When to Go - The Easy Guide to Your First Walt Disney World Visit 2015 - page 27

REFURBISHMENTS January usually sees the most refurbishments, including brief closures at
most resort pools and typically lengthier closures at a few other attractions. Splash Moun-
tain usually closes for at least a month beginning the second week. The vast majority of
attractions remain operating. Blizzard Beach is closed through March 14.
SPECIAL EVENTS THAT MAY AFFECT CROWDS OR YOUR STAY:
• The WDW Marathon impacts transportation on the morning of the half- and full-
marathons. It's best to take Disney transportation.
• Several holiday events, including the Osborne Lights at Hollywood Studios, con-
tinue through the first week in January.
• Beginning in mid-January, avoid the large tour groups that become common.
BEST TIME TO VISIT January 20 and later has cool weather, some of the lowest crowds of the
year, and the lowest Disney hotel prices of the year.
February
COST The lowest pricing of the year continues up until the Thursday before President's Day
weekend (Feb. 13-15), when prices rise to the expensive Peak season. Peak pricing contin-
ues through the week following President's Day. Prices fall back to average the last week
of the month.
WEATHER The average high is 72 degrees and the average low 53, but temperatures are er-
ratic and highs can get into the low 80s or dip well below 60. Precipitation is relatively low,
but it does rain on about 23% of days.
CROWDS Crowds are below average to average through the Wednesday before President's
Day weekend, when crowds are well above average (as well as on the week following it).
Crowds return to average from the last week in February through the first week in March.
REFURBISHMENTS Most refurbishments will be completed by mid-February. A water park
usually remains closed.
SPECIAL EVENTS THAT MAY AFFECT CROWDS OR YOUR STAY
• The Princess Half Marathon (Feb. 19-22) is scheduled the weekend after Pres-
ident's Day. It affects transportation in the early morning on Sunday and keeps
crowds above average until the Saturday following President's Day.
• Superbowl Sunday (Feb. 1) sees few locals visiting, reducing crowds.
• Valentine's Day (Feb. 14) makes it harder to secure dinner reservations, but does
not affect attendance.
• The Atlanta Braves MLB baseball team returns to the ESPN Wide World of Sports
Complex in mid-February for spring training.
BEST TIME TO VISIT A trip during the first two weeks that ends before peak season pricing
goes into effect is best, with the lowest prices and some of the lowest crowds of the year.