Each time I tell someone we always plan our Walt Disney World trips to take place during the month of August, I’m always asked about the heat. Yes, it’s HOT in Florida in August…but the timing just works well for us for several reasons. The kids are out of school, it’s a fun last hurrah before September rolls around, and there are often discounts available at this time. Not to mention, we really don’t mind the heat.
Over the years, I’ve managed to find the best ways for us beat the heat at Walt Disney World because no matter how much we like it, it’s a beast compared to any Canadian summer heat…so a plan is necessary. If you will be visiting Disney during the hot summer months, use these tips and tricks to help your family enjoy everything about their vacation—heat and all!
1. Hit the Parks Early
No matter how early you hit the parks during the summer, it’s still going to be hot. Just not AS hot. Head out early, beat the heat, some of the big lineups, and then head back to the hotel after lunch to…
2. Enjoy Your Hotel’s Pool
All onsite hotels have a pool and water play area for the kids (my favourite is the one at Port Orleans French Quarter!). If you’re staying offsite, be sure to book a hotel with a nice pool because you’re going to want to take advantage of it.
3. frogg toggs Chilly Pads
Buy everyone you’re travelling with one of these! frogg toggs are made from a “hyper-evaporative” material that holds water but feel dry to the touch. Place it on the back of your neck while in the parks and it will keep you cool. Sounds a little unbelievable, but you really have to try it to see how well it works!
4. Misting Fans
On our very first trip as a family to Disney, while we were checking in, a woman who was checking out gifted us with her family’s misting fans because they could not fit into her suitcase. We’ve had them ever since and bring them on every trip. Fill them up with ice water in the morning and mist/fan yourself when needed throughout the day.
5. Spend the Day at Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon
Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon are two of the best water parks in the world with some of the best water attractions you will ever get to experience. Enjoy them! And don’t worry, your MagicBand is waterproof!
6. Experience Inside Attractions and Shows
There are many indoor, air-conditioned attractions to take in, here are a few of them:
- Mickey’s Philharmagic (one of our faves!)
- The Land and Sea Pavilions (there are so many activities/attractions on these 2 buildings!)
- Monsters Inc Laugh Floor
- The Carousel of Progress (another favourite!)
- The Hall of Presidents
- Indoor Characters meet and greets
7. Enjoy Cool Treats and Complimentary Ice water
Dole Whips, Mickey Ice Cream Bars, a sundae from Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, gelato from Italy in Epcot…all of these are delicious ways to take a break and beat the heat at Walt Disney World (and there are many more!) And did you know that you can request ice water at any quick service restaurant for free? You sure can, take advantage of that!
8. Enjoy a Splash Pad
There are splash pads scattered throughout Walt Disney World. Your kids will love them and no one will judge if you want to partake as well! Everyone is trying to beat the heat at Walt Disney World, after all! Find a list of them here. And keep an eye open for misting stations throughout the parks!
9. Water Rides
A brief soak will keep you cool for a little while and it’s a fun way beat the heat at Walt Disney World. Splash mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean will get you wet depending on where you’re sitting in the car, same with Kali River Rapids. On our last trip, I unknowingly sat in “THAT” spot in the Kali Riber Rapids raft. The spot where you are guaranteed to get soaked from head to toe. I was dripping after I got off and it was a bit too wet for my liking…especially since we had reservations at Boma in an hour. So quick tip, if you do choose to experience Kali River Rapids, ask the ride operator which seat to not sit in if you don’t want to get fully soaked!
10. Hang Out In the Stores
Take 5 steps, there’s a Disney store. Leave that store, take another 5 steps and, oh, look…there’s another Disney store! They are EVERYWHERE and all of them have sweet, sweet, air conditioning. Hang out in a store for a bit and browse all the cute Disney merchandise while cooling off!
Bonus: Protect Yourself!
This is probably the most important tip of all. The sun in Florida is way more intense than it is here in Canada because you’re situated closer to the equator. Every time you head out, be sure that everyone has been slathered in sunscreen (re-apply as needed, and don’t forget to use a good SPF lip balm too!), is wearing a hat, and is wearing good sunglasses. Also make sure everyone is dressed properly. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is best.
Fun Weekend Project: Vintage Map on Wood
