DL between 7/4 and 7/17

[lauritagoddess]

We're planning to spend a week in July. I had originally been thinking of either 7/12-7/19 or 7/13-7/20, but I didn't remember that the anniversary was on 7/17. We can't stay later in the month and I'd like to avoid the anniversary crowds. I assume there will also be big crowds for July 4th, although Touring Plans doesn't show any increase in crowds for that date. I'm trying to figure out the best dates for in between 7/4 and 7/17. Does the increase in crowds stay for a couple of days after 7/4? And do you think the crowds will start ramping up before 7/17? Would dates of 7/7-7/14 maybe be best? TIA.

 

[SMD]

July is crowded all month. With July 4th being a Saturday, I think you can expect some people will take the 6th and maybe the 7th off. I guess the 7th-14th might be the best. I think I'd probably just stick with the original plan and either plan to be in DCA on the 17th or skip the parks that day.

 

[jammyjam25]

We went July 5-10 in 2013 and yes, it was definitely crowded the whole week, but we were pleasantly surprised by how empty the park was Sunday morning (July 5) as well as weekday mornings. Magic Mornings at 7am are tough if you're not a morning person but so worth it!

Plus the park hours are so long during the summer (typically 8-midnight each day for DL and 8-10 for DCA) that even with heavier crowds you should be able to do everything you're hoping to do!