Summary
iBestTravel panelists tell us the most expensive and cheapest times to visit Disney World.
Between theme park tickets, hotel stays, dining experiences, and all the Mickey ears and T-shirts, the costs of a trip to Disney World add up fast — but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
We asked Eean Kerber and Mike Jones, members of the PlanDisney panel specializing in Walt Disney World Resort, for their money-saving vacation tips. Select members, chosen for their unbeatable Disney knowledge and passion, assist fellow guests in planning their Disney vacations by providing personalized advice and strategies for Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and Disney Vacation Club. With their guidance, you can start planning your next magical experience at any budget, keeping in mind the most expensive and cheapest times to go to Disney World.
Cheapest Time to Go to Disney World
Like many other popular vacation destinations around the world, the busiest times are often the most expensive, however, you may be able to snag a deal during the less crowded seasons. Disney is a year-round destination, and although there are no obvious “off-season” months, you can find pockets of time throughout the year with relatively lower prices and fewer crowds. Flexibility is crucial if you’re hoping to visit Disney World on a budget.
- Adults traveling without kids or families with small children not constrained by a school holiday calendar should consider visiting during less bustling times. This includes avoiding winter vacation and spring break.
- Be aware of Disney race weekends and three-day weekends, as these can result in increased crowds and prices.
Kerber and Jones recommend visiting the Disney World website to scout out deals using various strategies. Always check the Special Offers section for deals on tickets and on-site hotels — this can save you hundreds by planning your trip during these limited-time windows. Another tip is to examine the theme park ticket calendar. Disney World employs dynamic ticket pricing, meaning park tickets are pricier at busier times, with midweek tickets typically less expensive than weekend tickets. Prices usually peak on major holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s, and Thanksgiving. Kerber suggests late January (following the holidays) and February as excellent times for a warm winter getaway, while Jones recommends late summer (late August and early September) after schools resume.
Most Expensive Times to Visit Disney World
As previously mentioned, the winter holidays represent one of the most costly times of year to visit Disney World, with the week of Christmas and New Year’s typically being the most expensive period. July Fourth, Thanksgiving, Halloween, and other federal holidays also see higher crowds and costs. Moreover, parks are generally busy and very hot and humid during summer vacation, so if possible, plan your trip for May or the end of August and September.
If you want to enjoy the decorations and experience the Halloween or Christmas festivities without overspending, Kerber and Jones suggest visiting early in the season as a viable compromise. Disney launches its holiday seasons ahead of schedule, allowing you to save money by visiting weeks prior to the actual holiday while still enjoying the festive atmosphere. For instance, Jones recommends the first week of December (when kids remain in school) to benefit from lower prices before the holiday rush begins. Visiting during a less busy time also allows you to avoid extra costs, such as Genie+, which lets you skip the standby line at attractions for a fee.
When to Save Money at Disney World — and When to Splurge
Whenever you visit, consider where to save and splurge on your Disney vacation. Opt for a more budget-friendly resort, like Pop Century (which offers easy transportation via the Skyliner and has an entertaining theme), and explore splurging on a special event, like a fireworks dessert party, as suggested by Kerber. Alternatively, you can dine at more affordable quick-service restaurants ( abundant choices available throughout the parks and resorts) while allocating budget for memorable signature or character dining experiences. Additionally, bringing your own snacks can offer significant savings, as walking around the parks often incurs a hefty appetite. Balancing Disney treats like Dole Whips with snacks you bring from home is a practical way to save money.
Moreover, consider the strategic timing of your ticket purchase. The longer you stay, the more you can save: One-day tickets begin at $109 per day, but seven-day tickets can start at $69 per day, making it worthwhile to add an extra day or two. Alternatively, you might save on park tickets by spending a day or two exploring the resorts, lounging by the pool, or visiting Disney Springs, indulging in a day full of free activities instead of spending on additional park tickets.
More Tips to Save Money at Disney World
Now that you know the cheapest times to visit Disney World, here are some additional tips and tricks to help you save even more money. First, be thoughtful when selecting your accommodations. Marriott Bonvoy members may wish to use points to offset a stay at one of the nearby or on-property resorts, such as the new Walt Disney World Swan Reserve. For larger groups, renting an Orlando Airbnb, offering ample space for relaxation and the opportunity to prepare meals, could be more cost-effective.
It’s important to remember that you can bring snacks into the parks. Furthermore, it’s advisable to carry your own water bottle and request complimentary cups of water at quick-service eateries to avoid buying bottled drinks. Moreover, consider purchasing Disney apparel ahead of time at stores like Target to evade extra in-park expenses. Finally, pack a rain poncho or an umbrella, particularly if you’re traveling during the summer months when afternoon storms can quickly materialize.
