Planning a trip for 2021

[nerdyone]

We just got back from our first trip to Disney in 6 years. While we had a great time we couldn't believe how much more crowded it got since our last visit in February 2013.

We are planning on going back in 2021 and will most likely go in February as well. Is this still the least crowded month of the year? We are going to stay either at the BWI or the Yacht Club (club level) and will be doing all of the early morning or late evening events to minimize crowds. Is this the only way these days to avoid the crowds? Is there some magical week we could go that would feel like 2013?

It was also recommended to me to avoid anytime they offer the free meal plan. What months do they typically offer disney dining?

 

[mom2cgj]

I'm following along as we are looking at going in late January/early February of 2021 as well. We haven't been since 2016, but my son won a "free" (hahaha) trip so we are going to make use of it! I did see that 2021 is the 50th anniversary year, so to expect higher crowds, but I'm not sure if that is for the whole year or just particular times.

 

[skippytx]

Low crowds are offset by shorter operating hours and reduced ride capacity. Nothing is going to make it feel like 2013 again. Disney has changed the way the parks operate. I rather go when it's busier due to the longer park hours and increased ride capacity. Late Jan/Early Feb is probably your best bet.

The 50th anniversary isn't until Oct 1, they'll start celebrating early, but probably not Feb early.

 

[Wild4Walt]

We were there in September 2018 and loved it. Low crowds but as a pp said - reduced hours at some parks on some days. ( there was still 2 days where MK was open until 10p or 11p while we were there ).

Most popular rides like SDMT, SM, BTRR were still high waits if you didn't have a FP, but rides like PotC and HM were under 15 minutes most of the time.

 

[Scubadaddy32]

Sept. has the lowest crowd due to the heat and the threat of a hurricane.
We go every May and Sept. as my wife loves Flower and Garden and I the low crowds in Sept.
The best thing about Sept. is MNSSHP is up and running. Well worth the money for those who haven't been.
The rest of the parks have extra magic hours and After Hours events. We are at one park or another until Midnight usually as we take advantage of all the special event ticketing.