5 reasons to book a Walt Disney World fall trip now

As the summer comes to a close and the school bell rings, families might not be thinking about a big Disney vacation. But, a Walt Disney World fall trip can be a magical experience.

Many families plan a huge Walt Disney World vacation at least once. The classic photos of Mickey and the kids fill social media accounts. But, when is the best time to book a Disney vacation? A Walt Disney World fall trip is a perfect time to go to all the parks.

Here are five reasons why fall is the best time to visit Walt Disney World.

Pandora, Na’vi River Journey, photo by Cristine Struble

Fewer crowds

Locals know some of the best times to visit Walt Disney World. Fall months are a top choice for many Floridians. One of the biggest reasons is fewer crowds. Once summer vacation ends, the Disney crowds thin out.

A quick glance at the Disney app shows that many wait times can be quite low in the fall. Any popular ride that is 30 minutes or less is a great wait time. The quicker waits make for a more enjoyable experience. People have more patience because they have seen more attractions and ridden more rides. The fun levels are higher.

While the lines at Pandora in Animal Kingdom continue to be long (the rides are still new), everywhere else offers much shorter waits. Even if you do venture into Pandora, the Na’vi River ride can be just an hour wait in the morning. Even if you don’t want to wait in the lines, the Pandora area has lots of places to explore. From water shooting plants to playable drums, Pandora has many hidden gems beyond the rides.

Bye bye heat and humidity

Anyone who has walked around a theme park can attest that heat and humidity can put a damper on theme park fun. No one wants to be dripping in sweat at the most magical place on Earth. Luckily, September and October bring cooler temperatures and less humidity to Disney World. While you may not need that fall jacket, you can get a break from the 90s and high humidity.

Also, the fall brings fewer rain showers to the Sunshine State. While it is still hurricane season through October, the rain showers don’t have to be a complete rain-out. Even if there is rain, rainy days are perfect days to head to the parks. Grab a poncho and get going. Many rides are indoors and don’t stop because of the rain. Plus, everyone else might be back at the hotel avoiding the rain. The lines could even be shorter.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween

Halloween is big business for theme parks. But, some of the theme park experiences aren’t appropriate for the younger guests. At Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween, everyone can enjoy the Halloween activities.

From Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade to trick or treating around the park, both young and old will get into the Halloween spirit. The younger guests are even encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costumes. For the older crowds, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular in front of Cinderella’s castle is a must see show.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween event is a separately ticketed event. The special event is only available on certain evenings. For availability and dates, visit the Disney World website.

Epcot Food and Wine Festival 2016, photo by Cristine Struble

Epcot Food and Wine Festival

Foodies eagerly anticipate this annual event. This year’s food extravaganza is the longest ever at 75 days. From long standing favorites to new offerings, stretchy pants are required at this food event.

Included in park admission, Epcot Food and Wine festival is a celebration of food and culture. While guests eagerly eat and drink their way around the world, the food is only part of the celebration. The Eat to the Beat concert series brings favorite performers to the stage. Celebrity chefs lead culinary demonstrations. Also, The Chew films several shows at Epcot.

If you plan a visit to the annual Food and Wine Festival, remember to pace yourself. With the hundreds of bites and drinks, it is quite a task to enjoy everything in just one visit.

Annual Passholder friend and family discounts

Annual Passholders know that their passes can bring many benefits. Recently, Disney announced a huge benefit for friends and family of passholders. Now through Sept. 30, annual passholders can purchase 1-day hopper tickets for $79.

Of course, this amazing deal comes with a few loopholes. The park hopper tickets must be purchased at the parks. Also, the tickets must be used on the day purchased. Still, this discount on a park hopper ticket is huge. If you know someone with an annual pass, hit them up for this discount.

Next: 9 best new theme park rides for 2018

Are you ready to book Walt Disney World fall trip? Disney is the place where the memories begin.