Planning a Disney trip in May? You're smart to think ahead! May offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months, but it's still a popular time to visit. Understanding how busy Disney World and Disneyland are in May is key to a magical – and less stressful – vacation.
Crowd Levels in May: What to Expect
May's crowd levels fluctuate depending on several factors:
- School schedules: The end of the school year impacts crowds significantly. The closer to the end of the school year, the busier it gets. Early May generally sees lighter crowds than late May.
- Holidays: Memorial Day weekend (last weekend of May) is a very busy time at both Disney World and Disneyland. Expect significantly longer wait times and more competition for park reservations.
- Special Events: Check the Disney parks' official calendars for any special events happening during your chosen dates. These events can draw large crowds.
Generally speaking:
- Early May: Offers a good balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds.
- Mid-May: Crowds begin to increase, particularly as school lets out in more areas.
- Late May (Memorial Day Weekend): Expect significantly higher crowds and longer wait times. This is one of the busiest times of the year.
Tips for Navigating Busy Days at Disney in May
Even with potentially lighter crowds than peak summer, planning is crucial for a smooth Disney trip in May:
1. Park Reservations:
- Book early: Park reservations are essential, especially for popular parks like Magic Kingdom. Don't delay; book your reservations as soon as possible.
- Utilize Genie+ and Lightning Lane: Consider purchasing Genie+ to reduce wait times for select rides. Lightning Lane selections for popular attractions often book up quickly.
2. Strategic Planning:
- Prioritize must-do rides: Focus on the rides most important to your group first, especially those with longer wait times.
- Utilize park hopping: If you have park hopper tickets, strategize moving between parks to maximize your time and avoid long lines.
- Take advantage of early entry: If eligible, use early entry to experience popular rides before the crowds swell.
3. Be Flexible:
- Embrace spontaneity: Be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. Some days may be busier than anticipated.
- Have backup plans: Have alternative attractions or activities in mind if your initial choices have excessive wait times.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: The app is your best friend for navigating wait times, ride closures, and show schedules.
4. Consider a Mid-Week Trip:
If possible, visiting during the mid-week (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday) will usually result in significantly smaller crowds than weekends.
Is May a Good Time to Visit Disney?
Ultimately, whether May is a good time to visit Disney depends on your tolerance for crowds and your priorities. If you prefer a less crowded experience, aim for early May and avoid Memorial Day weekend. If you don't mind moderate crowds and want pleasant weather, May can be a fantastic time to visit. Careful planning is key regardless of your chosen dates.
By understanding the factors influencing crowd levels and employing smart planning strategies, you can significantly enhance your Disney experience in May. Remember to book early and stay flexible to ensure a magical trip!
