The Best Times to Visit Orlando: A Seasonal Guide for Families

Are you planning an unforgettable family adventure in the magical city of Orlando but need to decide when to go? Look no further than our seasonal guide to help you plan the best times to visit Orlando! Whether you crave thrilling theme park rides, exciting outdoor activities, or simply enjoying quality time with your loved ones, Orlando has something for everyone year-round.

From the dazzling holiday decorations in winter to the vibrant blooms of spring, each season offers a unique experience for families to enjoy. Some seasons are busier than others, such as hurricane season.

Join us as we explore the best times to visit Orlando so you can expect the trip you’re looking for!

Best Time to Go Based on Orlando Weather

Photo: Mick Haupt

Orlando experiences a tropical climate with heat and humidity during summers and mild winters. If that’s your thing, you’ll love the summer!

For more comfortable weather, visit Orlando in March, April, and May. During this time, temperatures are warm but not overly hot, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring theme parks.

September and October also offer nice weather with slightly cooler temperatures than the peak summer months of the year. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and high prices, January and February are good options for visiting Orlando with family. This may also be a better time to visit with young kiddos or grandparents who don’t prefer the humidity. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures and the occasional cold front.

• Hottest months: June, July, August
• Mildest months: March, April, May, September, October
• Best months for low crowds: January, February

Best Time to Visit Orlando for Low Crowds and Wait Times

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Orlando is a popular tourist destination for its theme parks and attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios. If you’re looking to visit when crowds and wait times are at their lowest, avoiding peak times such as holidays, summer vacations, and spring break is best.

For shorter wait times, visit during the off-season months of January, February, and September. This time of the year usually has lower crowds and shorter wait times for popular attractions, allowing you to maximize your time in the parks. Additionally, visiting on weekdays rather than weekends can help reduce wait times, as weekends are busier with locals and tourists.

• Best months for shorter wait times: January, February, September
• Best days for shorter wait times: Weekdays during January, February, and September

Special Events and Festivals in Orlando, Florida

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Orlando is known for its vibrant events and festivals throughout the year. The best times to visit for these special occasions are spring and fall. In the spring, Orlando hosts the renowned EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking floral displays and culinary events.

Fall brings events like Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World, which offer spooky fun for all ages.

Orlando is also a popular destination for New Year’s Eve celebrations, with fireworks displays and parties throughout the city.

During the springtime, you can check out the Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort event. The Orlando Fringe Festival is one of the longest-running fringe theatre festivals in the US, held in May each year.

To help you plan, here’s a list of when these popular events are typically held:

• Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort: Late February-early April
• EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival: Early March-late May
• Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios: Select nights from September-October
• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Select nights from late August-early November
• Orlando Fringe Festival: May

Cheapest Time in Orlando: Discounts and Deals

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Orlando is a popular destination year-round, but there are certain times when you can score the best discounts and deals. Who doesn’t love a great deal? One of the cheapest times to go to Orlando for discounts is during the off-season, typically between January and February. You can find discounted hotel rates and fewer crowds at the theme parks during this time.

Another ideal time to visit for deals is in the fall, after the summer rush. As you prepare for your trip, you can watch for special promotions or packages offered by hotels and theme parks throughout the year.

• Cheapest times to visit Orlando: January-February
• Best place to find promotions and deals: VisitOrlando.com and Groupon.com

What to Do on Your Florida Vacation with Kids

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Orlando vacation with kids is a dream for families looking to have fun and create lasting memories. With so many activities in Orlando, planning your trip can be overwhelming.

One thing is for sure: you will have things to do in this magical city. From visiting Orlando’s theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort to exploring marine life at SeaWorld Orlando, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios for a magical experience. Check out the local water parks like Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon to cool off from the Florida heat. Lastly, end your day with a delicious meal at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Below are some top places to visit in Orlando with children:

• Walt Disney World Resort. For Mickey lovers, this massive complex contains enchanting theme parks, immersive attractions, and magical experiences for all ages.
• Universal Orlando Resort. This theme park features thrilling rides and attractions based on iconic movies and TV shows.
• SeaWorld. Stop by a marine-themed park to check out up-close encounters with marine animals and view entertaining shows.
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Located near Orlando in Winter Haven, kids can check out LEGO-themed lands and immerse themselves in a LEGO world.
• Orlando Science Center. This educational center offers hands-on exhibits and interactive demonstrations for those who love STEM.
• Gatorland. Do you want to get up close and personal with alligators and crocodiles? You can do so here in the “Alligator Capital of the World.”
• Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park. This park is in Kissimmee and offers thrilling zip lines, rope, and obstacle courses.
• The Crayola Experience. For craft and color lovers in the family, check out The Crayola Experience, where guests can enjoy hands-on art activities related to the Crayola brand.

Best Hotels to Stay in on Your Trip to Orlando

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Choosing the right hotel can make or break your trip, honestly! When planning your visit to Orlando, consider staying at one of the Luxury Resort Hotels like The Waldorf Astoria Orlando or JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes. These hotels offer top-notch amenities, spacious rooms, and impeccable service to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

For a more budget-friendly yet excellent option, consider booking a room at the Family-Friendly Resorts, such as Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort or the Floridays Resort Orlando. These hotels cater to families with amenities like multiple pools, on-site dining options, and convenient shuttle services to the theme parks.

Here are some of the best family-friendly places to stay in Orlando:

• The Waldorf Astoria Orlando
• JJ Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort
• The Grove Resort & Water Park
• Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
• Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

FAQs: Best Times to Visit Orlando

When is the best time to visit Orlando?

Orlando is typically excellent during the spring months of March to May or the fall months of September to November. The weather is pleasant during these times, and the crowds are smaller than the peak summer season.

What are the peak seasons in Orlando and central Florida?

Orlando experiences peak seasons during the summer months of June to August and significant holiday periods such as Christmas and New Year. It is advisable to book accommodations and tickets well in advance during the busiest time of the year.

Is there a hurricane season in Orlando?

Yes, Orlando gets a lot of rain and is susceptible to hurricanes due to its location in Florida. The official hurricane season lasts from June to November, with the peak months being August and September. You should monitor weather updates during this period to plan your trip when the weather is at its best.

What is the best time to visit Orlando’s theme parks?

The best months to visit Orlando for theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort are typically January to March and September to December when the crowds are manageable and the weather is milder.

How is the weather in Orlando throughout the year?

Orlando’s milder weather is generally warm and humid throughout the year. The summer can be hot with occasional afternoon showers, while the winter months, from December to February, are more relaxed but still pleasant for outdoor activities.

What is the shoulder season in Orlando?

The shoulder season in Orlando usually occurs during the spring and fall, when the weather is favorable and the crowds are less than during the peak summer season. This period allows for a more relaxed visit to the attractions.

What is the hottest month in Florida?

The hottest month in Florida is typically July, with average temperatures soaring into the 90s. This month’s high humidity and intense heat can make it feel even hotter. Residents and tourists seek relief from the scorching temperatures by hitting the beach or staying indoors in air-conditioned spaces.

Conclusion

The best times to visit Orlando for the most comfortable weather typically coincide with the milder months; deciding when to go is crucial for an enjoyable experience. Generally, the best weather in Orlando can be found during January, February, and March, when temperatures are more moderate and humidity is lower compared to the sweltering summer months.

Deciding when to visit is mainly based on the weather and expected crowd levels if you’re planning to check out Orlando events or Orlando theme parks. Consider both of these before booking your fabulous trip to Florida!