Early May vs Late Jan/early Feb

[KGH16]

Hey y'all I'm cleaning my first trip to Disney World for myself my boyfriend. would it be better to go in early May (probably the 6th right after graduation!) or te last week of January/first week of February the following year? I'm more concerned with price than anything. Also would flights be different at those two times? Thanks!

 

[Hootch]

I would opt for early May, but that is mostly based on weather. The crowds will be low for both periods with probably lower crowd levels in the Jan/Feb time - especially through the week. The Jan/Feb time has a better chance for colder weather. The average high is historically around 70 versus low 80s for early May.

Traditionally there are more attractions shut down for short-term rehabs in January due to lower crowd levels.

If resort price is your main driver, then the Jan/Feb time will likely be cheaper. Here are some links to the 2016 rack rates for each category:

Pop Century

http://www.mousesavers.com/2016-pop-century-room-rates-season-dates/

POFQ

http://www.mousesavers.com/2016-port-orleans-french-quarter-room-rates-season-dates/

Contemporary

http://www.mousesavers.com/2016-contemporary-room-rates-season-dates/

Here is a list of recent discounts and the days they were offered:

2015

http://www.mousesavers.com/historical-information-on-walt-disney-world-resort-discounts/#2015

2016

http://www.mousesavers.com/historical-information-on-walt-disney-world-resort-discounts/#2016

 

[Alesia]

I would pick May, no question.

 

[MiramarQE]

Early May - still one of the best times to go relative to crowds and attractions NOT being down for refurb - great time to visit all the parks and both waterparks should be open.

Weather should be warm but not oppressive - with only the VERY slightest chance of a hurricane that time of year ("Season" for hurricanes starts 15 May - but the weather doesn't follow rules, we've had trop storms/hurricanes down here in Dec and that's not in "season" either)

 

[goofy4prez]

The end of January beginning of February is a nice time to visit WDW, but the weather is a bit more unpredictable and is often cooler. Early to mid May is really a nice to go with the weather being warmer. As far as crowds, I'd give the nod to Jan/Feb being a little less crowded. However, I'm now of the opinion there is no such thing as a slow time at Disney. With discounts, free dining, international guests and etc, Disney is always busy it seems anymore.

 

[PaHunter]

When planning, remember to look at dates for things like marathons going on, holidays, etc. These things could also add to crowd levels in the parks and resorts. During Jan/Feb there are usually some events happening, this Feb there is a marathon weekend that will fall after Presidents day. May you would have Flower and Garden festival going on which is nice to attend. Each time has it's pro's and con's.

 

[Stefecatzz]

I'd go in May to see the Flower & Garden Festival in Epcot. It's my favorite time of year in that park besides the holidays.

 

[specialkk77]

Early May is such a wonderful time to go! I'll give you an experienced opinion when I get back from my visit the first week of February!

 

[CinderellaElla]

I'm going to go against the grain here. If you're looking to avoid crowds I would go in late Jan/early Feb, I think prices are also cheaper then as compared to May. May is also very close to when kids start to get out of college/school. You will have much less crows in Jan/Feb. I don't know about the money aspect about Jan/Feb vs May but there is a definite crowd difference if that appeals to you