May at Walt Disney World Resort is a popular time to visit, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. But how busy is it, really? This guide will help you understand May's crowd levels and plan your magical vacation accordingly.
Crowd Levels in May: A Closer Look
May's crowd levels at Disney World fall somewhere between the shoulder season and peak season. You'll experience noticeably fewer crowds than June, July, and August, but more than January or February. Expect moderate to high crowds, particularly during weekends and around holidays like Memorial Day.
Factors Affecting Crowd Levels:
- School Schedules: The end of the school year significantly impacts crowd levels. As schools let out, you'll see a gradual increase in visitors throughout the month, culminating in higher crowds towards the end.
- Holidays: Memorial Day weekend is a major travel period, leading to significantly higher park attendance. Plan your trip accordingly if you're visiting around this time.
- Special Events: Disney often hosts special events throughout the year. Check the official Disney World calendar for any events that might coincide with your visit, as these can affect crowd levels.
- Day of the Week: Weekends are consistently busier than weekdays at Disney World, regardless of the month.
Tips for Navigating May Crowds at Disney World
Even with moderate to high crowds, you can still have a fantastic vacation with a little planning:
1. Utilize Disney's Park Reservation System:
This is crucial. Make park reservations well in advance, especially if you are visiting during a busy period like Memorial Day weekend. Reservations fill up quickly.
2. Embrace Genie+ and Lightning Lane:
Consider purchasing Genie+ and individual Lightning Lane selections to reduce your wait times for popular attractions. While it's an added expense, it can save you significant time, especially during peak hours.
3. Arrive Early:
Getting to the parks before opening helps you maximize your time and experience the most popular rides with shorter wait times.
4. Strategic Park Hopping:
If you have park hopper tickets, utilize them strategically. Observe wait times throughout the day and hop to a less crowded park if needed. Disney's app can be invaluable for real-time wait time monitoring.
5. Take Advantage of Extra Magic Hours (if applicable):
If your hotel offers Extra Magic Hours, take advantage of them! This allows you extra time in select parks before or after regular operating hours.
6. Plan for Downtime:
Build downtime into your itinerary. Allow for breaks, unexpected delays, and the inevitable need for a rest. Don't try to cram too much into each day.
Is May a Good Time to Visit Disney World?
The answer depends on your priorities. If you're looking for the lowest crowds possible, May might not be the ideal month. However, May offers a great balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds compared to the peak summer season. With proper planning and the utilization of Disney's tools, you can still have a memorable and magical experience.
Remember to always check the official Disney World website for the most up-to-date information on park hours, crowd calendars, and special events. Have a magical trip!
