Disney Marathon questions

[MnzWildcat28]

I'm interested in going to Disney for the marathon. But I'm curious as to how much hotels cost at that time of year, and about what a rough estimate would be for a two week stay in January during the marathon time. We usually stay at the value resorts, add on the park hopper and add on the quick service dining plan. Does anyone have any input of how much the trip would cost for my mom and I to go during this time? Also, any input on marathon weekend itself? Is it fun? Are are there any special parades of other things happening? Thanks for any and all help!

 

[wilkeliza]

I'm interested in going to Disney for the marathon. But I'm curious as to how much hotels cost at that time of year, and about what a rough estimate would be for a two week stay in January during the marathon time. We usually stay at the value resorts, add on the park hopper and add on the quick service dining plan. Does anyone have any input of how much the trip would cost for my mom and I to go during this time? Also, any input on marathon weekend itself? Is it fun? Are are there any special parades of other things happening? Thanks for any and all help!

Are you planning on running any of the events or just spectating? Also when are you planning on going?

During the week it should not be too back however if you stay two weeks after marathon week you end up going into the MLK weekend crowds. Also the later into January you get you start to cycle back in the South America tour group season.

I have been twice in January now and it is by far my favorite time of year. The tour groups aren't even that bad if you run into them because the summer crowds aren't there.

The cost should be low on the weekdays but the weekend of the marathon you will see an up tick in hotel costs.

 

[jco_direwolf]

Also, any input on marathon weekend itself? Is it fun? Are are there any special parades of other things happening? Thanks for any and all help!

The special thing that happens is roads are closed causing traffic backups.

They do have events, but they are all geared to the runners, I don't even think you'd know about them if you aren't running. Running expo at Wide World, Pasta Party, and runner's retreat.

The parks (except for MK, because we are clear of MK before opening) can have some "interesting" flow problems since the course corridors are kept free from guests and you run though all 4 parks. The full people are allowed to take upwards of 7 hours to complete it (~15 minute mile for 26.2 miles.) Even starting at 5am it means some people aren't off the course till 1ish.