Does the idea of getting away from the cold appeal to you? Sick of shoveling snow and looking for a winter escape? We’ve got just the cure for those winter blues; an Orlando winter vacation! World-famous theme parks, top-rated golf courses, and warm, sunny weather year-round are only a few of the things that make Orlando such an appealing destination in the winter.
What is the weather like, does it get cold?
Temperatures in Orlando regularly reach 70s and 80s throughout the winter months. What’s not to love about enjoying warm, sunny weather in December? Especially when you’re comparing that to the sometimes sub-zero temperatures in states further north.
From water parks and theme parks to lush resorts and golf courses, Orlando has something for everyone. Throw in waters still often warm enough to swim in, and you’ve got yourself a destination that will make you forget how cold it is back home.
Is the winter season actually a good time to visit Orlando?
If you’re one that doesn’t like crowds, this time of year will be a perfect opportunity to enjoy what Orlando has to offer with fewer people around. It’s not unusual for resorts and beaches to be much less crowded throughout the month of November.
Crowds are very manageable at the Disney theme parks during the Christmas season, and Disney is doing a great job with social distancing and keeping everyone feeling safe. Seeing the Christmas decorations lining Main Street USA, watching the holiday parade wind its way through the park, and meeting that famous Mouse with all of his friends during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas, are experiences that are well worth going to check out. Need tickets? We’d be happy to help you! You can also learn more and purchase them directly here.
What are some of the things to do?
The entire family will enjoy a trip to SeaWorld of Orlando. Enjoy rides and attractions, live shows and presentations, and animal experiences at this fun-filled, family-friendly park. If you’re visiting Orlando for the holidays, be sure to visit during the Christmas Celebration. The event will feature delicious food, live shows, holiday shopping, and entertainment. Visitors can walk through a beautiful wintery, watery wonderland and the well-known Sea of Trees.
If traveling with children, LEGOLAND should be on your list no matter the time of year. The kiddos will have a blast at the LEGOLAND theme park and waterpark. It’s a special destination during the winter months as well. Particularly if you’re visiting during the holidays, you’ll find a combination of seasonal shows, treats, special LEGO characters throughout the park, holiday lights, fireworks, and more.
Golfing your thing? The Orlando area is swimming with top-rated golf courses to scratch that itch. Check out this list of options. Challenge yourself on numerous greens, many of which have been created by golf’s biggest legends and renowned designers. Whether you’re a newbie or a master, there is a course for you.
Arguably one of the most exciting parts of Orlando in the winter is the opportunity to visit numerous beaches within a couple hour drive. If sitting on a beautiful beach in 80 degree weather sounds appealing, you’re coming to the right place. Sun, sand, and relaxation await!
Planning to bring in the New Year in Orlando?
Family-friendly options typically include amazing fireworks displays, light shows, and dance parties for all ages at each of the Disney World theme parks, as well as SeaWorld of Orlando and LEGOLAND.
However, for the health and safety of everyone, many of the annual events will either be modified or potentially canceled for 2020. Holiday festivities and events at Disney are usually announced in the fall and then finalized in December. But, at this time, only a modified holiday lineup listing what’s happening through December 30 has been announced, excluding the 31st.
Basically, as of now (11/19/20), the Disney parks will be open, but no information has been disclosed about fireworks or nighttime events for New Year’s Eve. The official current hours of operation from now until January 2, 2021, are as follows:
- Magic Kingdom: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- EPCOT: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
You can head over to the Visit Orlando website for the latest information and various annoucements.