Anyone ever go to WDW in January???

Specifically mid-January.

We have Disney Vacation Club points we have to use before June and we don't want to go around the winter and spring breaks because of the crowds. We were thinking about going around MLK Day.

This year is out - it has to be between Jan. - May next year.

Re: Anyone ever go to WDW in January???

I went in January many many years ago -I don't recall a lot of details but I don't remember it being very crowded. I think it's considered a slower time of year although it might spike if you go during the holiday weekend. The weather was cool to mild - definitely warmer then here.

My favorite time to go is in early to mid May - the weather is wonderful! Warm but the humidity hasn't set in yet. Kids are still in school so the parks are not too crowded. The annual flower show at EPCOT is really nice.

Re: Anyone ever go to WDW in January???

January is one of my favorite times to go. We got engaged there in January. I love it. You would not believe how short the lines are (though they will be longer closer to New year's and MLK weekend..we usually go in between, usually marathon week).

We have gone in January and walked on to everything, and no blazing heat. you don't need fastpass, and though the parks are open for less time, you get to do more. It's also DRY season.

The only downside is that sometimes it can be a little cold (on previous trips, we've had everything from 40-80). Also, some minor attrractions are not open in the off season. The only one I can think of that they close anymore are Carousel of Progress and Living with the Land. Though I think increased traffic to the land pavillion due to Soarin' probably means they don't close it in winter anymore. They also only fun Fantasmic! once a night at this time of year BUT you can always get a seat.

ETA: Another note on parks closing early. It's great because you can spend a full day in the parks, see the fireworks and it's still early enough to go out to dinner or PI. Wishes is usally around 7pm this time of year, so it's ideal dinner time if you want to cathc the fireworks from CA Grill.

Message edited 5/6/2008 8:14:22 PM.

Re: Anyone ever go to WDW in January???

I went years ago and lucked out with a 80 degree week. There were minimal lines except for some of the bigger attractions and with that fast pass thing - it was fine.

Re: Anyone ever go to WDW in January???

I have, the lines are a bit shorter and its cool so water rides were out. I prefer the warmer months, its a hit or miss in jan.
depends too second week of january is very busy there, we checked out jan 4th and a TON of people were checking in- I was glad to be leaving with that crowd.

Re: Anyone ever go to WDW in January???

I have been and it was FANTASTIC! it was so dead and the weather was gorgeous.

Re: Anyone ever go to WDW in January???

We went the second week in january back in 2002. Right after the WDW marathon. I think the crowds come back for MLK weekend - so keep that in mind.

The weather was pretty cold when we were there - We had to layer a lot every day - it was 60's, 70's during the day (the first day I think it might have hit 80) BUT it was FREEZING at night - we had to wear our winter jackets (we didn't bring our really heavy ones so we were pretty cold - DH didn't bring his gloves so he had to buy them while we were there - I think it went into the 30's at night.

There were little to no lines while we were there which was fabulous - of course you want to avoid rides like Kali River Rapids etc but it was still a lot of fun. Since there were no lines we were able to get thru the parks very quickly - I think we rode EVERYTHING in the MK before lunchtime.

The only downside is that they rehab a lot of rides -especially some of the more popular ones then since the crowds are low - we had to ride splash mountain a few times the first day - b.c I found out they were rehabbing it for the entire rest of the week we were there.

Overall I would definitely chose to go that time again - since we were able to do everything we wanted to do - you do get spoiled though. Just be prepared for large changes in temperature - We saw many people who were NOT prepared for 30 degree weather every night and they had to buy jackets, and sweatshirts etc to try to stay warm.

Re: Anyone ever go to WDW in January???

I went 4 years ago over MLK weekend. It was not crowded at all. You could basically get on whatever ride you wanted. However, it was freezing the year we went. I drank hot chocolate at every park. I think it was in the 40's so if you chose to go then be prepared for any weather.