Summary
August is one of the hottest months to visit Disney World. Fortunately, Disney provides various options to cool off, including resort pools and the popular water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. This time of year also attracts many foreign tourists, particularly Europeans who traditionally vacation in August. This makes it an excellent opportunity for older children to enhance their language skills before returning to school.
During your afternoons, consider visiting long indoor attractions such as the American Adventure, Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor, or Mickey’s PhilharMagic. The Disney theme parks have extended hours, allowing you to enjoy outdoor rides in the cooler evening temperatures. If you stay at a Disney resort, take advantage of Disney’s Extra Magic Hours, available both mornings and evenings.
August Considerations
The extreme heat of August does not deter crowds at the start of the month; however, they tend to decrease as locals and families from the southern U.S. return to school mid-month. Utilize the FastPass+ system to minimize wait times, and take advantage of the rider switch program if traveling with young children.
As part of the seasonal transition, one-day park ticket prices decrease in mid-August.
Disney World Weather in August
As August is the peak of the Atlantic storm season, expect heat, humidity, and potential hurricanes. Although Orlando is somewhat shielded, severe thunderstorms can occur during your visit.
- Average high temperature: 92 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius)
- Average low temperature: 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius)
August is typically the rainiest month in Orlando, averaging nearly 7.5 inches of rain and a 70% chance of showers on any given day. With 12 to 13.5 hours of daylight, visitors can enjoy extended park hours during this sunny season.
What to Pack
For your trip, be sure to pack shorts, T-shirts, and a bathing suit, along with a skirt or summer dress for evening outings. Packing lightly is recommended, yet leave room for a summer sweater as many indoor locations can feel quite chilly due to strong air conditioning. Comfortable walking shoes are essential during park visit days, and consider bringing a poncho or umbrella to stay dry during unexpected rain.
Most importantly, carry ample sunblock and reapply it frequently each day, regardless of the weather. The Florida sun is intense, and even those who rarely burn are at risk of sunburn at Disney World.
August Events in Disney World
With the high season in full swing, most attractions and rides operate at maximum capacity throughout August. Additionally, two highly anticipated events kick off this month. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party commences on August 16, running on select nights until November 1. Visitors can explore this festive event and its offerings. Furthermore, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival takes place from August 29 to November 23, featuring gourmet seminars, celebrity chef meals, and dining from 25 different locations.
Travel Tips
- With many guests using the transportation system, more boats, monorails, and buses may operate, ensuring timely arrivals at your destinations.
- Save rides under direct sunlight for morning or evening hours. Waiting in line during midday can be uncomfortable due to high temperatures.
- Cool off during the midday heat by taking a refreshing dive in Shark Reef, one of the coolest attractions at Disney World, due to the optimal temperatures for its marine life.
- August is hurricane season in Florida, so disruptions in air travel may occur. Disney World has a hurricane policy in place, allowing for rescheduling under specific conditions.
- Prepare for afternoon thunderstorms. These storms typically do not provide cooling relief, so packing a poncho is advisable to stay dry.
- If staying at a resort surrounded by woods, such as Fort Wilderness, Port Orleans Riverside, or Wilderness Lodge, expect to observe some of Florida’s natural wildlife, including lizards, frogs, and possibly small snakes.
