Which week in Jan or Feb?

[Leslie]

For all who have visited in the winter which week is better weather and crowd wise? Last 7 days of January or first 7 days of February? I used all my vacation time until after January 1st for surgery so I have a option to be picky on a date and this time Im bringing a BIG 20 year old and a 18 year old for her first time. I just dont want the crowds to overwelm her so she can see all she can in a week.

[Drince88]

There's not going to be a significant difference in weather, on average. Cold weather in Florida is a huge function of fronts that come from the North, and in any one year, you can't predict when a strong cold one will make it all the way to Florida.

As long as you're not near MLK day, Mardi Gras*, or Presidents Day, you likely won't see a significant difference in crowds. (*Mardi Gras is very late this year, though - March 8th, so it shouldn't have an impact - it's not a huge impact, anyway, but you can see a lot of South Louisiana families around then).

If you'd like a more scientific answer to the crowds, you could sign up (and pay for a years' subscription) on TouringPlans.com - it's not expensive and will give you the crowd estimates that are based on a bit more research than my guesses.

For weather historic info - www.wunderground.com has a vacation planning section that can provide lots of data to review.

[Leslie]

I guess because Im somewhat sensitive to humid heat visiting in the cooler temp would be good for me. I/we can always take off a sweatshirt or light jacket. Plus. if we have to wait in line in the sun it might feel good. Im getting good prices on plane tickets February 1st. Tuesday. from our little home town airport. I will look into Touringplans. Thanks

[littlej]

I highly recommend signing up for TouringPlans. It's really inexpensive for a year's subscription. Personally, the crowd calendar is worth the price alone.

[PBF199]

I agree, there is not much of a difference in crowds. but if your wish is for one of your party to see the most in a week, I'd go in Jan. Because the holiday decorations may still be up in some areas.

As for the weather, it fell close to freezing this past Jan - Feb.

[Leslie]

Wow, with those temps I should just stay in Michigan. But really want to come in the slow season even if that means wearing sweatshirts and not swimming. I physically do better in cooler weather than hot humid days. So really this is a ideal time temp. wise. They dont shut down rides just because of cool temps right?

[TinaMouse]

Nope! I've seen crazy people ;) riding Splash Mountain in 45 degree weather.....

Not sure about the water parks, though....

[Mermaid]

It seems like they put the water parks down for an extended "refurbishment" through the winter months. One goes down for a few months, reopens, and then the other one goes down. At least one water park is open at all times. My guess is this is their way of managing costs when few people will be actually going to the water parks.

[Leslie]

I would be considered one of the crazy person then and along with the Rapids ride. I figure Im paying big bucks Im going to make the most of it. I'll just find a sun beam and dry off and keep moving. lol