The Best Times to Visit Disney World in Orlando, Florida

Central Florida is a Mecca for tourists from The United States and all around the world. Besides our world famous beaches, there are so many things to do and places to go in Central Florida, but Disney World and its multitude of parks are our primary attraction. Along with the kids' school schedule, weather is a major factor when determining when to schedule your visit to Disney.

Rain, more like torrential downpours, and thunderstorms are part of a typical summer in Central Florida. Although there can be days of rainy weather, afternoon thunderstorms are generally the result of the east and west sea breezes colliding over Central Florida. In the summer months this occurs on an almost daily basis. These storms normally only last an hour or so, but if you don't want your vacation interrupted by rain and thunderstorms, the best time of year to visit Disney World is in late May or early June before the rainy season sets in for the remainder of the summer months. Temperatures are warm and pleasant that time of year.

If you don't mind the rain, Disney World is a great vacation spot all summer long; however, you don't want to wait until too late into the summer or fall because of the hurricane season. Hurricane season begins June 1^st and runs until the 30^th of November. Although hurricanes are unpredictable and can form any time during this period, August is typically the most active month. So if you cannot make it during late May to early June timeframe, July will be the most favorable weather. It will, however, be hot and muggy. Being bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, humidity is always high during the summer months. For those who are unaccustomed to the heat and humidity, you may want to attend Disney World in the morning hours, attend the water parks, Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon, in the afternoon and then return to Disney World in the evening. The Main Street Electrical Parade has returned once again and is a "must see" event.

Regardless of the weather, there are dates you may wish to avoid. Holidays are particularly crowded with long lines for the rides and attractions. Although not sponsored by Disney, the gay community schedules "Gay Days" at Disney World and other local attractions. I had the misfortune of attending Disney World with my brother-in-law and his daughter during one of these events. I was more offended by comments made by the Disney staff than any of the gay people attending. I suggest that you Google, or other search engine of your choice, the "Gay Days Calendar" if you want to avoid visiting Disney during one these events.