Thanks to its mild year-round climate, miles of beaches, and ample attractions, there’s really never a bad time to visit the Sunshine State, though we’d venture to say that you’ll get some of the most pleasant weather in the fall. If you’ve got an upcoming visit to Central Florida on the books, or are contemplating if now is the time to go, read on to learn all about how to make the most of your Florida fall vacation.
The peak season for Orlando resort area tourism includes spring break, summer break, and the winter holidays. Off-peak, or low season, tends to run from October to December, and it’s during these climatically comfortable months that you can take in a variety of attractions without paying peak-season prices or fighting through the thickest annual crowds. In fact, Walt Disney World typically experiences its slowest month in early fall and hotel prices follow suit by being cheaper during this time, too.
The parks mark the fall months in Florida with a variety of fun events. At the Walt Disney World resort complex you can indulge in delicious dishes and fantastic drinks at Epcot’s annual International Food and Wine Festival, which runs from July 14 through November 19. Disney’s Hollywood Studios hosts fall events that include Minnie’s Seasonal Dining for lunch and dinner at the popular Hollywood & Vine restaurant, where you can enjoy seasonal bites in the company of Disney characters decked out for the fall season. And in the Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Tavern restaurant, you can celebrate the season with a traditional family-style Thanksgiving meal complete with all-you-can-eat roasted turkey, pork, and pot roast and finished with a gooey toffee cake and ice cream dessert. As a special bonus this fall, you’ll also be treated to the celebrations and decorations marking Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary, which is being honored at the park from October 2021 through the end of March 2023.
Another great way to enjoy the fall weather without spending a lot is a visit to admission-free Disney Springs where parking and entrance are free and you’ll find a variety of unique boutiques, fabulous fare, and excellent rotating entertainment options.
And, over at SeaWorld, you’ll find a calendar of great events throughout the cooler months including Sesame Street kids’ weekends and a sparkling Christmas Celebration, which runs from November 11 through January 3. Outside of the major theme parks, the Orlando resort area offers a packed calendar of fall festivities with events which are sure to make your Florida fall vacation one to remember.
After a day of fresh fall air, indulge in relaxing digs at your choice of an area hotel. Close to the Disney parks, the Crowne Plaza Lake Buena Vista and the Fairfield Inn Orlando Lake Buena Vista are great options for your stay, and close to the shopping and dining on International Drive, check out Aloft Orlando International Drive, Comfort Inn International, Element Orlando International Drive, or Best Western International Drive. Other highly rated lodging options include the Wyndham Orlando Resort & Conference Center/Celebration, Staybridge Suites Orlando Royale Parc, and the Fairfield Inn Orlando Airport.