Which is Better???

[pink_zebra]

We are trying to plan a somewhat last minute trip (either July or September) and cannot decide which is better!!
We have never been for free dining before, and really don't know what to expect as far as crowds. But if we go in September for free dining, the price is less than if we go on the room discount in July.

We have been before in July and know what to expect as far as the heat and crowds, but are just wondering if it is worth it to save the couple hundred dollars to go in September for free dining, or is it crazy crowded at that time too??

If it helps, it will be two adults (mom and daughter trip!) Thanks so much for the help!!

 

[RachelTori]

If I had your decision to make, I'd choose September. It will likely still be hot, but even with free dining, shouldn't be nearly as crowded as July since most schools are in session in September.

But either way, July or September, you'll be at WDW!!

 

[bonzarella]

Hi I'd do September. The restaurants will be crowded put the parks will not. Since you have two adults, I imagine you can be flexible on dining times as your first choice is not always avail. This will be our fourth free dining trip & we love Sept. It is still very hot, but we don't mind that. We've had one July trip and I avoid that month at all costs. The crowds are out in full force everywhere. Have a great trip whatever your decision

 

[snykymom]

According to Mousesavers, "Value Season is the least expensive and least crowded time, followed by Regular Season, Summer Season, Peak Season and Holiday Season." July is Summer Season, September is Value. September will be cheaper.

 

[pink_zebra]

Thanks so much for the replies! I feel better about booking Free Dining now. We were just afraid things might seem so chaotic and crowded at the restaurants, but I think with a little cooler weather, and a couple hundred extra dollars in our pocket, it will be worth it!! Thanks again

 

[toverly]

Go for September. The crowds are so much better than the July group. Everyone is gearing up for back to school and it is worth being able to walk on to alot of rides.

 

[Nohal]

We've been going in September for the last 5 years. It is still hot and humid but not as bad as the summer. The parks are not as crowded as the summer, but I have noticed over the years since FD started that it seems to be busier every year (still not like the summer). The restaurants will be mobbed so make your ADRs as soon as you can. The parks close a lot earlier in September and you are running into Mickeys Halloween party and MK will close at 7. Once the food and wine festival starts the crowds pick up. If you get to the parks when they first open you can virtually walk on any ride (except TSM) for the first few hours. Have fun!

 

[pink_zebra]

We've been going in September for the last 5 years. It is still hot and humid but not as bad as the summer. The parks are not as crowded as the summer, but I have noticed over the years since FD started that it seems to be busier every year (still not like the summer). The restaurants will be mobbed so make your ADRs as soon as you can. The parks close a lot earlier in September and you are running into Mickeys Halloween party and MK will close at 7. Once the food and wine festival starts the crowds pick up. If you get to the parks when they first open you can virtually walk on any ride (except TSM) for the first few hours. Have fun!

Thanks for the tips. When is the beginning of Food and Wine Festival? We were there during that last year, and it was so hard to walk in the WS at Epcot!