It’s HOT in Florida a lot of the year, and the humidity doesn’t help, so how can you beat the heat at Walt Disney World? Here are some tips for managing summer trips, or spring trips, or fall trips, or honestly, even some winter trips…whenever central Florida is hotter than the surface of the sun! Or maybe it just feels like that. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered, and I promise all of these tips are FREE with your admission to Walt Disney World!
- Look for splash pads and misting stations. Epcot’s World Discovery and Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland have great splash pads for the kids, but there are misting stations spread throughout the parks. When you see one, make sure to use it! Or give in to your kids’ desire to buy one of those spray-bottle fans they sell in every gift shop, and let them spray you all day, it’s a great way to beat the heat at Disney World!
- Find an indoor spot to play, relax, and recharge! My favorite hidden spot is at the exit of Mission:Space in Epcot. Just enter via the gift shop if you don’t want to ride, and you’ll find an air-conditioned playground for the kids and banquette seating with USB charging stations. Magic Kingdom has an air-conditioned play area inside the Dumbo queue area, as well.
- Leave during the hottest part of the day. I highly recommend what we call a “donut day.” We start at the park before it opens, leave around lunchtime, and come back in the late afternoon or early evening. This works especially well if you are staying on Walt Disney World property, as their transportation will get you “home” and back quickly; however, we do this even when we’re staying off-site. During the donut’s day’s “hole,” we make and eat a little lunch, have a nap, a swim, or just rest. After another shower, we’re feeling refreshed and ready for the rest of the day. If you’re park-hopping, this is a great way to set up the day to beat the heat at Disney World!
- Stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle with you (if it’s metal, hold it out in front of you through the security scanner!) and keep drinking. Even better, stop by any quick service restaurant and ask for free ice water; they will give you a small cup of filtered ice water. While in Epcot, duck into Club Cool and try a few soft drinks from around the world. I especially recommend Beverly as your first try…it’s unforgettable.
- Take in a show. It is so tempting to be on the go, riding attraction after attraction, but taking a breather in an air-conditioned theater can help you recharge, and many of the shows are excellent. In Epcot, enjoy the Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival; in Magic Kingdom check out Mickey’s Philharmagic; in Animal Kingdom watch the Festival of the Lion King or Finding Nemo: the Big Blue…and Beyond!; in Hollywood Studios duck into Muppets 3D or the Frozen Sing-Along.
If you need help planning your perfect Walt Disney World vacation, I’m here to help! Just reach out and we will get started!