Crowds in January

[disnutnat]

Our family will be traveling to WDW in January, at time that we've never been. How are the crowds? I'm sure they're better than summer and fall crowds. What are some activities that are better in January compared to other times of year? Also, has anyone traveled with a 7 month old? My sister in law will likely be coming with our little niece who will be 7 months old at that time. Any tips? Thanks!

 

[Good Morning Dewdrop]

Have you already selected your dates? If not check the crowd calendars Easywdw and @kennythepirate site. There are some great low crowd times in January

 

[anniemae]

I think it is a good time to go crowd wise. After New Years day it clears out from what I hear. I know most schools around here go back Jan 2 (unless Jan 1 falls on a Fri or Sat) then they go back Monday). I would go the first or second week of Jan.

 

[AliceinMaryland]

We took a 9 month old one year. It wasn't hard at all. I breastfed her on some of the rides. Certain rides I think she even enjoyed. Actually she was the most content and least cranky person out of the 6 of us! 7 months will do fine, especially in january when it's not so hot.

 

[KrazeeK120]

I've been twice in January (2013 and 2014). The 2013 trip was Thurs-Sun of MLK weekend and the 2014 trip was a 6 day/5 night trip that started the Sunday of MLK weekend. We went at that time because my birthday usually falls around or, at times, on MLK day. Despite the holiday, the crowds weren't too bad. In 2014, the Tuesay-Friday following MLK day were light (at least in today's terms). I had to wear a jacket a few days, but in all honesty, I'd rather wear a jacket than be sweated out by 11 AM.

 

[Lvsdisney]

We did january the last two years. Crowds weren't bad (except it's always busy at MK). Resorts seem quiet, especially at the pools. It was cool to downright cold this past january and reasonable last Jan (jeans and tshirts). I think it's a nice time to go!

 

[lizabu]

The period of time right after the marathon and just before MLK weekend is one of the lowest crowd times of the whole year. They might still have Christmas decorations up for the first couple of days too.

 

[Anonny]

In addition to what people have written about the crowds, be aware that some rides / attractions might be down for refurbishment.

 

[AFwifelife]

January is a great time to go both for lower crowds and much more pleasant weather. I haven't brought a 7 month old but DD has gone at 4 months then 12 months. Babies are easier IMO than toddlers. A stroller and a baby carrier were both important to have. Be sure to take advantage of the Baby Care Centers when you are close to them.

 

[blestmom]

January is my favorite time to go. I just don't do heat. Crowds are lower. However, this past January (2016) we did run into a LOT of tour groups...a lot. Just be prepared to make a change if you notice a huge tour group headed where you are going. Overall, I think January is a wonderful time to visit WDW!

 

[Shanti]

Our family will be traveling to WDW in January, at time that we've never been. How are the crowds? I'm sure they're better than summer and fall crowds. What are some activities that are better in January compared to other times of year? Also, has anyone traveled with a 7 month old? My sister in law will likely be coming with our little niece who will be 7 months old at that time. Any tips? Thanks!

Be sure to pack layers, as daytime temperatures vary quite a bit in January- from pleasantly cool (more common) to freezing (less common), sometimes within the same week. Crowds will be lower than other times of year, but not "low low". Don't expect short lines and walk-ons all day- you'll be disappointed. There will still be crowds and waits, as WDW no longer has a real "off-season".

 

[Twilight Sparkle]

We haven't gone with an infant, but we did go this past Jan. Most days the crowd levels felt pretty low, but our second day at MK which was a Friday right before Feb had level 9 crowds. There were cheer/dance groups everywhere and lots of large tour groups.

 

[AshleeH]

We're going this January and I'm looking forward to it. I've taken a 4 month old to Disneyland and it was an easy vacation. Going with babies is so much easier than traveling with toddlers!

 

[ariane37]

We did our first January trip this year, no small kids though. We went the Friday before MLK day through the Wed. after. Even with the holiday crowds weren't bad at all. The weather however Coldest trip we've taken! It was a really nice trip and a nice time to go, but as a pp said pack layers. Our first day there it was 80 so we were in shorts and at night only needed capris and I wore a light sweater. Two days later we were wearing layers covered by our winter coats!

 

[disnutnat]

Thank you all for the input. I really appreciate it! I'm looking forward to trying out Disney at a completely different time of year. Let the countdown begin!