Disney in the Off-Season

Less Crowds, More Time for Fun

By Sandra Timmons

Disneyland rides without lines? Ice cream carts with no waiting? Winnie the Pooh and Goofy, no longer a mob scene away? I must be dreaming! On the contrary, the magical place of where I speak does exist -- but only on a weekday in the off-season.

Disneyland in the off-season: there's no better place on Earth! There are, however, tricks, tips, pros and cons of visiting the "Happiest Place on Earth" when it is no longer considered tourist season on the calendar.

Disney considers what they call their "Value Season" to be January 1 to April 13; April 30 to June 1; and August 27 to December 21. From personal experience, I can say that there are obviously some days better than others. For instance, a Saturday at the park will always be more crowded than a Thursday, no matter what time of year it is.

Here is a little of what you can expect if you plan on visiting during these times of year:

If you plan on staying at an area hotel, reserve it as far in advance as possible to ensure the least expensive rate. In the off-season, there are not nearly as many tourists and the hotels are at war with each other, competing to win you over. Doing my research online, I booked our hotel room for two nights for $49 per night. The hotel was across the street from Disneyland, was with a well-known chain, provided free shuttle transportation to and from the park, had a heated pool, offered Continental breakfast and in-room coffee makers!

Never having to use the new "Fast Pass" feature at the park, the longest line we stood in was for the Indiana Jones ride. For that awesome experience, we waited for roughly all of eight minutes. Most rides, we simply just walked on. It was wonderful to not have to hold or entertain tired, cranky, impatient children while standing in a two hour, mile-long line. What a treat!

Want to see more?

• California Adventure Park: Kid-friendly Fun with Some Familiar Faces
• Packing 101: Suitcase Savvy for Parents on the Go!
• Flying with Babies and Toddlers: 10 Tips to a Smoother Ride with Babies and Toddlers
• Toddlers and Theme Parks: Tips for Having a Great Time
• Check out our Article Library.
• Talk about it!