After the merriment (and sometimes mayhem) of the holidays at Orlando theme parks, January can be an excellent time to visit. The majority of the month has historically lower attendance, especially the first week after the New Year when the kids are back to school. Plus, Orlando theme parks still offer some exciting events. Here are 10 reasons why January is the best time to visit Orlando theme parks:
Lower Crowds
Since most everybody headed to the Orlando theme parks in December to experience their many different holiday decorations, shows and events, the parks are significantly less crowded in January. There are some exceptions to this rule, like the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World, but for the most part guests can enjoy shorter wait times and less crowds at restaurants and shows.
You Can Visit All Four Parks
If you’re planning a trip of at least four days, January is an excellent time to explore multiple parks. For example, spend a day at each Disney park: Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. Or take your time exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. You can even enjoy some splashes at Universal’s Volcano Bay.
Post-holiday Excitement
Despite missing the magic of the holidays at Orlando theme parks, we love visiting in January because it feels like a fresh start. There is a newness about everything, whether anything is actually new or not. Plus, who wouldn’t want to start off their New Year in a theme park?
Cooler Weather
While the majority of the rest of the country is freezing, Orlando experiences some of the best weather of the year in January with temps in the mid 60’s and 70’s and lows in the 50’s. If you’ve ever visited an Orlando park in the summer, this is downright pleasant and makes your experience all the more enjoyable.
Water Parks
We know it’s always the most fun to visit water parks in the summer, but with the aforementioned weather and less crowds, January is a great time to get in some splashes in Orlando. Not all water parks are open this time of year, but those looking for water thrills can still find them at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Universal’s Volcano Bay, Aquatica and Discovery Cove.
Events
Most Orlando theme parks continue to offer exciting events in January. Walt Disney World brings the world of arts to Epcot during the Epcot International Arts Festival. Universal Orlando rocks with Rock the Universe. SeaWorld Orlando hosts a bevy of events including Jack Hanna Weekend as well as Elmo’s Birthday Celebration. LEGO NINJAGO Days take place at LEGOLAND Florida and Busch Gardens Tampa makes things exciting with Real Music Real Masters concerts.
See What’s New
Speaking of events, a lot of Orlando theme parks introduce new offerings around the holidays. January is a great time to catch up and see what’s new. While some of these might be more crowded like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure they still won’t be as busy as later in the summer.
Low Rates on Hotels
Orlando theme park on-site hotels offer some of their lowest rates this time of year. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy an extended winter vacation.
Walt Disney Marathon Weekend
If you’re a runner, you’ll want to be a part of the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend January 8-12. The event features several different races including a 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon as well as loads of entertainment.
Take Advantage of in-park entertainment
From shopping to fireworks, restaurants, shows, meet-and-greet sand more January is the ideal time to take advantage of some in-park fun you might not get to during a busier time.
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