Magic Kingdom at Disney World

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Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort

August is here, which means fall is coming. And yes, believe it or not, fall even comes to Disney World.

Autumn is the time when everything starts slowing down as winter creeps closer. And things slow down at Walt Disney World, too, which makes it a great time to visit the world’s top family tourist destination, see one of the world’s top hotels (like Disney’s Grand Floridian), and enjoy the wonder of Florida in the fall.

What’s so great about Disney World in the fall? Let’s see …

Disney World crowds can be very annoying, and summer means big crowds every day. On a slow day in the summer, 60,000 guests will be in the Magic Kingdom alone. That all changes when autumn rolls around. On typical day in September or October, the Magic Kingdom will have around 35,000 guests. That may sound like a lot, but it’s only half of what it could be.

Even in Florida, the weather changes in the fall. And fall in Disney World means great weather: the stifling summer heat dissipates some and the daily afternoon rain showers happen less often. By October, highs average in the mid-80s with almost no rain for the month. This is a perfect weather combination for spending time at the Mayan pool at the Coronado Springs Resort.

Food lovers from around the world flock to Disney World in the fall. Why? Because of the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. Foods, wines, and beers from around the world are set up along the World Showcase Promenade. Famous chefs put on demonstrations you can attend. Well-known authors have book signings. Epcot becomes filled with great smells and tastes from October 1 to November 14. Not to mention the free concerts that happen every day with world-class performers like Taylor Dane and Billy Ocean.

Trick or Treat. Yes, Disney gets into the Halloween spirit during the fall. The Magic Kingdom hosts Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on selected evenings throughout the season. Guests turn into ghosts and goblins and roam the park in search of bounty. This is a very kid-friendly event, with a special parade, fireworks, and a dance party. Candy stations are set up around the Magic Kingdom where kids can bring their goody bags and collect delicious candy. Costumes encouraged!

–- Carl Trent of Dad’s Guide to Walt Disney World and Dad’s Guide to WDW the blog