Tips for Visiting Disney on a Hot Day

A visit to Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando is nothing short of enchanting! The sunshine, the smiles, and the magic in the air create an unforgettable experience. But let's be real, the warmth of the sun’s embrace at times can be too warm. Don't worry! With a bit of planning, you can make the most of your Disney adventure. Here are some fun suggestions and practical tips for visiting Disney on a hot day.

1. Beat the heat and stay cool and hydrated

Florida's heat is no joke. Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle and refilling it at water fountains or quick-service restaurants. To keep cool, use cooling towels, misting fans, and wear lightweight, breathable clothing. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. 

You can also beat the heat by taking advantage of Walt Disney World® Resort’s air-conditioned attractions and shows. Great options across the four parks include:

• Haunted Mansion® (Magic Kingdom® Park)
• The Pirates of the Caribbean® (Magic Kingdom® Park)
• Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith (Disney’s Hollywood Studios®)
• The Twilight Zone Tower of TerrorTM (Disney’s Hollywood Studios®)
• Festival of the Lion King (Animal Kingdom® Theme Park)
• Na'vi River Journey (Animal Kingdom® Theme Park)
• Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros - World Showcase (EPCOT®)
• Mission: SPACE® (EPCOT®)

2. Download the My Disney Experience App

My Disney Experience is the official Walt Disney World® app and a must if you are visiting the parks. This complimentary, one-stop app gives you access to real-time wait times, park hours, character greetings, showtimes, and more. Plus, an interactive, GPS-enabled map allows you to easily explore the resort, find dining options, and gives you step-by-step directions. Learn more here.

3. Strategize with Lightning Lane

Using Lightning Lane at Disney World offers advantages that can enhance your park experience, making your visit more efficient and enjoyable. Lightning Lane is a paid service that lets guests purchase passes before their arrival to streamline their wait for specific rides at the theme parks. The cost for Lightning Lane varies by date and theme park. Guests can purchase a Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Lightning Lane Single Pass. Passes can be adapted so members of your travel party who have different interests can enjoy different experiences. 

4. Have fun and enjoy special seasonal events

There are several special seasonal events and new attractions opening across the resort. Some of the top attractions include:

• Tiana's Bayou Adventure (Magic Kingdom® Park) – A new attraction that opened on June 28, 2024, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a thrilling musical river ride with Tiana and her jazz-loving alligator.
• "Encanto" Sing-Along (EPCOT®) – Running through September 6, 2024, the new “Encanto” Sing-Along is a festive sing-along show that occurs several times throughout the day. 
• "The Lion King" 30th Anniversary (Animal Kingdom® Theme Park) – If you’re visiting Walt Disney World® Resort soon, you won’t want to miss the special 30th anniversary celebration of “The Lion King,” running until September 6, 2024. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to relive the magic of this beloved classic, Disney® has planned a series of exclusive events, including commemorative performances, themed merchandise, and unique dining experiences that pay homage to the film’s iconic moments and characters. Fans can enjoy special parades featuring Simba, Mufasa, and the rest of the Pride Rock gang, as well as limited time shows and interactive experiences that bring the heartwarming story to life like never before.

5. Arrive early or arrive late

Arriving at the park before it opens (known as “rope drop”) allows you to enjoy some of the most popular attractions with minimal wait times. The parks are usually less crowded in the early morning, and the temperatures are cooler. Arriving later in the day can also be rewarding. Many guests leave after the evening entertainment, so the last couple of hours can be a great time to hit popular rides with shorter waits. Another tip is to take an afternoon break. Get refreshed by taking a nap in the comfort of your room or a cool dip in the pool. Or both! 

6. Make dining reservations early

Making dining reservations early at Disney World is crucial due to the high demand for some restaurants. Popular restaurants, especially those with character dining experiences or unique themes, fill up quickly. Dining reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance, so set your alarm and book early. You can also use the My Disney Experience app to place mobile orders at quick-service restaurants. This will save you time and ensure you get your meals without standing in long lines.

7. Plan for rainy afternoons

Florida's weather is unpredictable, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Being prepared ensures that a sudden downpour doesn't dampen your spirits or disrupt your day. Pack lightweight ponchos or small umbrellas to stay dry while exploring the parks. Knowing which attractions and shows are indoors can help you quickly find shelter and continue enjoying your visit without long interruptions. Additionally, understanding that rain can deter some guests means shorter wait times for those who stay, offering an opportunity to experience more attractions. With a proactive approach, you can turn a rainy day into a uniquely magical Disney adventure.

8. Have an epic pool day at a Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel

Having a pool day at a Walt Disney Good Neighbor® Hotel when it is hot is a fantastic idea to balance the excitement of the parks with some much-needed relaxation. Resorts like Caribe Royale Orlando offer excellent amenities, including spacious and beautifully themed pools, perfect for cooling off from the intense Florida heat. Taking a day from the bustling parks allows you to recharge, ensuring you're rested and ready for more magical experiences. 

Escape now to Caribe Royale Orlando, a Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel

Caribe Royale Orlando is the perfect destination for a vacation in Orlando. A newly re-imagined, all-suite resort with an array of amenities, Caribe Royale Orlando is a premier Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel located just minutes from the parks. With sparkling pools and a water slide, eight unique dining experiences, luxury spa, and on-site biking, fishing, basketball, and Padel Tennis or Pickleball, Caribe Royale Orlando has everything you need for a magical escape. On the weekends the pool area comes alive with a DJ atop the waterfall during the day and Movies Under the Stars in the evening on the sun deck. 

Plus, as a Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel, Caribe Royale Orlando offers guests exclusive perks, including shuttle transportation to all four Disney® Theme Parks and Disney Springs® and the ability to purchase Disney tickets in advance or on-site. 

Plan your getaway to Caribe Royale Orlando now. Book your stay here.