Welcome to planDisney, Kayandra!
A visit to
Walt Disney World is always magical when you plan ahead. Going in July? We've got you covered!
I'm a teacher, so my vacation days are stacked in the summer. Because of that, we've taken dozens of trips to WDW during the summer months--but all is well if you arrive with a plan for keeping cool. You can do this!
First, if you are staying at a
Disney Resort hotel, take advantage of the perks of staying right in the heart of the magic. Temps heats up as the day moves on, so get to the parks 20-30 minutes prior to
Early Theme Park Entry for Disney Resort Hotel Guests. Arrive early so you're among the first groups to enter, then head to whichever ride will have the longest line later. You'll be exiting that first fantastic ride of the day just as other guests are entering--and it's cooler than it will be later. Win-win!
Another perk of staying so close to the parks is a midday pool break each day. Wrap up a few hours of park fun, then head back to the resort for swimming, lunch, or a nap in the air conditioned room. Recharge your batteries and head back into the parks later. If a summer storm blows through while you're at your resort, crowd levels may be a bit lower than when you left. Plus, temps will likely have dropped, too.
Next consideration: air conditioned breaks. I plan our summer park days with A/C in mind, so every other ride, show, or other experience will be indoors. For example, take a ride on rip-roaring
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad then head over to
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe to enjoy a great burger, bowl, or nachos at a cozy--indoor and air conditioned--table. You'll rehydrate, cool down, and enjoy a magical meal--right at the peak of the heat.
Another way to beat the heat: cool down with a trip on a watery attraction! We never miss
Kali River Rapids or
Tiana's Bayou Adventure on a hot summer day. Visit early when lines are shorter--you'll be so glad you did!
Another staple of our summer visits is a misting fan. Our favorites are those you purchase in the parks: fill them up each morning, then mist and fan throughout the day. Pack lighter colored clothing--those made of cotton or with wicking capabilities are great, too. Don't forget that WDW shops are air conditioned as well, so take some time to linger and enjoy those spots you might not have visited on prior trips.
Of course, the most essential part of park hopping in the summer is staying hydrated. Be sure to bring a wide-mouthed refillable water bottle each day; fill them up with ice in the morning, then top off with water. Visit
Water Bottle Refill Stations throughout the day or ask for an extra ice water when you visit a Quick Service or Table Service restaurant. Add a frozen treat such as those from
Refreshment Station or
Ice Cold Hydraulics and you're sure to stay cool each day.
Kayandra, as you plan your summer stay, be sure to send additional questions our way. We love to help!
Andrea H