Top Ten Reasons to Visit Walt Disney World NOW, Winter 2015 Edition

Now that the holidays are over, many people are not thinking about a vacation. That is what makes right now the perfect time to drop everything and head to Walt Disney World. Here are ten reasons to leave it all behind and pack a bag right away.

10) Weather

Winter weather in Florida is quite a contrast to what the rest of the country experiences. There’s no snow or ice storms, instead you can expect comfortable days and cool nights. Make sure you check the forecast before you leave home so that you can pack appropriately. It does sometimes get cold in Florida, and there can be huge fluctuations of temperature. You might experience both temperatures in the 80’s and frost during a week long stay. Don’t forget the sunscreen, you can still end up with a burn in Florida in the winter.

9) Smaller Crowds

The parks are packed during the holidays. The crowds are much smaller once the decorations go down. You’ll be able to do more because you’ll wait less. One note about rides and attractions; the winter is a time for refurbishments, so you might want to make sure that your favorite ride will not be closed when you plan to visit.

8) Shorter Hours

You may think that shorter park hours is not a good thing. After all, you’ll have less time in the parks. Shorter park hours can actually be great. The hours have been cut back because there are so few guests. You’ll still be able to do everything in the parks because the lines are shorter, and once the park closes you can get a good night’s sleep. Imagine leaving Walt Disney World feeling rested instead of exhausted! Shorter park hours can help that to happen.

7) Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

In the summer the water parks are packed. In the winter, many people do not include them in their plans. Blizzard Beach is closed January 4-March 14 for its annual refurbishment, but Typhoon Lagoon will be open during those dates, weather permitting. The water park will close if the temperature drops too low, but that’s usually not a problem. The water is heated, and since others have decided to skip the water, you’ll have short wait times.

6) Easier to Get Reservations

During the busy months there are some reservations that are impossible to get at the last minute. During the off season, it’s not as difficult. You probably won’t be able to reserve a time for Be Our Guest or to meet Anna and Elsa, but you might have an easier time with Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Le Cellier Steakhouse.

5) Gas Prices

Gas prices are lower than we’ve seen in years, and there is a chance that they might fall even more. This could be an ideal time to drive to Walt Disney World. You’ll save money on gas, and you’ll be in control of your vacation. You won’t have to go through airport security, you can drive at your own pace, and you’ll have the freedom of having your car while on vacation. Take advantage of the lower gas prices; throw a few things into your car and head directly to Central Florida right now.

4) Golf

There is no question that there are some great golf courses at Walt Disney World. The problem is, during the summer the heat, humidity, and sun can sap all the fun out of your day on the course. Take advantage of the beautiful weather and enjoy your game! You’ll want to take a Florida golf vacation every winter.

3) Deals!

Since there are less people traveling to Walt Disney World, there are more open rooms in the resort hotels. The prices during the off season are slashed. Discounts of 35% or more are common. You might also get a free upgrade. If you’re staying off property, you’ll be able to find deals in the area. Empty hotel rooms make no money, so the hotels will give you deals to make a spur of the moment trip irresistible.

2) 26.2 Miles

The summer is definitely not the time to run a marathon in Florida. That is why the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is January 7-11. There’s an excitement in the parks that you don’t find at other times of the year, and it’s great to see all the participants with their medals. While the races are sold out, people can still come out and cheer. If you can’t make it by Marathon Weekend, the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is February 19-22.

1) Trattoria al Forno

There’s a new restaurant at Disney’s BoardWalk. Trattoria al Forno serves authentic Italian food. Stop by for breakfast, and enjoy Caramel Apple Crumb Pancakes or Poached Eggs, Fennel Sausage, Parmesan, and Tomato Gravy. The restaurant really shines at dinner. Start with the Regional Italian Soup of the Day. Enjoy pizza, Baked Lasagna, or Chicken Breast alla Parmigiana for your entree. Finish your meal off with Cannoli Pizzelle or “Spaghetti” Gelato and “Meatballs”. There are 60 Italian wines to choose from, as well as signature cocktails and Italian beers. Trattoria al Forno will transport you away from Central Florida and take you to Italy for a little while.