July or early/mid August?

[MickeyMonstersMom]

I plan to buy AP's to be first used during the last week of August. Hopefully, we'll get to use them at least once during the cooler months, and then again the following summer. Since we'd have to use the passes before their expiration date, I need to figure out which part of the summer would be the least brutal in terms of crowd size. School does not end until the last week of June (teacher here), so I'm left with anytime in July through mid-August. Suggestions? All insights are greatly appreciated!

 

[bobcat]

I recommend mid August. The crowds start to thin down mid month and if you time it right you will still get later hours. I'm having the same delima this year. Bought APs last August for our trip and now I am planning our summer trip and because of other commitments it looks like it will have to be July. I much prefer August.

 

[crs7568]

I am also a teacher in New York so I am stuck with the same limited options for vacation periods. We have found that the later that you go in August, the easier it is to manage the crowds. I imagine you do not go back to school until September, so I would suggest sticking with your plan for the last week of August this year and just a bit earlier in August next year. Enjoy your AP's!

 

[AspiringCindy]

I am also a teacher and find that we almost have an advantage as far as Aug. travel. Most states in the U.S. start school by the 1st or 2nd week in Aug. We were there this Aug. and found that by around Aug. 5th, the crowds were getting lighter on a daily basis (with the exception of the weekend). It also wasn't as hot!

 

[MickeyMonstersMom]

Thanks, everyone. Mid-August sounds great - lighter crowds and a week or two afterwards to prepare for school. Given the weather here lately, I've been fighting the strong urge to get those AP's and get on a plane down there now!

 

[bobcat]

I know the feeling! Except for I have APs and the urge is strong! I may not be able to resist much longer.

 

[Dismom63]

NY teacher here too... And I am feeling VERY sorry for myself that I will not be going till next April!! Guess I will have to live vicariously till then. Maybe the temperture will get above zero and we can leave our houses again!

 

[MPLsDad]

Took my son last July for his 2nd birthday the week after July 4th and will do it again this year! Crowds aren't so unmanageable as long as you utilize EMH and go early early early! BTW, also a NY teacher - will this winter never end??????