Is Memorial Day Busy at Disney World?
Getting Ready for a Fun-filled Holiday
Memorial Day is a popular weekend getaway for families and tourists looking for a fun-filled holiday. However, it’s essential to note that the park crowds are often at their peak on this holiday, especially at the most popular theme parks like Magic Kingdom and Epcot. But are you ready for the crowds?
The Disney World Packing List
Before we dive into the crowds, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to bring:
- Tickets or a park hopper ticket
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Sunscreen and sun hats
- Water bottles and snacks
- Power banks for your phone
- A small backpack or bag to carry all your essentials
Crowds and Lines: A Disney World Perspective
- Magic Kingdom: Expect a 30-40 minute wait to ride Haunted Mansion, one of the most popular attractions in the park.
- Epcot: The Soarin’ ride at Epcot is a 20-30 minute wait, but if you’re waiting in line for the Spaceship Earth, you’ll likely wait for at least an hour.
- Hollywood Studios: The Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge area is open, but it’s a 30-40 minute wait for the Millennium Falcon and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
- Animal Kingdom: The Kilimanjaro Safaris and Expedition Everest are open, but expect a 15-20 minute wait.
Tips to Beat the Crowds
- Arrive early: Get to the park as soon as it opens to take advantage of shorter lines.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: Check wait times, reserve FastPass+, and even order food and drinks using the app.
- Consider a character dining experience: These reservations can often be faster than waiting in lines for attractions.
- Take advantage of early morning Extra Magic Hours: If you’re staying at a Disney resort, take advantage of these extra hours to beat the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so make sure you have comfortable shoes to last the day.
A Special Look at Crowd Avoidance Strategies
- Avoid the weekends: If you can, plan your trip for a weekday instead of a Saturday or Sunday.
- Use the Transit Line: The Magic Kingdom Transportation and Ticket Center is open during park hours and can help you avoid crowds.
- Take breaks: Take a break from the crowds to rest and recharge. Even if you’re not riding an attraction, you can still enjoy the Disney magic.
- Consider a Tour: A Character Dining or Behind-the-Scenes Tour can give you a break from the crowds and provide a unique perspective on the park.
Budgeting for Memorial Day Fun
- Tickets: Make sure you have a valid ticket or plan to buy them at the park.
- Food and snacks: Budget for meals and snacks throughout the day. Consider packing your own food or bringing a refillable water bottle.
- Transportation: If you’re not staying at a Disney resort, consider renting a car or booking a Disney-owned Transportation service to get around the park.
- Special events: Check for any special events or festivals happening during Memorial Day, which may require special permits or tickets.
Conclusion
Memorial Day is a great time to visit Disney World, but it’s essential to be prepared for the crowds. By packing the right gear, using the My Disney Experience app, and taking advantage of early morning Extra Magic Hours, you can make the most of your trip. Remember to budget for food and snacks, take breaks, and enjoy the Disney magic. With a little planning and preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy a fun-filled holiday without the crowds.
Disney World Crowd Statistics
| Attraction | Average Wait Time | Peak Crowds |
|---|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | 30-40 minutes | 50,000+ |
| Epcot | 20-30 minutes | 40,000+ |
| Hollywood Studios | 15-20 minutes | 30,000+ |
| Animal Kingdom | 15-20 minutes | 20,000+ |
| Kilimanjaro Safaris | 5-10 minutes | 10,000+ |
| Expedition Everest | 15-20 minutes | 5,000+ |
Note: The statistics are subject to change and may vary depending on the year and any changes to park operations.