Hey there, friends. If you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World this Fall, there are a few things to keep in mind if you aren’t familiar with traveling to this region at this time of year. Here are four mistakes you won’t want to make while enjoying everything on offer this season.
When you picture a Disney vacation in the fall, it’s easy to dream up northern autumn days filled with crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy sweater weather. The reality is a little different. Fall in Orlando can still feel like summer in overtime, with plenty of heat, humidity, and the kind of sticky afternoons that leave you seeking the nearest Dole Whip stand. Don’t be fooled by the calendar, pack as if you’re heading into July, not October, and you’ll be far more comfortable.
Another big mistake is assuming sunscreen isn’t necessary once the official summer months are behind us. Trust me; the Florida sun has no concern for what season it is. All it takes is one lap around World Showcase without protection to see how quickly a sunburn can sneak up on you. Sunscreen isn’t just for July beach trips; it’s an everyday, every-season park essential. It might feel like overkill, but there’s no such thing as wasted sunscreen at Disney.
Lower crowd levels are another myth to bust. Once upon a time, you could count on the weeks before Thanksgiving for lighter crowds, but that fairytale has had its own Disney remake with a brand-new ending. Fall is packed with Halloween festivities, special events, and pumpkin-spiced everything, and those celebrations bring in a steady stream of guests. If you’re expecting empty walkways and easy ride access, you’ll be in for a surprise, and not the good kind. Allow extra time for everything, especially transiting across the park to your Dining reservation and hopping between parks.
While the days may be long and warm, don’t underestimate how quickly the temperature can dip once the sun sets. It’s easy to think you won’t need a second layer, but those breezy evenings have a way of catching you off guard. Skip the mistake of buying an overpriced $70 sweater in the parks by tying a light jacket or windbreaker around your waist before heading out. It may not look as Instagram-perfect as your Minnie ears, but it’ll save you from shivering through fireworks.
Do you have advice for Fall Disney newbies this spooky season? Add it to the comments below or our DIS forums.
