Help me convince myself July is okay

[temple4]

We are planning a family trip (with extended family included) to WDW for next year. Due to conflicts with school schedules, kids dance recitals and my sisters company shutting down for the 4th of July week next year, our dates are limited. It looks like we will be going June 30-July 10. We really want to try to go for 10 days at least without the kids having to come out of school. I have read about the awful temps and crowds. Travelers will range in age from 3 years to 62. My family is all for going during this time. I just need some tips to still make the trip exciting. I was thinking to enter the parks at opening (the day after early entry - we will be staying at the Holiday Inn Family Suites) and leave right after lunch. Then take the afternoon off at the pool. I was also thinking to not go into any parks on July 4th (my kids are fine with seeing the fireworks on just a regular day). Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. In the past we took the kids out of school right after Memorial Day and before the school year ended and it worked out great. Unfortunately that time frame won't work for this trip. Sorry for such a long post.

 

[grinningghost]

One of our best WDW trips was in mid-July. Here's what's great about it: it's really hot, which makes the hotel pool and the waterparks extra fun. The parks are open later than usual, which makes it easier to break up your day whatever way you want. Parades and shows are all running and seasonal attractions are open. There's lots of people, which if looked at in a positive way, means a more festive atmosphere.

The ONLY downfall I could find in our July trip was the oppressive heat, humidity and thunderstorms. But that's just weather, which is pretty easily managed. Bring the rain gear, take in the indoor attractions and you'll be fine.

As a matter of fact, if I could have swung it this year, I would have gone in July. But alas, we had to wait for value season this time.

 

[mmcrazy]

We just returned from the world in July. We love going this time of year for all of the same reasons as the above poster. The warm weather, longer park hours. We go to the parks early, return to swim and then go back when it is cooler out. I think your plan should be good. We have never been there for the 4th but I understand it is really crowded. If you don't care about being in the parks that day then I would avoid it.
Good luck and have disney magic fun.

 

[JACKNAG]

We just came back from July5 thru the 17th, The 5th MK was empty until noon, it was like having EE. Yes it was hot but not bad, We have had hotter trips in May. You have the right plan, Go earrly and then take a mid day rest. Also the rain was not bad for us it seemed late day never early. So all in all I would go July again.


Good Luck
Jack

 

[swilphil]

We just went the same time. If you go early and take that mid-day break, you should be fine. Also try to alternate indoor and outdoor activities. This worked really well at Epcot and MGM.

Since you are going for 10 days, are you going to get APs? If so, you might be able to swing going on site for at least part of your trip. I would highly recommend this as it helps with the midday break and you don't spend so much time in the car.

We were able to get a great rate at the Dolphin. Swan/Dolphin are not Disney owned, but on property--right by Epcot/MGM/Boardwalk. They seem to come out with really good deals. I think that time of the year they don't bring in as many conventions. They have a govt./teacher/nurse/entertainment card rate if anyone in your group qualifies for that. This year they had a really good rate for everyone that started on July 4th. It was buy 3 or 4 nights and get one night free. We didn't even need to rent a car because we were so close to everything.

 

[TDC Nala]

Except for the 4th of July itself, I thought that period was much less crowded than early August.