Would you go to DL in July?

[ladyjayhawk]

We have been to WDW several times, usually during the off-season. DH and I have always said we will never go in the summer, more because of the heat than the crowds. Recently DH found out he was being sent to San Diego mid-July for a conference and we have decided to turn it into a family vacation. The last time we went to San Diego (about 5 years ago) we drove to LA to visit DL for one day and had a great time but this was in January. I would love to visit DL again, especially to see all of the special things going on for the 50th, but is July miserable? I wasn't too worried about the crowds (we have been to WDW over New Year) until I read that you had to get spots for the parades, fireworks and Fantasmic 2-3 hours in advance. Yikes! And is it REALLY hot? I just worry about my kids and the heat, especially since the youngest will be 10 months old. We could spend 4 days there though, which should allow for afternoon breaks, right? So what would you do? Thanks for your help!

 

[oregondisneyfans]

We have been in July several times and it is very warm but park hours are 8-12 at Disneyland, not sure of DCA 10-9?? There is time for breaks and you can enjoy the water rides. We enjoy this time of year

 

[hlbtimes2]

When I first saw the title, my reaction was NO! But after reading through the post, I would do it. While July wouldnt be my first choice of times to go, I wouldnt pass up a chance to go! It will be hot, bring your sunscreen and hats. Four days should allow you some down time to rest during the hottest, most crowded part of the day.

 

[Ella1]

We have been in August in the past and we didn't have any problems, this year we are going the first 2 weeks in July and after going to WDW at the same time last year, I think it will be cooler and less crowded.
Love Ella

 

[AFMom]

The nice thing about July in CA - it cools down at night. So hit the parks in the morning and evening - and the pool in between! We had a great time at DL in July - the longer hours really help make up for the crowds.

 

[Judy from Boise]

If your family can tolerate early days and late nights, I think you could still have a great time, the weather won't be bad. But you must resists the tendency to "gut it out" for more rides if you are not having fun.As soon as DL is crowded go to DCA, and as soon as DCA is crowded go swim and nap! Get back into the park for night time as it is magical!

 

[Michelle2]

I had some friends that went last time right after July 17th. I thought, "uh oh, you are in for a crowded time!" And although they said it was busy, they still had a great time! They would rather go when it is busier than pull their kids out of school, and everyone should do what is best for their family.

But they are going again this July too, so it couldn't have been too bad! Before you could not pay me to go to Disneyland in the summer.... But they said they had such a good time, that they even have me thinking that I might give it a try someday.

Longer hours, more shows available (Fantasmic and fireworks), less ride refurbs...I think there are pros and cons to each season...peak or value, but there are ways to have a great time in each.

 

[munchkinsmom]

Go and have a great time! It can get hot, but if you're worried about the heat, especially for your infant, you can get one of these:

http://store.yahoo.com/dreamtimebaby/clpifanbyke.html

My kids loved theirs, especially when they were napping. We'd recline the stroller back, cover them with the shade and place the fans on the stroller so there would be some air flow. Worked great for them!

In the summer you can purchase water bottle fans at DL or buy one of those water misters but I'm really not really a fan (no pun intended, LOL!) of them. Sunglasses/Eyeglasses get messy and the water can spread to others who may not necessarily appreciate getting wet.

If you take a break in the middle of the day, like you and previous posters suggested, you'll be just fine. Heat can sure zap the energy out of little tykes!

And as far as parades and fireworks, go, it depends upon how your kiddos can handle the wait and nighttime. My own children have a very hard time sitting in just one spot for a long period of time and they can't last past 7:30PM, so even though we've been to DL a lot, we've never sat and waited for a parade, watched Fantasmic or the fireworks from the park. And they still had a wonderful time, LOL!

 

[Olallamom]

I would go in July again, it's not my first choice. The weather will be nice enough that you know your kids will get to swim. Utilize the fast pass and try and avoid the weekend. I have found that Saturdays are miserable at DL during the summer.
Since you will traveling with a young one then I would recommend that you stay close by at one of the disney properties. It can get a little expensive but you will appreciate it during those afternoon breaks.

 

[dcfromva]

We went last year July 18-24. I think July is an awesome time to go! As AFMom says, it cools down at night. We took an afternoon rest back at the hotel each day. (I think DL in the summer and WDW in the winter might be the perfect combination for us! )

-DC

 

[ladyjayhawk]

Thank you everyone for your advice and suggestions!!

Well, I guess its true that you should never say never. I knew I wouldn't be able to stay away from a Disney park less than 2 hours away, even in July! I have a lot of questions, so I hope you all don't mind helping me plan. Thanks in advance!!