crowds!
    
    Kristen

    Someone told me that the best thing (besides the Crowds) about going in
    late November is going to Universal Studios around or on Halloween.
    
    Mike

    
    Pleasure Island is a ball on Halloween, also - costumes galore!  And ya
    don't have to lease WDW :^)
    
    Me and my wife LOVE going in late October.  We really feel that the
    advantages very much outweigh the disadvantages and have gone in October 
    for our last three trips.
    
    The plusses:
    
      o Great weather - absolutely the best reason to go in October.  But
        we don't like it real hot during the day, just warmed up enough
        to wanna take a dip in the water.  Crisper days, just cool enough
        nights.  MMMMMMmmmmmm.
      o fewer crowds - this is nice for a lot of reasons:  at places like 
        Typhoon Lagoon where there's no hassle finding a nice spot to put 
        the blanket, dinner reservations are easier to get, you can see
        Illuminations better, etc.
    
    The minuses:
    
      o early closing of parks (but we seem to be finding enough to do 
        at night - Pleasure Island, Midnight Cruise, late dinner, etc.)
      o WDW tends to "refurbish" a lot of rides at this time.
    
    - Sean

    re .139
    
    Actually, I am from the UK, and I know that I am a nice friendly
    person.:-)
    Thanks for all the input. My only problem now is sorting out the 
    money for the holiday, and waiting 18 months.
    
    				Dave 

We picked October to go, as well, thinking that the weather would be the best
and the crowds would be at a minimum.  Unfortunately, for us, we went the
week of Oct. 6, 1994 when the Disney Golf Classic was going on.  Although
the weather was good (high 80's, low 90's), the crowds were tough.  We had long
waits and long lines for everything.

If you pick October, make sure you don't go during the Golf Classic.

-Buddy

    Can anyone tell me if the Disney Golf Classic is on this year at the same
    time as I am booked to arrive in Orlando on 7 October for 3 weeks.
    If this competition is on again at the same time, I will arrange my
    time at Disney outwith that week.

>    Can anyone tell me if the Disney Golf Classic is on this year at the same
>    time as I am booked to arrive in Orlando on 7 October for 3 weeks.

Apparently it is, because I'm going then with a couple of friends and my friend
who booked our room was told that the moderate rooms were going fast because of
the Golf Classic.  (I don't know the exact dates of the Classic, but we'll be
there Oct. 4-11.)

Sigh!  Had I but known....

-- Nina

I'm planning a trip to WDW for sometime this fall/winter, and would like to hear
experiences with crowds at various times. There will be 2 adults and 3 kids (ages 7, 5, 1).

In particular, I'm thinking of arriving the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend,
and staying for 4 days.  Is this a croweded time?  Are there any good
discounts available for that period?

I have a MK card - is there a better way to get discounts?

Any other advise on picking a not-crowded time and getting the best prices?

Thanks!

- Craig

    
    Craig,
    
    On the day you arrive, the MK should be pretty crowded.  But, Sunday
    will be the start of the quietest time of the year as far as crowds go.
    You have chosen a great time to avoid the crowds, plus the parks are
    all decked out in their Christmas finery.
    
    --Jay
    

    My husband and I would like to go in May 1996.
    
    Could somebody tell me if there are some children holidays within this
    period ?
    
    I saw in previous notes that a lot of people have already booked travel
    tickets and hotels for next year. When do you think we should book for May ?
    
    Thanks for your answers,
    Pascale.

    I think it's not uncommon to book up to a year in advance!  When I
    called my auto club travel agency for flight reservations in October,
    planning a WDW vacation in February, I was told that I was almost too
    late!  But the week I reserved *is* a school holiday almost everywhere
    in the States (Presidents' Week).
    
    To my knowledge there are no school holidays in May; typically there is
    one in mid-April, and the kids get out of school for the summer mid- to
    late-June.  I would guess it wouldn't be too crowded, but that's just a
    guess.
    
    I'll leave it to other noters to provide info on the weather.  We went
    in June of '92 and it rained several times each day, but it was warm
    rain and it was fun!  We bought the ponchos (at Universal, as it
    happens) and wore what I call "rock-walkers" - rubber-and-plastic-net
    shoes that let the water drain out.
    
    Have a wonderful time,
    Leslie  

    Whoops, I forgot there is one 3-day-weekend in May, Memorial Day Weekend,
    which in '96 is May 25-27.  Children definitely are out of school that
    Monday.
    
    Leslie

    You may want to note that a lot of schools end for the summer by the
    second/third week of May.  
    
    Kathi
    
    

    >>>You may want to note that a lot of schools end for the summer by the
    >>>second/third week of May.
    
    not around here (massachusetts)...the poor kids are going to be going
    to school until august due to all the snow days!!!  well, maybe not
    august... :> :>
    
    
    -raquel
    

    raquel,
    
    I was about to say the same thing (not in Mass.!) but then I remembered
    that colleges let out as early as the second week in May, and
    independent ("private") schools typically let out earlier than public
    schools.
    
    In Shrewsbury, the school year STARTS in August!!  Before Labor Day--
    HERESY!!!!
    
    Leslie

    I realize that summer in Florida can be quite hot, but I have little
    choice if I want to take an 11 year old to WDW. Can anyone recommend a
    week in this season where I can hit as few crowds as possible. We can
    try to live with the heat but would love to dump the crowds.
    
    Rick

    I don't think there is any time in the Summer that the parks aren't
    crowded.  Most people are in the same boat as you are, school-aged
    children.  Have you given any thought to keeping your child out of
    school during the school year to take the trip.  Schools are usually
    very cooperative about allowing this.  The child is usually given work
    that has to be complete before he/she goes back to school.  We usually
    take our Grandaughter down there in March, she does the homework on the
    plane and every afternoon (by the Pool).

I've never been to WDW, but DL in October when my daughter has PTO
conferences is great!  I took her out of 1/2 day of school.  We never
waited more than 10 minutes for a ride.

Liz

    How about mid August? The corwds may be the lightest all Summer from
    mid August on due to early school starts in some areas.
    
    Plus, if you go in mid-August you may find some "value season"
    deals.
    
    Mike

    Thanks for the preveious replies on best time. October sounds good if 
    I can get him out of school, otherwise August might be it, however this
    is for 1997 (am I planning to far ahead)? Someone has informed me
    that it's Disney's 25th anniversary???  Does this mean a whole new ball
    game? Incidentally, someone handed me "The Scopa Family Trip Report"
    Looks like a well worn booklet festooned with penciled in margins. I'll
    have to read this over.
    
    Rick.

FYI,

Disney is hosting/sponsering Drum Corps International's Summer Music Games for at LEAST the next 
two years.  This years dates are, I believe, August 12-17.  1997's will probably be around the same 
dates.  There will probably be a few thousand drumpcorps kids with another 20-30 thousand fans
in the Orlando area that week.  These numbers could be higher because of the location.

This will add to the crowds, but, there should be some great performances in the parks.

Friday and Saturday evenings will not be a problem because the division 1 corps will be competing\
in the semi-finals and finals.

Dave V

    WE ARE PLANNING OUR FIRST TRIP TO DISNEY.WE WERE WONDERING WHAT ARE THE
    BEST MONTHS FOR THE LEAST CROWDS + WEATHERWISE. WE ARE A PARTY OF SIX
    INCLUDING TWO BOYS 5+6 WHAT ARE YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PLACES TO
    STAY? OR A TRAVEL AGENT.DISCOUNT PLANS IE.. BEST VALUE FOR OUR MONEY.
    
                                                 THANKS BILL+FAMILY

RE .161 - Read the other notes in this string and the other topics in this file. :-) 
(I don't mean to be glib - there's a lot of good info in here already that probably
will answer your questions.  There is a topic titled something like "First-Timer's
Questions" - try looking for that one in particular.)

By the way, please don't use all UPPERCASE letters in your notes - it is hard 
to read and also can come across as SHOUTING.  Thanks.

Have fun planning your trip! (And of course have fun *on* your trip!)

- Nina (DISNEY notes file co-moderator)

    
    I'm not sure if this question fits this note or the one on crowds -
    or if in fact, the general subject of "WDW resort guest early-entry 
    privileges" deserves a note of its own.   I'm sure the moderators
    will fix any wrongdoings on my part 8^).
    
    We will be taking our first WDW trip in November.  What is the 
    effect of early-entry during this time of year?  Any experiences?
    The guidebooks write a lot about avoiding the early-entry park
    in the peak seasons, but little about the off-seasons.  Also,
    what are the busy park days during the off-season - Saturday 
    and Sunday?  
    
    My current thinking is that we will take advantage of early-entry
    days since we are typically up early anyways and will *have* to
    leave the parks after lunch for our 2.5 year old's nap.
    
    I'll appreciate any and all experiences/opinions that you care to
    share...
    
    Carol

    Carol,
    
    Over the last year or two many people have gone in the "off season" but
    have said that the crowds are still high.
    
    Early entry days are usually:
    
                  Sunday - MGM
                  Monday - TMK
                  Tuesday- EC
                  Wednesday - MGM
                  Thursday - TMK
                  Friday - EC
                  Saturday - TMK
    
    Over the years the "advice" was always to avoid the parks (all parks)
    on Monday and Tuesday because most people traveled on Sunday and would
    swarm the parks on those two days. 
    
    I've always found the crowd lightest on the weekends...especially on
    Sunday. The locals will sometimes venture in on weekends but usually
    they are there for dinner and usually don't go in until late in the
    day.
    
    Somewhere else in this conference it was mentioned that the best 
    advice these days os to AVOID the designated early entry parks because
    everyone goes to that park on the early entry day. Remember, even
    though the early entry is for resort guests only there are a gazillion
    guest rooms (and something like 10,000 more on the way between now and
    the year 2000) so that means there are 40 gazillion guests who may take
    advantage of the early entry.
    
    Here is my suggestion during the off season and on season. I plan on 
    using this schedule for my next trip:
    
                      Sunday    - AM - TMK  PM - MGM
                      Monday    - AM - EC   PM - TMK
                      Tuesday   - AM - MGM  PM - EC
                      Wednesday - AM - TMK  PM - MGM
                      Thursday  - AM - EC   PM - TMK
                      Friday    - AM - MGM  PM - EC
                      Saturday  - AM - TMK  PM - MGM
    
    Notice that by doing this you avoid the early entry day except for 
    Saturday....that's a light day anyway so no big deal. Also, the
    day should be broken up by leaving the park in mid day.
    
    For off season I suggest leaving the park around 12-1 and going to
    your PM park around 3.
    
    For on season I would leave around 12 and go to my PM park around 4-5.
    
    What I like about my schedule is that if you have a large family 
    everyone pretty much gets to see his or her favorite park once
    every 36 hours or so...keeps the peace.
    
    Let me leave you with one more point...this works for me but may not
    work for you. Hopefully other noters will offer their suggestions. You
    should read all the suggestions and pick the one that appears to work
    the best for you.
    
    Mike
    
    
    
    
    
    

    
    >Somewhere else in this conference it was mentioned that the best 
    >advice these days os to AVOID the designated early entry parks because
    >everyone goes to that park on the early entry day. Remember, even
    
    The Unofficial guide agrees with this - with the qualification of
    "during peak seasons".  In the off seasons, the guide comes close
    to recommending taking advantage of early-entry since the day is 
    shorter and the extra hour can be worth it.   I believe that I've
    also read that Saturdays and Sundays can be busier in the off-seasons
    because of local visitors.   Mike, is your experience in the on
    or off seasons, or both?    Any other opinions/experiences out there
    from fall trips in the last couple of years....
    
    I hadn't really thought of doing two different parks on the first 
    several days.   Because the hours are shorter in the fall and we
    need to break for the toddler's nap, the second 1/2 of the day
    becomes very short (i.e. only a hour or two is left).  I was thinking 
    about following a recommendation to hit Epcot, then MGM, then save 
    MK for last; the idea being that the kids might not enjoy Epcot 
    and MGM if they'd been spoiled by the Magic Kingdom first.  As it 
    turns out, the early entry days for our first three days maps that 
    strategy exactly...Epcot, MGM, MK.
    
    This trip sort of started out on a whim but has really turned into
    a major research project!   I'm loving every minute of it!
    
    Carol   

    Carol,
    
    I'm not the best source for off-peak times...the last time I went
    off-peak was 1975.....don't think that qualifies.
    
    Too bad Linda Gibson isn't around. She was good at that.
    
    Mike

    
    When we've gone off-peak in early May and mid-January the weekends were
    really crowded.  The restricted Florida resident AP's were valid during
    those times and they came in droves on Saturday and Sunday.
    
    I've always avoided the early open days mostly because it's hard enough
    for me (on vacation) to get there 30 minutes before a regular opening
    much less those crazy early opening times.  8^}
    
    I've been to one early open day (ever), and it was at the MK.
    We rode Space Mountain like 6 times in a row and then left to go
    get those big honkin cheese danishes at Beaches n Cream at YBC.

    
    Hmmm...our kids are conditioned to be out of bed no later than 7am
    and out of the house by 7:30am.  They have to do this on weekdays 
    (even in the summer because both parents work) and tend to do so
    on the weekend (sometimes they wake up earlier on the weekend - argh!)
    I thought our schedule would work pretty well with hitting early
    entry days for the first couple of days - until exhaustion sets in!
    
    Thank you for your input on the off-season weekends - I don't know
    where I read it (guidebooks, web, here, etc) but I have heard that
    before so I appreciate your validation.  Have you noticed a difference 
    between Saturdays and Sundays?   Perhaps Saturdays are mobbed at
    Magic Kingdom since it's early-entry day and the only day that
    the fireworks might be done...
    
    Thanks for the info so far!
    
    Carol
        

I went to WDW in the off-season last year - October.  As I recall, the
Magic Kingdom was pretty crowded on Saturday, especially with Mike Scopa's
favorite people: Brazilian tour groups! :-)  There were TONS of them.

We went to the early opening at MGM (forget which day it was) and that
worked out pretty well.  We didn't try to make early opening at EPCOT or
the Magic Kingdom.

The Magic Kingdom seemed to be the most crowded park during our stay.

-- Nina

    I wouldn't touch a park on its early opening day!  Well, at least not
    during peak season.  We purposely avoided parks on their early opening
    day and it worked out great.  On Saturday, July 6, (we were leaving
    the next day) we did MGM in the a.m. and after our break the kids
    wanted to go to TMK and do their favorite rides (Peter Pan and the
    Race Cars).  Well, we got there around 5:00 and it had started to
    rain.  I'm thinking "Great, everyone will leave".  And sure enough,
    mass amounts of people were leaving.  However, there were many more
    masses still there!  It didn't help that they close a bunch of things
    when it rains - it makes all the other rides more crowded.  It was
    pouring and tons of people were leaving all the time, but we couldn't
    get on anything!
    
    Now maybe it was extra crowded because it was the 4th of July weekend
    but I was glad I didn't try any other parks on their early opening
    day.
    
    Karen (who has at least started my trip report...)

Does anyone know why the last half of August is "off-season"
when compared to July and the first half of August?

The Disney hotel rooms always have a lower rate at that time.

We were there during the last half of August a few years
ago. The only thing we noticed was that it seemed cloudier
then. The crowds were just as large.

Any ideas?

Doug

    re: .171
    
�Does anyone know why the last half of August is "off-season"
�when compared to July and the first half of August?
    
    In a large part of the country, summer vacation has ended and school
    has started by the 3rd week of August.
    
    --Jay
    

    Value Season usually starts with the third week in August. I'll check
    my MKC book for this year's dates...I'm guessing that Value Season
    begins around August 17th.
    
    Mike

    .172> In a large part of the country, summer vacation has ended and
    school
        has started by the 3rd week of August.
    
    Which "large part of the country" is that?!  In Massachusetts we've
    only just (within the last few years) seen school begin before Labor 
    Day, and it's not even one week before the holiday: typically the
    Wednesday or Thursday before.
    
    Leslie 

    The states in warmer climates have started school the first or second
    week in August for at least 50 years.  

    
    Yeah, I would never make the assumption that the way we do *anything* in
    Massachusetts is typical of the rest of the country! It wasn't all that
    long ago that you couldn't buy groceries on Sundays due to the "blue
    laws" ;-)  How quickly we forget...
    
    -cg
    
    (and yes, I was born in Massachusetts and have lived my whole life
    here!)
    
    

    Some of the school districts in Colo have gone to "early" starts (3rd
    Tuesday in August) and give the kids almost a month off at Christmas. 
    Reason(s) given...have to pay less utilities and gives more "family"
    time around the holidays.  go figure...it's 90+ degress and the air co
    has to be running in august....I guess it cost less to run air co than
    heat!
    
    Kathi
    
    (who hates the early august start date)
    
    

Schools in the Orlando area are back in session by the second or third week in August.
Last August a number of drum corps competing in Drum Corps International's 
championships at the Citru Bowl stayed a couple of hours outside of Orlando because
school's were in session the second week in August.  Drum Corps typically sleep on
gym floors when they travel to save money on housing.

Dave V

    
      I remember going to WDW in August one year. Everyone was passing out
     in the lines (if you go then take all those standard precautions so
     you don't end up on the pavement :-)
    
           Mark

    It's kind of funny to hear people talk about the heat. Here in
    Missouri, we have really high humidity and high temperatures in the
    summer. When preparing for our trip to WDW last summer in July, I read
    this file and was worried about how the heat would affect us. We got
    there and found it hot but absolutely not any hotter than Missouri, or
    the Midwest in general. New Englanders would not be used to it and seem
    to have the most comments about the heat.

    
    another reason i had heard that schools down south start a little
    earlier is so they get out a little earlier, before the wicked heat
    starts (tho, in august in spring, texas, i found the heat to be a bit
    more than "wicked").
    
    my favorite time for going to disney world (well, when *isn't* it a
    good time to be with mickey and friends) was the last week of april. 
    all the school vacations are over and it's sorta off-season and there
    were NO lines.  some rides (like thunder mountain) i remember getting
    off and running back in line and getting on for the next ride.  of
    couse, i didn't have children to deal with and i realize that going
    after all school vacations are done isn't always prudent, but it was
    the best time we had there.
    
    
    -raquel
    
    (now in serious disney withdrawal)

    
    
    The last several times we've gone have been in July and August. In fact
    we just put a deposit down for this years trip in mid July. We are now
    back in the Boston area after six years outside of Philadelphia. The
    last 3 times we went down (July, August and July) it was actually
    hotter during the day (it does cool off more at night in Philly) in
    Philly then in Orlando.
    
    I guess we don't mind the heat, and because we stay in shape (I jump
    rope my boys wrestle, my "little girl" is into gymnastics, and my wife
    chases the kids and dog around all day) we seem to have endurance. It
    always helps to take the afternoons off from the park(s) and go to the 
    one of the pools. ;^) In fact "pool hopping" has become one of our
    favorite things to do.
    
     

    Obviously some people just don't like heat and humidity.
    
    There's no doubt that Florida can be pretty hot in the Summer.
    
    Arguments for going in the Summer:
    
       - Attractions are at peak.
       - Operating hours are at peak.
       - All water parks are open.
       - Parades every night.
       - Fireworks every night.
       - Dole Whip tastes better.
       - No unexpected cold weather.
       - You can leave for you vacation already in warm weather clothes.
       - When you return home no weather shock.
    
    Arguments against going in the Summer:
    
       - Too hot
       _ Too humid
       - Too crowded
       - Too many Brazillians
       - Too rainy
       - Dole Whip melts too fast ;^)
    

	We like to go the last week of January or first week in February.  The
crowds are always light, annual passport specials are in effect and the weather
is usually (or has been so far) very nice for walking around the parks - mid 60s
to low 70s.  This year was unusual in that the weather was mid 70s to low 80s
every day.  And, you get to get away from New Englands winter weather for a
while. :-)

Disadvantages are that the parks close earlier and some things aren't happening
as often or at all.  For example, until this year we had never seen the
fireworks in the Magic Kingdom or Tinkerbelle, and it takes a little more
planning to schedule in the parades sinde they don't run as often.  But, for us,
the advantages of the cool weather, cheap room prices and low crowds outweigh
the disadvantages.

George
	

invasion of the drum & bugle corps., etc, and the kinds of info Mike posted in
131.98 about frequency (and presumably therefore?) the dates of infrequent
attractions?

					Trace (Oct 98?)