Memorial Day - Yes or No?

[twd1162]

We just booked for May 30th - June 4th and now I'm getting a little concerned about the crowds. Since we will be driving down, we won't be going to any parks on Sunday, May 30th but would be going on Monday, May 31st. Should I change my reservation to arrive on the 31st and say until June 5th instead???

(It's just me, my husband and 5 yo son)

Thanks for the advice.

Also, since this is our first time ever at Disney wondering if all of you pros can give some advice on planning and must do/see.

Thanks again.

 

[QBUSH]

This is a time we always visit because our schools are out and it is also a celebration of DS's b'day. Sunday always seems to be the most crowded day and then things start settling back down. We usually hit a park early on Sunday and then retreat to the pool and get back on tract on Monday. Many locals seem to come just for the weekend and then have to head back home on Monday.

Have fun!!!

 

[Grumpy92]

I agree with QBush, Sunday is the busiest day. Most leave on Monday they may visit the parks in the morning then head home in the afternoon. It will be busy but not xmas holiday busy, so it is manageable.

I would suggest you have your family pick their top 10 must dos. Concentrate on them. If you are staying on Disney property use the EE benefit. Then return to the resort for a swim, nap or lunch around midday. That is the time when the crowds pick up and guest get cranky, the temps rise. You can go back for dinner and enjoy the rest of the park. The also give you the best opportunity for the use of the FP.

Think about PSs now. If you want to dine with the characters or go to one of the popular restaurants you need to make some decisions soon and call dining. The popular restarants are Cal Grill, Cindy's, LTT, WC, Ohana, Le Cellier, Chefs de France, 50s PT & Sci Fi to name a few.

I know you will have a wonderful time.

 

[PamNC]

We usually go during this time of year - we go the Saturday before Memorial Day and leave the next Saturday. Probably won't get to this year due to work constraints. However, I must tell you that this is a great time of year to go. The crowds aren't that bad - I'd call them moderate. Many school systems throughout the country are still in session. The weather is great. The International Flower & Garden Festival is in full bloom. We love it!

The only thing I would do is avoid the MK on Memorial Day. I'd do Epcot that day as it tends to be less crowded, from our experience anyway.

As far as must see's and do's - that's such a personal preference but I'll throw some out there for you. Don't miss: Fantasmic at MGM, Wishes Fireworks, Illuminations at Epcot, Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom, do a character breakfast, STAY ON SITE and relax at the resort pool during the mid-day. As far as rattractions I would say don't miss Splash Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, Kilamanjaro Safari, Dinosaur, Mission Space, Test Track, Spaceship Earth, Tower of Terror. OH...I may as well stop with this - the don't miss list goes on and on. BUT, don't stress yourself out and try to do it all. Just research and pick what you must do and take your time. You can always go back.

Have fun.

PamNC

 

[tampafan]

We have been the past three Memorial Day weekends and will be going this year as well. The parks are a bit crowded and the Florida summer is getting into gear. I agree that Memorial Day itself is not as bad as Sunday. What I would do is avoid the Magic Kingdom on that day and do a park like Animal Kingdom or Epcot instead on Monday. The Magic Kingdom always seems to be crowded and with the locals (ie me) off from work, it seems to crowd up faster.

Here are a few of pointers for 1st time visitors.

First, remember that this is a vacation, not an assault on Mt. Disney. Enjoy yourselves. Relax. Take some time out to swim, nap, read a book, etc. Your son will love being at the hotel and pool so take advantage.

Second, make priority seatings for sit down meals. Epcot has a lot of great restaurants. My kids (8 son, 4.5 daughter) love the Garden Grille character meal and the Rose and Crown in England. The ps at these restaurants gives you a nice break.

Third, make good use of the fast passes. You can really do a lot more of the parks when you use the fast pass system.

And finally, enter early, leave, and return. You will have hoppers, so use them.

I hope you have fun.

 

[Simba's Mom]

We were at WDW last year and spent Memorial Day in Epcot. I remember DS did TT, using the single rider's line about 10:30am-15 minute wait. Went back about 7:30 at night, again single riders line, again about 15 minute wait. Saw Illuminations that night, didn't wait long (less than 1/2 hour) for a good spot.