Choosing When to Go to Disney World: Understanding Orlando Weather for the Best Trip

The Florida weather is very different than most other states around the U.S. and even other areas around the world! Typical seasons don’t apply, and the weather follows different rules because of our climate and unique geography. It is essential to understand the regular weather patterns so you can make sure you pack your clothes and gear accordingly. Here is a breakdown of what you need to know about Florida weather:

8 – Frequent short showers: Mostly all year long

Florida is known for having frequent rain showers. You may have heard of the 3 or 4 o’clock rain referenced by local Floridians. When it starts getting hot and humid, it is very common for there to be afternoon rain, especially in the summer months, which will make everything even more humid after the rain, although it does feel a bit cooler afterward. To be prepared for this, it can be good to carry a cheap poncho or umbrella with you to help keep you from getting completely soaked, but it will pass over soon, and you can get back to fun in the sun.

7 – Rainy seasons: June – September

The rainy season is related to hurricane season. This is the time of the year when various tropical storms are brewing and sending a lot of precipitation to the area. The short showers are still frequent, but if a big storm system is working through, it could rain almost daily for several days, possibly your entire vacation. It is essential to keep that in mind if that will be a big issue for you. Disney World is still a lot of fun in the rain and sometimes less crowded since the rain will clear out many guests and locals, but you can still have a ton of fun and experience most of the attractions and rides. Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. While a hurricane in June and July is rare, the chance of a hurricane in August and September certainly increases. Keep this in mind when planning late summer vacations! Hurricanes in October-November are also a possibility. While closings at Disney World are rare, Disney will close the parks for the safety of guests and cast members. Click here to learn more about hurricanes and Walt Disney World. 

6 – Blistering hot summers: June – September

The summertime is scorching hot. The sun is beating down, and you feel sticky as soon as you step outside. It is gorgeous and sunny, though, and you are definitely getting a huge dose of Vitamin D out in the Florida sun. This is also the season for frequent showers and possibly a lot of rain, which sometimes feels very welcomed. During these months, you should definitely make sure to stay hydrated and pack all loose, light, and comfortable clothing that will hold up comfortably to sweat or get rained on. Pack as much light, moisture-wicking clothing as possible to wear during this time, and you’ll be glad you did.

5 – Fall isn’t really fall: October – November

Fall definitely isn’t the fall you may be thinking of with the changing of leaves and the crisp, fresh air. It is still pretty hot in Orlando, and everything is still lush and green due to the constant sun and warm temps of Florida. As it gets deeper into fall, the evening temperatures start to get a little bit cooler. So, during the day, pack the comfortable summer clothes that we already talked about, and then maybe have a light jacket or hoodie ready for the evenings so you are prepared if there is a cooler night. It does happen, and once the sun goes down, it can feel chilly after sweating in 90-degree weather and sunshine all day.

4 – Florida winters: December – February

Winter in the Orlando area is definitely different than what you would find in the northern states. Average highs are in the low 70s. A cold day is in the upper 50s or lower 60s. It is incredibly comfortable, and the sun doesn’t feel nearly as warm, but it’s still a refreshing change from the frigid, cold temps where you may be coming from. The nights can get a little chilly, though. There are usually a couple of days a year when it may even get to around 32 degrees. If you travel during this time, you will want to bring a jacket, hoodie, and pants for the evenings. During the day, you can likely be comfortable in shorts, but by nighttime, you’d likely get a little bit chilly.

3 – Spring break: March-May

It is definitely warm for spring break time, too. The temperatures and clothes recommendations are almost identical to the recommendations for fall. It is a good idea to prepare to dress like summer and have a light jacket handy. Typically, the “humidity bubble” hasn’t arrived yet, so it’s warm but not sticky. You are less likely to get rained out during this season, too, which can be a relief to some.

2 – You can usually swim all year long.

So, based on this very moderate weather that is mostly warm, you can swim all year long. The waterparks at Disney are open all year for you to enjoy. The pools at the resorts are heated, so even if it is a cooler day, you can still go for a swim. If you have been cooped up all winter and want to swim a little while on vacation, you can! So, it is always a good idea to make sure to pack your swimming clothes and gear so that you are all set.

1 – You always need sunscreen.

The Florida sun is very strong. Even in the Florida winter, when the temps are a little cooler, you will still need a lot of protection from the sun. You can still burn even if you are cool, so be sure to apply sunscreen regularly. The rays are much stronger than you will likely be used to, and you don’t want to end up with a sunburn, which can be very uncomfortable and bad for your skin!