Marathon Days at WDW

[Cruisin]

Does anybody know how the Marathon Days at WDW affect the regular operations of the parks.

Are the parks/resorts super busy?

Is it harder to get around the property?

We are going to be at the POP Century from Jan 5 until Jan 8 when we are leaving for our Disney Cruise. I'm just wondering how to make the best of the time that we have available.

Thanks.

 

[NCRedding]

In 2005, the parks were not crowded as a result of the marathon. There were traffic problems near MK on the actual day of the event. It was extremely difficult to get there in the morning. However, they have changed the map for this years event, and it appears that the runners will be going thru MK earlier than in 2005.

Unless you are planning to go to Wide World of Sports, I doubt you will be affected by the crowds.

 

[riu girl]

http://adisneyworldsports.disney.go.com/media/dwws_v0220/en_US/pdf/06HalfCourseMap.pdf

I just looked at the map for the half marathon and it doesn't look like the runners will be going through studios or AK at all, so would it be benefical to perhaps go to one of these parks on the morning of Sat Jan 7 in order to avoid possible traffic issues? Can someone else comment on this in case I mis-read the map.

Personally, I really admire the runners and would prefer to watch part of the marathon but don't think one of my kids would have the patience. I wonder if it is taped and available for purchase afterwards?

 

[solotraveler]

http://adisneyworldsports.disney.go.com/media/dwws_v0220/en_US/pdf/06HalfCourseMap.pdf

I just looked at the map for the half marathon and it doesn't look like the runners will be going through studios or AK at all, so would it be benefical to perhaps go to one of these parks on the morning of Sat Jan 7 in order to avoid possible traffic issues? Can someone else comment on this in case I mis-read the map.

Personally, I really admire the runners and would prefer to watch part of the marathon but don't think one of my kids would have the patience. I wonder if it is taped and available for purchase afterwards?

You are correct that map. On Saturday January 7th, the half marathon takes place and routes through only the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. On Sunday January 8th, the full marathon takes place and routes through all four theme parks.

It is tougher to get to the MK before noon, as all resort buses drop off at the TTC, but you should have no problems getting to the other parks. that said, they do hold back visitors from the race course from time to time when the runners are coming through, which does create the occasional logjam. Otherwise, it's like any normal day, especially after 1pm.

Hope that helps!
Solotraveler