The best time to visit Orlando; a month-by-month guide

The best time to visit Orlando, a month-by-month guide

January in Orlando

January is a great time to visit Orlando. That's because temperatures remain pleasantly mild (with highs of 72F and lows of 52F) and there's minimal rainfall, making this month ideal for those seeking comfortable climes for sightseeing. While the start of January is a busy time in Orlando, things tend to quieten down towards the middle of the month. This is when winter break comes to an end, the theme parks pack away their holiday decorations and the tourist crowds disperse. It's worth noting in January that there are shorter theme park opening hours, and that while Disney’s resort pools remain open, its two water parks typically close.

If you’re visiting Orlando in January, you can check out fun events like Epcot’s International Festival of the Arts (usually held mid-January through late February) and the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (usually held early to mid-January). The cooler wintertime temperatures in Orlando also make it a great time for wildlife spotting. Nature lovers for instance can head north of Orlando, to the Blue Spring State Park to see the manatees.

Orlando in February

February is a fabulous month to visit, as Orlando weather warms up and the days are consistently sunny and pleasant. February is characterized by gradually increasing daily temperatures, with the average monthly temperature in Orlando sitting in the low to mid-50s. The sun shines for around 8 hours per day and the rainfall levels are low, enabling you to take advantage of the theme parks, as well as Orlando’s great outdoors!

In terms of holiday crowds, February is fairly quiet, with the exception of a few busy periods. Presidents’ Day falls on the third Monday of the month, and since it’s a federal holiday crowds can be expected. Valentine’s Day is pretty busy too, especially in the restaurants, so if you plan on dining out we recommend making a reservation. The crowds also spike for the UK half term, which occurs around mid-February and lasts for a week. Orlando park events to check out in February include catching the remaining weeks of Epcot's International Festival of the Arts and Universal’s vibrant annual Mardi Gras - which runs throughout the month. The Disney Princess Half Marathon also 'runs' in the month (usually held mid to late February), whilst the ESPN sports complex hosts a super range of all-star athletic events, throughout the month.

Orlando in March

With its combination of low rainfall and warm weather, many vacationers consider March to be the best time to visit Orlando. In fact, Orlando is one of the best destinations to visit in March! That's because temperatures rise into the 70s and there are around 8 hours of sunshine a day, making this a very pleasant ‘shoulder season’ month to visit. The waterparks typically re-open thanks to the warmer Orlando weather in March, and as the days get longer, the theme park opening hours follow.

From mid-way through the month, spring break tends to bring the crowds to Orlando’s main attractions. Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival usually kicks off in March and runs through the end of May. Although things might be busy, the amazing Disney-inspired floral arrangements are well worth the hubbub! Depending on when Easter falls, it can be as early as March. The weekly run-up to Easter at Disney always sees a novelty appearance from Mr and Mrs Easter Bunny at Magic Kingdom, with chocolate eggs and festive displays dotted around. The Atlanta Braves also spend their spring training at Disney and games take place at the ESPN sports complex. For anything Disney-related be sure to arrive early, before the parks reach full capacity. If you don’t like crowds, you might want to check out some of the city’s other offerings like its gorgeous parks, quirky museums, and craft breweries. Fancy something different? March is a great time of year to head out of the city and spend a day at a natural spring, go quad biking through the countryside, or get up close to alligators on an airboat adventure.

Orlando in April

Hello, spring breakers! April is still one of the best months to visit with temperatures really starting to heat up towards the summer. The rain hasn’t quite set in and hurricane season is still a way off, so you’ll get the best of both worlds weather-wise. If you’re visiting Orlando in April you should expect some serious crowds around spring break and Easter (depending on the month Easter falls in the year you are traveling).

In terms of events, Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival is still in full bloom, whilst Disney’s Star Wars Rival Run weekend kicks off usually around April. Runners can compete in the Star Wars Star Wars 5k, 10k, Rival Run Challenge, and kids races, as well as the Rival Run Half Marathon. You can make your Star Wars Run weekend truly intergalactic, by staying with your family and friends in one of our Orlando villas with themed bedrooms! April is also the time for more great ESPN sports events and for attending the Florida Film Festival, taking place at the beautiful Enzian Theater in Maitland.

Orlando in May

The weather in Orlando for May marks the start of the warmest part of the year and is one of the best times to visit the city. Daytime temperatures hover in the mid-80s and climb even higher towards the end of the month. The wet season is still a way off although you should expect some afternoon rain showers from around mid-May. Most schools are still in session through May so crowds will be minimal and prices for travel and accommodation will be on the cheaper side, at least until Memorial Day when things tend to get a little busier. This is a fantastic time to go for a fantastic balance of warmth thanks to the comfortable Orlando weather in May and plenty of opportunities for reduced crowds around the tourist hot spots.

Aside from the colorful Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival (which usually ends late May), there are other popular events in May to take part in, especially if you enjoy a party vibe! Cinco de Mayo takes place at the start of the month and is celebrated all across the city. For the biggest celebrations head to Church Street for endless margaritas, music, and Mexican food. You can also check out the Orlando Carnival, which usually takes place in downtown Orlando at the end of May. For fans of pop culture, Comic Con Orlando, also known as MEGACON Orlando, takes place from mid to late May.

Orlando in June

Much like spring break and Easter, June is one of the peak times to visit Orlando. The theme parks buzzing with life, and the hot Orlando weather in June weather provides the perfect conditions for making a splash at Orlando’s fantastic water parks. If you’re visiting Orlando in June, there’s likely to be some rain although any showers are quickly followed by clear, sunny skies. Although the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival traditionally ends in June, the festival finishes on some years in May, so it's best to check before traveling. Despite there often being no set park events planned for June, you can expect the 'schools-out' family crowds to keep the parks fully abuzz!

If you prefer to avoid these peak-season crowds then consider planning your visit at the start of the month, before the school holidays. There are lots of advantages to visiting at this time including lower airfares, cheaper accommodation and quieter attractions. If you’re tied to traveling in the holidays, you’ll still have a great time. If the heat gets too much, then head to one of the many beautiful beaches near Orlando.

Orlando in July

If you’re a fan of hot weather then July is a good month to visit Orlando. Daily highs can reach a toasty 90F so be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and plan regular breaks from the heat. Schools are on summer break through July so it’s no surprise that it’s a peak month for Orlando’s theme parks and attractions. The good news is that they’re open for extended hours so you can time your visit around the crowds and the heat. Orlando weather in July is best for those who wish to visit the sunshine state in one of its peak-temperature months.

Some of the best-loved Orlando events in July include the park festivities which run through the 4th July holiday week and the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (which often begins in July but can start as late as September).

If you’re visiting Orlando in July, a good plan of action is to visit the theme parks at opening time when it’s quieter and cooler, then leave around midday and enjoy lunch and a refreshing dip back at your resort. Plan for the heat and stay in an Orlando resort with water park or villa with pool, so you can cool off in the afternoon and return to the theme parks in the evening, when things are a little cooler. As it’s the rainy season in Orlando, July is very likely to be wet, however, the rain rarely stays around for the whole day. Most of it comes in short heavy downpours in the afternoon, which usually pass within an hour. Our tip is to be prepared! You can purchase a rain poncho for around $10 in the theme parks, or you could save money by buying a few in advance and taking them on vacation with you.

Orlando in August

August is the hottest month of the year in Orlando with temperatures soaring into the 90s most days. Try to stay inside or plan plenty of breaks when the sun is at its strongest – from around midday to 3 pm. This is a great time to visit Orlando’s water parks, like Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Volcano Bay. Alternatively, you can head to the air-conditioned shopping malls where you’ll get great bargains at places like Orlando Premium Outlets. Check out our guide to shopping in Orlando for more inspiration.

Events to check out in August include Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival, featuring drinks and delicacies from around the world. Pin collectors should not miss the Pins Around Our World Festival at Epcot World Showcase – you can buy and trade pins with other collectors, plus there are workshops where you an learn pin-making and create pins of your own. Mid August usually sees Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party kick-off at Disney (some years this event can begin in early August, so it's best to check your the dates before traveling) and will continue several nights a week until early November. This popular spooky event promises a frightfully fun Halloween-themed experience for all the family!

For families and groups looking to soak up the fun of the waterparks from the comfort of their vacation home then our Orlando resorts with on-site waterparks are for you! We also offer an incredible collection of award-winning Orlando villas with private pool, for those seeking an exclusive way to cool off and splash around.

September in Orlando

By September, schools are back in session making it a good time to visit Orlando if you want to avoid the crowds, in a month that still typically brings gloriously warm weather and plenty of sunshine. Travel and accommodation rates are at their lowest point of the year so it’s also one of the cheapest times to visit.

Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival usually takes center stage during this time, so don't miss a chance to savor tempting global cuisine, a host of culinary workshops, and experience the many live concerts. The start of September is also the time for Rock the Universe, the biggest Christian festival in Florida. Set in Universal Studios, the most famous names in rock and worship music come together for a rousing weekend of music and fun.

Disney's Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is also hosted throughout the month at Magic Kingdom - featuring spooky themed parades, fireworks, and plenty of opportunity for trick-or-treating!

For all-weather Orlando entertainment in September, check out indoor attractions such as Wonderworks and Ripley’s Believe it or Not, both on International Drive. Those seeking some water-based fun can head to Orlando Watersports Complex, for wakeboarding or water skiing.

Orlando in October

Orlando weather in October makes it a great month to visit With the kids back in school, the queues for rides in the theme parks are much quieter, and October’s cooler temperatures offer a welcome break from the summer heat. Yes, there might be some rain, but with the wet season coming to an end, any rain showers are likely to pass quickly.

Events-wise, October means Halloween in Orlando. At Disney World the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party continues to grip and entertain family-friendly audiences. Taking place at Magic Kingdom on select nights through October, it features a trick-or-treat extravaganza, themed parades, dance parties, competitions, and a fireworks spectacular. For something scarier, head to the award-winning Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios. Pit your wits against scare zones, horror houses, terrifying live shows, and other creepy goings-on. Have a look at our guide to spending Halloween in Orlando if you’d like to visit in the spooky season.

Foodies will also find Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival a pure joy - with endless opportunity throughout October for sampling world cuisine, workshops and fun themed concerts.

Orlando in November

Orlando weather in November is much more bearable than in the humid summer months. It’s also the low season in Orlando so a quieter time at the theme parks and resorts. The combination of great weather and fewer crowds makes November one of the best times to visit Orlando for a relaxing off-season getaway.

There’s plenty to do in Orlando in November, with something for everyone. Foodies shouldn’t miss the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Disney World, which will be running until early-mid November. Taste your way around more than 30 international food booths, watch celebrity chef demonstrations, attend wine seminars, and enjoy nightly music performances. Also, the festive spirit of the Holidays begins to descend on the parks, so look out for the incredible Christmas park decorations. Some are fully decorated by mid-November, ensuring a truly magical park trip. The onset of the festive season in November also sees the popular Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party commence at Disney's Magic Kingdom, so stay tuned on the Disney site for the much-anticipated ticket releases!

December in Orlando

Orlando weather in December cannot be considered cold by a long shot. The temperatures are comfortable, and whilst there is a risk of rainfall this month, typically, the weather at this time of year is perfect for exploring all the delights the city has to offer. The average temperature in Orlando in December is around the mid-50s. By December it’s peak season for tourism in Orlando, with families flocking in for the Christmas holidays. The whole city gets decked out with elaborate decorations – it’s like a winter wonderland wherever you go, except with the warm weather in Orlando, Florida, in December rather than cold weather. Unsurprisingly, there are heavy crowds at the theme parks and attractions, so you’ll want to make the most of the queue jump and ride-reservation services.

In December there are a range of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations to get involved with. At Disney of course there’s the fun-filled Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, with its festive parades, faux snowfalls, and one of the best fireworks shows of the year. Jollywood Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios may also be set to return, so those seeking a unique and swanky festive time should keep an eye out! Also check out Christmas at Universal Studios, with Macy’s Holiday Parade, Grinchmas, and Christmas at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. December also marks the beginning of the Asian Lantern Festival in Orlando at Central Florida Zoo, and which runs through to mid-January. In Orlando for New Year? You can visit all of the main theme parks for parties and fireworks, or head to one the city’s myriad restaurants, bars, clubs, or entertainment venues.

A quick guide to the best time to visit Orlando

Read on for our most popular best time to visit Orlando FAQs.

When is the busy peak season in Orlando?

Peak season comes into effect whenever there’s a school holiday. For those who need to plan their vacation around school holidays for their children, this is the best time to visit Orlando. It's also the busiest! Generally speaking, peak season comes into effect from March through April (spring break) June through August (summer break) and mid-December through early January (winter break). Peak season also occurs at Easter and half term, and during Thanksgiving and other federal holidays. If you’re visiting Orlando in peak season you’ll find that crowds around the tourist attractions are heavier, and airfares and hotels are more expensive.

When is the cheapest time to go to Orlando?

The cheapest time of year to visit Orlando is in the low season, from December through February - where despite the Christmas crowds, the cooler weather and low accommodation prices make it a great time of year for those seeking a great deal! Staying in peak season? Paying peak prices for the theme park hotels definitely isn’t a money-saving idea, so you’ll be better off staying at one of the affordable resorts near Disney. Also, keep a look out for multi-day attraction tickets as they usually work out cheaper than gate prices.

When is the best weather in Orlando?

Weather-wise, the best time to visit Orlando is from mid-January to April. This is the time of year when you'll experience mild weather, fewer crowds and cheaper prices on travel and accommodation (as long as you avoid the holidays). Likewise, September offers comfortable temperatures and lower airfare and accommodation rates – and while it comes with the risk of storms, there's still plenty of sunshine to enjoy. Whatever the weather in Orlando you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time, especially with a bit of forward planning.

Here are a few tips though if you’re planning for the weather:

When is hurricane season in Orlando?

Florida also has a hurricane season which runs from June through November. While those are the official dates, most storms occur during peak hurricane season which is the month of October. Don’t be too alarmed though, as even if you choose to visit at this time (and there are some great deals to be had) the chances of a serious hurricane hitting Orlando during your visit are slim.

Whichever month you choose to visit Orlando, you will find an incredible wealth of fun and adventure in the theme parks and on the doorstep - with endless things to do for budget breaks, as well as luxury resorts for 5-star vacations.

Explore our award-winning collection of Orlando resort condos, townhomes, villas and mansions - for an unforgettable year-round getaway!