Tips for going during the off season?

[KGDisney]

So I've been to Disney world countless times during peak season. I've got that down pat. I've never been during the off season, and I will be going this January (7-15). There will be two of us. No kids. I was wondering if anyone could give me any helpful tips at all. Also, when is the best time to eat dinner? We made dining reservations for each night, but I'm concerned with being able to get in, out, and back to the parks with the shorter hours. Do the shorter hours have a significant effect on touring? We always loved being in the park until 1 or 2 AM. This is what I have for dining and times, let me know if I should switch times to get the most out of touring. Thank you!

1/7 Crystal Palace dinner 5:15
1/8 Coral Reef dinner 7:05
1/9 Ohanna 5:00
1/10 1900 park fare 4:45 hoping for chef TJ!
1/11 Boma 9:05
1/12 Tusker House 3:45
1/13 Teppan Edo 5:00
1/14 Be Our Guest 4:00

 

[rznhal]

We have gone in February( 2012) and january(2013) and I think the shortened hours did affect our planning...the biggest surprise for me was the crowds...I expected them to be down...it was more crowded than when we went for free dining in 2011!!!!! (Late August) ! i remember the posted wait for the new Ariel ride one day was 100 min!!! Thank goodness for Fp!!
The weather was very nice that week....80s and sunny....I think many ap holders were there to enjoy the nice weather?

My tip would be if you're planning an off day from the parks make it a weekend day.we went to mk Sunday and Thursday and it was like night and day for crowds...Sunday was nuts and Thursday was not bad crowd wise. I don't know if this is an off season tip or not, but it's the first time I've noticed it!!