Best Time to Visit Orlando for Weather, Prices, and Crowds

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Orlando is a popular tourist destination for its mild climate and famous theme parks

Orlando is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States due to its subtropical climate and famous theme parks.

The city is popular with kids and adults alike. Orlando has something to offer no matter what vacation experience you're after.

On top of the big parks like Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld Orlando, there are plenty of smaller attractions and events to make lasting memories on any trip.

But when is the best time to visit Orlando? During some months, being outdoors—even for a short time—can leave you drenched in sweat or soaked by rain.

Then there are the crowds, some days packing theme parks to capacity early in the morning.

After you've read this guide, you'll know exactly when to plan your Orlando trip to maximize sunshine and savings while minimizing crowds and frustrating interruptions.

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Orlando Vacation Planning Questions

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Orlando has something to offer everyone
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April and May are the best times to visit Orlando for mild weather and smaller crowds

When is the best time to visit Orlando?

The best time to visit Orlando is in April and May. The weather is warming up, and the rainy season hasn't yet begun.

Kids are still in school, meaning fewer crowds and shorter lines, especially at the theme parks. In addition, high temperatures are typically in the 80s Fahrenheit, offering the quintessential Florida experience.

Late August to early November is a pleasant time to visit as well. Tourism has slowed down as kids get back to school. However, August and September can be warm, and rain is more common than in the spring.

If you're after low rates, you're best to visit in January when flight and hotel prices are at rock bottom.

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January and February are the cheapest times to visit Orlando

When is the cheapest time to go to Orlando?

The cheapest time to visit Orlando is at the beginning of the year. Come after the holidays and before schools let out for spring break. You'll find the best prices on hotels and flights in January, but February also offers tremendous value.

Central Florida has great weather almost year round. During these months, you'll find lows rarely dipping below 50 Fahrenheit and daytime temperatures in the 70s.

Although this is comfortable for most travelers, some prefer to spend the winter (December-March) evenings indoors at attractions like iFLY Indoor Skydiving or a comedy-filled dinner show.

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January is the best month to visit Orlando for flight and hotel deals

When is the cheapest time to fly to Orlando?

For most travelers, the cheapest time to fly to Orlando is in January. You can also find flight deals in May.

October and November have reasonable prices on flights as well; just be sure to travel ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

The great thing about Orlando's pleasant climate and all-year tourism is that attractions will be open whenever you come. This means you can travel during the off-season (while saving on flight costs) and still get the full Orlando experience.

Overall, January has the cheapest flights and lowest hotel rates and is the best month to visit Orlando on a budget.

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There are plenty of things to do with the kids if visiting Orlando in the summer

When is the peak season in Orlando?

The summer (June-September) is the peak season in Orlando. Families flood into town from all around the world once kids finish school for the year.

They aren't just coming for the theme parks, though. Orlando also hosts many other family-friendly events throughout the summer, including Anime Festival Orlando—the city's longest-running anime convention.

You'll find plenty of things to do in Orlando with kids if you're visiting during the summer.

One bad thing about peak season in Orlando is that the weather can be harsh. The daytime temperature often tops 90 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. Plus, it's the rainy season, so you can expect at least brief showers most afternoons.

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April is one of the best off-peak months to visit Orlando to enjoy events

When is the off-peak season in Orlando?

An easy rule of thumb regarding Orlando is that off-peak season is whenever kids are in school. Off-peak seasons include January through early March, late April and May, and September until early November.

Thinking about traveling in April? It's one of the best off-peak months. You'll get comfortable temperatures barely topping 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the lowest probability of rain during the year.

You'll also find world-class events like the Florida Film Festival taking place in April. The annual occurrence, held since 1991, showcases some of the top independent and international productions.

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The best time to visit Orlando is during the winter months to avoid crowds
During winter, Orlando has hotel and flight deals with less crowded theme parks

When is the worst time to visit Orlando?

By most standards, the summer (June-September) is the worst time to visit Orlando. The crowds are in full force, hotels are at their highest prices, and the weather is wet and hot.

The winter (December-March) months are a good time to go to Orlando, Florida, if you want a more enjoyable vacation. It's when you'll find the cheapest hotel rates and flight deals. Theme parks aren't nearly as crowded, either.

The weather in Central Florida stays comfortable, even during the early months of the year. It rarely rains during January and February, and the temperature is in the 70s Fahrenheit on most days.

When is the best season to visit Orlando?

The best season to visit Orlando is spring (March-June) or autumn (September-December).

April and May provide the best bang for your buck during the spring off-season. The weather is perfect, and rain is almost unheard of. Just be sure to travel after spring break and before summer to avoid crowds.

Similarly, the fall months of September and October are slower, although the weather is warmer, and there is a higher likelihood of afternoon thunderstorms.

If you're traveling during these months, check out an annual local favorite: the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

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In spring, Orlando's high temperatures reach the 80s with minimal chance of rain

When is the best weather to visit Orlando?

The best weather to visit Orlando is in the spring (March-June). During these months, the high temperatures reach the 80s Fahrenheit. Plus, the chance of rainfall is minimal from March to May.

However, the likelihood of showers rises in June as the city's rainy season begins.

Orlando is full of events in the spring. Every year, MegaCon Orlando—the largest comic, anime, and gaming convention in the Southeastern United States—attracts more than 100,000 attendees to the Orange County Convention Center.

Camping World Stadium also hosts a weekly concert series in the spring featuring some of music's most famous performers.

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Enjoy an intimate helicopter tour of Orlando's theme parks

When is the best time to visit theme parks in Orlando?

The easy answer is that the best time to visit theme parks in Orlando is whenever kids are in school. School holidays and breaks are the busiest times for Orlando theme parks.

This means that if you want to avoid the crowds and high prices of peak tourist season, aim for visiting after kids have returned to school from their spring holiday, in April or May, or after school has started for the year in September or October.

Traveling during these slower periods means you can visit all of the parks (check out this action-packed 4-day Orlando itinerary) without worrying about long lines.

Want even fewer crowds? Take an intimate helicopter tour of Orlando's theme parks for a one-of-a-kind experience.

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October is a perfect time to visit Universal Studios for their Halloween event

When is the best time to go to Universal Studios Orlando?

The best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando is during the autumn months of September and October. The chance of rain is reduced by mid-September and is even lower in October.

The daily high temperatures are out of the 90s Fahrenheit, peaking around 80 degrees by Halloween.

This is perfect weather for visiting Universal Studios during the day and even better for checking out their annual Halloween Horror Nights event in the evening. A yearly tradition since 1991, it features the city's most popular haunted houses, scare areas, and live performances.

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The best time to visit SeaWorld Orlando is during the spring from March to June

When is the best time to go to Seaworld Orlando?

SeaWorld Orlando hosts an assortment of events throughout the year, guaranteeing you'll have a unique experience whenever you choose to visit.

But for most people, the best time to go to SeaWorld Orlando is spring (March-June). This is when the weather is the best and crowds have not yet reached their summer (June-September) peaks.

The winter (December-March) months are also lovely, with sunny skies and mild temperatures reaching the 70s Fahrenheit most days.

During chillier winter days, however, you may be best to avoid sitting in the splash zone at Shamu Stadium or getting too close to any of the park's water rides.

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January and February are the best times to visit Disney World Orlando for less cost

When is the best time to go to Disney World Orlando?

For visitors coming from colder climates, the best time to go to Disney World Orlando is the winter (December-March) after the holiday season has wrapped up. January and February are the top picks.

That's when prices are lowest, and you probably won't run into many crowds. As well, the comfortable Central Florida winter provides a break from the intense weather in most other locales.

Planning a quick Orlando trip and don't want to miss anything? Here's a comprehensive 2-day Magic Kingdom itinerary to help ensure you see and do it all during your Disney World visit.

Weather, Prices, and Crowds in Orlando

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Planning a vacation in Orlando based on weather, prices, and crowds

Orlando in January

Many visitors consider January the best time to travel to Orlando. The weather is cold by Florida standards, but travelers coming from chillier climates find it mild and enjoyable.

Winter Break has passed, and Orlando theme parks are much quieter with all the students back in school.

High temperatures in January usually reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and rainfall is at one of the lowest points of the year.

It's a great time to be active outdoors. The Walt Disney World Marathon takes place every January, bringing athletes from around the world to participate in the namesake 26.2-mile race and other competitive events.

Orlando in February

February is another excellent time to visit Orlando. Rain is still an uncommon occurrence, and temperatures are beginning to rise. By the end of the month, they'll reach the mid-70s Fahrenheit.

Area theme parks are kicking off their annual events. Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando offers a family-friendly taste of the world's most famous party with parades and celebrations throughout the month.

While it may be the slow season for tourists, manatees flock to Central Florida during the winter (December-March) months, with February giving you the best chance to spot them on a paddleboard tour of nearby waterways.

Orlando in March

March can be a busy month to visit Orlando. With schools letting out for their spring holiday, families travel to the city late-march through mid-April.

But the first couple weeks of the month are still quiet, and prices haven't yet risen for the year. If you visit then you'll find low rates and small crowds.

March also marks one of SeaWorld's most popular events—the Seven Seas Food Festival. Visitors can sample more than 200 flavors from around the world, and the Seven Seas concert series brings well-known performers to the park every weekend.

Orlando in April

Orlando begins to warm up in April, with average daily highs climbing into the 80s Fahrenheit. Nighttime temperatures sit comfortably in the 60s while the occasional rain showers of March become slightly less frequent.

For many travelers, the enjoyable weather combined with fewer crowds and off-season price drops makes April the best time of the year to visit Orlando.

If you travel in April, you can check out one of Disney's most colorful events: the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival.

The park is in full bloom during the month with expertly designed gardens and topiaries and a sampling of the international flavors Epcot is known for.

Orlando in May

May in Orlando means the weather is approaching summer (June-September) temperatures. Highs are in the upper 80s Fahrenheit most days. Rainfall is becoming more frequent, although not nearly as often as in the following months.

Savvy tourists take advantage of May to visit Orlando before most students have gotten out of school.

By the end of May, however, the city is entering its busy peak season with rising prices and crowds filling the theme parks and other attractions.

Tourists traveling to Orlando in May can spend a day at the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, a two-week celebration of fringe theatre performances. It's billed as the longest-running event of its type in the nation.

Orlando in June

June is the start of peak tourism season in Orlando. Temperatures reach into the 90s Fahrenheit in June, and rainfall is at its highest levels of the year. But showers typically occur mid-afternoon, allowing visitors to plan their days accordingly.

Frequently held in June, the Villages Balloon Festival brings dozens of colorfully decorated hot air balloons to float above the town, along with musical performances, food tastings, and other family-friendly activities.

Had your fill of the crowded theme parks? June is the last chance to explore Florida's Everglades on an airboat tour before the harsh summer weather reaches its peak. Be sure to book for earlier in the day to avoid afternoon storms.

Orlando in July

July brings Central Florida's hottest weather of the year, with temperatures reaching the 90s Fahrenheit many days. Lows at night are often in the high 70s.

The frequent rainfall and high summer (June-September) humidity can make outdoor activities unenjoyable for some travelers.

Despite the rough weather, Orlando's peak tourism season is in July. Area attractions see their biggest crowds—and longest lines—of the year.

Thankfully, July offers a ton of things to do in Orlando besides theme parks, such as visiting the Orlando Aquarium or catching a dinner show at Medieval Times.

Orlando in August

If you're planning to travel to Orlando in August, be prepared for the heat. Most afternoons reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

August is the second rainiest month of the year, but showers are often limited to the afternoon.

August is, however, one of the best times to visit Orlando for families that don't have the flexibility to visit during the school year.

The city is buzzing with events for all ages, and August's Florida Kids and Family Expo at the Orange County Convention Center is one of the month's biggest.

Orlando in September

September is a great time to visit Orlando. The weather has begun to cool down from the earlier summer (June-September) highs, and rainfall is less frequent, although the rainy season isn't over quite yet.

It's not just the temperatures dropping—September also sees hotel prices start to fall. The school year has begun for most families, meaning fewer visitors, less waiting, and an all-around better vacation experience.

Even though peak season is over, Orlando is still booming with plenty of activities.

At Disney, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is already underway. Other theme parks will follow suit and begin their Halloween events throughout the month.

Orlando in October

October is one of the best months to visit Orlando. The rainy season has ended, although showers are more common this time of year than in the spring (March-June). High temperatures average in the mid-80s Fahrenheit, with nights dropping into the 60s.

It's the off-season for tourism. This means great hotel prices, even though many travelers still visit in October for the many Halloween events at area theme parks.

Halloween Horror Nights are the most famous, running since 1991, although SeaWorld Orlando's Howl-O-Scream is growing yearly. For a more kid-friendly atmosphere, check out Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida.

Orlando in November

November is the best month to go to Orlando if you want great weather for your vacation.

High temperatures are in the 70s Fahrenheit, while the lows at night stay comfortably in the 60s. It's also the driest month of the year. November is a great time to explore nature and kayak through area springs.

November can be busy in Orlando. Travel picks up mid-month as the holiday season approaches and remains steady through the end of the year.

Planning to be in Orlando for Thanksgiving? Don't miss FusionFest in Downtown Orlando, an annual celebration of the many cultures that make up the city, held over the holiday weekend.

Orlando in December

December is a busy time in Orlando. The city is packed with holiday travelers, although the first week sees slightly fewer than the rest of the month.

The daytime weather stays in the 70s Fahrenheit through much of December, with the nights dropping into the 50s. It's cold by Florida standards, but most tourists find the month quite comfortable. Rain is uncommon and usually short-lived during December.

One thing is sure: December is the best time of the year to go to Orlando to experience spectacular holiday lights.

The top spots for getting into the holiday spirit include Dazzling Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens and the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays.

In Summary

Orlando is a world-class tourist destination throughout the year, although some times are more enjoyable than others.

Summer (June-September) is the busiest season as most families take vacations, although the city gets crowded and the weather is hot and humid.

Fall (September-December) sees fewer crowds and more tolerable weather than the peak summer season, although rainfall is more common than in the winter or spring.

Winter (December-March) is, aside from the holidays, one of the slowest times of the year in Orlando. It also has the mildest weather, with temperatures reaching the 70s Fahrenheit and rain a rare event.

Spring (March-June) is a great time to visit the city as the weather warms up and showers remain infrequent.

Whenever you choose to visit, you'll find plenty of great Orlando attractions, indoors and out, to fit any interest and fill any itinerary.

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Written by Jonathan Davis

JDavis WRITER Jonathan is a Florida-based travel writer who can't seem to stay in one place for long. With more than two decades of trips under his belt, Jonathan has a wealth of information to share about travel within the United States and abroad.

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