Hi Lori,
Thank you so much for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question. I firmly believe that the best time to visit Walt Disney World is when it makes sense for you and your family! There may be restrictions on when a party can travel given school, work, or other factors. That said, and all things being equal, if I was choosing between late July and late October to visit Walt Disney World, I would choose October. Let me share with you why.
The first factor is the weather. It can get very hot in Florida in July. In October, it is still typically warm enough to wear shorts and really enjoy the pools; however, it is cooler and less humid than in the summer. My second reason is the number of people visiting. The summer tends to be busier at Walt Disney World since many children have summer vacation from school, so many families will travel in the summer. While there will still be people at Walt Disney World in October, it should be less crowded.
Finally, I really enjoy some of the fall events at Walt Disney World. The
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is a great opportunity to sample food and drink from around the world in a festive setting. I also enjoy the jovial setting at
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, a chance to trick-or-treat and enjoy great holiday entertainment select nights at Magic Kingdom. Both of these events occur in October.
This is just my opinion of when I would visit Walt Disney World. I am sure that you will have fun whenever you go, Lori! Please keep visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel with any further Disney planning questions you may have.